Our School

Safeguarding

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At King David High School, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where all pupils feel protected, valued and listened to. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and all staff, volunteers and governors work together to ensure pupils are kept safe and supported at all times.

Our Safeguarding Approach

We follow statutory guidance, including Keeping Children Safe in Education (2025) and Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023). Our safeguarding procedures are child-centred and focus on acting promptly, sharing information appropriately, and ensuring the right support is in place at the right time. We work closely with local safeguarding partners, children’s social care, health services and the police where required.

Safeguarding education is embedded across school life, including through our curriculum and pastoral systems. Pupils are taught about safeguarding, online safety, consent, respectful relationships and how to seek help, particularly through our Learning for Life programme.

Designated Safeguarding Lead

The school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is: Paula Watson – Assistant Head (Pastoral)

Email: p.watson@kdhigh.co.uk

Tel: 0161 740 7248

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads (DDSLs) support the DSL and provide cover when required. Safeguarding cover is always in place during the school day, and senior leaders are available if urgent concerns arise.

Reporting Concerns

Any safeguarding concern, no matter how small, is taken seriously. Staff are trained to recognise the signs of abuse, neglect and exploitation and know how to respond appropriately. Concerns are recorded securely and shared with the safeguarding team, and referrals to external agencies are made when a child is at risk of harm or in immediate danger.

Parents and carers are normally informed of safeguarding concerns unless doing so would place a child at increased risk. The school works sensitively and professionally with families and external professionals to ensure pupils receive appropriate support.

Child-on-Child Abuse

We recognise that children can abuse other children and that such behaviour is never acceptable. Reports of child-on-child abuse, including sexual harassment or violence, are responded to promptly, sensitively and in line with statutory guidance. Victims are supported and reassured, and appropriate actions are taken to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all pupils involved.

Online Safety

Online safety is a key part of our safeguarding approach. The school has filtering and monitoring systems in place and clear policies on the use of technology and mobile phones. Pupils are taught how to stay safe online, recognise risks, and report concerns. Staff and parents are also supported through guidance and regular communication.

Safer Recruitment and Training

All staff, volunteers and governors undergo appropriate safeguarding checks, including enhanced DBS checks. Safeguarding training is provided at induction and regularly updated for all staff. The Designated Safeguarding Team receives advanced and ongoing training to ensure practice remains robust and up to date.

Further Information

Our full Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, along with related policies such as online safety, behaviour, and whistle-blowing, can be found on our website. If you have any concerns about a child’s safety or wellbeing, please contact the school immediately and ask to speak to a member of the safeguarding team