South Hill Park Pre-school

Safeguarding Children

South Hill Park Pre-school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.

Nothing is more important to us than ensuring the safety of the children in our care. The features of our safer culture include:

" A written professional code of conduct for all staff
" Clear procedures for reporting concerns
" Support in raising concerns and commitment to take action
" Clear written policies and procedures
" Stringent recruitment methods which are reviewed regularly
" Induction and probationary periods for all new staff with experienced mentors
" An ongoing culture of vigilance throughout the workforce to deter and detect potential perpetrators

This is the South Hill Park Pre-school 'Safeguarding Policy' which was reviewed in October 2009:

Safeguarding

Our Pre-School follows the procedures as laid out in the Government booklet 'what to do if you're worried a child is being abused' as well as the Berkshire Child Protection Procedures which are available on-line and regularly up-dated.

All staff at Pre-school are committed to the protection of children through training and on going mentoring. If they have any concerns about a child then they will bring it to the attention of the groups Child Protection Officer, Debbie Holland who will, in turn, bring it to the attention of the child's parent or carer and the Pre-School Supervisor, in private. Where appropriate the Child Protection Officer will ask Social services for advice.

The role of the Child Protection officer is to build a trusting supportive relationship between staff and volunteers in the group and she will, in the event of concerns about a child do everything possible to support and work with the child's family.

No adult will be left alone with a child or group of children and will always be accompanied by another adult. The layout of the Pre-School will permit constant supervision of all children.

Should an allegation be made against a member of staff or volunteer then a thorough investigation will be carried out by senior staff and Pre-School committee. If necessary Ofsted and the police will be notified. We will suspend staff on full pay for the duration of the investigation; this is not an indication of admission and that the alleged incident has taken place, but to protect the staff as well as children and families throughout the process.

In all situations, confidentiality will be of paramount importance.

Parents need to inform the group of any accidents that may occur to their child outside the Pre-school environment. They will be required to record and sign details in the accident book. This will cover any repercussions, which could occur following an accident.

All adults employed in the group are required to have an 'enhanced' check by the criminal records bureau and a record will be kept by Ofsted.

Lisa Thomas is the named person responsible for ensuring a safe work force through recruitment procedures.

We are a Pre-School Learning Alliance Accredited School

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