CHILD PROTECTION AND SAFEGUARDING POLICY

Transcription

1 CA/15/1/16 CHILD PROTECTION AND SAFEGUARDING POLICY (REVISED January 2015) DESIGNATED SAFEGUARDING LEAD: Monica Rys-Hand DEPUTY DESIGNATED SAFEGUARDING LEAD: DESIGNATED SAFEGUARDING GOVERNOR: Sarah Watson SLT Link Fiona Pierson Jenny Hunt Approved by Governors 25 March 2015 Review Date Spring 2016

2 Preface to all policies and procedures. Colchester Academy Colchester Academy aims to be the first choice provider of outstanding learning for the community of Colchester and beyond. The Academy will provide exciting and challenging academic, vocational and social learning opportunities locally, nationally and internationally. The Academy will prepare students for a rapidly changing world and nurture a philosophy of lifelong learning that they will maintain into adulthood. All students and staff will be nurtured, motivated and encouraged to be the best they can be. Colchester Academy s ethos is founded on a set of key principles which will inspire and be evident in all the Academy does. These principles are: Harnessing the specialisms of English and Health Sciences A culture of high aspirations, high achievement and success for all Respect for others and self, with all people feeling valued A secure and healthy environment which is at the heart of the community. 2 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

3 This Policy should be read in conjunction with: Colchester Academy the Academy s Code of Conduct Policy the Academy s Behaviour for Learning, Rewards and Sanctions Policy the Academy s Staff Appointments and Safer Recruitment Policy the Academy s Complaints Procedure This policy incorporates the previous Safeguarding Policy and Allegations against a Member of Staff Policy. SCOPE / APPLICATION OF THE POLICY This policy applies to all staff, governors and volunteers working in the Academy. The policy is applicable to all on and off-site activities undertaken by students whilst they are the responsibility of the Academy. LEGAL / REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS The Academy s Child Protection policy draws upon duties conferred by Section 27 Children Act 1989, Section 175 of the 2002 Education Act and the guidance contained in Working Together to Safeguard Children (2013), What To Do If You re Worried A Child Is Being Abused, Keeping Children Safe in Education (2014) as well as procedures produced by Essex Safeguarding Children Board. AIMS Colchester Academy fully recognises its responsibilities to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people. The Academy is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for children, staff and visitors and promoting a climate where children and adults feel confident about sharing any concerns, which they may have about their own safety or the well-being of others. PURPOSE The purpose of this Policy is to ensure that the Academy has effective systems in place for safeguarding children and young people. The Academy fully supports the objectives outlined in the guidance in Keeping Children Safe in Education (2014) and Working Together to Safeguard Children (2013) to help keep children and young people feel safe by contributing to: Providing a safe environment for children and young people to learn in education settings, and Identifying children who are suffering or who are likely to suffer significant harm and taking appropriate action with the aim of making sure they are kept safe both at home and in the education setting. 3 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

4 ACCOUNTABILITY The Governing body of the Colchester Academy is responsible for: Colchester Academy Ensuring the Academy has an effective Child Protection Policy in place that is in accordance with guidance issued by the Secretary of State for Education, any local authority guidance and the Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) Child Protection Procedures; Ensuring that they remediate without delay any deficiencies or weaknesses in regard to child protection arrangements; Monitoring compliance with the Academy s Child Protection Policy and any relevant guidance; Reviewing the Academy s Child Protection Policy annually and providing information to the local authority about the Academy s policy and how its duties have been discharged. 1. Main Elements of the Policy There are five main elements to our policy and this document sets out a framework for: Establishing a safe environment in which children can learn and develop. Raising awareness of child protection issues and equipping children with the skills needed to keep them safe. Supporting students who have been abused in accordance with his/her agreed child protection plan. Ensure compliance with the LSCB Child Protection Procedures when reporting cases of alleged abuse. Ensuring we practise safer recruitment in checking the suitability of staff and volunteers to work with children. We recognise that because of the day to day contact with children, Academy staff are well placed to observe the outward signs of abuse. The Academy will therefore: Establish and maintain an environment where children feel secure, are encouraged to talk, and are listened to. Ensure children know that there are adults in the Academy whom they can approach if they are worried. Include opportunities in the PSHCE curriculum for children to develop the skills they need to recognise and stay safe from abuse. 4 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

5 We will follow the procedures set out by the Local Safeguarding Children Board and take account of guidance issued by the Department for Education to: Ensure we have a Designated Safeguarding Lead who has received appropriate training and support for this role. Ensure we have a nominated governor responsible for child protection who will liaise with the local authority and/or partner agencies on issues of child protection and in the event of an allegation being made against the Principal. Ensure every member of staff (including temporary and supply staff and volunteers) and the Governing body knows the name of the Designated Safeguarding Lead and their role. Ensure all staff and volunteers understand their responsibilities in being alert to the signs of abuse and responsibility for referring any concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead. Ensure that parents have an understanding of the responsibility placed on the Academy and staff for child protection by setting out its obligations on the Academy website. Notify children s social care if there is an unexplained absence of more than two days of a student who is on the child protection register. Develop effective links with relevant agencies and co-operate as required with their enquiries regarding child protection matters including attendance at case conferences. Ensure all written records are clear and factual. Ensure all records are dated and signed and kept securely; separate from the main student file, and in locked locations. Follow LSCB procedures where an allegation is made against a member of staff or volunteer. Ensure safer recruitment practices are always followed. We recognise that children who are abused or witness violence may find it difficult to develop a sense of self-worth. They may feel helplessness, humiliation and some sense of blame. The Academy may be the only stable, secure and predictable element in the lives of children at risk. When at the Academy their behaviour may be challenging and defiant or they may be withdrawn. The Academy will endeavour to support the student through: The content of the curriculum. The Academy ethos which promotes a positive, supportive and secure environment and gives students a sense of being valued. 5 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

6 The Academy s Behaviour for Learning, Rewards and Sanctions Policy is aimed at supporting vulnerable students in the Academy. The Academy will ensure that the student knows that some forms of behaviour are unacceptable. Liaison with other agencies that support the student such as Children s Services, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Education Welfare Service and Educational Psychology Service. Ensuring that, where a student on the child protection register leaves, their information is transferred to the new school immediately and that the child's social worker is informed. 2. The Process 2.1 Responsibilities and Immediate Action All action is taken in accordance with the following guidance; Essex Safeguarding Children Board Guidelines, the SET (Southend, Essex and Thurrock) Child Protection Procedures (2011) Keeping Children Safe in Education (DfE, 2014) Working Together to Safeguard Children (DfE, 2013) Effective Support for Children and Families in Essex (ESCB, 2013). All adults working in this Academy (including visiting staff, volunteers and students on placement) are required to report instances of actual or suspected child abuse or neglect to the Designated Safeguarding Lead. The Designated Safeguarding Leads are: Monica Rys-Hand and Sarah Watson All adults working with or on behalf of children have a responsibility to protect them. There are, however, key people within schools and the Local Authority who have specific responsibilities under child protection procedures. The names of those in our school carrying out these responsibilities for the current year are listed on the cover sheet of this document. It is the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead to ensure that all child protection procedures are followed within the school, and to make appropriate, timely referrals to Essex Children s Social Care in accordance with SET procedures. If for any reason the Designated Safeguarding Lead is unavailable, a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead will act in their absence. Additionally, it is the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead to ensure all staff employed including temporary staff, volunteers and contractors within the school are aware of the school s child protection procedures, to advise staff and to offer support to those requiring this. Keeping Children Safe in Education (DfE, April 2014) idenitifes three main areas of responsibility for Designated Safeguarding Leads: Managing child protection referrals Training Raising awareness 6 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

7 The Governing Body and school leadership team are responsible for ensuring that the school follows recruitment procedures that help to deter, reject or identify people who might abuse children (see Safer Recruitment policy for further information) The Designated Governor for Safeguarding ensures there is an effective child protection policy in place and that this is updated annually. Governors must not be given details relating to individual child protection cases or situations to ensure confidentiality is not breached. The Headteacher and / or the Designated Safeguarding Lead provide an annual report for the governing body detailing any changes to the policy and procedures; training undertaken by all staff and governors and other relevant issues. The Headteacher/Designated Safeguarding Lead and Designated Governor will undertake an annual Safeguarding Audit in line with their responsibilities under S.175 (and S.157 for Independent schools) of the Education Act The school will publish its Child Protection policy on its school website alongside Keeping Children Safe in Education (DfE, 2014). The school will actively promote online safety on its website and signpost stakeholders to information that will help keep children safe online. The Designated Safeguarding Lead is the focal point for Academy staff who have concerns about an individual child s safety and the first point of contact for external agencies who are pursuing Child Protection investigations. The Designated Person also co-ordinates the Academy s representation at CP conferences and Core Group meetings and the submission of written reports for conference. Where staff members have concerns about a child they should raise these with the Designated Safeguarding Lead. This also includes situations of abuse which may involve staff members. The Designated Safeguarding Lead will usually decide whether to make a referral to children s social care. Where there is any doubt as to the seriousness of this concern, a referral to children s social care will be submitted without delay. If there is a disagreement between the Designated Safeguarding Lead and the member of staff reporting the concern, advice will be sought from the Manager of the Child Care Duty Team, although the member of staff would be able to refer their concerns to children s social care directly. In the case of allegations against a member of Academy staff, including the Principal, the LSCB Child Protection Procedures must be followed and a referral to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) will be made. In circumstances where a child requires urgent medical attention, s/he should be taken to the nearest A&E Department. If a student is thought to be at immediate risk, then urgent Police intervention could be requested. An immediate referral will be made to children s social care. 7 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

8 Where it is suspected that a child might be at risk of significant harm from parent/carer/other adult or child, in the first instance the child s welfare and protection is paramount. If the risk is imminent the police should be contacted immediately. Where a child sustains physical injury or is distressed as a result of reported chastisement or alleges that they have been chastised by the use of an implement or substance, or there is any other concern that the child is at immediate risk, this will immediately be reported to children s social care/the police. Referrals to Children s Services will be confirmed in writing, using the Inter-agency Referral Form within a maximum of 24 hours. Where a child or family would benefit from support from external agencies a referral should be made to the Early Help and Advice Hub or Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) as appropriate. All parents applying for places at this Academy are informed of our safeguarding responsibilities and the existence of this policy and will see copies of the Safeguarding Policy/paragraph in induction packs which alerts them to the fact that child referrals will be made involving other agencies if a child is suffering or likely to suffer significant harm. In situations where students sustain injury or are otherwise affected by an accident or incident whilst they are the responsibility of the Academy, parents will be notified of this as soon as contact can be made with them. The Academy recognises the need to be alert to the risks posed by strangers, or others (including the parents or carers of other students), who may wish to harm children on the Academy site, or students travelling to and from the Academy. In such cases, the Academy will take all reasonable steps to lessen such risks. The Academy recognises the importance of maintaining an attitude that it could happen here where safeguarding is concerned and all staff are aware that when concerned about the welfare of a child they should always act in the interests of the child. 2.2 Vulnerable Students Particular vigilance will be exercised in respect of students who are included on the Child Protection Register and any incidents or concerns involving these children will be reported immediately to the student s social worker and/or their manager. If the student in question is a child who is looked after, this will also be brought to the notice of the Designated Teacher with responsibility for children in public care. If a student discloses that they have witnessed domestic abuse or it is suspected that they may be living in a household which is affected by family violence, this will be referred to the Designated Safeguarding Lead as a child protection issue and the appropriate referral completed. The Academy acknowledges the additional needs for support and protection of children who are vulnerable by virtue of: disability homelessness refugee/asylum seeker status the effects of substance abuse within the family 8 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

9 potential risk of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), forced marriage or sexual exploitation those who are young carers mid-year admissions being excluded from the Academy. We acknowledge that children who are affected by abuse or neglect may demonstrate their needs and distress through their words, actions, behaviour, demeanour, school work or other children. The Academy has a strong commitment to an anti-bullying policy and will consider all coercive acts and inappropriate child on child behaviour and sexual activity within a Child Protection context. A child going missing from education is a potential indicator of abuse and neglect and the Academy s attendance/absence procedures include the reporting of absent students who families cannot be contacted to the Education Welfare Service within the established time frames. In the case of a child on the Child Protection Register the Designated Safeguarding Lead is alerted on the first day of any unexplained absence to enable the involvement of other agencies where appropriate. 2.3 Training All staff will receive child protection update training annually and full refresher training on a three-yearly basis. All newly recruited staff (teaching and non-teaching) and Governors will be apprised of this policy and are required to attend the child protection session of the relevant induction programmes. The Designated Safeguarding Lead will attend the LSCB s Training programmes and ensure they have a minimum of 2 yearly updates. As part of the Academy s child protection training staff are alerted to specific safeguarding issues including: child sexual exploitation bullying including cyber bullying domestic violence drugs fabricated of induced illness faith abuse female genital mutilation (FGM) forced marriage gangs and youth violence gender based violence/violence against women and girls (VAWG) mental health private fostering radicalisation and extremism using the PREVENT strategy (appendix 2) sexting teenage relationship abuse trafficking The Academy acknowledges the importance of not making assumptions about the risks our students face and the importance of making staff alert to the possibility that it could happen here. 9 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

10 2.4 Recruitment The Academy is committed to the process of becoming a Safe Organisation. Safer recruitment processes are followed and all staff recruited to the Academy will be subject to appropriate identity, qualification and health checks. Employment history will be checked (in particular, any gaps), references will be sought and checked (including in the case of internal applicants) and enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and for staff in regulated activity a separate barred list check will be completed before staff are appointed and commence their duties. For candidates due to be employed as a teacher a check will be made to ensure that the candidate is not subject to a prohibition order issued by the Secretary of State. The Academy will only use employment agencies which can demonstrate that they positively vet their supply staff and will report the misconduct of temporary or agency staff to the Local Authority. At least one member of any recruitment panel will have received the appropriate Safer Recruitment Training. Staff joining the Academy on a permanent or temporary basis will be given a copy of this policy. 2.5 Volunteers Any parent or other person/organisation engaged by the Academy to work on a regular basis in a voluntary capacity with students will be subjected to all reasonable vetting procedures and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) with barred list check for those in regulated activity (where a volunteer is not in regulated activity due to being supervised at all times a barred list check will not be sought). Volunteers will work under the direct supervision of an established staff member and will be subject to the same code of conduct as paid employees of the Academy. Volunteers will at no time be given responsibility for the personal care of students. Voluntary sector groups that operate within this Academy, provide off-site services for our students or use Academy facilities will be expected to adhere to this policy or operate a policy, which is compliant with the procedures (Local Safeguarding Children Board). Premises lettings are subject to acceptance of this requirement. 2.6 Governors Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks will be obtained for all members of the Governing Body. 2.7 Contractors The Academy will put in place arrangements to ensure that contractors, or employees of contractors, have been subject to the appropriate level of DBS check. Where an appropriate DBS check has not been undertaken contractors will be fully supervised by an established staff member. 2.8 Visitors All visitors will sign in and out and be escorted/supervised whilst at the Academy. 2.9 DBS Checks that Show Convictions 10 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

11 Where for an applicant or volunteer, including members of the Governing body, the DBS Disclosure shows that s/he has been disqualified from working with children by a Court, or an applicant has provided false information, or there are serious concerns about their suitability to work with children the facts must be reported to the LSCB and the police. Where a DBS Disclosure indicates cause for concern for agency or directly employed staff, volunteers or members of the Governing body they must immediately be withdrawn from the Academy pending further enquiries. Where a DBS disclosure shows that the person being checked has a criminal record this does not automatically make him or her unsuitable for work with children. The Principal and the Governing body, in conjunction with the registered body or person authorised to receive disclosure information, must make a judgement about suitability, taking into account only those offences which may be relevant to the particular job or situation in question. In deciding the relevance of convictions a number of points should be considered, for example: The nature of the offence in general convictions for sexual, violent or drug offences will be particularly strong contra-indications for working with children; The nature of the appointment the nature of the appointment will help to assess the relevance of the conviction. For example serious sexual, violent, drug or drink offences, will give rise to particular concerns where a position is one of providing care. Drink or driving offences would be relevant in situations involving transport of children; The age of the offence offences which took place many years in the past may often have less relevance than recent offences. Convictions for serious violent or sexual offences or serious offences involving substance abuse are more likely to give cause for continuing concern than, for instance an isolated case of dishonesty committed when the person was young. The potential for rehabilitation must be weighed up against the need to protect children; The frequency of the offence a series of offences over a period of time is more likely to give cause for concern than an isolated incident. Any decision will be reached in joint discussion with the Local Authority Staff Code of Conduct All staff (paid and voluntary) are expected to adhere to the Academy s Code of Conduct Policy which includes the Guidance for Safer Working Practice for Adults who work with Children and Young People in Education Settings (DCSF 2009) in respect of their contact with students and their families. Children will be treated with respect and dignity and no punishment, detention, restraint, sanctions or rewards are allowed outside of those detailed in the Academy s Behaviour for Learning, Rewards and Sanctions Policy. Whilst it would be unrealistic and undesirable to preclude all physical contact between adults and children, staff are expected to exercise caution and avoid placing themselves in a position where their actions might be open to criticism or misinterpretation. Where incidents occur which might otherwise be mis-construed, or in the exceptional circumstances where it becomes necessary to physically restrain a student for their own protection or others safety, this will be appropriately recorded and reported to the Principal and parents. Any physical restraint used will comply with DfE and LA guidance. 11 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

12 Except in cases of emergency, First Aid will only be administered by qualified First Aiders. If it is necessary for the child to remove clothing for First Aid treatment, there will, wherever possible, be another adult of the same gender present. If a child needs help with toileting, nappy changing or washing after soiling themselves, another adult should be present or within earshot. If a male member of staff is providing any form of intimate care, a female colleague will be present. All First Aid treatment and non-routine changing or personal care will be recorded and shared with parents/carers at the earliest opportunity. For their own safety and protection, staff should exercise caution in situations where they are alone with students. Other than in formal teaching situations; musical instrument tuition, for example, the door to the room in which the teaching, counselling or meeting is taking place should be left open. Where this is not practicable because of the need for confidentiality, another member of staff will be asked to maintain a presence nearby and a record will be kept of the circumstances of the meeting. All rooms that are used for the teaching or counselling of students will have clear and unobstructed glass panels in the doors. Academy staff should also be alert to the possible risks that might arise from social contact with students outside of the Academy. Home visits to students should only take place with the knowledge and approval of the Principal, or her/his authorised representative. Visits/telephone calls by students to the homes of staff members should only occur in exceptional circumstances and with the prior knowledge and approval of the Principal, or her/his authorised representative. Any unplanned contact of this nature or suspected infatuations or crushes will be reported to the Principal. Staff will not disclose their personal telephone numbers and addresses to students or parents Complaints/Allegations Made Against Members of Staff, Volunteers or Governors The Academy takes seriously all complaints made against members of staff, volunteers or Governors. Procedures are in place for students, parents and staff to share any concern that they may have about the actions of any member of the Academy staff, volunteer or Governors. All such complaints will be brought immediately to the attention of the Principal (or Associate Principal), in order that they may activate the appropriate procedures. If the allegation concerns a Governor or the Principal, the Chair of Governors will be informed. The Principal/Associate Principal will ensure that LCSB guidelines are followed in all cases where it is judged that a member of staff (or volunteer) has: behaved in a way that has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child; possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child; or behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates that he or she would pose a risk of harm if they work regularly or closely with children. The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) will be informed of all allegations that meet the above criteria so that they can consult police and children s social care as appropriate. If there is cause to suspect a child is suffering or is likely to suffer significant harm A strategy meeting/discussion may take place in order to consider whether or not a Section 47 Child Protection Investigation will be carried out. It will be for the LADO and the police officer to investigate all allegations of abuse. 12 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

13 Parents should be told about the allegation as soon as possible if they do not already know about it, unless the Academy is advised otherwise (e.g. in the case of a strategy meeting/discussion taking place). Parents should also be made aware of the prohibition on reporting or publishing allegations about teachers in section 141F of the Education Act If the complaint concerns alleged abuse by the Principal, this should be brought to the attention of the Chair of Governors and the appropriate referral must be submitted to the LCSB/children s social care. Similarly if any complaint of alleged abuse involves the Chair of Governors this should be brought to the attention of the Vice Chair and the appropriate referral must be submitted to the LCSB/children s social care. Staff who are formally disciplined for the mistreatment of students (or who resign before disciplinary action can be instigated), will be referred to the Disclosure and Barring Service. The principle of this notification will also apply to volunteers and the Governing body Records Brief and accurate written and dated notes will be kept of all incidents and CP or child in need concerns relating to individual students. This information will be shared with other agencies as appropriate. Parental consent will normally be sought before making a referral to children s social care, unless there is reason to suspect that doing so might place the child or a member of staff at risk. The Academy will also take into account the views and wishes of the child who is the subject of the concern, however, staff must be sure not to place a student at risk by failing to submit the referral. Child protection records are not open to students or parents. CP records are securely kept by the Designated Safeguarding Lead, separately from educational records, and can only be accessed by the Designated Safeguarding Lead and the senior leaders of the Academy. Child protection records will be retained for 35 year after the last entry (in line with ECC policy).. Referrals made to children s social care under the LSCB procedures will be recorded on the Framework for Assessment Interagency Referral form, with copies sent, under confidential cover, to children s social care within the timescales [24 hours]. If a student is withdrawn from the Academy, having not reached the normal age of transfer; due to a family move or any other reason, all efforts will be made to identify any new address and the school to which they are being admitted. The Academy will ensure that their educational records are sent without delay to the new school. If the parent/carer fails to provide this information, an urgent referral will be made to the Education Welfare Service in order that they might make further enquiries. If educational records are sent to the Academy, concerning a child who is not registered by the parent, the records will be returned to the sending school with a note, advising them to refer to their LA s Education Welfare Service. A child s name will only be removed from the Academy s Admissions Register in accordance with the Student Registration Regulations or with the agreement of the Education Welfare Service. 13 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

14 The content of CP Conference, or Review reports, prepared by the Academy will be shared with the parents/carer in advance of the meeting. The Academy will maintain accurate records of those with Parental Responsibility and emergency contacts. Students will only be released to the care of those with Parental Responsibility or someone acting with their written consent. Child Protection records will be sent to receiving schools separately and under a confidential cover ATTENDANCE AT CHILD PROTECTION CONFERENCES, CORE GROUP MEETINGS OR CHILD IN NEED MEETINGS It is the responsibility of the Designated Safeguarding Lead to ensure that the school is represented at and that a report is submitted to any child protection conference called for children on the school roll or previously known to them. Whoever attends should be fully briefed on any issues or concerns the school has and be prepared to contribute to the discussions at the conference. If a child is made subject to a Child Protection or a Child in Need Plan, it is the responsibility of the Designated Safeguarding Lead to ensure the child is monitored regarding their school attendance, welfare and presentation. If the school are part of the core group then the Designated Safeguarding Lead should ensure that the school is represented and contributes to the plan at these meetings; that there is a record of attendance and issues discussed. All concerns about the child protection plan and / or the child s welfare should be discussed and recorded at the core group meeting unless the child is at further risk of significant harm. In this case the Designated Safeguarding Lead must inform the child s key worker immediately and then record that they have done so and the actions agreed SUPPORTING PUPILS AT RISK Our school recognises that children who are abused or who witness violence may find it difficult to develop a sense of self-worth or view the world as a positive place. Our school may be the only stable, secure and safe element in the lives of children at risk of, or who have suffered harm. Nevertheless, whilst at school their behaviour may be challenging and defiant, or they may instead be withdrawn, or display abusive behaviours towards other children. Our school will endeavour to support all pupils through: The curriculum to encourage our pupils to stay safe, develop healthy relationships, self-esteem and self-motivation. The school ethos which promotes a positive, supportive and secure environment and which gives all pupils and adults a sense of being respected and valued. The implementation of the school s behaviour management policies. A consistent approach agreed by all staff which will endeavour to ensure the pupil knows that some behaviour is unacceptable but s/he is valued. 14 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

15 Regular liaison with other professionals and agencies who support the pupils and their families. A commitment to develop open and honest and supportive relationships with parents, with the child s best interest as paramount The development and support of a responsive and knowledgeable staff group, trained to respond appropriately in all child protection situations. Recognition that children with behavioural difficulties and disabilities are most vulnerable to abuse so staff who work in any capacity with children with profound and multiple disabilities, sensory impairment and / or emotional and behavioural problems will need to be particularly sensitive to signs of abuse. Recognition that in a home environment where there is domestic violence, drug or alcohol abuse, children may also be vulnerable and in need of support or protection Safety in the Academy No internal doors to classrooms will be locked whilst students are present in these areas. Entry to Academy premises will be controlled by doors that are secured physically or by constant staff supervision or video surveillance. Authorised visitors to the Academy will be logged into and out of the premises and will be issued with Academy visitor badges. Unidentified visitors will be challenged by staff or reported to the Principal or the Academy office. The presence of intruders and suspicious strangers seen loitering near the Academy, or approaching students, will be reported to the police and the LA with a view to alerting other local schools through appropriate systems. Parents, carers or relatives may only take still or video photographic images of students in the Academy, with written consent from the carer/parent or someone who holds parental responsibility on Academy organised activities, with the prior consent of the Academy and then only in designated areas. If parents do not wish their children to be photographed or filmed and express this view in writing, their rights will be respected The Curriculum The Academy acknowledges the important role that the curriculum can play in the prevention of abuse and in the preparation of our students for the responsibilities of adult life and citizenship. It is expected that all curriculum co-ordinators will consider the opportunities, which exist in their area of responsibility for addressing personal safety issues. As appropriate, the Citizenship curriculum will be used to help students to keep safe and to know how to ask for help if their safety is threatened. As part of developing a healthy, safer lifestyle, students will be encouraged to: Recognise and manage risks in different situations and then decide how to behave responsibly; Judge what kinds of physical contact are acceptable and unacceptable; 15 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

16 Recognise when pressure from others (including people they know) threatens their personal safety and well-being; including knowing when and where to get help; Use assertiveness techniques to resist unhelpful pressure. All computer equipment and Internet access will be monitored within the Academy and will be subject to appropriate parental controls and Internet safety rules Working in Partnership with Parents It is our policy to work in partnership with parents or carers to secure the best for our students. We will therefore communicate as clearly as possible about the aims of this Academy; We will try to use clear statements in our newsletters and correspondence. We will involve parents in the development of codes of conduct and equalities and behaviour management policies. We will liaise with agencies in the statutory, voluntary and community sectors that are active in supporting families. We will be aware that we have parents/carers who do not have English as their first language. We will keep parents informed, as and when appropriate Complaints & Monitoring All complaints arising from the operation of this policy will be considered under the Academy s Complaints Procedure, and with consultation with the appropriate representative from the Essex Safeguarding Children Board. The Governing Body will review this policy annually and assess its implementation and effectiveness. The policy will be promoted and implemented throughout the Academy. 16 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

17 APPENDIX 1 COLCHESTER ACADEMY SPORTS CENTRE (CASC) CHILD PROTECTION AND SAFEGUARDING POLICY STATEMENT Colchester Academy s full Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy (copies available on request from CASC reception or via the Academy s website) applies to all CASC staff and users. Where external organisations hire CASC or Academy facilities it is the responsibility of that organisation to ensure it has appropriate Child Protection procedures in place. However, CASC takes all reasonable steps to ensure that those using CASC or Academy facilities behave responsibly. CASC acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice and the Local Safeguarding Children Board procedures. As part of our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy CASC will promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and is provided with appropriate learning opportunities to recognise, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and safeguarding concerns relating to children and young people ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern Good Practice All CASC staff and users should adhere to the following principles and action: always work in an open environment (e.g. avoiding private or unobserved situations and encouraging open communication with no secrets) make the experience of sport fun and enjoyable: promote fairness, confront and deal with bullying treat all young people equally and with respect and dignity always put the welfare of the young person first, before winning maintain a safe and appropriate distance with players (e.g. it is not appropriate for staff or volunteers to have an intimate relationship with a child or young person avoid unnecessary physical contact with young people. Where any form of manual/physical support is required it should be provided openly and with the consent of the young person. Physical contact can be appropriate so long as it is neither intrusive nor disturbing and the young person s consent has been given 17 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

18 involve parents/cares wherever possible, e.g. where young people need to be supervised in changing rooms, encourage parents to take responsibility for their own child. If groups have to be supervised in changing rooms always ensure parents, coaches etc work in pairs be an excellent role model, this includes not smoking or drinking alcohol in the company of young people always give enthusiastic and constructive feedback rather than negative criticism keep a written record of any injury that occurs, along with details of any treatment given Expectations of Hirers Provide details of their Safeguarding/Child Protection Policy/Procedure. Provide details of the course or activity they are organising. Provide details of the children participating (ie. Gender, age). Provide evidence that the coach or instructor holds the appropriate coaching qualification(s). Provide appropriate supervision levels for the number/age/gender of children participating. Ensure coaches working with children are aware of child development and observe good practice when dealing with children. Record names, addresses, and contact telephone numbers for emergency use of all participants on the course or activity. Ensure appropriate insurance arrangements are in place. Reporting Concerns All CASC staff and users are required to report instances of actual or suspected child abuse or neglect the Academy s Designated Safeguarding Lead. In the first instance this is likely to mean alerting CASC Manager or Duty Manager who will ensure that Academy Safeguarding and Child Protection procedures are followed. The CASC Manager/Duty Manager will contact the Designated Safeguarding Lead as a matter of urgency. (In the event that the Designated Safeguarding Lead is not available, e.g. school holidays, the CASC Manager will contact children s social care). In the event that the concern relates to the CASC Manager/Duty Manager the Academy s Designated Safeguarding Lead should be contacted directly via the Academy s main reception. The Designated Safeguarding Leads are: Monica Rys-Hand and Sarah Watson APPENDIX 1 18 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

19 PREVENT Safeguarding Objectives Within this overall framework the Prevent strategy will specifically: respond to the ideological challenge of terrorism and the threat we face from those who promote it; prevent people from being drawn into terrorism and ensure that they are given appropriate advice and support; and work with sectors and institutions where there are risks of radicalisation which we need to address. Schools can help to protect children from extremist and violent views in the same ways that they help to safeguard children from drugs, gang violence or alcohol. The purpose must be to protect children from harm and to ensure that they are taught in a way that is consistent with the law and our values. Awareness of Prevent and the risks it is intended to address are both vital. Staff can help to identify, and to refer to the relevant agencies, children whose behaviour suggests that they are being drawn into terrorism or extremism. Schools of all kinds can play a role in enabling young people to explore issues like terrorism and the wider use of violence in a considered and informed way. Schools can facilitate understanding of wider issues within the context of learning about the values on which our society is founded and our system of democratic government. These are important for reasons which go far beyond Prevent but they connect to the Prevent agenda. PREVENT referrals should be reported in line with other safeguarding procedures. You can contact the Essex Police to discuss any concerns on PREVENT@essex.pnn.police.uk. 19 Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy