Safeguarding & Child Protection
“…. The welfare of the children must be the paramount consideration….” Children (N.I.) Order 1995
It is our aim in Iveagh Primary that all children learn in a happy and safe environment.
The curriculum reflects the school’s positive ethos and polices relating to each aspect of child welfare.
Children from an early age soon realise that their class teachers are people that they can tell and trust when any matter is worrying them.
They are taught that if they want to talk to a teacher other than their own that certain designated teachers are available to listen and where necessary help.
Photographs – As a school we occasionally allow the local newspaper to take photos of the children at short notice (e.g. concerts, class work, sports, choirs) If parents wish to ensure their child is not included in future photographs they should so advise the Principal in writing.
An approved system of running criminal checks on all employed and work placement staff in operation.
In matters relating to child protection Mrs Bingham is the Designated Teacher and Mrs Hutchinson and Mr Brown are the Deputy Designated Teachers.
Staff or parents who have any concerns relating to child protection should speak to any of these teachers as the first point of contact.
Any concerns or disclosers will be acted upon and will initiate a four point action plan being put into operation which may involve outside agencies being involved.
The prime concern will always be the interests of the child.
v In the majority of cases, we will ask to meet with you first to discuss our concerns.
v If the issue has not been resolved, we are obliged to consult with the appropriate agency.
v If they advise us to make a referral to Social Services, we must follow that advice.
v We will endeavour at all times to keep you informed.
The school will endeavour to:
- Take any matter seriously;
- Keep a record of any incident;
- Ensure sensitivity;
- Ensure that knowledge of any matter is limited to a need to know basis;
- Protect your child.
Our School Welfare Policies available to read in school on request include:
Anti Bullying, Child Protection, Discipline, Drugs, Fire Drill, Health and Safety, Medical, Pastoral Care, Road Safety, Special Needs and Promotion of Positive Behaviour.