Safeguarding of Children in Education
What is Safeguarding?
Safeguarding is the process of protecting children from harm, ensuring their safety and wellbeing, and creating an environment where they can thrive. In education, safeguarding is not just about responding to risks — it’s about building a safe, supportive culture for every child.
Child protection is a vital part of safeguarding, focusing specifically on children who are suffering, or likely to suffer, significant harm.
Why is Safeguarding Important in Schools?
Schools and colleges play a central role in safeguarding because:
- Staff see children daily and are well-placed to notice concerns.
- Education settings provide a safe environment where children should feel secure.
- Teachers and staff have a legal duty of care to protect pupils from harm.
Safeguarding ensures that children are:
- Protected from maltreatment.
- Supported in their health and development.
- Able to grow up in safe and effective care. Given the best possible chances for positive outcomes.
- Given the best possible chances for positive outcomes.
Types of Abuse and Risk Factors
Children may face a wide range of safeguarding risks, including:
- Physical abuse – hitting, shaking, or causing injury.
- Emotional abuse – persistent criticism, rejection, or emotional harm.
- Sexual abuse – exploitation, grooming, or inappropriate contact.
- Neglect – failure to provide basic needs like food, shelter, and care.
- Other risks – bullying, cyberbullying, online exploitation, radicalisation, and domestic abuse.
Recognising the Signs
Children may face a wide range of safeguarding risks, including:
- Sudden changes in behaviour or performance.
- Unexplained injuries or frequent absences.
- Signs of anxiety, withdrawal, or aggression.
- Unsafe online activity or contact with strangers.
Roles and Responsibilities
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, but schools also appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to:
- Coordinate safeguarding processes.
- Support staff with concerns.
- Liaise with external agencies when necessary.
Teachers, support staff, and volunteers all share responsibility to:
- Stay alert to risks.
- Report concerns promptly.
- Follow the school’s safeguarding policy.
How Concerns Should Be Handled
When a safeguarding concern arises:
- Listen carefully if a child discloses something.
- Reassure them but avoid promising confidentiality.
- Record factually what was said (what, when, where, who, how).
- Report immediately to the DSL.
- Do not investigate on your own.
Creating a Safe Culture
Safeguarding goes beyond procedures — it’s about creating a safe, respectful environment. This includes:
- Professional boundaries between staff and pupils.
- Safe use of technology and social media.
- Encouraging children to speak up if something feels wrong.
- A whistleblowing policy to protect staff and pupils alike.
Key Takeaway
Safeguarding of children in education is essential for ensuring that every child feels safe, supported, and protected. It requires vigilance, awareness, and a shared commitment across all staff and volunteers.
By working together, schools can make sure children not only learn, but also grow up safely and thrive.