Scope
This policy outlines safety standards and procedures for all swimming activities conducted during Adventure Camps’ summer holiday day camp.
Objectives
Our aim is to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and educational swimming experience for all campers while minimising risks associated with swimming activities.
Supervision
All swimming activities will be supervised by qualified lifeguards and experienced staff members who hold current First Aid and CPR certifications. There will always be at least one staff member for every ten campers.
Staff Attire in the Pool
Any staff entering the pool must be appropriately dressed. This includes wearing a baggy t-shirt and appropriate swimwear. Staff clothing should not hinder their mobility or ability to assist campers in the water.
Swimmer Assessment
On the first day of the camp, all campers will undergo a swimming assessment to gauge their ability and comfort level in the water. Campers will be grouped by ability for swimming activities.
Safety Rules
All campers must adhere to the safety rules posted at the pool and instructed by the lifeguards and staff. These include no running, no diving in the shallow end, and not entering the pool without a lifeguard present.
Swimwear and Equipment
All campers are required to wear appropriate swimwear. Goggles and swimming caps are recommended but not mandatory. Inflatable armbands or swim rings are not allowed. Lifejackets or buoyancy aids, if needed, will be provided by the camp.
Hygiene
All campers must shower before entering the pool. Campers with open wounds, skin conditions, or illnesses that could be transmitted in a pool environment should not participate in swimming activities.
Emergency Procedures
In the event of an emergency, all campers are to follow the instructions given by the lifeguards and staff. Regular drills will be conducted to familiarise campers with emergency procedures.
Changing Room Polic
Our changing room policy is tailored to ensure all campers have a safe, respectful, and comfortable experience when changing into and out of their swimming attire. This policy is in line with UK regulations, and varies for different age groups.
Supervision:
- Under 6’s: Children under the age of 6 will use mixed-gender changing rooms. They will always be accompanied by two staff members to ensure safety, support, and respectful behaviour.
- 6 years and above: Campers aged 6 and over will use single-sex changing rooms. Staff members will not be present in the changing rooms but will monitor behaviour from a suitable distance, intervening only if necessary to maintain safety or appropriate behaviour.
Respect for Privacy: All campers should respect each other’s privacy. If private changing cubicles are not available, campers are advised to use towels or swim robes to maintain their privacy.
Appropriate Behaviour: We require behaviour in the changing rooms to be appropriate and respectful at all times. Bullying, teasing, or any form of inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated.
Hygiene: Campers must shower before entering the pool to ensure the cleanliness of our facilities.
Storage of Personal Items: Personal items should be stored in the lockers provided. Adventure Camps cannot take responsibility for lost or stolen items. We strongly recommend that campers do not bring valuables to camp.
- Parental Consent Parents/guardians must provide written consent for their child to participate in swimming activities. Any relevant medical conditions or fears that the child might have related to water should be declared at this stage.
- Handling Children The staff at Adventure Camps are trained to handle children with patience, understanding, and respect.
- Physical Contact: We adhere to a strict policy where physical contact with a child is only permissible in the context of ensuring their safety, such as during swimming instruction or while aiding in the event of distress. All physical contact must be appropriate and conducted in a way that respects the dignity of the child.
- Emotional Support: Understanding that swimming can be a challenging activity for some children, our staff are trained to provide emotional support and encouragement. We ensure that each child feels comfortable, safe, and confident in the water.
- Behaviour Management: In case of behavioural issues, staff will use non-confrontational methods to address the situation. This may include a discussion with the child about their behaviour, redirecting their attention to more positive actions, or, if necessary, involving the camp leaders. Parents will be notified and consulted if a child’s behaviour consistently disrupts the camp environment or threatens the safety of themselves or others.
- Confidentiality: Personal information about campers, including their swimming abilities and behaviour, is treated with utmost confidentiality. Such information is shared only with the staff involved in the child’s care and the child’s parents or guardians.
- Respecting Differences: We celebrate diversity and treat every child equally, irrespective of their age, race, gender, religion, or swimming abilities. Bullying or discrimination of any kind is not tolerated, and we promote an atmosphere of respect and inclusion.Remember, our staff are always available to discuss any concerns or questions that you might have regarding the care of your child during their time at our camp.
By implementing this policy, we aim to provide a safe, controlled environment for campers to enjoy swimming, learn new skills, and create memorable summer experiences. Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information about this policy.
