Introduction

1.1 This policy and code of practice has been written in line with the legal framework as defined in the Children’s Acts of 1989 and 2004 and with the recommendations for schools in 'Working Together' (DOH 1991), 'Safeguarding Children in Education' (DfES September 2004 ) and the PAN London Child Protection Procedures, November 2003. See Appendix 1 – 'The Statutory Framework'.

1.2 William Ellis School recognises that it is a guiding principle of the law and child protection procedures that the protection and welfare of the child must always be the first priority. The protection of children and young people is a shared community responsibility and all agencies concerned need to work together and in partnership with parents. The School fully recognises the contribution it makes to Child Protection and its responsibility to ensure that all staff are aware of their own role in keeping children safe, the child protection referral system and indicators of possible abuse.

1.3 The School also recognises that it has a key role in promoting the long term health and well-being of pupils through the Curriculum and through the work of the pastoral teams (Heads of Year, Form Tutors, Learning Mentors, and Support Staff).

1.4 This policy applies to all staff and volunteers working in the School, as well as LEA, Support Staff and Governors. Mentors, Learning Support Assistants, Mid-day Supervisors, Secretaries as well as teachers may be the first point of disclosure for a child. Concerned parents may also contact School Governors. All those whose work in the school involves them with children, even indirectly, must adhere to the Code of Practice attached.

2. Working in Partnership with Parents

The School recognises that working in partnership with parents should be the first step in attempting to resolve difficulties and that their wishes and feelings be taken into consideration when dealing with any major decision to do with their children. Therefore concerns about aspects of the child’s welfare which become apparent in the school setting (issues of selfesteem, neglect, lack of achievement, unusual behaviour, suspected mental health issues) should be shared with the parents or carers unless there is concern about the child’s immediate safety. However, where there are continuing and serious concerns about the emotional or physical welfare of a student which cannot be resolved in school, the school has a duty to inform other relevant agencies in the interests of the child. ( See also Paragraph on 'Working with other agencies'). This is the responsibility of the designated teacher for Child Protection who must adhere to the PAN London Child Protection procedures and guidance published by the National Children’s Service “What to do if you think a child is being abused”.

The School will set out its responsibilities and obligations with regard to child protection matters in the school prospectus .

3. Code of Practice [Procedures]

3.1 William Ellis School will follow the procedures set out in the PAN London ‘Child Protection Procedures’ book, a copy of which is held by the designated teacher for Child Protection.


9. Prevention
The School recognises that children at risk are more likely to progress if they feel secure and know that they are supported.

The School will therefore:
a) Endeavour to develop high self-esteem and confidence in students and where possible support students whose poor self-esteem or emotional difficulties prevent them from building successful relationships with their peers or adults by involving them in appropriate programmes (counselling, mentoring, behaviour support programme, anger management groups).
b) Ensure that all students know that there are adults in the school whom they can approach if they are in difficulty.
c) Include in the PHSE/Citizenship Curriculum activities and opportunities which help students understand how to stay safe – this will include personal safety skills, internet safety and sex education.
d) The School will refer to the Acceptable Use of the Internet – Guidelines for Schools.
NB. Photographic images of students will not be displayed on the web without parental permission and parents need to be made aware of the potential risk of misuse of these images.
e) The School will ensure that the physical environment of the School provides safety and security to students [see Health & Safety Policy].

f) The School will ensure that students are not allowed to leave the school premises during the school day without the permission of their parent or carer .
g) Anti-Bullying :The School has a separate anti-bullying policy.

Governors' Annual Review: Autumn Term