Safeguarding
At St Andrew the Apostle School we take safeguarding and child protection issues very seriously.
We believe that all those who come into contact with children and families in their everyday work have a duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.
Prior to employment all staff (paid or voluntary) are checked against the government's Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) for their suitability to work with children and young people. Safeguarding forms part of our recruitment process and all interview panels include staff qualified in "safer recruitment" and include elements to further test candidates suitability to work with children.
On commencement of employment and then annually, staff are also required to complete safeguarding training. Updates on aspects of safeguarding form part of all staff training throughout each year. This training includes an overview of responsibilities, signs and symptoms as well as advice and guidance about what to do in the event of a concern.
The St. Andrew the Apostle Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy and Procedure can be found in the policies area of our website.
The designated safeguarding lead (DSL) for Child Protection is Ms Walt
The deputy designated safeguarding
lead's (DDSLs) for Child Protection are Ms Viala, Ms Poole & Mr Martin.
Other staff able to deal with safeguarding issues are:
- Dr P Hills - Headteacher
- Mr C Martin - Acting Headteacher
- Ms L Helan - Deputy Headteacher
- Ms M Malakouna - Deputy Headteacher
- Ms Poppy Azad - Safeguarding and Inclusion Manager
- Mr Edwin Sidhabattula - Safeguarding and Inclusion Assistant
Protection and Welfare Services
In Barnet, these services are provided through the Multi-Agency Service Hub (MASH). The school accesses these services for children by referring their needs to the MASH Team. This is also where child protection concerns are referred. It means that additional support for children, whatever their level of need can be coordinated and managed clearly and effectively. To talk something through with a qualified member of St Andrew the Apostle staff please call the school and ask to speak to Ms Walt.
Should a parent or carer have an immediate concern about the safety or well-being of a child they should call the MASH number 020 8359 4066.
The MASH team are available Monday to Thursday 9am to 5.15pm and Friday 9am to 5pm.
Outside these hours you should report any concerns that need an immediate response to the Emergency Duty Team on 020 8359 2000.
Extremism and Radicalisation
Extremism is defined as:
‘Vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs; and/or calls for the death of members of our armed forces, whether in this country or overseas’.
There is no place for extremist views of any kind in our School, whether from internal sources – students, staff or governors, or external sources - School community, external agencies or individuals.
Our students see our School as a safe place where they can explore controversial issues safely and where our teachers encourage and facilitate this – we have a duty to ensure this happens. As a School we recognise that extremism and exposure to extremist materials and influences can lead to poor outcomes for students and so should be addressed as a safeguarding concern as set out in policy. We also recognise that if we fail to challenge extremist views we are failing to protect our students. Extremists of all persuasions aim to develop destructive relationships between different communities by promoting division, fear and mistrust of others based on ignorance or prejudice and thereby limiting the life chances of young people. Education is a powerful weapon against this; equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and critical thinking, to challenge and debate in an informed way.
Students learn about this through a broad and balanced tutorial and PSHE programme. Through this course of study, they understand and become tolerant of difference and diversity. The school also aims to ensure that students thrive, feel valued and not marginalised. They also learn how to keep themselves safe and where to go to get help if they need it (in school and in the community). Staff and students raise any concerns they may have with Mr Easton, who in turn will seek advice from outside agencies should the need arise.
Parents/Carers can find advice by following this link. http://educateagainsthate.com/