Codes of Conduct

Code of Conduct Policy

1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to outline Cheltenham Youth Clubs Code of conduct for all members, parents,
guardians, spectators, athletes, coaches, administrators and judges.

2. Scope
This policy applies to all members, parents, guardians, spectators, athletes, coaches, administrators, and
judges when at CYC facilities or representing CYC at any event

3. General Expectations for All Members

All individuals are expected to:

• Act respectfully and responsibly at all times.
• Prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.
• Support fair play, inclusion, and equal opportunity.
• Avoid any form of abuse, bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
• Respect all participants regardless of gender, sexual preference, ability, cultural background, or
  religion.
• Report concerns, breaches, or unsafe behaviours to the Club Manager or Child Safety Officer.

Part 3B. Child Safety (In-Person & Online)

CYC is a child-safe organisation.
• Promote a culture of child safety and inclusion.
• Comply with all Child Safe Standards and conduct regular reviews.
• Require Working With Children Checks for staff and volunteers.
• Ensure child safety training is completed by staff and coaches.
• Maintain two-adult supervision during all physical activities.
• Prohibit private online communication with minors—group or parent-involved contact only.
• Monitor social media to prevent boundary breaches.
• Maintain confidential procedures for children to raise concerns.
• Conduct risk assessments for high-risk activities.
• Follow all first aid, incident reporting, and escalation procedures.

4. Specific Expectations

Part 4A – Applicable to all Members, Parents, Guardians, Spectators, Athletes, Coaches,
Administrators, and Judges

Abide by all CYC, Gymnastics Australia, and Gymnastics Victoria codes of conduct, ethics, policies,
and procedures.
• Support CYC’s child-safe culture.
• Respect all members, spectators, participants, coaches, officials, and administrators.
• Refrain from discrimination, harassment, abuse, bullying, or intimidation.
• Avoid conduct that could harm the reputation of CYC or gymsports.
• Report concerns or misconduct to CYC staff.
• Be an ambassador for the club and sport.
• Do not film, record, or photograph in bathrooms, change rooms, parent viewing, or waiting areas, or
at events without permission.

Part 4B Applicable to Parents, Guardians & Spectators

• Set a good example for athletes through appropriate behaviour.
• Respect and trust coaches’ knowledge and direction.
• Keep feedback positive; avoid criticism of athletes, coaches, or officials.
• Communicate respectfully with positive intent.
• Encourage participation and enjoyment over winning.
• Appreciate all participants’ performances.
• Respect others in parent viewing and waiting areas.
• Seek permission from parents/guardians before posting images of other children on social media.

Part 4C – Applicable to Athletes / Participants

• Show respect to teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials.
• Follow coaches’ guidance and communicate injuries or concerns.
• Allow others to practice at their own pace; avoid teasing or belittling.
• Do not acknowledge parents or friends during competitions.
• Accept scores and decisions gracefully; address concerns through coaches.

Part 4D – Applicable to Coaches & Coaches-in-Training

• Provide a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate environment.
• Model appropriate behaviour and good sportsmanship.
• Prioritise athlete welfare physically, psychologically, and emotionally.
• Ensure facilities, equipment, and programs meet health and safety standards.
• Follow injury management and return-to-sport policies.
• Maintain professional boundaries; avoid private social or online interactions with athletes.
• Always supervise athletes; never coach alone.
• Maintain professional attire and conduct at all times.
• Arrive early, leave only after athletes are safely collected.
• Only use CYC devices for filming or delete personal footage.
• Report concerns or inappropriate behaviour to CYC management.
• Stay current with professional development, rules, and regulations.

Part 4E – Applicable to Administrators

• Uphold CYC, Gymnastics Australia, and Gymnastics Victoria codes of conduct.
• Provide a safe, inclusive environment for all participants.
• Demonstrate appropriate behaviour and leadership.
• Ensure equal opportunities for participation in sport and development.
• Support coaching and officiating standards.
• Communicate policies, procedures, and child safety requirements effectively.
• Ensure permission is granted for images or footage containing children.

Part 4F – Applicable to Judges & Officials

• Provide a safe, inclusive environment with a focus on participant wellbeing.
• Be fair, consistent, and courteous in decisions.
• Model appropriate behaviour and sportsmanship.
• Promote participation, effort, and enjoyment over perfection.
• Stay current with judging rules and professional development.
• Remind members about image/footage permission from parents/guardians.

5. Breaches of this policy

Breaches will be managed under CYC’s disciplinary and Member Protection policies.

Examples of breaches:
• Aggressive, disrespectful, or abusive language or conduct.
• Discrimination, bullying, or harassment.
• Child safety violations or unsafe supervision.
• Inappropriate communication or contact (physical or online).
• Ignoring instructions or safety procedures.
• Failing to report concerns.
• Professional boundary violations.

Consequences may include:
• Verbal or written warning.
• Temporary suspension from programs.
• Removal from classes or the club.
• Termination of employment or volunteer role.
• Referral to external agencies (e.g., Police or Child Safety Services).
All concerns are treated seriously, confidentially, and fairly, in line with grievance procedures.

6. Commitment to a Safe and Respectful Community

By participating in CYC programs, all members agree to uphold this Code of Conduct. Together, we create a
welcoming, positive, and safe environment for everyone.
For more details, refer to:
• Safe Guarding and Young People Policy
• Member Protection Policy
• CYC Member Communication Process
If you have any questions or concerns: Contact the Centre Manager or Child Safety Officer.

Issued: January 2026
Re-issued / Review Date: January 2027