Herts Mandarin School Risk Assessment Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Risk Assessment Policy is to ensure that Herts Mandarin School provides a safe and secure environment for all students, staff, and visitors during Saturday morning and after-school Mandarin classes.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all classes, activities, and events organized by Herts Mandarin School, including one-hour lessons with a maximum of 10 students per class.

3. Objectives
        •       To identify potential risks to the health, safety, and well-being of students, staff, and visitors.
        •       To implement measures to reduce or eliminate risks.
        •       To ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and safeguarding standards.

4. Responsibilities
        •       The School Principal is responsible for ensuring risk assessments are completed, reviewed, and communicated to staff.
        •       All staff and volunteers are responsible for following safety procedures and reporting hazards or concerns.
        •       The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) will oversee safeguarding-related risks.

5. Key Areas of Risk Assessment

5.1 Premises and Environment
        •       Ensure classrooms are clean, well-lit, and free from hazards such as loose wires or clutter.
        •       Conduct regular checks of fire exits, alarms, and emergency lighting.
        •       Ensure furniture is appropriate for the age and size of students.

5.2 Class Size and Supervision
        •       Maintain a maximum class size of 10 students to ensure adequate supervision.
        •       Ensure a minimum of one teacher per class and additional staff available if needed.

5.3 Fire Safety
        •       Familiarize all staff and students with fire evacuation procedures.
        •       Conduct regular fire drills.
        •       Ensure fire extinguishers and alarms are in working order.

5.4 First Aid
        •       Ensure at least one staff member on-site is trained in first aid.
        •       Keep a fully stocked first aid kit accessible during lessons.
        •       Record and report any accidents or injuries.

5.5 Safeguarding and Child Protection
        •       Ensure all staff and volunteers are DBS-checked.
        •       Follow safeguarding procedures for reporting concerns about a child’s welfare.
        •       Avoid one-on-one interactions with students unless in an open and visible space.

5.6 Arrival and Departure of Students
        •       Ensure clear procedures for drop-off and pick-up to prevent unauthorized access.
        •       Maintain a sign-in and sign-out sheet for students.
        •       Staff must supervise students until they are collected by a parent or guardian.

5.7 Online Safety
        •       Monitor the use of technology during lessons to prevent access to inappropriate content.
        •       Ensure any online communication between staff and students is conducted via approved school platforms.

5. Risk Assessment Procedure
        1.      Identify Hazards: Regularly inspect the premises, activities, and equipment for potential risks.
        2.      Evaluate Risks: Assess the likelihood and severity of harm from identified hazards.
        3.      Implement Controls: Take steps to reduce or eliminate risks, such as training staff or modifying the environment.
        4.      Monitor and Review: Regularly review risk assessments and update them as needed, especially when there are changes to activities or the premises.

6. Emergency Procedures
        •       Display emergency contact numbers and procedures in visible locations.
        •       Ensure staff know how to respond to medical emergencies, fire, or other incidents.
        •       Maintain a log of all incidents and actions taken.

7. Communication and Training
        •       Provide staff with training on health and safety, safeguarding, and risk management.
        •       Share risk assessments with staff and ensure they understand their responsibilities.

8. Monitoring and Review
        •       Risk assessments will be reviewed annually or whenever there are significant changes to activities, premises, or regulations.
        •       Feedback from staff, parents, and students will be used to improve safety measures.

9. Contact Information

For any concerns or questions related to this policy, please contact:

Herts Mandarin School
Principal: Qin Lin
Email: hertsmandarin@gmail.com
Phone: 07928717162

By adhering to this Risk Assessment Policy, Herts Mandarin School aims to provide a safe and enjoyable learning environment for all.