Safeguarding Statement
At Stoke Minster Primary CofE Academy we take safeguarding very seriously and therefore we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and safety of all our children. We expect all of our staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. All of our staff are trained to at least Safeguarding Children Level 1, through Stoke on Trent Safeguarding Children Board. Staff receive Prevent training as the school supports the Government’s Prevent Agenda to counter radicalism and extremism.
Sometimes we may need to share information and work in partnership with other agencies where there are concerns about a child’s welfare. We will ensure that our concerns about our pupils are discussed with the parents/carers first unless we have reason to believe that such a move would be contrary to the child’s welfare.
Who to Contact
You may be concerned about a child or young person. You may or may not know them, or even their name. Child protection is everyone’s responsibility. Abuse can take many different forms such as:
- Neglect
- Emotional abuse
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
Don’t assume that someone else will take responsibility and make that telephone call. You could help to save a child’s life. If a Parent, carer or visitor to Stoke Minster C E Primary Academy has a concern about a child at Stoke Minster C E Primary Academy please do the following:
Contact the main academy office on 01782 367550 and ask to speak to one of the designated safeguarding members of staff. You will then be put in contact with one of the following members of staff:
Our Safeguarding Team
This member of staff will talk to you further about your concerns and take actions appropriately which could mean contacting Stoke on Trent Safeguarding Board for advice and referral.
Members of the public can also contact Stoke on Trent Safeguarding Board with concerns:
01782 235100 8am-6pm – (out of hours 01782 234234)
If you think a child or young person is in immediate danger telephone 999.
Causes for Concern – all staff are asked to report any causes for concern to the Designated Child Protection Lead using a written pro forma. Any concerns will be shared with parents/carers as early as possible as more often than not there are extremely reasonable explanations for the concern. All concerns are recorded and kept securely and confidentially. Concerns may range from children being visibly upset, persistent lateness/non-attendance to children ‘disclosing’ concerns.
Attendance – Reasons will be sought for all absences and lateness. Attendance and lateness is monitored weekly by the EWO. The Office Staff contact on the first day of absence and any concerns may be referred to our attendance officer Miss H Dance who may refer to the EWO following persistent absences. Parents/Carers will always be informed of any concerns around attendance at the earliest point.
Family Support – Families can be supported through an ‘Early Help’ programme which enables them to access a range of support from a variety of agencies other than school. This is used as a means of support and will be considered when a number of agencies are required to better safeguard the interests of the child.