How many adults should supervise a children's session?
Guideline- UK
- NSPCC Sport (CPSU)
- Safeguarding
- DBS
- Disclosure Scotland PVG
- AccessNI
- Youth sport (under 18)
- 2026
- Volunteers
- Coaches
NSPCC Sport recommends a minimum of two adult supervisors for any group, even a very small one.
Its minimum supervision ratios:
| Age of children | Adults to children |
|---|---|
| 0 to 2 | 1:3 |
| 2 to 3 | 1:4 |
| 4 to 8 | 1:6 |
| 9 to 12 | 1:8 |
| 13 to 18 | 1:10 |
These are minimums. The right number for your session should come from your risk assessment, and supervision during travel and overnight stays needs to be checked separately. Your sport's NGB may also set its own coach-to-player ratios.
Updated 21 Oct 2026