Safeguarding

Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do because every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and protected. We are committed to creating a nurturing environment where children can thrive, knowing their wellbeing is our top priority.

What is Safeguarding ?

The phrases ‘child protection’ and ‘safeguarding’ are often used interchangeably — but they have distinct meanings. According to KCSIE 2025:

Safeguarding means safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This is defined as:

• providing help and support to meet the needs of children as soon as problems emerge;
• protecting children from maltreatment, whether that is within or outside the home — including online;
• preventing impairment of children’s mental and physical health or development;
• ensuring children grow up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care;
• taking action to enable all children to have the best possible outcomes.

In simple terms, safeguarding comprises:

• child protection (when harm or risk is identified),
• early help / support for vulnerable children,
• promoting safe care at home, in school and in the community, including online safety,
• taking proactive action to promote wellbeing and positive outcomes for all children — not just responding to abuse.

Safeguarding at Ray Lodge Primary is placed at the heart of all it does. We have a clear safeguarding ethos, a policy that sets out clear expectations and processes, and high-quality training that ensures all staff know what to do and they do it consistently across the school.

Other key aspects of safeguarding at Ray Lodge include:

• Attendance
• Medical Protocols
• Safer Recruitment
• Security
• Community issues
• Online safety
• Risk
• Curriculum
• Partnership working
• Transition Planning

To read our Safeguarding Policy click here