Online Safety Guidance

At Shred Academy, we want every rider to enjoy being part of our online community safely and responsibly. Whether you’re sharing a new trick, messaging a coach, or posting from a session - your safety always comes first. This guidance explains how we protect our young riders online and what you can do to stay safe.

Our Commitment

We promote a positive, respectful, and inclusive online culture.
We protect children’s privacy by limiting the sharing of personal information and identifiable images.
We educate riders, coaches, and parents about digital safety, consent, and responsible communication.
We take online bullying, harassment, or inappropriate contact seriously and act on any reports immediately.

Online Conduct for Coaches and Staff

Only use approved Shred Academy channels (official email, website, or group apps) to contact riders or parents.
Do not privately message under-18s on personal social media or text.
All digital communication must be professional, appropriate, and transparent.
Coaches must not share personal photos, memes, or content unrelated to training with young riders.
Never post or forward images of children without parental consent.

Online Conduct for Riders

Be kind and respectful in messages, comments, and group chats.
Never share your personal details online - including your full name, school, address, or contact info.
Only join official Shred Academy groups and chats with your parent or carer’s permission.
Tell a coach or parent straight away if you see or receive anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.
Think before you post - once something is online, it can stay there forever.

Guidance for Parents & Carers

Monitor your child’s online activity and privacy settings regularly.
Encourage open conversations about who they interact with online and what they share.
Make sure your child knows they can come to you or their coach if they ever feel unsafe.
Familiarise yourself with the platforms your child uses - Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Discord, etc.
Report inappropriate or harmful content directly to the platform or via CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command).

Photography, Video, and Social Media

We love celebrating progression and sharing the amazing things our riders do - but we do this safely and respectfully.

Written parental consent is required before sharing any identifiable image or video of a rider under 18.
Images should show riders in appropriate settings and clothing, doing their sport safely.
Full names or personal details will not be included alongside images of minors.
If a parent, carer, or rider withdraws consent, the image or video will be removed immediately.
Coaches and staff should remain alert to anyone taking photos or filming without clear reason and report it to the session lead.

Cyberbullying and Inappropriate Contact

Cyberbullying is treated the same as bullying in person - it is never tolerated.
If you receive hurtful, threatening, or inappropriate messages online, save the evidence and tell a coach or parent right away.
We will work with parents, schools, and authorities if necessary to resolve any incidents of online bullying.
Any adult making inappropriate contact with a young rider will be reported to safeguarding authorities and the police.

Reporting Online Concerns

If you are worried about something you’ve seen online or if someone contacts you in a way that feels wrong:

Speak to your parent, coach, or the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
Email us confidentially at info@shredacademy.co.uk.
Use our Report a Concern form on the website.
If you believe a child is in danger, contact 999 immediately.

You can also get expert help and advice from: CEOP, Childline, or NSPCC.

Policy Review

This Online Safety Guidance is reviewed annually or sooner if digital platforms, laws, or best practice guidance change. Feedback is welcome from riders, parents, and coaches to help us keep the Shred Academy community safe online.

Last reviewed: October 2025