Batchwood School: Passion Belief Courage

Safeguarding

At Batchwood School, safeguarding is our highest priority. We are fully committed to ensuring that every child feels safe, supported and protected whilst in our care.

In England, all adults who work with children have a legal duty to safeguard and promote their welfare. At Batchwood School, this responsibility is led by our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), supported by our team of Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads (DDSLs). Together, we ensure that safeguarding procedures are followed consistently and effectively by all staff.

Our work is guided by national legislation and statutory guidance, including:

  • Children Act 1989
  • Children Act 2004
  • Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018
  • Keeping Children Safe in Education 2019
  • United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child

What Safeguarding Means at Batchwood School

Safeguarding at Batchwood School means:

  • Providing trusted adults whom students can approach with any concern
  • Protecting children from maltreatment
  • Preventing impairment of children’s health or development
  • Ensuring children grow up in circumstances consistent with safe and effective care
  • Taking clear, timely action to enable every child to achieve the best possible outcomes

We understand that feeling safe is essential for learning and wellbeing. Strong safeguarding practice supports attendance, engagement and academic success.

Our Commitment

We have robust safeguarding and child protection policies in place to:

  • Protect students from harm and abuse
  • Ensure staff and volunteers know how to recognise concerns and respond appropriately
  • Promote a culture where safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility

All concerns are recorded carefully and acted upon promptly and appropriately.

The Pastoral Hub

Our Pastoral Hub provides a safe, welcoming space for students and parents to share any worries or concerns. The team works closely together to ensure that support is coordinated, timely and effective.

The safeguarding team includes:

Designated Safeguarding Lead

  • Jo Murphy – Assistant Headteacher and SENCo

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads

  • Ross Whitaker – Headteacher
  • Jordan Williams – Deputy Headteacher
  • Marg Robin – Assistant to SENCo
  • Anna Ryan – SENCo Assistant
  • Sally Smiles – Attendance Lead

If you have any safeguarding concerns, please contact the school office and ask to speak to a member of the safeguarding team.

Jo Murphy
Designated Safeguarding Lead