The Keystone Academy’s Commitment to Safeguarding
Here at The Keystone Academy we recognise that safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone’s responsibility. Everyone who comes into contact with children and their families and carers has a role to play in safeguarding children. In order to fulfil this responsibility effectively, all practitioners in this school make sure their approach is child-centred. This means that we consider, at all times, what is in the best interests of the child.
No single practitioner can have a full picture of a child’s needs and circumstances. If children and families are to receive the right help at the right time, everyone who comes into contact with them has a role to play in identifying concerns, sharing information and taking prompt action.
In our school we ensure that:
- All children, regardless of age, gender, ability, culture, race, language, religion or sexual identity, are treated equally and have equal rights to protection
- All staff are aware that safeguarding concerns can arise in relation to any child regardless of background and that these concerns may relate to an aspect of a child’s life whether that be school, family, friendship groups, community or online
- All staff are aware and alert to the factors that lead to increased susceptibility and / or vulnerability to harms such as having additional needs or having been looked after.
- All staff act on concerns or disclosures that may suggest a child is at risk of harm
- Pupils and staff involved in safeguarding issues receive appropriate support
- Staff adhere to the policies and procedures in place at the school and understand what to do in the event of any allegations against any adult working in the setting
- All staff are aware of Early Help and ensure that relevant assessments and referrals take place
- All staff are aware that abuse, neglect and safeguarding issues are rarely standalone events that can be covered by one definition or label; they recognise that, in most cases, multiple issues will overlap with one another
The Keystone Academy is passionate about instilling high self- esteem, resilience, confidence and empathy. We want to motivate and guide our pupils through their school years and offer bespoke and tailored support. We offer clear lines of communication with trusted adults to help all children and especially those at risk of or suffering harm from abuse, neglect or those at risk of radicalisation or exploitation, to share their concerns and feel safe and confident to do so. The Keystone Academy maintains an ethos where children feel safe, secure, are encouraged to talk and are listened to.
