Policy: Safeguarding and Child Protection (Family Version)

At Co-op Academy Belle Vue, the safety and well-being of all our students is our top priority. This guide is designed to help you understand how we protect your children and what you can do to support this effort.

What is Safeguarding?

Safeguarding involves everything we do to ensure that your child is safe from harm while at school. This includes protecting them from physical and emotional abuse, neglect, and any other risks, both in person and online.

What is Child Protection?

Child protection is a key part of safeguarding. It focuses on protecting children from abuse and responding to any concerns that a child might be in danger. This could involve physical harm, emotional abuse, neglect, or any situation where a child is at risk.

How We Keep Your Child Safe

Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs): We have trained staff members, known as DSLs, who are responsible for handling any safeguarding concerns. They are your first point of contact if you have concerns about your child’s safety.

School Policies and Procedures: We have clear policies to prevent bullying, discrimination, and other forms of harm. All staff are trained to recognize the signs of abuse and to act quickly if they have concerns.

Safe Environment: Our school ensures that all areas, including classrooms, playgrounds, and online spaces, are safe for your child. We also provide regular lessons on how to stay safe, especially on the internet.

What Should You Do If You’re Worried?

If you ever have concerns about your child's safety, it’s important to reach out immediately. You can:

Contact a DSL: Speak to any of our DSLs directly about your concerns.

Report Concerns: If you prefer, you can report concerns through the school’s website or by contacting the school office.

How We Handle Concerns

When you raise a concern, we take it very seriously. The DSL will listen, provide support, and take the necessary steps to protect your child. If needed, we may involve other professionals, such as social workers, to ensure your child’s safety.

Your Role in Safeguarding

Stay Informed: Make sure you are familiar with the school’s safeguarding policies. These are available on our website or from the school office.

Talk to Your Child: Encourage open conversations about their experiences at school and online. This helps them feel comfortable sharing any concerns with you.

Provide Emergency Contacts: Ensure the school has up-to-date contact information for at least two emergency contacts in case of an urgent situation.

Working Together

Safeguarding is a shared responsibility. By working together—parents, staff, and students—we can create a safe and supportive environment where every child can thrive.

Important Contacts

DSL Contacts: If you need to discuss any concerns, you can contact Mr. Daniel Haste, Ms. Joanne Pilling, Mr. Joel Howarth, Ms. Jennie Makinson, or Ms. Aimee Halliday.

For more detailed information, please refer to the full Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy available on our website.