Safeguarding introduction
We are a Gold Rights Respecting School and believe that, 'The best interests of the child must be a top priority in all decisions and actions that affect children.' (Article 3 of The UN Convention on the rights of the child)
Yes, it could happen here.
Merton Park Primary recognises that it has a duty to ensure arrangements are in place for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and to carry out this duty through our teaching and learning, pastoral care and extended school activities. All members of the school community will work together to establish and maintain a safe and stimulating environment where children feel secure, are encouraged to talk to adults they can trust and are listened to.
The Designated members of staff (DSLs) for Child protection are the Headteacher, Mr Andrew Knox and the Deputy Headteacher, Mrs Debs Hastings
The Deputy Designated member (DDSL) of staff for Child protection is:
- Mr Joshua Hunt, Senior Leader
All officers have received appropriate training and are responsible for the completion of the required paperwork and ensuring that confidential records are stored securely. It is the responsibility of the designated members of staff to have discussions with the Children and Family Hub, when concerns arise regarding the safety of a pupil in this school. All such pupils are closely monitored, including attendance, and where extra concerns arise these are passed on to the appropriate agencies.
The Children and Family Hub can be contacted on 020 8545 4226/4227
At Merton Park staff use MyConcern to record any safeguarding concerns.
Designated Governor
Our school has a designated Safeguarding Governor (Chris Goldsmith) who will act as the link person between the governing body and the designated officers. The governor will review safeguarding procedures & practices. Where safeguarding concerns arise regarding a member of staff, the governor will liaise with the Chair of Governors.
Staff recruitment
In line with the guidance for Safer Recruitment, the Headteacher and two other members of staff/members of the Governing Body have completed Safer Recruitment training. All staff, including volunteers who have access to children in our school, have been carefully selected and screened and all have had an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check prior to commencing work. Details of all appointments/checks are held in a central record.
All staff will be trained to recognise the signs of abuse and understand their responsibilities when a child may be at risk of harm. Training of all staff will be updated in line with guidance (every 2 years) and also form part of new staff induction procedures.
Parents
This school believes in working closely with parents and in most cases where we have a concern about a pupil, the parents will be informed. The school can signpost and refer to a wide range of support services through the Headteacher and/or Inclusion Manager.
Children
Through assemblies and RHSE lessons, children have a clear understanding of how to keep themselves safe.
Some useful links:
Merton Safeguarding Children Partnership
Useful NSPCC documents:
- Simple conversations to keep your child safe - PANTS
- Your Child's Online World - A Guide for Parents - NSPCC
- Is my child ready to be left alone? - NSPCC
Our Safeguarding policy can be found here.