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SAFEGUARDING POLICY

We’re committed to creating a safe, supportive space for all children, young people and vulnerable adults who attend our classes. It’s our responsibility to protect and nurture their wellbeing, and we take that seriously.

This policy outlines how we aim to do just that — by creating a positive, safe environment, responding promptly to any concerns, and supporting each individual’s growth with respect and care.

Our Core Principles

We aim to ensure every child and vulnerable adult:

  • Feels safe, seen and supported

  • Learns in an environment that builds confidence and self-worth

  • Can express themselves and feel heard in a space of trust

 

We do this by:

  • Recruiting staff with integrity and carrying out enhanced DBS checks

  • Providing clear safeguarding training to all staff and volunteers

  • Encouraging open communication and trust within every session

  • Promoting a positive, inclusive ethos where every child is valued

 

What We Expect From All Staff

Anyone working or volunteering with us is expected to:

  • Follow safeguarding procedures and uphold this policy

  • Be open to regular checks and monitoring of their suitability for the role

  • Take all reasonable steps to protect children from harm

  • Record and report any concerns, suspicions or incidents promptly

  • Observe and uphold our code of behaviour (see below)

 

Code of Behaviour

Working With Children

Do:

  • Treat every child with care and respect

  • Communicate clearly and appropriately

  • Listen without judgement

  • Dress suitably for the activity and age group

  • Maintain professional boundaries

 

Don’t:

  • Use inappropriate language or touch

  • Shout, threaten or frighten a child

  • Show favouritism or make fun of anyone

  • Take or share photos without consent

  • Place a child at risk, physically or emotionally

 

Working With Vulnerable Adults

 

Do:

  • Be kind, respectful and patient

  • Listen attentively and communicate clearly

  • Support their independence whenever possible

  • Be sensitive to individual needs and preferences

 

Don’t:

  • Use inappropriate behaviour or language

  • Engage in any kind of restraint or control unless in an emergency

  • Put yourself in situations where you're alone and unseen

 

Admission and Emergency Contact

We keep a register with emergency contact information for every child. Parents and carers are informed of our safety procedures and understand that safeguarding concerns will be passed on to social services or the police if required.

 

Accidents and First Aid

  • All accidents must be recorded as soon as possible in our accident book

  • First aid will only be given with parental consent unless it’s an emergency

  • We aim to have a trained first aider present at all times

  • Physical contact should be appropriate, minimal and with consent when possible

  • In serious cases, emergency services will be contacted immediately

 

Photography

Photos of children will only be taken and used with written parental or guardian consent. Any child who does or does not have photo permission will be clearly marked on the class register.

Reporting Concerns

All safeguarding concerns must be reported to the designated safeguarding officer (DSO), who will escalate to the appropriate authorities when needed. Every staff member has a responsibility to speak up if they see or suspect harm.

Final Notes

This policy applies to anyone working with us — staff, volunteers, freelancers and contractors. Everyone is responsible for upholding a culture of care, kindness and safety.

Safeguarding isn’t just a policy. It’s part of who we are.

THIS POLICY WAS UPDATED ON

10th September 2025

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