Keeping pupils safe is rightly an absolute priority for schools. Play your part by being prepared and taking responsibility for yourself and your team.
Download your safeguarding checklist
Pre-visit
If your visit involves unsupervised contact with
young people you will usually be asked to show
photographic ID and written confirmation that
appropriate DBS checks have been made. Make
sure you take all documentation with you on your
visit.
You should aim to provide a positive role model to
young people. Dress appropriately and treat all
adults and pupils with respect and tolerance.
If you are running a competition or challenge in the
school, ask for guidance in advance regarding gifts,
rewards and incentives for young people. Do not
show preferential treatment.
At Reception
When you sign in at a school reception, ensure you
wear any badges given to you and read any leaflets
or information provided. By signing in, you have
agreed to abide by any advice given to you.
Schools will usually require that you are
accompanied by a member of staff at all times. This
is for everyone’s benefit, and you should comply.
In The Classroom
Think about the things you say to pupils. Never share
personal details or make inappropriate comments.
This includes racist, homophobic, sexist, profane or
sexualised comments.
Never photograph pupils without the school’s
permission. Never meet or contact a child out of
school including by text, email, Facebook or other
social media or give a child a lift home.
If a child makes a disclosure to you, listen without
judgment or interruption. Do not promise to keep a
secret, but reassure them that they were right to tell
you. Immediately after the disclosure, report the
incident to the Safeguarding Lead.
Post-visit
If you have ANY concerns about a child’s welfare or
wellbeing or have a concern about the behaviour
of any adult within the school towards a child, it is
your responsibility to voice your concern. This usually
involves telling the Head, but if your concern
involves the Head, you should speak to the
Safeguarding Lead or the Local Authority.
Remember that the school is rightly focused on
providing a safe and vigilant environment. Always
report any situations that arise that you may feel
may give rise to a complaint or misunderstanding in
respect of your own actions.
Do your bit
