SAADI Policy on Independent Attendance at External Training Days and Competitions

Purpose
This policy outlines the club’s position on gymnasts attending external training days, workshops, or competitions that are not organised, endorsed, or attended by SAADI.

While we do not actively encourage independent attendance, we recognise that families may sometimes choose to take part in such events. This policy aims to ensure parents and gymnasts are fully informed about the potential risks, responsibilities, and best practices when doing so.

Scope
This policy applies to all gymnasts, parents/guardians, and coaches affiliated with [Club Name].

Club-to-Club as Best Practice

At SAADI, we believe that participation in external training or competitive events should be arranged club-to-club, rather than club-to-gymnast or gymnast-to-club. This approach:

• Enables the club to check that the event is suitable and relevant to the gymnast’s development

• Ensures that the event is properly insured and aligned with British Gymnastics (BG) policies

• Provides appropriate coach supervision and safeguarding support

• Maintains clear, consistent communication between all parties involved

However, we understand that from time to time, this best practice may not be followed — whether due to personal invitations or parent-initiated interest. In such cases, this policy outlines our expectations for how such independent participation should be managed.

Club-Endorsed Events

• Events formally attended or organised by SAADI will:

  • Include coach supervision

  • Comply with safeguarding and insurance standards

  • Be clearly communicated to all relevant gymnasts and families

• Club representation at these events ensures gymnast welfare and supports their development in a structured way.

Independent Attendance at External Events

• Gymnasts are free to attend events independently, but SAADI does not:

  • Take responsibility for supervision or coaching during such events

  • Guarantee that adequate safeguarding or insurance is in place

  • Accept liability for any incidents, injuries, or disputes arising from independent attendance

Expectations for Families Attending Independently

If a gymnast chooses to attend an external event independently, the family must:

• Inform the club in advance, so we are aware and can offer advice if needed

• Confirm that the event is suitable for the gymnast's age, ability, and BG membership level

• Check that the event is:

  • Open to British Gymnastics members only.

  • Properly insured (especially for non-BG events). You will not be insured if there are non-bg memebrs.

  • Supervised by appropriately qualified and DBS-checked staff

We recommend you request this information directly from the event organiser before committing to participation.

5. Summary

While the safest and most appropriate method of attending events remains club-to-club, we acknowledge that this may not always be possible. This policy sets out clear expectations to help ensure gymnast safety, maintain high safeguarding standards, and support positive experiences in all gymnastics environments — whether club-supported or not.

We appreciate your support in working together to prioritise the wellbeing of all our gymnasts and to uphold the standards and reputation of [Club Name].