RULES

2025-2026 SEASON

Event Specifics:  Please always check which sections are running at an event before booking

Age Percentage Policy:  To ensure fair and accurate categorisation in our team/group competitions, we have established the following age percentage guidelines:

75% Within Age Category: The majority of the team, specifically 75% of the members, must fall within the designated age category for that competition. This policy ensures that the core composition of the group aligns with the specified age range.

Up to 25% Above Age: Teams are allowed to include up to 25% of members who slightly exceed the age limit. This flexibility accommodates dancers who may have just surpassed the age requirement but still wish to participate with their team.

Rounding Up Numbers: When calculating the age percentages, any fractional percentages are always rounded up. This approach ensures a transparent determination of the team's eligibility within the specified age category.

Sideline Intervention Policy: To ensure a fair and unbiased competition environment, we strictly enforce a policy that prohibits anyone from intervening or coaching from the sidelines once the music has started, unless granted explicit permission by the event organisers. Failure to adhere to this policy will result in a 3-point deduction per adjudicator. This policy aims to provide all participants with an equal opportunity to showcase their skills without external interference, promoting fairness and allowing dancers to rely solely on their own training and preparation. We kindly request everyone's cooperation in respecting this policy, as it ensures a supportive and equitable competition experience for all participants.

Dancers from the Same Educational Institution or Dance Studio Requirement: All dancers must be affiliated with the same educational institution or dance studio that is attending the event. This policy ensures that all participants consist of dancers who have trained and rehearsed together within the same educational institution or dance studio.

In situations where dancers attend multiple educational institutions or dance studios and are all participating in the same event, the parent or guardian of the dancer will need to make a choice. They must decide which educational institution or dance studio the dancer will represent for that specific event.

This requirement promotes a sense of unity and teamwork among dancers who have trained together, fostering a cohesive and synchronised performance. It also maintains fairness by ensuring that dancers compete under a single educational institution or dance studio affiliation.

We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to this policy, as it contributes to the integrity and fairness of the competition. By following these guidelines, we create an environment where dancers can showcase their talent and represent their educational institution or dance studio with pride.

Fair Competition Policy: At our event, we maintain a strong stance against category fixing and uphold the integrity of the competition. We rely on dance studios to ensure that their dancers are appropriately challenged and not entered in lower categories solely for the purpose of winning.

It is important to note that our adjudicators reserve the right to move teams, soloists or duos into higher ability sections if they believe that they have been placed incorrectly. This allows us to maintain a fair and balanced competition environment where dancers are placed according to their skill level and abilities.

We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to this policy and prioritising the growth and development of your dancers. Our aim is to provide a platform that encourages healthy competition, showcases talent, and promotes fair judgement, ensuring that all participants have an equal opportunity to excel.

Age-Up Policy: In the event that a team or individual dancer ages up and transitions to a higher age category, it is important to note that they are not permitted to drop an ability level if they have previously placed 1st to 3rd in that ability level. Ageing up does not grant a team or individual exclusive right to move down in ability level or retain their current level if they were victorious in the previous competition where everyone eventually ages up.

Our policy ensures fairness and maintains the integrity of the competition. It encourages teams and individuals to continually challenge themselves and compete at the appropriate ability level based on their past achievements. This policy ensures a balanced and competitive environment for all participants, promoting growth, development, and healthy competition within each age and ability category.

Team Changes Policy: At our competition, we understand that team members may change and dancers may move around. To ensure fair competition and maintain appropriate skill levels, we have implemented a Team Changes Policy using a 60/40 rule.

If 40% or more of a winning team consists of new members of the same ability level or below at the next event, the team can remain in the same ability level they were previously in. However, if the changes result in less than 40% new members, the team must move up to the next appropriate level.

For example, let's consider a team of 10 dancers that placed 1st in the Beginner category. If, by the next event, the team has experienced changes such as losing 4 members and gaining 4 new members at the Intro/Beginner level, they can still compete in the Beginner category at the next event.

This policy ensures a balance between accommodating changes within teams and maintaining a fair competition environment that aligns with appropriate skill levels.

Winners: If a group achieves 1st place against two other competitors in the Beginner level, they will be required to move up to the next level for the next event. Similarly, for our regional events or other competitions, if a group attains 1st place against two other competitors in the Beginner level, they must progress to the Intermediate level at the next event they attend. This progression ensures fair competition and provides opportunities for growth and challenges for successful groups.

Strict Access Restriction Policy: For the smooth operation and integrity of the competition, it is important to note that no one is allowed to approach the main top event table where the host, DJ, adjudicators, and scrutineers are working during the competition, nor are individuals permitted to come onto the staging area. 

This policy is implemented for the following reasons:

Operational Efficiency: The main top event table is a designated workspace for the event staff, including the host, DJ, adjudicators, and scrutineers. Restricting access ensures that they can effectively carry out their duties, manage the flow of the competition, and maintain proper coordination without distractions or interruptions.

Unbiased Judging Process: The adjudicators require a focused and controlled environment to provide fair and impartial judgments. By preventing unauthorised access to the main event table, we ensure that the judging process remains unbiased and free from external influences.

Safety and Security: Allowing only authorised personnel on the staging area ensures the safety of participants and helps prevent any potential accidents or disruptions during performances. It also safeguards the equipment and technical setup necessary for the smooth operation of the event.

By adhering to this policy, we create a professional and controlled atmosphere that promotes efficient competition management, fair judging, and the safety of all participants. We appreciate your cooperation in respecting these guidelines and helping us maintain a successful and enjoyable event for everyone involved.

Communication Protocol before, during and after the Competition:

To ensure clear and efficient communication, we kindly request that all participants direct any questions or concerns they may have to their dance teachers. Dance teachers will act as intermediaries and relay the questions or concerns to the event coordinator on behalf of their students and their families.

This communication protocol allows for a streamlined process of addressing queries and seeking clarification. Dance teachers possess the necessary knowledge and understanding of the competition guidelines and can provide accurate information to their students. They serve as the primary point of contact between the participants and the event coordinator.

We would like to emphasise that direct communication with parents, students, or other family members with the event coordinators is not possible due to logistical considerations. However, we encourage open dialogue through the designated channels, such as the dance teachers, to ensure effective communication throughout the competition.

By adhering to this communication protocol, we ensure a smooth and organised competition environment, minimise disruptions, and provide accurate and timely information to all participants. We appreciate your cooperation in following this procedure for a successful and enjoyable event.

Sportsmanship Policy: CUO upholds a strict policy on sportsmanship. We expect all participants to display good sportsmanship, treating others with respect and fairness. Bad sportsmanship will not be tolerated and may result in disqualification or suspension from the competition. We also have a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, both towards CUO staff and other attendees. We encourage a positive attitude and respectful body language throughout the event.

Social Media Interaction Policy: At CUO, we promote positive and respectful communication, both in person and online. We kindly request all participants and attendees to adhere to the following policy regarding social media interaction:

Positive Engagement: We encourage participants to engage with social media platforms in a positive and constructive manner. This includes sharing uplifting content, celebrating achievements, and supporting fellow participants.

Respectful Communication: When interacting on social media, we expect all individuals to engage in respectful and polite communication. Any form of negative, unfriendly, or impolite messages or posts will not be tolerated.

Responsible Online Behaviour: Participants should exercise responsible online behaviour, being mindful of the impact their posts and comments can have on others. They should refrain from engaging in cyberbullying, spreading rumours, or engaging in any behaviour that may harm the reputation or well-being of others.

Reporting Concerns: If any participant encounters negative or inappropriate interactions on social media related to the competition, we encourage them to report such incidents to the event organisers. We take such matters seriously and will address them promptly and appropriately.

By adhering to this social media interaction policy, we aim to foster a supportive and inclusive online community. We value the positive connections and interactions that can be made through social media and believe in using these platforms as a means of encouragement and celebration.

Let us all contribute to creating a positive digital environment that reflects the values of CUO and promotes the spirit of camaraderie and respect among participants and attendees.

Rules Violation Policy: Any rule violations brought to the attention of the contest coordinator will be thoroughly addressed. The decision of the contest coordinators is final, and if stated in the rules, there are no grounds for an appeal. It is essential for all teachers and principals to read and understand the rules thoroughly.

The Intro Ability section is specifically designated for brand new teams and individuals who have never competed before. Participants in this section are permitted to compete a maximum of three times if they have solely attended CUO competitions. This allows ample opportunity to gain experience and demonstrate progress. However, if a team or individual achieves first place in this section or competes in higher ability sections at external competitions, or participates in the Intro Ability section for an additional two times or more, they must advance to the Beginner level for future competitions. This progression system fosters growth and motivates dancers to consistently develop their skills and abilities.

The Beginner level is intended for dancers and teams who have gained some competition experience but are still in the early stages of their dance journey. Participants can compete in the Beginner level for a maximum of three times, allowing them to showcase their progress and build confidence. However, if a team or dancer achieves first place in the Beginner level or competes in higher levels at external competitions for an additional two times or more, they must advance to the next level for future competitions. This progression system encourages growth, challenges dancers to push their boundaries, and continuously develop their skills and abilities.

The Intermediate level is designed for dancers and teams who have developed a strong foundation in dance technique and performance skills. Participants in this level can compete up to three times, allowing them to showcase their advanced abilities and receive valuable feedback. Alternatively, if a team or dancer achieves first place in the Intermediate level, they must advance to the next level for future competitions. This level challenges dancers to demonstrate refined technique, artistic expression, and stage presence, preparing them for higher levels of competition.

Reduced Judging panel

At CUO, our priority is to ensure a smooth, fair, and enjoyable competition experience for all participants. However, unforeseen circumstances, such as a judge falling ill, can occur. In such an event, we have a robust contingency plan in place to ensure the competition proceeds efficiently and fairly.

**1. Reduced Judge Panel:**
In the event that one of our judges is unable to attend, the competition will proceed with a two-judge panel. This panel will consist of our remaining qualified and experienced judges.

**2. Scoring and Judging:**
The judging process will be adjusted to accommodate the two-judge format. Each judge's score will carry equal weight, ensuring that the absence of a third judge does not impact the fairness of the competition.

**3. Callbacks and Finals:**
The procedure for callbacks and finals will remain the same. Our scrutineering system, designed to be adaptable to different judging formats, will be used to determine which participants are called back and their placement in the finals, this may result in different numbers ( volumes) of dancers being called back.

**4. Transparency and Fairness:**
We are committed to transparency and fairness. Our scrutineering system and judges are well-equipped to handle the two-judge format, ensuring that all decisions are made with the utmost integrity.

**5. Communication:**
In the event of such a change, we will immediately inform all participants and dance teachers via our website and social media channels. Detailed information about the modified judging process will be provided.

**6. Feedback and Support:**
We welcome feedback and questions regarding this contingency plan. Our team is available to address any concerns and provide support to ensure a positive experience for all involved.

**Your Understanding and Cooperation:**
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in these situations. Our commitment to providing a high-quality and fair competition experience remains our top priority.

Regular Events (Single Day)

Tickets can be reserved and estimates can be amended at any time up until 5 weeks before. To qualify for the ticket commission, you must not return more than 5% of tickets after final numbers have been requested. A deposit of £50 must be paid upon reservation of your tickets to secure your place. This deposit is not refundable or transferable should you pull out. Team and dancer registration is due 3 weeks before the event, no entries can be submitted after this point.

UK Championship (Weekend)

Should CUO cancel the event, full refunds would be issued to all who had paid deposits/purchased tickets.

Here is the timescale for if you decide to cancel your reservation:

2 months prior to start date: You may request a full refund

≥30 days prior to start date: You may request a 50% refund only.

<30 days prior to start date: No refunds will be given

Conditions:

Wristbands must be worn at all times. Lost wristbands must be replaced immediately (you will be charged for lost wristbands).

No official time for categories to dance will be given.

No recording/videos/photographs while dancers are on the dance floor. Please note: one person may video your team. We have an official photographer present.

All dancers dance at their own risk. Injuries obtained are NOT the responsibility of the venue being used, Calling U Out organisers or Calling U Out Ltd.

Personal belongings are brought to the competition at the person’s own risk. Loss or damages are not the responsibility of hired venue, Calling U Out organisers or Calling U Out LTD.

By purchasing a ticket for yourself or on behalf of a minor for whom you have parental permission, you are agreeing to the conditions set above and on our website. You agree that you have checked with your teachers or school that you have suitable Insurance to be taking part in this event and are covered to do so.

Rules can be amended at any time.

Photo and Videography Policy

I understand that by purchasing a ticket I am attending a public event and I am giving consent to Calling U Out and Partners to use images of the ticket holder caught in video recordings, and/or photographs, I also consent to them being used for other marketing and publicity-related purposes and used in other publications and I understand that they may be published on the Calling U Out website or another website or elsewhere.

I understand that their images will be held in accordance with the Data Protection Act; that the images of the ticket holder captured in the video recordings and/or photographs will be the copyright of the CUO and any other intellectual property which arises in the recordings will also belong to CUO, the ticket holder and I hereby agree to irrevocably assign all property rights of the ticket holder performance and/or recordings to CUO the ticket holder and I hereby agree to waive all moral rights in my performance in the film and/or recordings to CUO.

I can ask the CUO to stop using the ticket holder images at any time, in which case they will not be used in future publications but may continue to appear in publications already in circulation The data that we collect is subject to active consent by the data subject. This consent can be revoked at any time by emailing info@callinguout.co.uk

CUO = Calling U Out        -

Insurance Advisory:

It's essential to secure appropriate insurance when making reservations. CUO will not be liable for any financial setbacks or damages. This includes hotel and travel costs resulting from cancellations or changes in the event schedule for any reason.

In the event we need to cancel or reschedule, attendees can opt for a full ticket refund or a transfer/credit. However, if you're unable to attend for any reason or miss the specified ticket return deadline in our terms, refunds for tickets or deposits will not be available.

June 2025 Event Qualification Criteria:

General Eligibility:

To be eligible for our Championships, dance schools must have attended one of our events for the current season. Once a dance school has attended, any dancer from that school can participate in the Championships.

Dance Styles:

• Streetdance
• Acrobatics
• Contemporary
• Groups

Teams, Duets, and Fun Sections:

In an effort to keep our events fresh and inclusive, any team or duet can participate in our weekend event across the three dance styles (Streetdance, Acrobatics, Contemporary), provided their respective school has attended one of our regional events. Additionally, all dancers can take part in our fun sections on Friday evenings, which include:

• Battles
• Contact Improv Duets
• Across the Floor

Solos:

To qualify for the solo competitions at the Championships:

Placement: Dancers must place 1st to 7th in any SOLO category (Set Solo or Improv/Freestyle) within the same dance style.

Qualification: If a dancer qualifies in either Set Solos or Freestyle/Improv Solos at any event, they are eligible to participate in the solo section of that dance style at the Championships.

Example:

If you qualify in either Set Solos or Freestyle/Improv Solos in any event in contemporary, you are eligible to compete in the contemporary solo section at the Championships.

Refund Policy

Lost or Forgotten Wristbands:

If any member of your dance school forgets their tickets, they will need to purchase new ones at the event. To be eligible for a refund for the original tickets, a form must be completed on the day when purchasing the replacements.

Refund Process:

There is a 14-day grace period after the event during which you can return the original tickets to us for a refund, minus a £2 administrative charge per band.

Important Notes:

1) Only tickets purchased due to being forgotten will be refunded. Unused tickets are non-refundable.

2) We recommend using a tracked delivery method to ensure the safe return of the tickets.

3) By purchasing tickets, you agree to this refund policy.

Return Address:

Calling U Out (BDPA)

Unit H

Platts Lane

Burscough

L40 7TP

Calling You Out- Safeguarding & Health/Safety Information 

Calling You Out event! To ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all, please carefully review the following policies. These reflect our commitment to safety, in line with BOPA requirements and the new Martyn’s Law guidelines.--

Event Safeguarding A Body of Persons Approval (BOPA) has been granted for this event by the Council. Under BOPA, our priority is the safety and well-being of all participants, especially children up to school-leaving age. This requires collaboration among:- Event Organizers and team members- Licensed Chaperones/Dance School Teachers/Leaders- Parents/Guardians/Responsible Adults- External Vendor Providers Thank you for your cooperation in reviewing and following these procedures.--

Participant Sign-In/Sign-Out 

To ensure all participants are accounted for, each student should inform their teacher or group lead upon arrival and departure. Teachers/group leads are responsible for recording attendance. Supervision In accordance with BOPA guidelines, children up to school-leaving age must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times. 

Unaccompanied children will not be allowed through security, and any found wandering will be taken to a designated safe area (the Desk and Shop area) until collected by an appropriate adult. We will provide a minimum of two Licensed Chaperones, and each team member has an Enhanced DBS check.--

Health & Safety

First Aid Wewill have two Pediatric and one FTACC (First Aid at Concerts and Crowds) trained personnel on-site. The FTACC officer will remain at the PA area for coordination if necessary. 

Footwear Requirement

All children must wear suitable footwear at all times when not actively dancing. Bare feet, socks, or inappropriate footwear can increase the risk of injuries such as cuts, slips, or other accidents.

Parent/Guardian Responsibility

It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure that their child is wearing appropriate footwear while not participating in a dance performance or rehearsal.

Please direct any medical assistance needs to our team members. Changing Rooms Designated male and female changing rooms are provided. For safeguarding reasons, children up to school-leaving age must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Photography or video recording is strictly prohibited in these areas. Changing in public areas not allowed--

Photography/Filming Guidelines Personal Recordings Families are welcome to capture memories during solo and pair events, as well as during awards presentations. We ask that:- Social media privacy settings are adjusted to limit the audience to close family and friends.- 

Cameras focus only on your child, respecting the privacy of others. Editing tools can be used to blur other participants if necessary.- Any concerns regarding recordings should be raised with your dance school lead, who will communicate them to our team. Event Media Coverage Our media team may capture event highlights for social media purposes. Please inform your dance school lead of any concerns, and we will address them promptly.--

Venue Safety and Martyn’s Law Compliance Emergency Evacuation, Lockdown, or Other Emergencies Upon arrival, familiarize yourself with venue exits. In an emergency, the PA system will instruct attendees to exit. Please follow the nearest exit route to the designated assembly point. Responsible adults should confirm the safe evacuation of students with their group lead, taking a register once outside and immediately reporting any concerns or missing children.

In line with Martyn’s Law, all participants are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to event staff. This includes reviewing learning resources such as Prevent and HOT (Hide, Observe, Tell) before attending the event. In case of an emergency (fire, intruder, or unknown package), the event host will coordinate with designated leaders and contact the relevant authorities.--

Points of Contact- Chris Lloyd- Event Coordinator, FTACC, and Safeguarding Lead- Claire Lloyd- Event Support, First Aid, and Safeguarding Second Lead For any safeguarding concerns, please contact us at info@callinguout.co.uk or speak to your designated lead on the event day. Thank you for your attention to these important safety guidelines. We look forward to a fantastic event!

At our dance events, good sportsmanship is paramount. We expect all dance schools to act with integrity, professionalism, and respect towards other dancers, teachers, and schools. We do not tolerate any attempts to poach students or engage in any behaviour that would reflect poorly on our community.

Examples of good sportsmanship include, but are not limited to:

Teachers: Showing support and encouragement towards other schools and their students, being fair in judging, and maintaining a positive and professional attitude towards everyone involved.

Parents: Respect the decisions of the teacher and the judges, be positive and supportive towards their own child and others, and avoid engaging in negative gossip or confrontations.

Dancers: Being gracious winners and losers, showing respect towards other dancers and their teachers, and displaying appropriate behaviour both on and off the dance floor.

If any school, parent or student is found to be engaging in poor behaviour, we expect the teacher to actively address the issue and create a dialogue with the other party. We believe that it is important to resolve conflicts in a respectful and constructive manner and that all parties involved should be willing to listen and work towards a positive solution.

If a teacher fails to address such issues or is found to be engaging in poor behavior themselves, the school may not be allowed to enter our events or be suspended for a season. We take these matters seriously and strive to maintain a positive and supportive environment for all dancers and schools.

We believe that good sportsmanship is the foundation of a successful dance community. Therefore, we ask all schools, parents, and students to adhere to this rule and help us create a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.