Safeguarding

Safeguarding our pupils

Our safeguarding team comprises of Richard Healey as designated safeguarding lead (DSL) and Charley Woodley, Rosie Crean, Claire Marney and Clare Strange as supporting members of the team. Any safeguarding concerns are reported to us and we will investigate and take action if necessary. Our approach to safeguarding is built on a foundation of strong leadership, comprehensive policies, and a child-centred ethos. We have robust safeguarding policies that are regularly reviewed and updated. These policies cover all aspects of child protection, staff behaviour, health and safety, and safer recruitment.

When a concern is raised we will talk to the child in the first instance using the ‘Tell, Explain and Describe’ process and the well-being of the children is always our primary focus. We will contact parents as appropriate.

All staff members receive regular training on safeguarding issues, ensuring they are equipped to recognise and respond to potential risks. This training is not a one-time event but an on-going process to keep everyone updated on best practices. All staff receive directed safeguarding training that includes policies and procedures - KCSIE, Trust Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, Site Security Arrangements, Code of Conduct and CPOMS recording system.

We also complete the Safeguarding Network calendar of training and have a robust system for identifying and filling any potential gaps in staff training, knowledge, and understanding including annual whole school safeguarding reviews, termly quizzes and weekly safeguarding bulletin and meeting agendas.  

We work closely with many different external agencies, such as First Response and Early Help, who can offer support to families. In some situations we will need to inform parents of our requirements to involve these agencies. First Response is operated by qualified social workers who are able to discuss any concerns and offer advice and initiate follow-up if necessary. First Response is the family front door for Children’s Services in Somerset. It consists of social workers, Family Front Door practitioners and team managers - their role is to determine the level of intervention for a family and whether support is required from either a Family Intervention Service or Statutory Social Work team. We also liaise with the Somerset Council and Somerset Safeguarding Children Partnership Board. 

Responsibilities within the safeguarding team:

• Prevent

• Online Safety

• Equality, diversity and inclusion

• Female Genital Mutilation

• Child Sexual Exploitation

• Mental Health

• Children Missing in Education

• Young Carers