Girls Rock School Edinburgh

​​GRSE Purpose and Function - we aim to run workshops in a safe environment, and be welcoming, engaging and supportive for everyone.  When a participant is offered a class place at GRSE, they are emailed the SSP.  When they reply to say they agree to abide by points 1-10 below, they are allocated a class place. This SSP applies to all committee members, volunteers, and participants.

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Recruitment, selection and training of volunteers - All volunteers are established musicians, and  we actively seek out and invite suitable candidates to volunteer.  Some also offer to volunteer or come to us via personal recommendations. All volunteers are first interviewed by  a committee member to establish their scope of interest, experience, ability, and level of commitment to our core aims. New volunteers begin as a support to the lead tutor, progressing to become lead  tutors after a term or two.  We also run tutor meet ups where common issues are explored and skills and solutions shared.

1. We are open to transwomen and genderqueer persons (on the trans spectrum who do not identify as either gender).  If you’re not sure of someone's pronoun (he, she, they), just ask, they will usually be grateful you did!  If unsure, refer to the person by name, or by the pronoun 'they'.

2. Racism, ageism, homophobia, sexism, transphobia, ableism or prejudice based on ethnicity, nationality, class, gender presentation, language ability, asylum status or religious affiliation is unacceptable and will be challenged. 

3. Respect the physical and emotional boundaries of all participants. Always get explicit verbal consent before touching someone or crossing boundaries.

4. Avoid assuming the opinions, identifications, abilities, or intentions of other participants..

5. Recognise that we are attempting to foster an environment of mutual empowerment – don’t judge, put each other down or compete. 

6. We aim to ensure that spaces are as accessible as possible.  Core workshops (vocals, guitar, bass, drums) and showcase event venues have wheelchair access. 

7. If someone makes a comment or exhibits unacceptable behaviour, remember “respect the person; challenge their behaviour.”

8. If someone violates these agreements, approach a tutor/committee member as soon as possible, who can facilitate a discussion or mediation process,  depending on the wishes of the violated person.  If a serious violation happens to the extent that someone feels unsafe, the violator can be asked to leave the space.

9. While ground rules are our collective responsibility,  everyone is also personally responsible for their own behaviour. 

10. GRSE workshops are alcohol and drug-free spaces.  Unless agreed otherwise in advance (such as for medical reasons), no food is allowed in the music rooms.  Water is permitted, in screw top bottles, to prevent spillages.

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