Herts Mandarin School Child Protection Policy and Procedures
Herts Mandarin School Child Protection Policy and Procedures
1. Introduction
Herts Mandarin School is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children who attend our Saturday morning and after-school Mandarin classes. We recognize our duty to protect children from harm and to promote their welfare in line with statutory requirements and best practices.
This policy outlines our approach to child protection and the procedures staff must follow to safeguard children.
2. Aims
• To provide a safe and secure environment for all students.
• To ensure all staff understand their responsibilities in identifying and reporting child protection concerns.
• To establish clear procedures for handling concerns or allegations.
3. Key Principles
• The welfare of the child is paramount.
• All children have the right to feel safe and protected from harm.
• All concerns, suspicions, or disclosures must be taken seriously and acted upon promptly.
4. Roles and Responsibilities
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):
The DSL is responsible for managing child protection concerns, ensuring appropriate training, and acting as the main point of contact for safeguarding matters.
DSL Contact Details:
Name: Qin Lin
Email: hertsmandarin@gmail.com
Phone: 07928717162
Staff Responsibilities:
• All staff must complete safeguarding training and be familiar with this policy.
• Staff must report any concerns about a child’s welfare to the DSL immediately.
• Staff must maintain professional boundaries and act as positive role models.
5. Recognizing Signs of Abuse
Staff should be aware of the signs of abuse, which may include:
• Physical abuse: Unexplained injuries, bruises, or burns.
• Emotional abuse: Excessive withdrawal, fearfulness, or low self-esteem.
• Sexual abuse: Inappropriate knowledge or behavior for their age.
• Neglect: Poor hygiene, malnutrition, or frequent absences.
6. Reporting Procedures
If a staff member has a concern about a child:
1. Report Immediately: Inform the DSL as soon as possible.
2. Record the Concern: Write a detailed account of the concern, including the date, time, and any observations or conversations.
3. Follow Up: The DSL will assess the concern and, if necessary, refer it to Hertfordshire Children’s Services or the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO).
Contact Information for Reporting:
• Hertfordshire Children’s Services: 0300 123 4043
• LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer): 0300 123 4043
• NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.
7. Managing Disclosures
If a child discloses abuse:
• Listen carefully and calmly.
• Do not ask leading questions or promise confidentiality.
• Reassure the child that they have done the right thing by speaking up.
• Report the disclosure to the DSL immediately.
8. Safer Recruitment
• All staff and volunteers will undergo enhanced DBS checks before working with children.
• References and employment history will be thoroughly checked.
9. Code of Conduct for Staff
• Avoid being alone with a child in a closed or private space.
• Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
• Do not share personal contact details with students.
• Use appropriate language and behavior.
10. Supporting Students
• Small class sizes (maximum 10 students) allow for close monitoring of students’ well-being.
• Teachers will foster a safe and inclusive learning environment.
• Additional support will be provided to students who may be experiencing difficulties.
11. Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation or best practices.
12. Contact Information for Safeguarding Concerns
• DSL: [Insert Name and Contact Details]
• Hertfordshire Children’s Services: 0300 123 4043
• LADO: 0300 123 4043
• NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
By implementing this policy, Herts Mandarin School aims to ensure the safety and well-being of all children in our care.
Approved by:
Qin Lin
Date: 1st of January 2025
