We believe that every child regardless of age has at all times and in all situations a right to feel safe and protected.

Our school recognises its legal and moral duty to promote the well-being of children and keep them safe. We promote their welfare by creating opportunities for them to achieve their full potential, thus giving them optimum life chances in adulthood.

We recognise that many of the risks to children in the ‘real world’ apply equally to the ‘virtual world’ that children and young people may encounter when they use ICT in its various forms. Our aim is to teach them the appropriate behaviours and critical thinking skills to remain both safe and legal online, wherever and whenever they use technology.

The school seeks to adopt an open and accepting attitude towards children as part of our responsibility for pastoral care. We believe it is important that the voice of the child is ‘heard’ and that the day to day life experiences of the child in their own home are captured and contribute to any planning and provision. The school hopes that parents and children will feel free to talk about any concerns and will see school as a safe place if there are any difficulties at home.

What do you do if you have concerns about a child or young person?

The first step is to speak to the class teacher unless the concern is urgent and you are worried about the safety of a child or young person, then please contact the school Designated Safeguarding Lead Mrs Sophie Hunt, or one of the deputy DSLs, Mr Joe Beament and Mrs Sara Hibbs.

This is the NSPCC guidance on 'what to do if you suspect abuse':

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/signs-symptoms-effects/what-if-suspect-abuse/

We use the NSPCC PANTS resources to teach the children how to stay safe from abuse:

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/keeping-children-safe/underwear-rule/