Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.

At Cardrew Court, safeguarding is the golden thread through everything we do. Staff know and understand their safeguarding responsibilities, with all staff following Cornwall Children's Partnership procedures and the school safeguarding ethos of; ever in doubt, speak out / if you see something, say something.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As such we work hard to create a culture in which staff, pupils, parents, and trustees feel able to articulate concerns comfortably; safe in the knowledge that effective, appropriate action will be taken.

When there are concerns about a child’s welfare, we must share information and work in partnership with other agencies. We will ensure that our concerns about our pupils are discussed with parents/carers first, unless we have reason to believe that doing this would harm the child's welfare.

Policies and Procedures

We ensure all policies and procedures in respect of safeguarding children are up-to-date and in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2024. Policies and procedures are reviewed and revised by the Senior Leadership Team regularly. 

Board of Governors and Trustees Responsibilities

The Trustees at Cardrew Court School have oversight of all Safeguarding matters. Cardrew Court School is associated with the Cornwall DSL Network. Any issues related to safeguarding children will be discussed with the associated partners of this network such as the MARU (Multi Agency Referral Unit) or the LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer) as required.

Disclosure & Barring Checks

Cardrew Court School meets statutory requirements in relation to Disclosure & Barring Service – all staff and volunteers who work at CCS are required to undergo an enhanced DBS check prior to employment.

Safeguarding Leads

Designated Safeguarding Leads have ultimate responsibility for safeguarding issues.  The DSL’s are clear about their role, have sufficient time, and receive relevant support and training, to undertake their role, which includes close contact with outside agencies including social services, the Local Safeguarding Children’s Board and relevant health care organisations as well as the MARU and LADO.

Training

All staff and volunteers are required to undertake relevant safeguarding training and this is regularly reviewed by the Designated Safeguarding Lead to ensure it is up-to-date. A training database for all staff and volunteers is maintained, while training needs are reviewed as part of individual performance. All staff undertake a safeguarding induction when starting at Cardrew Court School and are required to read all associated safeguarding policies.

Audit

Cardrew Court School has robust audit checklists to ensure that safeguarding systems and processes are working. This includes the monitoring of the Single Central Record, Child Protection Policies and Procedures including, Allegations against Professionals, and the monitoring of training for all employees and volunteers, including guidance and support.