Policies

  • Purpose:
    To ensure the safety and welfare of all children who participate in our swim school programs.

    Scope:
    This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, parents, and anyone involved in the swim school’s operations.

    Policy Statement:

    • We are committed to providing a safe environment where children can learn and enjoy swimming.

    • All staff and volunteers are required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before commencing work.

    • Any concerns about a child's welfare will be addressed immediately, following the Swim England Child Protection Policy guidelines.

    Procedures:

    1. Recognition of Abuse:

      • Staff are trained to recognize signs of physical, emotional, sexual abuse, or neglect.

    2. Reporting Concerns:

      • Concerns should be reported to the designated safeguarding lead (DSL).

      • The DSL will document the concern and, if necessary, escalate it to the local authority or NSPCC.

    3. Parental Involvement:

      • We aim to work closely with parents to ensure the child’s safety and well-being.

    4. Confidentiality:

      • Information about child protection concerns will only be shared on a need-to-know basis.

  • Purpose:
    To provide a framework for ethical and professional behavior for all staff, volunteers, parents, and participants.

    Code of Ethics:

    • Respect the rights, dignity, and worth of every individual.

    • Promote inclusivity and equal opportunity for all participants.

    • Prioritize the health, safety, and welfare of all swimmers.

    • Encourage good sportsmanship and a positive learning environment.

    Code of Conduct:

    • For Staff:

      • Always act in the best interests of the swimmer.

      • Maintain professional boundaries with all participants and families.

      • Be punctual, prepared, and dressed appropriately for lessons.

      • Address concerns or complaints professionally and constructively.

    • For Parents:

      • Ensure your child arrives on time and is ready for their lesson.

      • Refrain from disruptive behavior during lessons.

      • Support your child’s progress positively.

    • For Swimmers:

      • Listen to and follow instructions from your instructor.

      • Be respectful to fellow swimmers and staff.

      • No running or horseplay around the pool area.

  • Safeguarding Policy

    Purpose
    To protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults from harm.

    Key Principles

    • Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

    • We adopt a zero-tolerance approach to abuse or neglect.

    • All staff must attend safeguarding training annually.

    Safeguarding Procedures

    1. Prevention

      • Conduct thorough risk assessments for all activities.

      • Supervise children at all times during lessons.

    2. Responding to Concerns

      • Staff must report any concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

      • The DSL will take appropriate steps, including contacting relevant authorities.

    3. Training and Monitoring

      • Safeguarding training is mandatory for all staff and volunteers.

      • The safeguarding policy is reviewed annually.

    Guidance
    We follow the guidance of Wave Power to ensure we remain up to date with best practices and official regulations for safeguarding within swimming environments.

  • Purpose:
    To provide a safe environment for raising concerns about malpractice, wrongdoing, or safety breaches without fear of reprisal.

    Policy Statement:

    • Whistleblowers will be protected under the Public Interest Disclosure Act (PIDA).

    • Concerns can be reported anonymously and will be taken seriously.

    Procedure:

    1. Raise concerns with the DSL or swim school management.

    2. If unresolved, escalate the matter to Swim England or the local authority.

    3. All reports will be investigated thoroughly and confidentially.

  • Purpose:
    To ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all participants, staff, and visitors.

    Responsibilities:

    • Management: Ensure risk assessments are completed and policies are followed.

    • Staff: Adhere to safety protocols and report hazards.

    • Parents and Swimmers: Follow pool safety rules.

    Key Measures:

    • First aid kits are readily available on-site.

    • Pool water is regularly tested to maintain safe chemical levels.

    • Emergency evacuation procedures are practiced regularly.

  • Purpose:
    To promote an inclusive environment that values diversity and ensures equal opportunities for all.

    Policy Statement:

    • Discrimination based on age, gender, race, disability, or religion will not be tolerated.

    • Lessons will be adapted where necessary to accommodate swimmers’ needs.

    Procedures:

    • Staff are trained to recognize and address discrimination or bias.

    • Complaints related to equality or diversity will be handled promptly.

  • Purpose:
    To protect the personal data of our participants, families, and staff.

    Key Principles:

    • Data will be collected, stored, and processed in line with GDPR regulations.

    • Personal information will only be used for lesson management and communication purposes.

    Procedures:

    • Data is securely stored and access is restricted.

    • Families have the right to access or request deletion of their data.