Training & CPD
Welcome to your go-to page for everything you need to succeed as a Coach at Riley’s Kids Camps. This training hub is designed to support you with essential information, guidance, and resources, from safeguarding and health & safety to child development and behaviour management. You’ll find links to all relevant policies, mandatory training courses, and safeguarding advice, as well as clear guidance on what’s expected of you as part of the Riley’s team. Whether you’re new to the role or refreshing your knowledge, this page will help you feel confident, prepared, and ready to deliver an amazing, safe, and fun experience for every child in our care.
Administering an EpiPen
An EpiPen, or epinephrine auto-injector, is used to treat a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. It's crucial to administer it if someone is experiencing symptoms of anaphylaxis after exposure to an allergen, even if the reaction seems mild initially, as it can rapidly progress.
We have children in our care that have EpiPens, ALL Coaches need to know how to use one. No First Aid training needed.
Epilepsy Seizures
We may have children in our care that have Epilepsy. Please watch the video below that will give you some understanding, first trained or not, what to do if one of our children has an epileptic fit. The video will demonstrate what to do in the moment, once able,, Head Coach to call 999 for emergency response, followed by parents/emergency contacts, followed by Alix and Blayne.
Autism Awareness
Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that affects how a person experiences and interacts with the world. Every autistic child is unique, with their own strengths, interests and support needs. Some children may find changes to routine, busy environments, loud noises or social situations challenging, while others may need extra time to process instructions or communicate their thoughts. Many autistic children thrive with clear expectations, predictable routines and patient, supportive coaching.
As a Coach, your role is not to change the child, but to understand them, adapt where appropriate and create an environment where they feel safe, included and able to succeed.
Navigating ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a child regulates their attention, activity levels and impulses. Every child with ADHD is different, but some may find it difficult to stay focused, wait their turn, follow multi-step instructions or remain still for long periods. Many children with ADHD are energetic, creative and enthusiastic, and often thrive in active environments like sports. As a Coach, your role is to provide clear instructions, keep children engaged, use positive reinforcement and understand that behaviours are not always a choice. Patience, consistency and encouragement can make a significant difference, helping every child feel successful, included and confident.
Let's talk about Safeguarding
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Stay Alert and Observant
Always be aware of children’s behaviour, mood, and physical appearance. Small changes can signal something bigger, trust your instincts and don’t ignore red flags. Share with your DSL and Create a document in our 'Safeguarding' folder.
Professional Curiosity
Professional Curiosity in Safeguarding (NSPCC Guidance-Informed)
Definition:
Professional curiosity is the mindset and approach where Coaches notice red flags, ask thoughtful questions, and seek deeper understanding.
🔍 Why It Matters
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Abuse and neglect are often hidden and can be masked by plausible explanations, especially in complex or resistant families.
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Being professionally curious helps practitioners identify early signs of harm, challenge inconsistencies, and avoid making assumptions.
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It's vital in multi-agency working, where shared curiosity leads to better-informed decisions.
🛡️ In Practice, Professional Curiosity Means:
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Looking beyond the obvious – not accepting explanations at face value if something feels off.
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Asking open-ended questions, “Can you tell me more about that?” rather than yes/no questions.
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Noticing the child’s behaviour and voice – Does it align with what adults are saying?
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Following up on inconsistencies – e.g, different stories from a child and parent.
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Understanding context – What’s going on at home, at school, and emotionally for the child?
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Collaborating and checking information with colleagues and other agencies.
📌 Examples of Curiosity in Action
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Noticing that a child always arrives hungry and asking gently about meals at home.
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Following up when a child becomes unusually withdrawn or shows signs of distress.
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Querying injuries that don’t match the explanation or pattern expected.
🚨 Barriers to Professional Curiosity (to be aware of):
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Over-reliance on previous assessments (“they’ve always been fine”)
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Avoiding difficult conversations
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Fear of being wrong or offending parents
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Time pressure and high workloads
✅ What You Should Do
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Remain alert, inquisitive, and open-minded.
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Use supervision to reflect on concerns or gut feelings.
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Keep accurate records and report concerns, no matter how small.
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Remember: You may be the only professional who sees that piece of the puzzle.
Helpful and tangible wording to use in the event a child discloses any Safeguarding concerns.
'Thank you for sharing that with me, I can see how important that was for you to share. This is important to me now, it's my job to make sure you are safe.'
Safeguarding Refreshers
At Riley’s Kids Camps, safeguarding isn’t just a one-time training, it's an everyday responsibility. We’re committed to bringing safeguarding back into conscious, consistent practice across all our clubs. This means making sure every Coach stays alert, informed, and confident in spotting signs of concern, responding appropriately, and always prioritising children’s safety and wellbeing. Through regular reminders, clear reporting procedures, accessible policies, and open conversations, we ensure that safeguarding is not just something we’ve done, but something we do, every single day.
When it comes to Safeguarding, it's important we make space in our busy days to hear the voice of the child.
It's important we take the time to listen, take their words seriously and respect them.
Opening the doors to our children, giving them a safe environment, nurturing Coaches, our 'Camper's Voice' board and always an ear that listens, will support them in opening up, should they need us.
Helpful and tangible wording to use in the event a child discloses any Safeguarding concerns. It's important we keep the child informed of what happens next with the information they've given.
'I'm going to let you know what I'm going to do next. It's my job to make sure you're safe, and that means letting *DSL name* know what we've just been talking to you about. Would you like to chat further about this? '
Working together
All staff are required to work in line with our Code of Conduct at Riley’s Kids Camps. You will be asked to read and sign our Service Level Agreement (SLA) to confirm that you understand, accept, and agree to follow all procedures and policies related to safeguarding, health and safety, behaviour management, and professional conduct. This helps ensure a consistent, safe, and high-quality experience for every child in our care.
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