Jackie Scott is a qualified teacher, professional performer and mindset coach with three decades of experience. She is founder of Keep Kids Safe in Dance and the Royal Assembly, two organisations that protect, inspire and educate young people. A 2015 Australian of the Year nominee, Jackie is the brainchild of RISE, a program that works with young people in performing arts to improve mental health and wellbeing.

She offered advice on what to look for when choosing a dance school. "First and foremost, parents should assess whether they feel a dance school environment is safe for their children," she said. "As a parent, we inherently look for risks, and these should not be ignored."

She suggested parents contemplate these questions. "Is there a culture of child safety at the dance school? Are teachers supportive, or is there an unhealthy culture of competition, comparison and favouritism? Are there child safety policies and codes of conduct available and followed by everyone? Are the children happy, and do they enjoy attending lessons at the school?"

Jackie said some schools would focus on competition, exams and elite programs while others would focus on recreation. "If ... their child would like ... to make new friends, dance for fun and learn new skills, then a more relaxed recreational school would suit," she said. "If you have a child who is dedicated to their dance and has even suggested they would like to explore the idea of a career, then a school with an extension program might be best.

"Either way, it's important to talk to the principal or studio owner and get a sense of what their priorities are. Ensure they are invested in the emotional and psychological safety and development of children, not just achievement in dance."

Asking for a trial class is a good idea to see if the environment is suitable. While observation can provide an idea of priorities and atmosphere, there are other ways to help inform a decision.

"Talking to students or parents who attend the dance school is always a great idea," Jackie suggested. "Asking questions about their experiences, what they like about the school, what the teachers are like and what the school focuses on will all help.

"Most schools will have a Facebook page, website or Instagram account and looking at these is a great way to understand what's important to the school and the people within it. You will also be able to see what styles they focus on and what is taught.

"It's important to take note of any poor reviews, but understand they can be unreliable and speaking to the school, doing a trial class, chatting to people and your own research is a far better way to get the information you need."

Making an informed decision is essential, so your child doesn't end up in an environment that doesn't suit them - or worse, is harmful to their mental or physical health. "By doing your due diligence as a parent, you are more likely to find a suitable and safe environment," Jackie said. "In an unregulated industry, dance schools can make up their own rules which may not be necessarily correct or even safe for young people."

In Jackie's experience, schools that operate with a fear-based mentality and cultures of silence and abuse are sadly not uncommon. "Children should not be distressed before or after classes, teachers should not yell at young people, children should not be forced to do anything outside of their skill level, parents should have access to their children at all times, the language should be appropriate, the music, costuming and choreography should also be appropriate for the child's age and no child should ever be in fear of their teachers," she said.

Jackie said it was worth remembering only a small per cent of young people who learn to dance will pursue it as a professional career. "For this reason, we must ensure there is high importance placed on enjoyment and safety," she said. "Dance is an art form that is all about self-expression and creativity. The opportunity to impact a young person's life through the arts is a privilege and should not be taken for granted."