This policy sets out the expected standards of behaviour for junior athletes, as well as what they can expect from the club, coaches, parents, and volunteers. Everyone involved with the club is also expected to follow the club’s overall Code of Conduct.
Code of Conduct for Junior Athletes
(Adapted from the UK Athletics Code of Conduct for Children and Young People)
As a child or young person under 18 years, I have the right to:
- be safe and protected
- be listened to
- be respected and treated fairly
- be believed
- ask for help
- be coached by a qualified coach
I will:
- be friendly and supportive to others
- listen to my coach and follow instructions
- use equipment properly and with respect
- speak kindly and avoid bad language
- never bully or pressure others
- keep myself safe, and tell my coach if I feel unwell or injured
- report inappropriate behaviour or risky situations to an adult
Managing Behaviour
If a junior athlete does not meet the expectations of the Code of Conduct, we will follow a fair and consistent approach:
1. Reminder – The athlete will be reminded of the expected behaviour.
2. Time Out – If the behaviour continues, the athlete may be asked to take a short break before rejoining the activity.
3. Parent/Guardian Discussion – If the issue continues, the coach will speak with the athlete’s parent or guardian.
Repeated discussion with an athlete’s parent/guardian may result in them being asked to leave the club, as poor behaviour not only disrupts other athletes’ training, but could also result in serious health and safety risks due to the nature of the activities being undertaken.
Violent and/or abusive language or behaviour, or serious misuse of equipment that endangers others will not be tolerated. The severity of these issues may result in an athlete’s immediate suspension from training sessions, and ultimately, termination of membership.
Coaches and Volunteers
Coaches and other volunteers will familiarise themselves with the Behaviour Policy to ensure that incidents are dealt with fairly, and will ensure that their own behaviour models that which is expected of the athletes.
Parents and Carers
To make club activities an enjoyable experience for all (including the coaches and other volunteers who are giving up their free time to lead sessions), we require parental support. The expectations are set out in UK Athletics Code of Conduct for Parents – please take a moment to read it.