RAMRIDGE PRIMARY SCHOOL Safeguarding Policy

Date: Ratified:

Review Date:

Rationale Everyone who comes into contact with children and their families has a role to play safeguarding children. School staff are particularly important as they are in a position to identify concerns early and provide help and support for children and their families, to prevent concerns from escalating. Schools and their staff form part of the wider safeguarding system for children. This system is described in statutory guidance Working Together to Safeguard Children 2013 and Keeping Children Safe in Education 2015. Schools should work with social care, police, health and any other service to promote the welfare of children and protect them from harm. The rationale behind this policy, including its clear guidelines, is to ensure that all appropriate procedures are in place, so that every child at Ramridge Primary School is safe and protected. This policy will give all staff, volunteers and our Governing body very clear directions about how concerns are managed, recorded and actioned and by whom.

Introduction This policy will be reviewed annually by the DSPs, the Governing Body and in accordance with any new or any changes to legislation. Ramridge Primary School fully recognise the vital contribution it can make in protecting children from harm and support in promoting the welfare of all children at Ramridge , this includes children not registered at our school but maybe participating in groups such a s ‘stay and play’, family learning, crèche etc. This is because we have a care of duty to pass on relevant information about any child deemed at possible risk of neglect, abuse or harm. The children’s Act of 1989 and 2004 state that child is defined as anyone who has not yet reached their 18th birthday, therefore references to ‘child’ of ‘children’ within this policy and guidelines relate to both children and young people who have not yet reached their 18th birthday. This policy and guidelines applies to all staff, parents, carers, governors, visitors and pupils and is only effective when worked alongside and in conjunction with, other school polices which will be defined late within this document. There are main elements in our policy and these include;     

Ensuring we practice safe recruitment in checking the safe recruitment of all staff and volunteers to work with our children Raising awareness of child protection issues equipping children with the skills needed to keep them safe Implementing our clear procedures for identifying and reporting cases, or suspected cases of abuse Supporting pupils who have been abused in accordance with their agreed child protection plan or child in need plan Establishing a safe environment in which children can learn and develop

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Our Safeguarding Ethos Ramridge Primary School recognises the importance for children to receive the right help at the right time to address risks and prevent issues escalating. Research and serious case reviews have repeatedly shown the dangers of failing to take effective action. Poor practice includes:      

failing to act on and refer the early signs of abuse and neglect poor record keeping failing to listen to the views of the child failing to reassess the concerns when the situation does not improve sharing information too slowly lack of challenge to those who appear not to be taking action

We promote an ethos where our pupils feel secure, are encouraged to talk and are listened to. We recognise that children who are abused or witness abuse may find it difficult to develop a sense of self-worth or view the world in a positive way. For such children, school may be one of the few stable, secure and predictable components in their life. Other children may be vulnerable because they have a disability or they are in care. We seek to provide all our children with the necessary support to keep them safe and build their self-esteem and self-confidence. We want children at our school to feel able to talk freely to any member of staff or regular visitor if they are worried or concerned about something. All staff and volunteers will, through introduction and training, know how to recognise concerns about a child and know how to manage a disclosure made by a child. We will not make promises to a child we cannot keep and we will not keep secrets. Every child will be told, by the adult they have chosen to talk to, what will happen next. Ramridge Primary School will endeavour to provide activities and opportunities in our PSHE and values education curriculum that will equip our children with the skills they need to stay safe. This will include material that will encourage our children to develop essential life skills. We will work to establish effective working relationships with parents, carers and colleagues from other agencies such as social care and Health at all times. As part of our safeguarding ethos we encourage pupils to respect each other and follow our school values. This encompasses the fundamental values of our British democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. We ensure that partisan political views are not promoted in teaching of any subject in the school and where political issues are brought to the attention of the pupils; reasonably practical steps are taken to offer a balanced presentation of opposing views. Extremism, including terrorism and radicalisation, in whatever form, will not be promoted or practiced in the school. Our DSGO have undertaken all relevant training and will actively ensure they continually update training. The DSGO will ensure that all staff will be part of whole school training as well as ongoing ‘bite size’ training. Any concerns raised regarding radicalisation will treated a safeguarding concern and will be logged in the same fashion and reported immediately to the DSGO, who will follow the appropriate procedures’ including; completion of EHC plan, referral into Social Care or a referral into the Channel Panel. Please also read our policy and guidelines for children’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural education (SMSC) and our policy and guidelines for values education which support this aspect of our safeguarding policy and guidelines.

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Induction Procedures When staff join our school they will be informed of our safeguarding procedures and will be given a copy of this policy and guidelines and told who the designated safeguarding persons are (DPS), Mrs Carolyn Doherty, Mrs Kate Glenister and Ms Kate Mulqueen. Our basic safeguarding induction programme will relate to signs and symptoms of abuse, how to manage a disclosure from a child and when and how to record a concern about the welfare of a child. All regular visitors and volunteers to our school will be told where this policy and guidelines is kept and who the designated senior member of Staff is for child protection. When new pupils join our school, all parents and carers will be informed that we have a safeguarding policy and told it is accessible for all to read on our website. They will also be informed of our legal duty to assist our colleagues in social care with child protection enquiries and what happens should we have cause to make a referral to another agency.

Safeguarding Children Training Working Together to Safeguard Children (2013) states that those in regular contact with children and young people or with adults who are parents and carers should have access to basic safeguarding children training. All staff in school that is in regular contact with children will need to attend basic safeguarding children training every two years. This is referred to as Level 1 Safeguarding Children Training, and is provided, in school, by the Local Authority. Ramridge Primary School currently has a member of staff who is qualified to deliver this training. We will therefore endeavour to provide training to every member of paid staff and keep this up to date within the three year period. Those staff who have ‘particular responsibilities’ with regard to safeguarding children will attend more comprehensive Level 2 training and further training provided by the Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB).

Procedures and responsibilities of all staff The procedure route will depend upon the urgency of the situation and whether it is merely a suspicion of abuse or an actual disclosure. All incidents should be reported to a fully trained Child Protection member of staff in the following order: 1. Kate Mulqueen 2. Carolyn Doherty 3. Kate Glenister 4. xxxxxx (Safeguarding Governor) If, for any reason, the above named persons are unavailable, you have a duty of care to pass this information onto the Initial Assessment Team at the Town Hall, Luton. Their contact number is: 01582 547653 If there is a concern about a member of staff, this must be reported immediately to the named child protection persons stated above. The head teacher will then follow current Luton Borough Council procedures by contacting Paul James (the designated LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer)) on 01582 548069 If the concerns relate directly to the head teacher, then these concerns should be reported directly to the Safeguarding Governor

Recording and reporting concerns about the safety and welfare of a child Page 3 of 21

All staff, volunteers and visitors have a responsibility to take prompt action if they are concerned about the safety and welfare of a child. If a child is suffering or likely to suffer ‘significant harm’ (see ‘definitions’ section) action must be taken immediately.

All concerns about the safety and welfare of a child must be taken seriously.

All staff, volunteers and visitors should;  speak to the designated members of staff for safeguarding in priority order  Record the concern on a ‘safeguarding concern sheet’. If you are recording anything a child has said, write using the exact language the child used, for example; ‘my dad is gonna batter me’.  The concern sheet must include: the name of the individual raising the concern, the date and time the concern was reported and recorded.  A plan of action or review will be decided by the designated safeguarding officer and this will be recorded on the ‘safeguarding concern sheet’. Non-urgent or low level concerns These concerns are to be recorded on a ‘weekly emerging needs form’. Class teams are to use these to monitor low level concerns; these forms must be handed to the DSP at the end of every week. Weekly emerging forms should only be used after a discussion with the DSP. As per our safeguarding training you may hold the ‘missing piece of the jigsaw’ and should therefore be discussed at the earliest opportunity. All concerns, whether deemed ‘high risk’ or ‘low level’ concerns should be recorded centrally and kept in a secure place (Inclusion Team Office). Copies of concerns should not be kept anywhere else. A non-urgent or low-level concern is one that, in itself, does not reach the threshold of significant harm. However a pattern of concerns may suggest emotional abuse or neglect. A total of five concerns over the period of time a child is a pupil at Ramridge Primary School should be immediately reviewed and, possible immediate action may be taken. This could include compiling the concerns and informing the Referral and Assessment Team. Parents or carers should be informed of the concern, unless informing them could put the child at risk of harm. Recording and acting upon low level concerns about a child is important in order to recognise the cumulative effect of some types of abuse.

Suspicion of abuse and disclosure Suspicion of abuse (if abuse is suspected but there has been no disclosure) Ideally any concerns should be passed on immediately to the DSP, but if appropriate, the following actions may be taken:    

Ask casual open questions about the nature of the concern (e.g. bruises, marks, change in behaviour etc.) such as ‘can you tell me about…’ Believe the child and reassure them that they were right to talk to you Record the facts and conversation in writing immediately afterwards using the exact words spoken not implied; sign and date the report (it may be required as evidence) Report the suspicion to the DPS

Disclosures Ideally any disclosures should be passed on immediately to the Designated Officer, but if appropriate the following actions may be taken:

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Allow the child to talk – ask only open questions, for example ‘can you tell me more about….Do not press for detail, or put forward your own ideas or use words that the child has not used themselves Stay calm and reassuring Do not make promises that cannot be kept – tell the child that you will have to tell someone else who will be able to help Believe the child but do not apportion any blame to the perpetrator (it may be someone they love) Reassure the child that they were not to blame and they were right to talk to you Ask the child if they have told anyone else Keep an open mind Record the conversation and facts verbatim in writing immediately afterwards on a ‘Safeguarding Concern Sheet’. (Writing notes during the interview may put undue pressure on the child). Sign and date the report (it may be required as evidence) Hand report to DPS who will action, file and review the concerns The action may determine whether the Referral and Assessment Team have to be informed. A referral will be put through at this point. All contact details will be passed to the Referral and Assessment Team

Informing parents and carers We ensure that parents and carers have an understanding of our responsibility to promote the safety and welfare of pupils by making our obligations clear in the school prospectus. In most cases parents and carers should be informed when concerns have been raised about their child. It is important that parents and carers are given an opportunity to address these concerns. Parents and carers should generally be informed if a referral is to be made to the Children and Families Service within Children and Learning or any other agency. Parents must not be informed if it is believed that by doing so would put the child at risk, for example if the child has made a disclosure of sexual or physical abuse. In this event immediate advice should be sought from the Children and Families Service’s Referral and Assessment Team.

The role of the Head Teacher Carolyn Doherty (Head Teacher) will ensure that:  

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The policies and procedures adopted by the governing body are fully implemented, and followed by all staff Sufficient resources and time are allocated to enable the Designated Senior Members of Staff for Child Protection and other staff to discharge their responsibilities, including taking part in strategy discussions and other inter-agency meetings, and contributing to the assessment of children. All staff and volunteers feel able to raise concerns about poor or unsafe practice in regard to children, and such concerns are addressed sensitively and effectively in a timely manner.

The role of the designated senior member of staff for child protection The Designated Senior Member of Staff for Child Protection, Kate Mulqueen, has a specific responsibility for championing the importance of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people registered at the school. The role of the Designated Senior Member of Staff for Child Protection includes: Page 5 of 21

Liaising with the Governing Body and Local Authority   

Acting as the first point of contact with the Local Authority with regard to safeguarding children matters Provision of information to the Local Authority on how the school discharges its duties with regard to safeguarding children Liaison with the governing body and local authority with regard to any deficiencies of practice or procedure and how these may be rectified

Referrals to the Children and Families Department and Other Agencies    

Ensuring all actions is in line with the LSCB’s Safeguarding Inter-Agency Procedures Supporting and enabling staff to make effective referrals to the Children and Families Service and other agencies where there are concerns that a child is being abused Holding a copy of all referrals made to the Children and Families Service and referrals to other agencies related to safeguarding children matters Liaison with the Head Teacher (where another member of staff such as the Family Worker, or in the absence of the Designated Officer) to inform them of any issues and ongoing investigations and ensure there is always cover for this role

Training  

Ensuring that staff have received information on safeguarding children at induction Making sure the school receives LSCB approved safeguarding training at least every three years and all staff receives training appropriate to

Raising Awareness  

Ensure all staff and volunteers are aware of the school’s safeguarding children policy and it is readily available and reviewed annually Keep up to date with changes in local policy and procedures and take account of guidance issued by the Department for Education

Recording Concerns  

Managing the school’s safeguarding children recording system When children leave the establishment, ensuring their child protection or safeguarding file relating to them is copied for new establishment as soon as possible, but transferred separately from the main pupil file

Child Protection Conferences, Core Groups and Child in Need (CIN) meetings  

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Members of staff may be asked to attend a child protection conference and/ or relevant core group meeting or CINs, on behalf of the school, in respect of individual children. The person attending from school will be one of the Designated Senior Member of Staff for Child Protection, however another member of staff may be asked to attend depending on their role or involvement with the child. The person attending will need to have as much relevant up to date information about the child as possible. A child protection conference will be convened if it is considered the child/ren are suffering or at risk of suffering significant harm. Review conferences and regular core group meetings will be held to monitor the child protection plan. All reports for child protection conference will be prepared in advance of the meeting. The information contained in the report will be shared with parents at the conference and will include information relating to the child’s physical, emotional and intellectual development. Page 6 of 21

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Child protection conferences can be upsetting for parents/carers and Luton Borough Council aim to recognise that our school staff are likely to have more contact with parents than other professionals involved. All involved are required to work in an open and honest way with all parents and carers. Ramridge Primary School has a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children and our aim is to achieve this in partnership with our parents.

The role of the Governing Body The Governing Body of Ramridge Primary School will ensure:  

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A member of the Governing Body is responsible for championing safeguarding children issues (Ann McMaster- Designated Governing Officer) and provides information to the Governing Body There are senior members of the school’s leadership team who are designated to take lead responsibility for dealing with safeguarding children issues (Carolyn Doherty, Head Teacher, Kate Glenister, Deputy Headteacher and Kate Mulqueen, Inclusion Team Leader) These people must have undertaken appropriate training and attended refresher training every two years Ramridge Primary School follows local safeguarding procedures and the schools safeguarding children policy is reviewed annually Ramridge Primary School operates safe recruitment practices, including appropriate use of references and checks on new staff and volunteers There are procedures for dealing with allegations of abuse against members of staff and volunteers and these are in line with Local Authority procedures All staff and volunteers who are in ‘regular contact’ (teaching and non-teaching staff) with children, undertake appropriate training which is kept up to date by refresher training at three yearly intervals; and temporary staff and volunteers who work with children are made aware of the schools safeguarding children arrangements Any deficiencies or weaknesses that are brought to the attention of the Governing Body are rectified

Managing allegations and concerns against staff and volunteers Any allegation made against any member of staff or volunteer will be dealt with fairly, quickly and consistently, in a way that provides effective protection for the child and at the same time supports the person who is subject to the allegation. If there is a concern about a member of staff then this must be reported immediately to the named Child Protection Officer. The Head Teacher will then follow current Luton Borough Council Procedures by contacting Paul James the designated LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer) on 01582 548069 If the concerns relate directly to the Head Teacher then these concerns should be reported directly to the Safeguarding Governor (Ann McMaster).

Protecting yourself against allegations of abuse You should seek to keep your personal contact with children under review and seek to minimise the risk of any situation arising in which misunderstandings can occur. The following sensible precautions can be taken when working alone with children:  Work in a room where there is a glass panel in the door or leave the door open  Make sure that other adults visit the room occasionally  Never give out personal mobile phone numbers or private email addresses  Do not give pupils lifts in your car (unless this has been specifically agreed by a senior leader)  Do not arrange to meet pupils outside of school activities Page 7 of 21

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Never ‘befriend’ or chat to pupils on social network sites

Safe recruitment and selection of staff The school’s recruitment processes conform to the guidance set out in Safeguarding Children and Safer Recruitment in Education Settings (DFES, January 2007).

Internal and external contacts Internal: Designated Senior Members of Staff for Child Protection Carolyn Doherty (Headteacher), Kate Glenister (Deputy Headteacher) and Kate Mulqueen (Inclusion Team Leader 01582 729970 Person/s who act in the absence of the Designated Senior Member of Staff Ann McMaster (Safeguarding Governor) Staff members can also access direct phone numbers for the above staff via the school office External: Referral and Assessment Team 01582 547815/6 Emergency Duty Team 0870 2385465 Police Child Abuse Investigation Team 01582 394103 Safeguarding Children in Education Officer 01582 548069

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Definitions Significant Harm The threshold that justifies compulsory intervention into family life and gives Local Authorities a duty to make enquiries to decide whether they should take action to safeguard or promote the welfare of a child who is suffering or likely to suffer significant harm. Working Together (2006), Working Together to Safeguard Children (2013) Physical Abuse Physical abuse may involve hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning or scalding, drowning, suffocating, or otherwise causing physical harm to a child. Physical harm may also be caused when a parent or carer fabricates the symptoms of, or deliberately induces an illness in a child. Working Together (2006), Working Together to Safeguard Children (2013) Sexual Abuse Sexual abuse involves forcing or enticing a child or young person to take part in sexual activities, including prostitution, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. The activities may involve physical contact, including penetrative (e.g. rape, buggery or oral sex) or nonpenetrative acts. The activities may include non-contact activities, such as involving children in looking at, or in the production of, sexual online images, watching sexual activities, or encouraging children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways. Working Together (2006), Working Together to Safeguard Children (2013) Neglect Neglect is the persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and/or psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of the child’s health or development. Neglect may occur during pregnancy as a result of maternal substance abuse for example. Once a child is born, neglect may involve a parent or carer failing to:  Provide adequate food and clothing, shelter (including exclusion from home or abandonment)  Protect a child from physical and emotional harm or danger  Ensure adequate supervision (including the use of inadequate care-takers)  Ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment. It may also include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to, a child’s basic emotional needs. Working Together (2006), Working Together to Safeguard Children (2013) Emotional Abuse Emotional abuse is the persistent emotional maltreatment of a child such as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the child’s emotional development. It may involve conveying to children that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person. Page 9 of 21

It may feature age or developmentally inappropriate expectations being imposed on children. These may include interactions that are beyond the child’s developmental capability, as well as over protection and the limitation of exploration and learning, or preventing a child in participating in normal social interaction. It may involve seeing or hearing the ill treatment of another. It may involve serious bullying causing children to frequently feel frightened or in danger, or the exploitation or corruption of children. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of maltreatment of a child, though it may occur alone. Working Together (2006), Working Together to Safeguard Children (2013)

Recognition of possible abuse Below is a list of possible indicators. All staff should look carefully at the behaviour of their children and be alert for significant changes. All staff should, however, be aware that children may exhibit any of the following without abuse having occurred:                                

Disclosure Non accidental injury, bruising or marks Explanation inconsistent with injury Several different explanations for an injury Reluctance to give information about an injury A sudden change in behaviour – aggression, extroversion, depression, withdrawn. Attention seeking Hyperactivity Poor attention Appear frightened of parents or family members Abnormal attachment between parent and child Indiscriminate attachment Hyper alertness Reduced response Frozen watchfulness Nightmares Anxiety/ irritability Abdominal pain/ headaches Poor self-esteem Poor peer relationships Act in an inappropriate way for age Over sexualised play/talk or drawings Excessive or inappropriate masturbation Self-harm/ eating disorder Frequent visits to the toilet (urinary infection) Reluctance to change for P.E. Failure to thrive Poor hygiene Recurrent/untreated infections of skin or head lice Untreated health/ dental issues Frequent absence from school or repeated lateness Delay in meeting normal developmental milestones

Ramridge Primary School recognises that, because of their day to day contact with children, school staff are well placed to observe the outward signs of abuse. The school will therefore:  

Establish and maintain an environment where children feel secure, are encouraged to talk, and are listened to Ensure children know that there are adults in the school whom they can approach if they are worried Page 10 of 21

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Include opportunities in the PSHE and values education curriculum for children to develop the skills they need to recognise and stay safe from abuse The safeguarding governor will meet with Carolyn Doherty and Kate Mulqueen once a term to overview safeguarding policy, guidelines and procedures. The safeguarding governor may conduct a meeting with pupils and staff to help measure the impact of the schools safeguarding procedures

Ramridge Primary School will follow the procedures set out by the Local Safeguarding Children Board and take account of guidance issued by the Department for Education to:    

Ensure we have a designated senior person for child protection who has received appropriate training and support for this role Ensure we have a nominated governor responsible for child protection Ensure every member of staff (including temporary and supply staff and volunteers) and governing body know the name of the designated senior person responsible for child protection and their role Ensure all staff and volunteers understand their responsibilities in being alert to the signs of abuse and responsibility for referring any concerns to the designated senior person responsible for child protection

Ensure that parents have an understanding of the responsibility placed on the school and staff for child protection by setting out its obligations in the school prospectus      

Notify social services if there is an unexplained absence of more than two days of a pupil who is on the child protection register Develop effective links with relevant agencies and co-operate as required with their enquiries regarding child protection matters including attendance at case conferences Keep written records of concerns about children, even where there is no need to refer the matter immediately Ensure all records are kept securely; separate from the main pupil file, and in locked locations Develop and then follow procedures where an allegation is made against a member of staff or volunteer Ensure safe recruitment practices are always followed

Other relevant areas of provision Ramridge Primary School’s governing body’s legal responsibility for safeguarding the welfare of children goes beyond basic child protection procedures. Their duty is to ensure that safeguarding permeates all of the school’s activities and functions. This policy and guidelines therefore complements and supports a range of other school-based provision, including: Confidentiality At Ramridge Primary School we believe that: The safety, well-being and protection of our pupils are the paramount consideration in all decisions that staff make about confidentiality. The appropriate sharing of information between school staff is an essential element in ensuring our pupils well-being and safety  It is an essential part of the ethos of our school that trust is established to enable pupils, staff and parents/ carers to seek help both within and outside the school in order to minimise the number of situations when personal information is shared  Pupils, parents/carers and staff need to know the boundaries of confidentiality in order to feel safe and comfortable discussing personal issues and concerns Page 11 of 21

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The school’s attitude to confidentiality is easily understood and everyone should be able to trust the boundaries of confidentiality operating within the school Issues concerning personal information including sex and relationships and other personal matters can arise at any time. Everyone in the school community needs to know:  That no-one can offer absolute confidentiality  The limits of confidentiality that can be offered  The most appropriate person to talk to  Effective action designed to safeguard the well-being of children and families depends upon sharing relevant information on an inter-agency basis  The Legal Principle that the welfare of the child is paramount means that considerations of confidentiality should not be allowed to override the right of children to be protected from harm  Working Together to Safeguard Children 2010 states that the law permits the disclosure of confidential information necessary to safeguard a child or children in the public interest. That is, the public interest in child protection may override the public interest in maintaining confidentiality. (Working Together 2013).

Behaviour and Anti-Bullying Good behaviour is essential to successful teaching and learning. If children make the wrong choice they not only disrupt their own learning but affect the education of the children around them. At Ramridge Primary School we believe that every child has a right to an appropriate education in a calm, respectful and positive atmosphere which is free from disruption and harassment. We believe that it is the responsibility of every member of the school community to strive towards this goal. Our School Ethos Ramridge Primary School is an inclusive, caring community in which every individual is valued and encouraged to grow. Our learning community is built upon the shared belief that the development of each child must be at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to providing a safe and happy environment in which each individual is encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and inspired to surpass expectations. The values and principles which underpin this ethos are as follows:       

Showing respect to each individual, affirming their value and encouraging self-esteem (Acceptance and affirmation) Creating a positive atmosphere which is warm, friendly, safe and supportive (Positive and secure) Creating a school culture that celebrates achievements, recognising each small step that each individual takes (Recognition, celebration and appreciation) Recognising the richness and diversity of our respective cultures, using and celebrating this through the curriculum (Valuing and understanding) Understanding and sensitivity to individual needs, recognising that there are times when more support is needed by certain individuals (Empathy and support) Communicating openly and honestly with each other whilst recognising the need for confidentiality when an individual’s personal circumstances are involved (Trust and respect)

At Ramridge we have a policy of early identification of (and intervention in) behavioural, emotional and social need. Any child who is identified as having a need in one or more of these areas is included on the SEN Register. Children identified as having high level of incidents may be included in a target group. This is held for thirty minutes each week and is managed by the Inclusion Team Leader. A target is identified with the child and a six week programme is set up offering strategies and coping mechanisms to help the child change his/her unwanted behaviours.

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We believe that behaviour management is the responsibility of all staff, led by the Class Teacher, supported by SLT along with Teaching Assistants and Midday Supervisors. Parents are encouraged to support and model good behaviour and work with the school with supporting in our ethos. This is encouraged through our home/school agreement which is sent out to families each year. Further information can be found in the schools Behaviour and Anti-bullying policy.

Anti-Bullying Policy The aim of our anti-bullying policy is to ensure that all pupils are able to learn in a supportive, caring and safe environment without fear of being bullied. Bullying is anti-social behaviour and affects everyone; it is unacceptable and will not be tolerated at Ramridge Primary School. All issues of bullying will be addressed to ensure that all pupils are able to fully benefit from the opportunities available at school. Bullying is defined as deliberately hurtful behaviour, repeated over a period of time, where it is difficult for those being bullied to defend themselves. The policy indicates the clear steps that will be taken when dealing with incidents and how the victims and the perpetrators will be supported and helped.

Physical Intervention Any use of physical force or restraint against pupils will be carried out and documented in accordance with our behaviour policy. If it is necessary to use physical action to prevent a child from hurting themselves or others parents will be informed. Children will not be punished or face consequences related to any physical harm or other degrading treatment. Appendix of the policy and guidelines provides a framework for the use of physical intervention at Ramridge Primary School. It has been developed in consultation with BILD and takes into account information provided in Circular 10/98 (Section 550A of the Education Act 1996) as well as the DFES ‘Guidance on the Use of Restrictive Physical Interventions for Staff Working with Children and Adults who Display Extreme Behaviour in Association with Learning Disability and/or Autistic Spectrum Disorders’. We have trained staff in the team teach method; aims and guidelines central to this approach are incorporated within the policy and guidelines. Central to this policy is the understanding that any Physical Intervention used by staff must be in accordance with the idea of ‘Reasonable Force’ and used only as a last resort once all other strategies have been exhausted. There is no legal definition of reasonable force. The use of force can only be regarded as reasonable if the circumstances of the particular incident warrant it and the degree of force employed is proportionate to the level of challenging behaviour presented or the consequences it is intended to prevent. It is essential that any discussion of Physical Intervention is set in the wider context of education and behaviour management; it should not be seen as an isolated technique. Most of the time there will be no need for physical intervention and other methods can be used. Types of incident where the use of reasonable force may be necessary fall into three broad categories:  Action due to imminent risk of injury  Action due to developing risk of injury or significant damage to property  Action where a pupil is behaving in a way that is compromising good order and discipline.

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Exclusion Within our Behaviour and Anti-Bullying policy, it references ‘exclusion’ and the practice which informs Ramridge Primary School’s use of exclusion. It is underpinned by the shared commitment of all members of the school community to achieve two important aims:  

The first is to ensure the safety and well- being of all members of the school community, and to maintain an appropriate educational environment in which all can learn and succeed The second is to realise the aim of reducing the need to use exclusion as a sanction

At all times we work within the framework of national government guidance: Exclusion from maintained schools, academies and pupil referral units in England - a guide for those with legal responsibilities in relation to exclusion. A decision to exclude a pupil will be taken only: 1. In response to a serious breach, or persistent breaches, of the school’s behaviour policy and guidelines; and 2. If allowing the pupil to remain in school would seriously harm the education or welfare of the pupil or others in the school

Attendance Ramridge Primary School recognises the importance of good attendance to ensure that all pupils reach their full potential. Parents must feel able to contact the school to discuss any problems that might affect their child’s attendance. On the first day of any absence, a member of staff will make contact to ascertain as to why the child)ren) are not in school. If contact cannot be made a home-visit/welfare check will be carried out on the second consecutive day of absence. The school has challenging attendance targets to meet and recognise the importance of working with parents and carers to achieve them. The school must be a safe and secure environment to which pupils want to come. Persistent absences may be an indication that extra support for the family may be needed. It could also be a warning sign of abuse or neglect. Persistent absences are always taken seriously. The Education Welfare Service and its officers work closely with us to ensure good attendance. They check registers regularly and follow up any concerns and can offer support where appropriate. The Education Welfare Service has its own range of rewards and sanctions. A child may be referred to the school’s education welfare officer if there are any concerns about their attendance.

Photography and Videoing of Children At Ramridge Primary School, we have taken a sensible and balanced approach to photography and videoing children. Taking pictures and video images of the children’s achievements and activities is a wonderful way of capturing a memory and promoting success. Our policy explains, in detail, the requirements to obtain parental permission of taking such images and the safeguards in place to ensure anonymity (wherever possible) in their usage. No photography or videoing of children will therefore take place without express permission from parents/carers.

Code of Conduct Page 14 of 21

The adoption of the Employees’ code means that standards and expectations of all school employees are transparent and equitable. The Employees’ Code constitutes part of the employees’ terms and condition of service, and will therefore be monitored and enforced, if necessary through normal procedural arrangements agreed by the Governing Body. This code therefore, is designed to set out standards of conduct and behaviour in order that employees themselves and the school community can be sure of parameters and standards required of employees in such a manner that there will be confidence and trust in the employee working practice. This code therefore identifies those key areas of conduct and behaviour, setting out standards and guidance for employees. It is supported by all employment procedures, protocols and through staff induction, supervision and appraisals as adopted by the Governing Body. The areas highlighted in this policy are not exhaustive, and employees should endeavour to be seen as setting the highest standard of conduct in a way that does not bring any disrepute on themselves as a school employee, the service they work within, or the school or Luton Borough Council in general. All employees in the school are undertaking a professional role to support the education of young people. As such they are role models and expected to act accordingly. This includes relationships and communication with colleagues and the school, adhere to the school’s dress code, appropriate for the job, and activities in the community outside of the school.

First Aid and Administering Medication In the school there are several names people who are trained to oversee First Aid they are:         

Donna Powell Morag Troughton Karen Dickman Michelle Chance Maria LaFortune Nora Allsopp Jackie Cleaver Julia Rolfe Ellen Clerkson

Key staff are on duty during play and lunchtimes in the KS1 and KS2 medical rooms. When a child is unwell or has suffered an injury in school or on the school ground the following steps are to be taken:    

If able the child is taken to their KS medical room If unable, a trained first aider is immediately called to provide assistance and advice The incident is logged Parents are notified either by telephone or letter

Medication is to be handed into the office and the relevant paperwork is completed. Medication should only be administered if it has been prescribed by the Doctor and is required four times daily. Medication should only be administered by trained first aiders and once the relevant forms have been completed.

Guidance for Supervision Purpose of Supervision: 

This is an opportunity to review how staff are preforming, to monitor their progress and to review the direction of their work. Page 15 of 21

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Any gaps in skills and training needs can be identified in order to enhance professional development. Supervision is a place where a member of staff can be challenged supportively and constructively within mutually agreed and accepted boundaries. Issues relating to the workplace and to working practice can be identified and discussed. This also an opportunity to show that the member of staff is a valued member of the school. It offers a chance to ensure that their emotional wellbeing is considered and their personal development needs are being met. The member of staff will be able to ‘offload’ their concerns and these can be discussed in a supportive environment. A place for the staff member to review their targets and to set new SMART (small, measurable, achievable, realistic and time related) targets or objectives

Role of the Supervisor:         

To ensure that the supervisee is clear and competent about their roles and responsibilities To reflect on, analyse and evaluate their practice To set, agree and review SMART (small, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely) targets or objectives To provide constructive feedback To ensure consistency of practice To value and appraise supervisee’s work Promote the health and wellbeing of supervisee To help build self-confidence To improve team work

Expectation of the session:   

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The session will be pre-arranged and will last for 30-45mins every four to six weeks The location of the session will take place in private and uninterrupted space during the working day A record of each session will be kept, indicating any targets and who is responsible for achieving then and clearly state any deadlines. All records should be signed by the supervisor and supervisee. All sessions will be confidential unless issues are raised that are conflict with school policy

Site Security Ramridge Primary School aims to provide a safe and secure site but acknowledges the site is only as secure as the people who use it. Therefore, all people on the site must adhere to the rules set out by the governing body, headteacher and site agent. It is recognised that laxity can cause potential problems to safeguarding and as such the school ensures:   

Gates are locked except at the start and end of each day External doors are closed to prevent intrusion at key times Visitors and volunteers only enter through the main entrance and must sign in with the office Page 16 of 21

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Children are only allowed home with adults with parental responsibility or when confirmed permission has been received in advance. Empty classrooms have closed windows Children are not allowed to leave the school alone during school hours and if collected by an adult over the age of 16. Should a child leave the school premise, staff are not chase but calmly follow, ensuring another member of staff has alerted senior members of staff. Parents and the police are then to be immediately informed of the circumstances.

Equal Opportunities Our policy outlines the commitment of all staff and our Governors to promote equality. This involves tackling barriers which could lead to unequal outcomes, so that there is equality of access and the diversity within Ramridge Primary School community and is celebrated and valued. We believe that equality at our school should permeate all aspects of school life and is the responsibility of every member of the school and wider community. Every member of the school community should feel safe, secure, valued and of equal worth. At Ramridge Primary School, equality is a key principle for treating all people the same irrespective of their gender, ethnicity, disability, religious beliefs/faith tradition, sexual orientation, age or any other protected characteristics.

Teaching and Learning Teaching and Learning is at the heart of Ramridge is at the heart of Ramridge Primary School. We aim to develop a love for learning within a creative curriculum where every individual is valued for his/her unique contribution. We wish to provide pupils with the knowledge and skills needed to be critical thinkers, ready to embrace local and global challenges. Learning in our school is a collaborative process between adults and children; between school and home. Assessment for learning lies at the heart of the process.

PHSE/Sex Education (SRE) Personal, Social and Health Education is central to the educational entitlement of all children at Ramridge Primary School and as such permeates all aspects of school life. It is encompassed within the teaching of several subjects notably; R.E, Science, P.E, Literacy. It is an integral part of our curriculum. At Ramridge Primary School we teach SRE in the context of the school’s aims and values through our PSHE schemes of work and we do this whilst adhering to the moral code and values which underpin all the work within our school. We believe that all young people should have access to an SRE curriculum which is unbiased, inclusive and age appropriate. We have based our curriculum on DfEE guidelines in accordance with any updates or changes to legislation and guidance, please refer to full policy.

Racial Equality Ramridge Primary School strives to ensure that the culture and ethos of the school are such that, whatever the heritage and origins of members of the school community, everyone is equally valued and treats one another with respect. Pupils should be provided with the opportunity to experience, understand and celebrate diversity. We will also celebrate the similarities that we share as members of the human race.

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At Ramridge Primary School we have high expectations of pupils and staff in all areas of our school life and as such, behaviour which is contrary to our school aims will always be challenged. This would include racial harassment of any kind.

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities At Ramridge Primary School we aim to provide effective learning opportunities for all children. All staff at Ramridge aim to give every pupil the opportunity to experience success in learning and to achieve as high a standard as possible. All children at Ramridge Primary School are fully included and supported where appropriate to enable full access to the curriculum and equal opportunities for learning. At Ramridge all children are provided with in-class support and intervention group work to teach strategies for improving skills needed to fully participate in all areas of the curriculum. Work is differentiated and the expected outcomes are matched to the individual level of ability. Teachers plan their teaching so that they can respond to the diverse needs of the children in their class allowing all pupils to participate in lessons fully and effectively. The school aims to maintain good channels of communication with all parents and carers; they are kept informed of their child’s progress and any interventions they may be involved in to target specific areas of development. Children from all backgrounds are welcomed, irrespective of ability.

Physical Education We believe that all pupils, experienced in a safe and supportive environment, is essential to the development of the whole child- academic, social, emotional, spiritual and physical. It provides the foundation of a healthy lifestyle and promotes character building, co-operation and self-esteem. At Ramridge Primary School we aim to:        

To promote physical activity and physical development To develop positive attitudes and a sense of fair play To engage in competitive sport and activities to help develop school values To provide opportunities for all children to achieve their full potential To develop communication skills e.g. PE vocabulary and strategic learning To provide pupils opportunities to be creative, competitive and to face up to different challenges as individuals and in groups and teams To encourage participation in extra-curricular activities and to involve outside professional coaches where appropriate For children to discover their abilities and preferences and to make choices about how to get involved in lifelong physical activity

General Rules Page 18 of 21

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Dressing and undressing will take place in the classroom or within the changing area of the KS2 girls toilets Warming-up sessions should precede all activities All sessions should be quiet and orderly No running should occur with large apparatus, no jumping from wall apparatus The signal for dismounting from the apparatus should be identified at the beginning of the first lesson No jewellery other than stud ear-rings should be worn and these must be covered with tape Spectacles should be removed other than by children who need to wear them at all times Long hair should be tied back Verrucae do not exclude children from P.E. activities. General guidelines indicate that barefoot activities need not cease, however, Verrucae should be covered Children should not be excluded from P.E. when no kit is available Shoes should be deposited in a place away from activities

Substance Misuse Although drug related incidents are likely to be extremely rare, at Ramridge Primary School, we feel it important to give advance consideration to the issue. The need to take appropriate action at the time of any event is vital. In today’s society it is possible that some of our pupils will need to acquire the knowledge and skills to resist the use of substances presented by peers or others. Objectives:  To develop attitudes and skills that help the children to resist temptations and stand up to peer pressure  To develop an understanding of medicines and correct ways of handling them  To identify, support and refer appropriately children at risk due to drugs in their home environment  To deal appropriately with drug paraphernalia found on site or anyone with drugs on site

Visitors At Ramridge Primary School, we encourage visitors who will contribute to the enhancement of the curriculum and well-being of the whole school community. Visitors within school bring a greater enrichment to whole of school life and support a variety of aspects of learning. Visitors should always:  Sign in and out  Non regular visitors will be required to show their ID and wear a visitor badge whilst on site  The visitors host will give clear guidelines to the visitor  Visitors will not be left to supervise children alone  Visitors will have current CRB check clearance

E-safeguarding policy and guidelines and acceptable use (internet and electronic communications) policy and supporting documents The virtual world and the use of information technology opens up a wide range of new opportunities for learning and creativity. However we also recognise the need to ensure that the children at our school are protected from:  Unsuitable content such as inappropriate violent or sexual material  Concerning contact with other users; including cyber bullying and exposure to grooming behaviour Page 19 of 21

We also aim to ensure that pupils are prevented from engaging in:  Unacceptable conduct such as uploading inappropriate material, illegal downloading or harassing/ bullying others Anyone who is concerned that a child is being harmed or at risk of harm through the use of technology should follow the safeguarding children procedures set out in this policy. Further information can be found in the schools E-Safeguarding and Acceptable Use (Internet and Electronic Communications) Policy and supporting documents. Staff must be aware of sensible and appropriate use of social networking. It must be clear that everyone in a position of trust has a duty of care and the laws surrounding relationships with minors. If in a position of trust an adult cannot lawfully have a relationship with a person known to them in that position under the age of eighteen. As an addition, Ramridge Primary School encourages its staff not to have any former pupil under the age of eighteen years old as friends or acquaintances on any social media they use.

Health and safety policy The promotion of the safety, health and welfare of staff and pupils is considered to be a mutual objective for the Local Authority, Governors and staff. It is therefore Ramridge Primary School’s Policy, so far as reasonably practicable, to take the necessary steps to ensure the Safety, Health and Welfare of its staff and pupils and also the public and visitors at all times. Our Policy lists key components that consist of:                      

Responsibilities of all Staff Obligation of all Employees General Responsibilities Head Teachers Responsibilities Persons Responsible for Staff Safety and Inspections Special Responsibilities Playtime Supervision Obligations of Teachers Supervision Before and After School Considerations for those with Disabilities Visitor Considerations Reporting Defects and Equipment Where to Find Relevant Information General Arrangements Fire Precautions (further information can be found in our fire and bomb threat emergency plan) School Evacuation Procedures How to Sound the Alarm Electrical and Other Equipment Control of Substances Repair, Maintenance and Upkeep of Buildings School Visits Provision and Use of Work Equipment

Whistle blowing policy This policy is intended to provide a means for workers to make serious allegations about standards, conduct, financial irregularity or possible unlawful action to be able to make those allegations in a way that will not be seen as being disloyal to their colleagues or to the Council and will provide ‘Whistle Blowers’ with protection from being victimised, discriminated against, or disadvantaged for having made an allegation in good faith. The procedure ensures the school complies with its duty under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998. This Policy is intended to encourage and enable workers to make serious allegations within the Council rather than overlooking a problem or ‘blowing the whistle’ outside. Page 20 of 21

The procedure applies to all employees and those contractors working for the school or on the schools premises, for example supply staff, agency staff, etc. It also covers voluntary aided and foundation school, suppliers and those providing services to the school under a contract with the council.  The Policies aims are to:  Encourage workers to feel confident in coming forward with serious allegations  Provide a means for workers to make serious allegations and receive feedback on any action taken  Ensure confidentiality if required  Reassure workers that they will be protected from possible reprisals or victimisation  Reassure employees that they will suffer no detriment or disadvantage from making allegations as long as they do so in good faith, genuinely believing their allegations to be valid Further information can be found in Ramridge Primary School’s Whistle Blowing Policy

Closing Statement Ramridge Primary School’s ethos and responsibilities have the health, safety, and wellbeing of our pupils and the children we support at the heart of all our practice. From our governors to our head teacher, to the teaching and non-teaching staff as well as volunteers, we understand the importance placed on the safeguarding of our children and the processes and policies written that underpin our practices to ensure our children remain safeguarded at all time during any activity inside or outside the classroom. This also includes being vigilant to any signs or indicators of abuse or neglect coming from home. As an organisation we are aware that there are expert and professional organisations that are best placed to provide up-to-date guidance and practical support on specific safeguarding issues. Schools and colleges can also access broad government guidance on the issues listed below via the GOV.UK website:  child sexual exploitation  bullying including cyber bullying  domestic violence  drugs  fabricated or induced illness  faith abuse  female genital mutilation (FGM)  forced marriage  gangs and youth violence  gender-based violence/ violence against women and girls (VAWG)  mental health  private fostering  radicalisation  sexting  teenage relationship abuse  trafficking

June 2015

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