Lyde Green Community School fully recognises its responsibility under Section 175 of the Education Act 2002 to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. We work closely with families and external agencies to ensure effective arrangements are in place to identify, assess and support children who may be at risk of harm.

We do this by:

• Knowing our students as individuals and building strong relationships that enable them to feel safe, supported and valued.
• Providing a robust pastoral and wellbeing programme that supports students who may have experienced adversity or trauma.
• Responding promptly and effectively to safeguarding and child protection concerns with professionalism and care.
• Ensuring students know they can speak to a trusted adult if they are worried about themselves or someone else.
• Creating and maintaining an environment where children feel safe to speak openly and seek help.
• Placing the child's voice and needs at the centre of decision-making and ensuring support is provided at the right time and in the right way.
• Delivering curriculum opportunities through PSHE, Personal Development and Team Time that help students develop the knowledge and skills to recognise risks, seek support and stay safe.
• Maintaining high expectations for all students and helping them understand how positive choices contribute to a safe environment for everyone.

We have a statutory responsibility to share concerns about children who may be at risk of harm with appropriate agencies, including Children's Social Care, Health Services and the Police. In most cases, we will discuss concerns with parents and carers before making a referral. However, there may be occasions when we need to seek advice or make a referral before contacting families, in line with child protection procedures.

We understand that this can be worrying for parents and carers. Any decisions made will always be guided by the best interests of the child, and we will seek to maintain positive and supportive relationships with families wherever possible.

Details of our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy can be found here: https://www.lydegreencs.org.uk/Policies/

Online Safety

Technology plays an important role in young people's lives. We are committed to helping students stay safe online through our curriculum, assemblies, pastoral support and safeguarding procedures. We work closely with families to promote the safe and responsible use of technology, social media and online platforms.

Training

All staff begin each academic year with safeguarding training to ensure that any local, regional and national updates are fully understood. Staff are also required to read and sign annual updates to Keeping Children Safe in Education and relevant school and Trust policies.

Our Designated Safeguarding Lead and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads have completed advanced child protection training and receive regular updates to ensure their knowledge remains current. Staff receive ongoing training throughout the year on a range of safeguarding and child protection issues.

Every shortlisting and interview panel includes at least one member of staff who has completed Safer Recruitment training, and safeguarding forms a key part of the induction process for all new staff.

South Gloucestershire Children's Partnership

Lyde Green Community School follows the advice and guidance issued by the South Gloucestershire Children's Partnership. Their website contains a range of information and support for families, as well as guidance on what to do if you are worried about the safety or wellbeing of a child.

South Gloucestershire Children's Partnership

Useful Contacts