TERMS & CONDITIONS

At Upstage, we believe drama is more than a class — it’s a confidence boost, a creative outlet, and a community. These terms help ensure every student feels safe, supported and inspired each time they step into the room.

If you need help understanding or meeting any of the terms below, reach out at admin@upstageyouththeatre.com.au or call 0402 331 197 before term begins. We’re here to help — all conversations are confidential.

UpStage Teachers and Tutors

Our teachers are university-qualified, working industry professionals who bring their passion, experience, and creativity into every class. They believe in the power of drama to help young people grow in confidence, maturity, and imagination.

All teachers hold a current Working With Children Check.

Our teachers are supported by senior Upstage students who demonstrate leadership, generosity, and a genuine desire to share their skills. These tutors are carefully selected by the Director.

supervision of students

Kids & Teens (Ages 3-17): Students are supervised during class and breaks, and must remain within the venue for their safety.
Students 18+: No supervision required.
Children are not permitted to leave the studio unless this has been pre-arranged by a parent or guardian.

Venue policies

  • Alcohol-free and non-smoking: The studio and surrounding areas are strictly alcohol-free and non-smoking.

  • Nut-free zone: Please avoid bringing foods containing nuts.

  • Food & drink: Only water bottles may be brought into the studio.

  • Uniform & clothing expectations: Students are expected to wear appropriate clothing to class, including an Upstage uniform T-shirt ($30), available through our website.

Media use

Photography & Video: We love capturing the magic of our classes and productions. Photos and videos may be used for promotional or archival purposes, including Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. If you prefer not to be featured, please notify us in writing.

Copyright: All media captured during Upstage activities is our copyright. Participants may not publish or upload footage without permission.

Class Work Recordings: Any recordings provided are for personal use only and cannot be copied, sold, or publicly shared.

health & safety

Medical Conditions: Please inform us of any medical, learning, or behavioural considerations when enrolling.

Emergency Procedures: If an ambulance is required, costs will be the responsibility of the participant or guardian.

Class Observations: Parents may not observe classes unless it is an announced open session or prior approval has been granted via admin@upstageyouththeatre.com.au. This helps young performers develop confidence and independence.

Dress Code:

  • Upstage T-shirt and comfortable clothing are required.

  • No skirts, dresses, sandals, hats, or excessive jewellery.

  • If coming straight from school, please bring shorts to pop on under a tunic.

  • Long hair must be tied back.

Physical Activity: Classes include movement-based activities such as running, which carry some risk of physical harm.

Physical Contact: Tutors may use guided physical contact as part of safe teaching practice.

Personal Belongings: Upstage is not responsible for lost or damaged items.

Student Safety: All students have the right to express themselves without fear of ridicule, bullying, or physical harm. Students must respect each other’s creative contributions and maintain focus during class work. Serious breaches of this expectation may result in exclusion without refund.

Payment Methods & Direct Debit

Fee Structure

  • Enrolments are not accepted without full payment or completion of the direct debit set-up through Class Maestro.

  • First term fees are invoiced.

  • All subsequent terms are billed via direct debit through Payrix, linked to Class Maestro.

  • Students discontinuing enrolment must notify accounts@upstageyouththeatre.com.au in writing, at least 2 weeks prior to the scheduled debit.

2026 Direct Debit Dates

  • 16 January

  • 28 March

  • 1 July

  • 19 September

Transaction Fees (Payrix)

  • Bank account: $0.88

  • Credit/Debit card: $0.33

  • Mastercard/Amex: $1.98

  • BPAY card payment: $1.25

  • BPAY bank account: $1.25 + 1.25%

  • Failed transaction fee: $4.40, plus Upstage late fees if not settled within one week.

Payment Policy

To ensure accurate tracking, reconciliation, and safeguarding of student enrolments, Upstage no longer accepts direct deposits or bank transfers.

All payments must be made via Class Maestro’s secure Payrix direct debit platform.
This ensures:

  • accurate and timely processing

  • reduced administrative errors

  • clear records for both families and Upstage

  • secure, uninterrupted enrolment for students

Additional Fee Policies

  • Admin Levy: $29 per family, billed annually.

  • Production Levy: $119 per cast member for major productions.

  • Family Discount: 10% discount for families with more than two students enrolled.

  • Multiple Class Discount: 10% discount for students enrolled in more than one weekly class.

  • Late Payment Fee: Upstage may charge a $25 late fee for overdue accounts.

  • Refund Policy: Term fees are non-refundable unless Upstage cancels the class. The only exception is for new students withdrawing within the first two consecutive weeks of term.

  • Missed classes are not refundable.

Attendance

Upstage has a strong duty of care to all students. Many of our young people make their own way to the studio after school, often by public transport or walking, so it is essential that we know when a student will not be attending. If your child is going to be absent, please notify us as early as possible.

Punctuality remains an important part of our studio culture. Arriving on time ensures students warm up safely, receive full instruction, and maintain their commitment to the ensemble. Consistent punctuality is also considered during casting for productions.

If a student misses three or more classes in a term without notification, we will assume they are not returning. This may result in:

  • forfeiting their place in upcoming performance opportunities, and

  • their class position being reopened for new enrolments.

important information

Program Changes: Upstage reserves the right to make program changes without prior notice or to cancel a course.

Class Structure: We may merge age groups and structure classes as needed.

Enrollment: We reserve the right to refuse enrollment or request a participant to leave a course if they’re disruptive, consistently late, or haven’t paid their fees.


Confirmation and Acknowledgement

Upon signing your enrolment form you are stating that you understand, acknowledge and agree with all of the above stated.

Failing to adhere to the above may mean you could be in breach of your enrolment agreement. Therefore this could result in a forfeit of your position in any subsequent performances and your position in the class may be reopened for other enrolments.

PLEASE NOTE: All information in this document is true and accurate at the time of publication. Changes can and will occur from time to time.

 

Ann Coates
Director