Traffic Light Behaviour Procedure

Introduction:

Maintaining discipline, safety, and respect within a swimming club is essential for fostering a positive environment for swimmers of all ages and abilities. One effective strategy for managing behaviour is the implementation of a Traffic Light Behaviour System. This system provides a clear, visual, and easily understandable framework to help swimmers recognise expectations, monitor their own conduct, and respond appropriately to feedback.

Overview of the Traffic Light Behaviour System:

The Traffic Light Behaviour System is based on the universally recognised colours of traffic signals—green, amber, and red. Each colour represents a different level of behaviour and then used to guide swimmers towards making positive choices in and around the pool. 

  • Green: Everyone is in the green until the swimmer receives their first action.
  • Yellow: First Warning stage. Issued for behaviour breaching the Code of Conduct or Lane Etiquette Policy. Will be given verbally and recorded on SCM.
  • Amber: Second Warning stage. Issued for persistent behavioural breaches. It will be recorded, Parent/Guardian and behavioural team will be informed.
  • Red: Third Warning continued behavioural breaches or for major breaches of conduct, such as being abusive or behaving dangerously. Members will be asked to leave and cannot return until meetings have been held between the member, Parent/Guardian and the behavioural team. Members who reach this point risk having their membership terminated. 
Members who have been awarded with a Yellow or Amber warning can move back to green after 6 months of no further warnings and on agreement with the head coach and behavioural team

Summary:

  • Provides clarity and consistency for swimmers, coaches, and parents.
  • Encourages self-management and accountability among swimmers.
  • Reduces ambiguity around rules and expectations. 
  • Supports a safe and respectful club culture. 
The Traffic Light Behaviour system is a tool to create a structured, fair, and positive environment. By using clear visual signals and consistent responses, coaches can help swimmers develop good habits, understand the consequences of their actions, and enjoy their time in the pool safely and respectfully. Copies of this Traffic Light System, our Code of Conduct and Lane Etiquette Policy are available to view on our website www.larkfieldsc.co.uk