We provide a full range of legal support for schools carrying out their responsibilities for ensuring a safe environment for children in accordance with the consolidated statutory guidance "Safeguarding Children and Safer Recruitment in Education" DfES/04217-2006.
We provide:
- Template Child Protection Policy which can be tailored to the individual school
- Guidelines for Designated Officers which summarise relevant legislation, guidance and case law
- Template Code of Conduct for Staff. This helps to establish a clear culture of zero tolerance for unacceptable behaviour, protecting both children and staff
- "What To Do If You Have a Worry or Complaint" - a short leaflet for pupils to help them raise concerns.
In liaison with our Schools Employment Team, we have conducted and advised on a number of internal reviews following a serious incident or tragedy. We regularly advise on allegations against staff (teachers and others). This can involve:
- Helping with investigations
- Liaison with Social Services
- Management of media interest.
During 2005, we were instructed to organise a private inquiry into discipline policies and practices from 1975 at an independent school. The Townend Report of this Inquiry was published on the internet in January 2006.
Safer recruitment
Safer recruitment of staff and volunteers is an essential part of safeguarding responsibilities for all schools. We provide a specialist training programme covering all aspects of the DfES guidance Safeguarding Children and Safer Recruitment in Education. We also provide a Safer Recruitment Pack which means that schools can put the Guidance into practice straightaway. Find out more...
Please contact us for further details of our policies, guidelines and training.
