How to apply for a child performance licence

It is the responsibility of the performance producer to apply for a child’s licence.

The application form comes in two parts. Once you have completed all necessary performance details in Part 1 of the form you must then send it to the parent or carer to complete and sign Part 2.

The application should be made at least 21 days before the first day of performance.

Other information you need to supply

The completed application form should be returned with the following:

  • a copy of the child’s birth certificate
  • two identical unmounted passport size photographs of the child, taken the six months preceding the date of application
  • a medical certificate or letter from the doctor stating that the child is fit to perform
  • a letter from the child’s head teacher, which states that the child can be absent from school to take part in the school
  • a declaration under section 38(1)(a) or (b) of the Children and Young Person Act 1963 stating that the part may only be played by a child
  • a copy of the child’s work contract, which shows the agreement regulating the child’s appearance in the performance
  • a copy of the licence held by the chaperone/matron who is responsible for the child during the performance.

Child modelling

If a child is involved in modelling and is likely to be employed at short notice then a parent should complete Part 2 and send it to the Child Employment Officer, along with all the additional documents listed above.

This initial application will be kept for six months from the date of receipt. If a child is employed during these six months then the employer must download the form below, fill in Part 1 and send it to the Child Employment Officer as soon as the child starts work.

The application form

Please return your completed applications to the Child Employment Officer.