CODE OF CONDUCT FOR COACHES & TEACHERS

JUNE 2020
As a coach/teacher in sport you have an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of young people. You, and any other person working with you should abide by the Codes of Conduct. You
should:
Be eligible to work in a regulated activity or position
Understand and ensure the welfare and well-being of young people is paramount
Be qualified for your role and keep up-to date with knowledge and skills appropriate to your position
Abide by the club, region and Swim Ireland safeguarding policies and rules
Comply with all additional Swim Ireland policies and protocols as introduced for clubs and regions
• Ensure a safe and fun environment for young people you are responsible for by:
• Planning and preparing for sessions; explaining to young people what is planned for each
session
• Understanding a young person’s developmental needs and being aware of how a young person may be physically and psychologically affected
• Having consent and accessible emergency contact details for each young person
• Ensuring your sessions are adequately supervised and you work in an open environment
• Keeping an attendance register
• Being positive in your interactions with young people
• Prioritise young people’s skill development and enjoyment
• Setting age appropriate and realistic goals
• Treating each young person equally and fairly; challenging bullying behaviour
• Praising and encouraging effort

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR COACHES & TEACHERS

• Engaging positively with parents/carers letting them know how they can help and what you expect from parents .
Coaches/teachers must:
• Not expose a young person to criticism, hostility or sarcasm
• Not swear at, make fun of, shout unnecessarily or argue with a young person
• Be aware of a young person’s sensitivity to body image
• Never use physical punishment or force
• Correct mistakes without using any form of punishment, exclusion or humiliation
• Never use banned substances or alcohol whilst responsible for or in the company of athletes
• Not engage in behaviour that is inappropriate e.g. bullying behaviour, rough physical games, sexually provocative games, never allow or engage in inappropriate physical contact of any
kind or make sexually suggestive comments about or to a young person
• Ensure to maintain a healthy, positive and professional relationship with all athletes. A coach/teacher in a position of authority and trust must not engage in sexual relationships with
16 or 17 year old athletes where an unequal power relationship exists.