Safeguarding
It also means that we have staff members who are specifically trained and nominated as the Designated Safeguarding Leads within school. These staff are Miss Emily Foote (Headteacher) and Mrs Louisa Merrick (SENDCO). Miss Emily Foote(Headteacher) and Mrs Vivienne Bornet (School Administrator) are also Safer Recruitment Trained.
We are all expected to share any concerns we have about staff conduct around children with the Headteacher In our school, if there are concerns about the conduct of the Headteacher, then these should be shared with the Director of School Improvement, Mrs Francesca Brimacombe. The staff ‘Whistleblowing Policy’ has been discussed and adopted and all staff have access to this document.
We also follow Devon’s Child Protection Procedures and the Local Safeguarding Children’s Board local guidance. We have very clear systems in place to share concerns regarding children’s welfare with our Designated Safeguarding Leads, with parents and with relevant external agencies. Part of our legal duty to safeguard our children, may also include us needing to consult specifically with and take advice from, the Police or the Mutli-Agency Safeguarding Hub, should the need arise.
By working closely together as a staff and with our partner agencies, we firmly believe that we will continue to offer a safe learning environment for all of our children.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding this matter, please speak to any member of staff who will be able to support you. If you would prefer to speak to somebody out side of school please contact the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub on 0345 155 1071. Thank you in advance for your support with this very important matter.
Our Safeguarding Policies can be found within the Key Information Tab.
Internet Safety
The internet is utilised during school hours and at home, therefore, it is essential that everybody in school understands how to use it safely. We cover internet safety throughout the school during curriculum lessons and through PSHE. Year 5 and 6 children also have a visit from our local Police Community Support Officers, who come into school to discuss these issues with children as well. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this topic please do not hesitate to speak to a member of staff.
The following websites are helpful for parents and carers, in addition to, the newsletters sent home monthly to parents.
Staying safe online for parents/carers: Think U Know Website
Help and Advice for parents: Childnet
The Underwear Rule
The Underwear Rule, is great to share with children from a young age. It was established by the NSPCC, to support children to understand the important message that their body belongs to them and they should tell an adult if they’re upset or worried. PANTS is an acronym to help children remember the rules of their body and to share their worries, it helps facilitate conversations between adults and children regarding this sensitive matter:
P – Privates are private
A – Always remember your body belongs to you
N – No means No
T – Talk about secrets that upset you
S – Speak up, someone can help.
Please read the parent and child’s leaflets below:
The Underwear Rule – Parents Guide
The Underwear Rule – Information for Children
The Pantosaurus video is a good starting point to discuss this matter at home. We also recommend the book, I said No by Zack and Kimberly King, and My Underpants Rule by Kate and Rod Power, as well as associated YouTube clips.