Important Safeguarding Information
At our school, safeguarding is a fundamental aspect of our mission to provide a safe and nurturing environment for all students. It’s something that we take very seriously and believe that it’s everyone’s responsibility. We want to create a culture where every member of our school community understands their role in keeping children safe and can recognise potential signs of abuse or neglect.
As outlined in the Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2024 guidance, safeguarding encompasses a wide range of activities aimed at protecting children from harm. This includes not only prevention of abuse but also recognising and responding to situations where a child may be at risk. It’s crucial that all staff, parents, and even students play their part in this effort. Creating an awareness of these responsibilities helps build a safer environment for our children to thrive in.
We are proud to have a dedicated team in place to lead our safeguarding initiatives. The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) at our school is Mrs Kershaw. She plays a critical role in ensuring the effectiveness of our safeguarding policies and is the go-to person for any concerns related to child welfare. If you notice something that raises a red flag, we encourage you to speak to Mrs Kershaw. She is trained to handle all safeguarding matters with care, diligence, and confidentiality.
In addition to Mrs Kershaw, we have Deputy Safeguarding Leads, Ms Taylor and Ms Stobbs, who are equally committed to the safeguarding agenda. They are here to offer support and guidance and to ensure that the needs of the students are prioritised. They provide additional points of contact for anyone who may feel uncomfortable approaching the DSL directly or who wishes to discuss their concerns further.
The essence of safeguarding goes beyond just adhering to policies; it’s about fostering an environment where children feel safe and valued. This means encouraging open communication among staff, students, and parents. We actively promote a culture of vigilance, whereby everyone is encouraged to report any concerns they may have, no matter how small they might seem. It is the small acts of diligence that can often lead to significant changes for the better.
In line with KCSIE 2024, we also place great emphasis on our training and development. All staff members receive regular training on the latest safeguarding practices, ensuring that everyone is up to date with the information, skills, and knowledge they need to support our students effectively. Additionally, we encourage parents to engage with safeguarding updates, as your involvement is essential in helping support your children.
Being attentive and proactive in their safety is a shared commitment that must extend beyond the classroom. This includes partnerships with parents and the wider community, reinforcing the idea that safeguarding is truly everyone's responsibility. Together, we can establish protective layers around our children to keep them safe from harm.
In conclusion, your awareness and involvement make a significant difference in safeguarding the wellbeing of our students. By working collaboratively, we can create a supportive atmosphere that prioritises safety above all. If you have any questions or concerns regarding safeguarding, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Mrs Kershaw, Ms Taylor, or Ms Stobbs. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our school's safeguarding ethos.
