Safeguarding

Safeguarding Statement – Our Academies aim to work in close partnership with parents to support the children in every way possible. However, there is a clear responsibility on all the academies to ensure they work together with other agencies to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children. As a result, if concerns are raised within the school, or a child or parent reports a situation involving possible abuse, we are required to refer such matters to the appropriate Children’s Services, in line with Government and Norfolk County Council policy.

The Academies are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Consequently all adults working in the academies are required to complete a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) Enhanced Police Check.

It may be helpful for parents to know that the Local Authority requires the Heads of School to report any obvious or suspected case of child abuse which includes non-accidental injury, severe physical neglect, emotional abuse and/or sexual abuse.

This procedure is intended to protect children at risk and the academies are encouraged to take the attitude that where there are grounds for suspicion it is better to be safe than sorry. This does mean that the Heads of School risk upsetting some parents by reporting a case, which on investigation proves unfounded. In such circumstances, it is hoped that parents, appreciating how difficult it is for the Heads of School to carry out this delicate responsibility, would accept that the Heads of School are acting in what were believed to be the child’s best interests.” You can discuss concerns about your child with your child’s class teacher but if you have concerns about another child you can contact the following designated staff in our academies:

Contact details Senior Designated Professional

Executive Head – Mrs Louise Arrowsmith : Magdalen Academy o1553 810326 ,Wimbotsham & Stow Academy 01366 382336 & St Germans Academy 01553 617246

Alternate SDP

Miss Lisa Palmer – Executive Assistant Head

Mrs Toni Clarkstone – Parent Support Advisor

Both member of staff work across 3 school and the contact details are below:

St Germans Academy – 01553 617246

Magadalen Academy – 01553 810326

Wimbotsham & Stow Academy – 01366 382336

Named Safeguarding Governor Mrs Robyn Press Chair of the LIT