Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

1. Policy Statement

Pave Scholars Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people. We believe that all pupils have the right to feel safe and protected from harm, and we take our responsibility to protect and nurture them very seriously. We have a zero-tolerance approach to abuse and are committed to acting in the best interests of every child.

2. Legal Framework

This policy is in line with national legislation and guidance including, but not limited to:

– School-specific safeguarding procedures and staff code of conduct

3. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to:

– All staff (teaching and non-teaching)

– Volunteers

– External visitors and service providers

– Pupils and their families

4. Designated Safeguarding Team

– Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Ms Abigail Igbokwe

– Deputy DSL(s): Ms Chidimma Nwokedi

– Safeguarding Governor: Ms. Eucharia Uzo

The DSL is responsible for overseeing all safeguarding matters, ensuring staff are trained, concerns are addressed appropriately, and external agencies are contacted when needed.

5. Our Commitment

We aim to:

– Provide a safe, secure, and supportive environment.

– Promote an ethos in which pupils feel safe, supported, and confident to talk about concerns.

– Educate students on their rights and empower them with knowledge about how to stay safe.

– Establish clear procedures for identifying, reporting, and responding to concerns.

6. Recognising Abuse and Neglect

Staff are trained to identify the four main types of abuse:

– Physical Abuse

– Emotional Abuse

– Sexual Abuse

– Neglect

Indicators may include changes in behavior, unexplained injuries, poor hygiene, or disclosures by a child.

7. Responding to Concerns

All staff are required to:

– Listen without judgment.

– Record any concerns factually.

– Report concerns immediately to the DSL or Deputy DSL.

– Reassure the child, without making promises of confidentiality.

8. Safer Recruitment

Pave Scholars Academy follows safer recruitment procedures, including:

– Thorough background checks (DBS or equivalent)

– Reference verification

– Induction and safeguarding training for all staff and volunteers

9. Staff Training

– All staff receive annual safeguarding training and updates.

– DSLs undergo advanced safeguarding training and refresher courses.

– New staff receive a full induction covering child protection.

10. Online Safety

We are committed to:

– Educating pupils on safe use of technology

– Monitoring online activity within school networks

– Supporting parents with online safety guidance

– Preventing cyberbullying, grooming, and exposure to harmful content

11. Whistleblowing

Staff are encouraged to raise concerns about poor or unsafe practices through the school’s Whistleblowing Policy. Concerns about a colleague’s behavior towards children must be reported immediately to the Head Teacher or DSL.

12. Confidentiality and Information Sharing

Confidentiality will be respected, but never at the expense of a child’s safety. Information will be shared with appropriate agencies as required. Records of concerns are kept securely and separately from general pupil files.

13. Working with Parents and External Agencies

We believe in working in partnership with families and professionals. Parents will be informed of concerns unless doing so would put the child at further risk. We cooperate fully with child protection services, health professionals, and law enforcement as necessary.

14. Monitoring and Review

This policy is reviewed annually by the leadership team and safeguarding governor. Safeguarding practices are regularly audited and updated based on legislation, case reviews, and emerging risks.

15. Contact Information

– Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): 08161825130

Final Statement

At Pave Scholars Academy, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. We are unwavering in our commitment to provide a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment where every child feels valued and protected.