 [centre]Young players develop at different times; provide experiences matched to the player’s ages and abilities, as well as their physical and mental development.
 Don’t overload young players with demands, technical information and tactics – remember they are children and they are playing rugby for fun.
 Ensure youngsters are coached in a safer environment with first aid to hand.
Avoid the overplaying of the best players, by using a squad system which gives every player satisfactory playing time.
 Winning isn’t everything – teach your players to enjoy taking part and performing to the best of their ability. Encourage each player to reach his or her potential.
 Never question an official’s judgment or honesty.
 Coaches behaviour should be exemplary at all times, ensuring that players and parents have a good role model which practically demonstrates and supports the Codes of Conduct.
 Never allow a player to train or play when injured.
 Ensure supervision of players, on and off the field.
 Never abuse, criticise or ridicule children for making mistakes or losing a game.
Recognise that young players should never be exposed to extremes of temperature, or unacceptable risk of injury.
 Be aware of and abide by, the policies and procedure outlined in the Club’s RFU/Sport England Child Protection policy.
 Be organised – establish a structure for the season, prepare a coaching plan for each session, have the appropriate kit. Above all, communicate to players, parents and fellow coaches to set expectations.
Make sure players develop an understanding of the laws of the game, that they respect opponents, teammates, coaches and officials.
 Coaches working with players up to the age of 12 must follow the guidelines laid down by the RFU Rugby Continuum. CRB clearance is compulsory.
 Coaches working with players 13+ must be aware of the law variations, according to the RFU Rugby Continuum. CRB clearance is compulsory.
 Qualification at RFU 1st 4 Sport National NVQ Level 1 and above is mandatory for Head Coaches. Assistant coaches will need to working towards this, or have also passed this award.
 Ensure players and parents behaviour is appropriate and in keeping with the spirit of the game and the expectations of the club.