Guidelines & Policies

Beyond Gaming

Educational resources about gaming careers are available.
Regular workshops on game development, streaming, and industry skills.
Mentorship opportunities with industry professionals.
Resources for educational pathways in technology and gaming.

Earn Gaming Credits:

Individuals who are volunteers within the community (City of Stratford).
Those that attend workshops and events related.
Individuals who demonstrate a responsible, respectful and supportive environment.
Please refer to How to Gain Credits.

Disciplinary Process

Verbal warning.
Contact with parent/guardian.
Temporary suspension from the lounge.
Permanent removal in severe cases.
Depending on the severity of the incident, staff reserve the right to move immediately to suspension or removal with proper documentation to support the decision. Decisions will be supported by the City of Stratford Public Conduct Policy and Facilities Code of Conduct Policy.

Zero Tolerance for:

Physical aggression or threatening behavior.
Bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
Theft or intentional damage to equipment.
Viewing or sharing inappropriate content.
The use of alcohol, drugs, vaping, or tobacco products is strictly prohibited within the NextStrat Esports Lounge and at any events.

Facility Cleanliness & Sanitation

Workstations, gaming equipment, and seating areas are regularly cleaned and disinfected to maintain a safe and hygienic environment.
Visitors are encouraged to wash their hands frequently.
If you are unwell, take a break from the lounge and rest. Return when feeling better.

Incident Reporting

Any accidents, injuries, or violations of safety policies must be reported to a staff member immediately.
Incident reports will be documented and reviewed to ensure future safety improvements.
Repeated violations of safety policies by a participant may result in suspension or removal from activities or events.

Mental Health

Regular breaks are encouraged for physical and mental well-being.
If you are in distress of any kind, notify the staff immediately.
Creating a positive, supportive atmosphere is everyone's responsibility.

Digital Safety

Protect your personal information online.
No sharing of passwords or accounts.
Report inappropriate online behavior to staff.
No photography or recording without permission from staff.
All internet activity is monitored for safety.

Safety Policies

Physical Safety

No running or rough play in the facility.
Keep walkways and exits clear at all times.
Report any safety concerns to staff immediately.
Security cameras are recording within the facility for safety.
In case of emergency, follow staff instructions.

For your safety and the safety of our staff, there will be 24-hour surveillance cameras around the lounge. Please see the City of Stratford’s Video Surveillance Policy on the use of the cameras for more details. Video Surveillance - City of Stratford.

Substance-Free Environment

The use of alcohol, drugs, vaping, or tobacco products is strictly prohibited within the facility and at any events.
Anyone suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be asked to leave the premises.

Dress Code

Visitors must be fully dressed and wear appropriate clothing while in the facility. Clothing that contains offensive imagery, language, or references to drugs, alcohol, or violence is not permitted.

Be Responsible

Take breaks every hour to rest your eyes and stretch.
Manage your time appropriately.
Use headphones when necessary to maintain a pleasant environment.
Keep your belongings secure (we are not responsible for lost or stolen items).
Clean up after yourself in all areas

Be Supportive

Help create a welcoming environment for all participants.
Offer encouragement to peers if warranted.
Share knowledge and skills in a respectable manner with those who are learning.
Report any concerns about bullying or harassment to staff immediately.

Code of Conduct

Be Respectful

Treat everyone with respect regardless of skill level, background, or identity. Discriminatory, hateful, or offensive speech or actions based on race, gender, sexuality, religion, disability, or background will not be tolerated. Everyone is expected to contribute to a positive and inclusive atmosphere.
Use appropriate language at all times (no profanity, hate speech, or harassment).
Use indoor voices. Any loud disruptions (including but not limited to music, voices, or videos) may lead to your dismissal.
Listen to and follow staff instructions promptly.
Practice good sportsmanship whether winning or losing.

Game Content

Games are limited to age-appropriate ratings.
Staff reserves the right to restrict content deemed inappropriate.

Equipment Use

Handle all equipment with care and respect.
Report any damaged equipment to staff immediately.
No food or drinks allowed at computer stations.
Clean up your area before leaving.
No installation of software, files, or changing settings.
Controllers, headphones, mouse, keyboard, or any borrowed equipment must be returned to the staff or kept at the designated station area after each session. No equipment, consoles, or hardware are permitted to leave the premises.

Lounge Policies

Access & Participation

Our lounge is open to youth ages 7-17. Visitors under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a parent, caregiver, or older sibling (16+) to access the lounge.
First-time visitors must complete registration with parent/guardian signature.
All individuals must sign in upon attendance at NextStrat and sign out with Admin upon leaving.
Staff and volunteers reserve the right to refuse service to anyone violating our policies.