What qualifications and checks must my child's coach have?
Rule- UK
- British Gymnastics
- Recreational gymnastics
- Rise Gymnastics
- Preschool to school age
- 2026/27
- Parents
British Gymnastics requires:
- Level 2 in the discipline is the minimum to coach on their own. The person designing and directing the programme must hold at least Level 2 in that discipline. A Level 2 coach running a club must also complete the British Gymnastics Club Management module within a year.
- Level 1 / assistant coaches may only work under the supervision of a qualified coach, coaching the skills in their syllabus while a Level 2 (or above) directs the session.
- Unqualified assistants can help with demonstrations and warm-ups, but can't coach, support skills, teach progressions, supervise children or run classes, and must be supervised by a Level 2+ coach at all times.
- Coaches must only coach the disciplines, and up to the level, they're qualified for.
- Criminal records check: every coach working with children must hold a British Gymnastics-approved criminal records check (DBS in England and Wales, PVG in Scotland, AccessNI in Northern Ireland).
- Safeguarding training: coaches over 18 must complete a British Gymnastics-recognised safeguarding course. Level 1 coaches under 18 must complete British Gymnastics Foundation Safeguarding.
Coaches must stay on the premises and be immediately available throughout the session.
Added 21 Oct 2026