Keeping children safe (Safeguarding)

Safeguarding children is everyone’s responsibility. If you have any concerns about a child, or would like to speak to any of our safeguarding leads, please call the school office on 01245 420963.

At Writtle Infant School, our first priority is to protect and secure the welfare of the children in our care. To this aim, we:

• Establish and maintain an environment where pupils feel safe and secure, are encouraged to talk and are listened to;
• Ensure that pupils know that there are adults within the school who they can approach if they are worried or are in difficulty;
• Include in the curriculum activities and opportunities for PSHE which equip pupils with the skills they need to stay safe from abuse and to develop healthy and safe relationships;
• Include in the curriculum material which will help pupils develop realistic attitudes to the responsibilities of adult life, particularly with regard to childcare and parenting skills;
• Make parents/carers aware of the school policies and practice for safeguarding and ensure that, wherever possible, every effort will be made to establish open and honest effective working relationships with parents and colleagues from partner agencies.

Schools have a statutory duty to report any suspected incidents of child abuse (e.g. physical, sexual, emotional, neglect) and any circumstances when it is felt a child may be at significant risk of child abuse occurring.  When we can, we will discuss our concerns with parents/carers before a referral is made to Social Services.  However, if we have concerns that this action could put a child at risk of harm then we would contact Social Services in the first instance.

All visitors to the school read our safeguarding guidance before entering and all staff and volunteers undergo all the relevant safety checks. Badges are worn by all staff and visitors.