Child Licensing overview
A Child Performance Licence may be required for young people up until the end of year 11, if they are participating in:
- theatre performances
- filming
- TV work
- modelling
- paid sporting activities
The licence outlines the arrangements in place for a child to take part in the performance or activity.
If any of the following criteria apply a performance licence will be needed:
- they will be absent from school
- they have (or will have) performed for more than 4 days in the last 6-months
- they will be paid
If none of these criteria apply a Child Performance Licence may not be needed as a child may be exempt. A Child Performance Licence may also not be needed if a child is covered by a Body of Persons Approved (BOPA) See the sections on exemptions and BOPA’s for further information.
The Childrens and Young Persons Act contains the legislation governing Child Performance Licences. Further information regarding Child Licensing can be found on the NNCEE (National Network for Children in Employment & Entertainment) website.
Child licensing guide
Read the process and begin your application
Children's Services Licensing Team: child performances
Email: childperformances@dorsetcouncil.gov.ukTel: 01305224143
Full contact details
Read our child performance licence privacy notice to find out how we use your application information.