What is Safeguarding

Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of our children.  Safeguarding is a priority and ‘the golden thread’ that runs through our school and our Academy Trust.

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is defined, in Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE), as:

• Protecting children from maltreatment;
• Preventing impairment of children’s health or development;
• Ensuring that children are growing up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care;
• Taking action to enable all children to have the best outcomes.

School staff are particularly important, as they are in a position to identify concerns early, provide help for children, promote children’s welfare and prevent concerns from escalating.

All staff have a responsibility to provide a safe environment in which children can learn.  All staff should be prepared to identify children who may benefit from Early Help. Early Help means providing support as soon as a problem emerges at any point in a child’s life.

Our school believes that all Staff and Volunteers should provide a caring, positive, safe and stimulating environment that promotes the social, physical and moral development of every child.   We are fully committed to ensuring that consistent, effective safeguarding procedures are in place to support families, children and staff at our school.

Staff, Visitors and Volunteers

All of our volunteers have taken part in a risk assessment interview with a member of the DSL team and are asked to provide ID and references. Volunteers undertake a DBS check as part of our safeguarding procedures.

HPS Safeguarding Policy 25/26

Safeguarding Report

PREVENT

At Heybridge Primary School, the implementation of the Prevent guidance is integrated seamlessly into the curriculum, ensuring that students are educated about the importance of safeguarding against radicalisation and extremism. Through a carefully designed programme, pupils engage with topics that promote critical thinking and awareness of diverse perspectives. The school fosters a culture of respect and kindness, encouraging students to appreciate differences and develop empathy towards others. This ethos is reinforced through various initiatives, including assemblies, workshops, and collaborative projects that highlight the significance of community cohesion. By embedding these principles within the educational framework, Heybridge Primary School not only adheres to statutory requirements but also cultivates an environment where students feel valued and empowered to express their views responsibly. Such an approach equips learners with the necessary skills to navigate an increasingly complex world, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect among the school community.