Safeguarding

All school polices can be viewed on the school policy page

Sturminster Newton High School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people – this is our number one priority. Robust systems are in place to ensure that young people are protected from harm.

The School maintains a high level of care for all young people. Part of this responsibility involves remaining vigilant for any signs of physical, sexual or emotional abuse as well as various signs of neglect. Whilst the School maintains its own policy and procedures for supporting the protection of young people, this compliments the work of the PAN Dorset Safeguarding Board.

Parents/carers are reminded that in situations causing concern, the school has a duty to act in the best interests of the young person and this may on occasion require referral of our concerns to other agencies.

Safeguarding at Sturminster Newton High School involves the following key areas:

Safer recruitment

We have a set of procedures designed to ensure that employees do not constitute a risk to young people, have clear guidance on acceptable conduct and that allegations against them are managed effectively.

Staff induction, training and support

All staff are trained to recognise and respond to situations where a young person may be considered to be at risk. This training equips them with the necessary skills, knowledge and understanding to fulfil their responsibilities for safeguarding. Temporary staff and volunteers who work with children are always made aware of the School’s arrangements for safeguarding and their responsibilities.

Child protection

All young people at Sturminster Newton High School have the right to choose and control in their lives free from discrimination, harassment and abuse. We are committed to protecting all young people from all forms of abuse and mistreatment so that that everyone is able to make a full and positive contribution. All staff are trained to recognise and respond to situations where a young person may be considered to be at risk.

Health and Safety

We are committed to ensuring the highest standards of care for our staff, young people, visitors and others who work on behalf of the School. We believe that an excellent school is by definition a safe school. Since we are committed to excellence, it follows that minimising the risks posed by our activities is inseparable from all our other objectives.

Buildings and security

Sturminster Newton High School is committed to taking all reasonable action to maintain the safety and security of its young people, staff and all those who use its service. It is further committed to taking all reasonable steps to protect the physical environment, as well as all valuable items kept on school premises. This includes not only items of monetary value but also individual records and the young people’s work.

Positive Behaviour Support

We aim to promote positive change to young people’s behaviour through a supportive and consistent approach based on each young person’s individual needs. Behaviour is seen within the context of the whole person and their learning needs and so we adopt a holistic approach to the change and management of behaviour.

Equality and diversity

We are committed to providing an educational environment which reflects the breadth and diversity of society. Throughout our work and relationships with referring agencies, parents, young people and between staff we aim, at all times, to ensure there is no discrimination relating to age, gender, ethnicity or disability. All young people have a right to a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum that enables them to achieve the highest possible level in their learning and one which positively reflects the range of cultures and experiences of the whole community. Young people leaving Sturminster Newton High School should do so with an understanding and respect for all members of their community.

Anti-bullying

We believe that every young person has the right to live each day in school without fear. Bullying, threats, name-calling, racial or sexual harassment, interference with property and any other action designed to frighten, humiliate or embarrass are totally unacceptable.

Staff conduct

High standards of conduct are required of all staff and adults working with children and young people at school.

Complaints

We are committed to listening to stakeholders’ responses to the services we offer. We take complaints very seriously and view them as an important means to improve what we do. We believe our Complaints Policy and procedures are clear, user-friendly and readily accessible to all stakeholders, including those with disabilities. All complaints will be treated confidentially except where this would put a young person at risk. Every young person’s safety, welfare and well-being will always remain our first concern. The Complaints Policy is given to young people, parents, carers and professionals when young people join the school.