Aston Fencing Academy

Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

Version: 1.02
Date: 12/03/2026
Review Date: Annually

Policy Statement

Aston Fencing Academy is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people participating in our activities.

We believe every child has the right to take part in sport and physical activity in a safe, supportive and positive environment. The safety and wellbeing of children is our highest priority.

All staff, volunteers, parents and participants share responsibility for safeguarding children and ensuring that any concerns are taken seriously and addressed appropriately.

• The welfare of the child is paramount
• All children have the right to protection from abuse and harm
• All safeguarding concerns must be taken seriously
• Safeguarding responsibilities are shared by everyone involved
• Clear procedures must be in place to report concerns

Purpose of This Policy

• Protect children participating in academy activities
• Provide a safe and inclusive environment
• Ensure safeguarding concerns are reported and handled appropriately
• Ensure staff understand their safeguarding responsibilities

Who This Policy Applies To

• Coaches
• Staff
• Volunteers
• Parents and guardians
• Children participating in sessions
• Anyone involved in academy activities

Safeguarding Structure

Head Coach
Aston Bowring

Safeguarding Officer
Mark Bowring

Safeguarding Commitments

• DBS checks completed where required
• Safeguarding training kept up to date
• Paediatric first aid maintained
• Clear behavioural expectations set
• Small group sizes for safe supervision
• Use of safe, child-appropriate equipment
• Open communication with parents

Safe Environment

• Sessions are supervised at all times
• Equipment is age-appropriate
• Clear rules are communicated
• Sessions are structured and engaging

Dedicated SEN sessions are available with smaller group sizes.

Parent Waiver Requirement

All parents or guardians must complete a waiver prior to participation.

This includes emergency contact details, medical information, and consent for participation.

Waiver link:
Complete Waiver Form

Children will not be permitted to take part until this form has been completed.

Safe Collection Procedure

• Children must be collected by a designated adult
• A unique password system is used where required
• Children will only be released with correct verification

Code of Conduct

Staff and Coaches:

• Treat all children with respect
• Provide clear instructions
• Maintain professional boundaries
• Report safeguarding concerns immediately

Children:

• Respect coaches and others
• Follow safety instructions
• Behave positively and inclusively

Parents:

• Ensure timely drop-off and collection
• Inform staff of medical needs
• Support a respectful environment

Recognising Safeguarding Concerns

• Physical abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Neglect
• Sexual abuse
• Bullying or harassment

All concerns must be taken seriously.

Reporting a Concern

Safeguarding Officer
Mark Bowring

Email: Safeguarding@astonfencingacademy.co.uk
Phone: +44 7920 221137

Concerns may be escalated to local authorities, social services, or police where necessary.

Confidentiality

All safeguarding concerns are handled confidentially and only shared when necessary to protect a child.

Health & Safety Statement

• Equipment is regularly checked
• Sessions are structured safely
• Participant numbers are controlled
• Hazards are addressed immediately

Risk Assessment Summary

• Slips/trips managed through clear floors and checks
• Equipment used safely under supervision
• Controlled, structured activities reduce injury risk
• Emergency procedures in place
• Safeguarding procedures strictly followed

Overall Risk Level: Low to Moderate

Coach Qualifications & Training

• KS1&2 Foundation Fencing Certified (Trained by Olympian & British Fencing Coach Educator James Beevers)
• Paediatric First Aid Certified
• Safeguarding Training Completed

Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually or when required.

Safeguarding Contact

Mark Bowring
Email: Safeguarding@astonfencingacademy.co.uk
Phone: +44 7920 221137