DBS changes for dance teachers: myths busted

The bank holiday weekend is almost here, and for lots of us that means one last breather before term. Before you switch off, here’s this week’s news. We’ve got clear answers on the DBS changes for dance teachers and a rise in energy bills. There’s also a report on touring in Europe and a youth dance show heading out across England.

DBS clears up the myths about 1 September

On 25 August the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) published its myth busting guide to the September 2026 supervision exemption changes. It’s a really helpful read. Here are the key points:

The change isn’t just about schools or volunteers. It covers sports clubs, charities, youth groups and cultural organisations too.
Paid staff and volunteers may both be in regulated activity, depending on the role.
Not every role with children becomes regulated activity. What someone does, and how often, still matters.
Where the other parts of the test are met, organisations can apply for an Enhanced check with Children’s Barred List before 1 September.

That answers a question our partner BDSA raised in its members update on the Crime and Policing Act 2026 changes: whether paid staff are covered as well as volunteers. BDSA’s update also sets out practical steps for studios and clubs.

What this means for your school: a short review of each helper’s role is simple good practice. It keeps children safe and gives parents confidence. This is general guidance, not legal advice. If you’re unsure about a particular role, check gov.uk or get advice.

Energy price cap rises 4% from October

Ofgem confirmed on 26 August that the energy price cap will rise by 4% from 1 October. For a typical household paying by direct debit for gas and electricity, that’s £1,723 a year, up from £1,663. It works out at about £5 more a month. Around 35% of households are on fixed tariffs and won’t be affected.

What this means for your school: if you teach from a home studio, budget for slightly higher bills this winter. If you hire a hall, it’s worth asking your venue early whether hire rates will change for the autumn term.

Touring in Europe after Brexit

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport published The economic benefits of touring and impact of EU exit on 27 August. The report by Ipsos and Nordicity looks at the touring sectors between 2022 and 2024. It estimates the UK lost £208 million in gross value added and 2,490 full time equivalent jobs. As One Dance UK’s summary of the report notes, smaller and mid scale touring has been hit hardest.

What this means for your school: if you take students to competitions or festivals in Europe, give yourself extra time and budget for travel rules, customs and insurance.

A youth dance show goes national

Here’s a lovely story to end on. Project Dance in Yeovil has been awarded £49,768 from Arts Council England to tour its new production BUSK across England in spring 2027. It’s a partnership with the Octagon Theatre and Westlands, and the show grew out of Project Dance’s work with young dancers. The Royal Academy of Dance and London Children’s Ballet are among its supporters. Westlands has the full story in BUSK secures Arts Council funding for a major national tour.

What this means for your school: local projects can grow into something big. If you’ve got an idea for a community show, Arts Council England project funding is worth exploring.

This week’s tip

Bank holiday Monday is 31 August. Before then, send families a short message with your first week’s timetable, what to bring and how to get in touch. A calm, clear start helps everyone, especially your newest dancers.