Safeguarding
Safeguarding Children at Our Lady of Grace Primary School
Safeguarding at Our Lady of Grace Primary School centres on creating a safe, nurturing environment where every child is protected, valued, and able to thrive. The school places the welfare of pupils at the heart of its culture, ensuring that all staff, governors, and volunteers understand their responsibilities in keeping children safe.
Key Principles
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Child‑centred approach: The needs, rights, and voices of children guide all safeguarding decisions. Staff are trained to listen carefully to pupils and take any concerns seriously.
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Early identification: The school prioritises spotting signs of harm, neglect, or vulnerability as early as possible, enabling timely support and intervention.
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Clear procedures: Robust policies outline how concerns should be reported, recorded, and escalated. These procedures follow statutory guidance such as Keeping Children Safe in Education 25.
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Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs): A trained DSL team oversees safeguarding practice, supports staff, and works closely with external agencies when needed.
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Safe recruitment: All adults working in the school undergo appropriate background checks, and safer recruitment practices help ensure that only suitable individuals work with children.
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Curriculum and education: Pupils are taught how to stay safe—online, in relationships, and in the wider community—through PSHE, assemblies, and everyday school life.
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Partnership with families: The school works collaboratively with parents and carers, recognising that safeguarding is most effective when home and school communicate openly.
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A safe environment: Regular risk assessments, secure premises, and clear behaviour expectations contribute to a physically and emotionally safe school setting.
Overall Aim
The overarching goal is to ensure that every child at Our Lady of Grace Primary School feels safe, supported, and confident to speak up. By fostering a culture of vigilance, respect, and care, the school strives to protect pupils from harm and promote their wellbeing in all aspects of school life.
Safeguarding Audit
An external advisor carried out a safeguarding audit in January 2026 and judged that Safeguarding within Our Lady of Grace is effective.
The report stated that:
'The Safeguarding Audit confirmed that the recommendations from the previous audit had been implemented. From discussions with staff, with governors and with pupils and from documentation available before and during the visit, it is the opinion of the external advisor that the School has effective systems for Safeguarding staff and pupils in the School.'