Code of Conduct

The Royal Twirling Association (RTA) is committed to fostering a positive, respectful, and inclusive environment for everyone involved in baton twirling and majorette activities. This Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour expected of all dancers, parents and carers, troupe leaders and coaches, officials and volunteers, and spectators.

All individuals associated with the RTA must treat others with respect, courtesy, and fairness at all times; promote the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play; refrain from any form of bullying, harassment, discrimination, or intimidation; follow the rules and guidelines set by the RTA; respect the decisions of judges and officials; and behave in a manner that upholds the reputation of the RTA, their troupe, and the sport.

Dancers must show respect to fellow competitors, coaches, judges, and officials; compete fairly and within the rules; accept results gracefully, whether winning or losing; represent their troupe and the sport positively; take responsibility for their own equipment and belongings; and report any concerns about safety or behaviour to their troupe leader or an RTA official.

Parents and carers must support their child positively and encourage good sportsmanship; respect the authority of troupe leaders, coaches, judges, and officials; refrain from coaching from the sidelines during competitions; not approach judges or officials regarding scores or placements during an event; raise any concerns through the appropriate channels (troupe leader or RTA committee); and ensure their child arrives on time and is collected promptly after events.

Troupe leaders and coaches must act as positive role models for their dancers; ensure the safety and welfare of their dancers at all times; hold appropriate DBS checks and insurance; communicate clearly and respectfully with parents, dancers, and officials; prepare dancers fairly for competition; and report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the RTA Safeguarding Officer.

Officials, judges, and volunteers must act with integrity, impartiality, and professionalism; apply rules consistently and fairly; maintain confidentiality regarding scores and deliberations; treat all participants with respect; and declare any conflict of interest.

Spectators must remain in designated spectator areas during performances; show respect for all performers regardless of which troupe they support; refrain from disruptive behaviour, including excessive noise during performances; follow the instructions of RTA officials and venue staff; and comply with the RTA Photography & Filming Policy.

The following behaviour is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action: physical or verbal abuse towards any person; bullying, harassment, or intimidation in any form; discrimination based on age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic; use of alcohol or illegal substances at RTA events; smoking or vaping in non-designated areas at venues; any behaviour that brings the RTA or the sport into disrepute.

Any breach of this Code of Conduct will be dealt with in accordance with the RTA Complaints & Disciplinary Policy. Sanctions may include a verbal or written warning, suspension from RTA events, permanent exclusion from the RTA, and referral to external authorities where appropriate.

This Code of Conduct will be reviewed annually. The next review date is March 2027.