Behaviour Policy

  1. Purpose

This policy sets out how First Kick Football promotes positive behaviour, manages challenging behaviour, and ensures a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all children. It aligns with the EYFS 2023, Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025, and FA safeguarding standards. 

  1. Behaviour Expectations

– Children are expected to respect staff, peers, and the environment.
– Staff will model positive behaviour at all times.
– We promote kindness, teamwork, and fair play.
– Clear boundaries and routines will be explained in child-friendly language. 

2A. Code of Conduct 

In addition to the behaviour expectations set out in this policy, First Kick Football operates a clear Code of Conduct which is shared with children and parents and displayed at all sessions.

The Code of Conduct makes clear that the following behaviours are not tolerated:
– Bullying
– Fighting
– Stealing
– Swearing

If a child breaks the Code of Conduct:
– They may be removed from the session and parents/carers contacted.
– Serious or repeated breaches may lead to suspension or exclusion in line with this policy and the Suspensions and Exclusions Policy.
– Parents/carers are reminded that no refunds are given if a child is sent home for breaking the Code of Conduct.

The Code of Conduct is intended to ensure a safe, fun, and respectful environment for all children, staff, and families. 

  1. Promoting Positive Behaviour

– Staff use praise, encouragement, and rewards to reinforce positive behaviour.
– Rules are explained consistently and fairly.
– Activities are engaging and age-appropriate to reduce boredom and frustration.
– Staff encourage children to talk through problems and find solutions together. 

  1. Managing Challenging Behaviour

– Staff will respond calmly and consistently to incidents.
– Children will be reminded of expectations and given the opportunity to reflect.
– Where necessary, a short time-out or removal from activity may be used.
– All incidents of challenging behaviour will be recorded in the Behaviour Log.
– Persistent or serious behaviour issues will be discussed with parents/carers.
– The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) will review incidents that raise safeguarding concerns. 

  1. Supporting Individual Needs

– Reasonable adjustments will be made for children with SEND or additional needs.
– Individual Behaviour Plans (IBPs) may be created in consultation with parents and professionals.
– Staff will be provided with training and guidance where specialist support is required. 

  1. Serious or Persistent Behaviour

– In cases of repeated or serious behaviour issues, a behaviour support meeting will be held with parents/carers.
– Strategies may include increased supervision, changes to activities, or agreed behaviour targets.
– Where behaviour poses a risk to others, suspension or exclusion may be considered in line with the Suspensions and Exclusions Policy. 

  1. Recording and Monitoring

– All behaviour incidents are recorded in the Behaviour Log.
– Records are monitored regularly by the Manager/DSL to identify patterns or concerns.
– Where appropriate, external agencies may be consulted. 

  1. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required by changes in legislation or practice.