Control Measures For Your Schools Gymnastics Risk Assessment.

Gymnastics is an exciting and dynamic sport that offers students an opportunity to develop physical fitness, coordination, and confidence. However, like any physical activity, it carries inherent risks. To create a safe and supportive environment, it’s essential to conduct a thorough risk assessment.

A well-structured risk assessment identifies potential hazards, evaluates their likelihood and severity, and outlines the steps to minimise or eliminate them. This process not only ensures the safety of students and staff but also fulfills legal and regulatory obligations, providing peace of mind for all involved.

This guide will highlist the main things we should see in your control measures of a schools gymnastics risk assessment

When developing a risk assessment, the ultimate aim should be to produce a clear list of control measures that address potential risks and their likelihood of occurring. By focusing on actionable control measures, teachers and coaches can understand what steps are necessary to create a safe environment.. This approach is far more constructive than presenting a list of potential risks, which might cause unnecessary worry, particularly for those leading activities like gymnastics.

A well-thought-out risk assessment empowers educators by providing them with practical solutions to mitigate hazards, fostering confidence and competence when managing sessions. This not only ensures safety but also helps teachers focus on delivering engaging and effective lessons without being overwhelmed by fears of "what could go wrong."

Below is an example of the control measures we implement. These are regularly reviewed each term to account for any changes in the school’s setup or environment. This ongoing review process ensures that our risk management remains up-to-date and aligned with current conditions, reinforcing our commitment to creating a safe and supportive atmosphere for all.

Control measures and Precautions that coaches and staff adopt in normal practice

• Staff are appropriately trained, any identified lack of confidence or competence is addressed through suitable CPD.

• Trainers are not worn unless medical condition or injury.

• Long hair is tied back .

• Jewellery is removed.

• Under no circumstances should any participant just wear socks.

• Clothing allows free unrestricted movement without being loose

• Where possible the pupils are involved in the management of risks, provision for this is made and forms part of the learning process.

• Pupils clearly understand all of the instructions and only complete exercises in their capability.

• Pupils understand the importance of physical preparation for each skill.

• The floor area is free from clutter and obstructions.

• Structures progress programs to be followed to allow safe progressions through skills.

• Sufficient amounts of equipment to be used to support capabilities of all pupils.

• Equipment is stored in an area to keep safe and avoid damage of the equipment.

• Gymnastic equipment is subject to regular inspection.

• On no account is defective equipment used.

• Any equipment deemed unsafe but repairable should not be used until deemed safe.

• Any irreparable equipment is clearly marked and disposed of as soon as possible.

• All pupils fully understand their own ability.

• Care is taken when using mats particularly in regard to their placement.

• Particular care is taken with pupil who display poor discipline.

• Gymnastics sessions always start with a warm up to prepare muscles and joints for the session ahead.

• Lessons/sessions are differentiated taking into account the varying abilities and progress of individual pupils.

• Skills taught and learned are revisited on regular basis this is highlighted in the planning stage.

• Care is taken when pupils have a long period of absence.

• Pupils achievements and work covered is recorded to ensure suitable progressions.

• Equipment is moved by coach or students who are aware of how to lift and move equipment safely.

• A gymnastic session is never left unsupervised.

• Each session coach will complete a visual risk assessment of the area to check for: Damage to equipment, cluttered space, sufficient ventilation, sufficient lighting and anything that could cause harm to any participants or people in the area.

Disclaimer:The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is based on our expertise and experience in the field. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, the content should not be considered as exhaustive or legally binding advice.

Every situation is unique, and risk assessments must be tailored to specific circumstances, environments, and legal requirements. We recommend consulting a qualified professional or referring to official guidelines to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and standards in your area.

We are not liable for any decisions made or actions taken based on the information provided in this blog. Always prioritise safety and due diligence when conducting risk assessments or implementing recommendations.

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