Learner Safeguarding Protocol
1. Mandatory Health & Safety Eligibility
- Parental Consent: Every student-athlete must present a signed and verified parental/guardian consent form prior to participating in training or events.
- Medical Clearance: Official medical clearance certified by a licensed physician is required prior to sports entry.
- On-Site Medical Support: Dedicated first-aid stations and emergency medical teams must be stationed at every venue.
2. Conduct of Coaches, Officials, & Staff
- Zero Tolerance Policy: Any form of verbal abuse, physical punishment, body shaming, or intimidation by coaches or staff is strictly prohibited.
- Appropriate Contact: Physical contact is restricted solely to necessary athletic instruction, safety assistance, or medical care.
- Child Protection Officer (CPO): A designated LRP Focal Person must be present at every sports venue to handle confidential reports.
3. Billeting, Accommodation, & Supervision
- Segregated Quarters: Male and female athletes must be accommodated in separate, secure quarters under 24/7 adult supervision.
- Designated Chaperones: Female athletes must be accompanied by assigned female chaperones at all times during travel and stays.
- Curfew & Security: Strict venue curfews and security checkpoints must be strictly maintained.
4. Anti-Bullying & Peer Safeguarding
- Prohibition of Hazing: All initiation rites, hazing, or forced peer tasks are strictly banned.
- Non-Discrimination: Equal opportunities and support must be granted regardless of gender, economic status, or skill level.
5. Special & High-Contact Sports Rules
- Special Education (SPED) / BOCCE: Requires SPED-certified chaperones, accessible competition sites, adapted equipment, and frequent rest intervals.
- Combat & Contact Sports (Taekwondo, Basketball, etc.): Complete protective gear, head injury waivers, and ringside medical responders are mandatory.
6. Operational 5Rs Safeguarding Protocol (SDM 332, s. 2024)
- Recognize: Immediate identification and acknowledgment of any LRP concern or incident raised.
- Record: Official intake logging through LRP Desk Intake Sheets and Incident Reports.
- Respond: Provide immediate intervention, including Psychological First Aid (PFA), counseling, or medical attention.
- Refer: Endorse cases to specialized local authorities (CSWDO, PNP-WCPD, or BCPC) when necessary.
- Report: Formal submission of all addressed concerns to the Learner Rights and Protection Office (LRPO).
Reporting LRP Violations
Any violation of these safeguarding rules must be immediately reported to the venue's Child Protection Officer (CPO), LRP Desk Personnel, or the Event Secretariat for immediate action.