Child Protection Code of Conduct

The Nest Climbing Gym: Child Protection Code of Conduct

Last Reviewed: September 2025

At The Nest Climbing Gym, the safety and well-being of children are our highest priority. This Code of Conduct outlines the standards of behaviour expected from all staff, volunteers, and visitors to ensure a safe, supportive, and positive environment for every child.

Our Commitment to Child Safety

  • Zero Tolerance: The Nest Climbing Gym has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of child abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

  • Best Interests of the Child: All decisions and actions will prioritize the best interests of the child.

  • Safe Environment: We are committed to providing a physically and emotionally safe environment where children feel respected, heard, and protected.

  • Open Communication: We encourage open communication about any child protection concerns. All reports will be taken seriously and acted upon promptly and appropriately.

How to Report a Concern

Our designated Child Protection Officer (CPO) is our Gym Manager, Eliza Brazel.

If you are a staff member, volunteer, parent, or child and you suspect or experience abuse, you must report it immediately to the CPO.

  • Reports can be made verbally or in writing.

  • The CPO will document all concerns thoroughly, maintaining strict confidentiality.

  • The CPO will follow our internal investigation procedures and, where appropriate, contact relevant external authorities (e.g., child protective services, police).

  • No one will face retaliation for making a good-faith report of child abuse or neglect.

Staff & Volunteer Conduct

Expected Conduct
All staff and volunteers must:

  • Act Professionally: Serve as positive role models for children.

  • Hold a Valid WWCC: Have a current and cleared Working with Children Check (WWCC) on file with gym management at all times.

  • Respect Boundaries: Use appropriate physical contact only when necessary for instruction or safety, ensuring it is observable by others.

  • Communicate Respectfully: Use clear, positive, and encouraging language.

  • Report Concerns: Immediately report any suspicions or disclosures of abuse to the CPO.

  • Adhere to Procedures: Follow all gym policies and procedures regarding child protection.

Prohibited Conduct
Staff and volunteers must NOT:

  • Engage in any form of abuse (physical, emotional, sexual, or neglectful).

  • Show favouritism or create exclusive relationships with individual children.

  • Be alone with a child out of sight or earshot of others (except in emergencies).

  • Share personal contact details or connect with children on social media.

  • Consume alcohol or illicit drugs while on duty.

  • Ignore or dismiss any child protection concerns.

Key Risk Areas & Safety Protocols

Safety Inductions (Harness & Shoe Fitting)

  • Staff will provide clear, age-appropriate instructions for fitting gear.

  • Physical assistance will be explained (e.g., "I'm checking your leg loops for safety") and limited to what is necessary.

  • A second adult (staff or parent) should ideally be present or within clear line of sight.

School Groups & Youth Programs

  • We require adequate teacher/supervisor ratios from visiting schools.

  • All supervisors will be briefed on our child protection policies.

  • Structured supervision plans, regular headcounts, and clear parent communication channels will be maintained.

Consequences for Breaches

  • Staff: Any staff member found to have engaged in child abuse will face immediate disciplinary action, including termination and referral to law enforcement.

  • Visitors: Any parent or other child found engaging in abusive behaviour will be removed from the premises and may be banned from the gym.

Surveillance & Monitoring

  • Natural Surveillance: Our gym is designed with open spaces and clear sightlines to deter inappropriate behaviour.

  • CCTV Monitoring: We use strategically placed CCTV cameras (excluding changing rooms and bathrooms) for safety and security. Signage is clearly displayed indicating that CCTV is in operation. Access to footage is restricted to authorized personnel.

Policy Review

This Code of Conduct is reviewed annually by Gym Managers Diego Lopez and Eliza Brazel to ensure it remains effective and compliant with current legislation.