Child Protection

24th February 2017 by iebsoftware

Child Protection

The School’s Child Protection Policy supports each student’s development in ways which will foster security, confidence and independence. The School staff recognises that students have a fundamental right to be protected from harm and have their safety and well-being promoted. Students cannot learn effectively unless they feel secure, therefore Child Protection is an intrinsic element of all aspects of the curriculum.

Procedures for Reporting Suspected (Or Disclosed) Child Abuse

The designated teachers for Child Protection are Ms SJ. Fahy and Mrs J. Young.

In the absence of the Designated Teacher (DT) for Child Protection, the Deputy Designated Teacher (DDT) will assume the DT role and Mrs Gavin, Vice-Principal will undertake the role of DDT.

They assume responsibility for child protection matters.

If a student makes a disclosure to a teacher or other member of staff, which gives rise to concerns about possible abuse, or if a member of staff, parents/guardians have a concern about a student, the designated teacher for Child Protection will be informed
The designated teacher will discuss the matter with the Principal as a matter of urgency to plan a course of action and ensure that a written record is made.
The Principal, in consultation with the designated teacher, will decide whether, in the best interests of the student, the matter needs to be referred to Social Services.
If there are concerns that the student may be at risk, the school is obliged to make a referral. The safety of a student is our first priority.
Unless there are concerns that a parent/guardian may be the possible abuser, the parents/guardians will be informed immediately.

If a student has a concern about herself or someone else, the following diagram explains the sequence of follow up events:

If you are unsure about speaking to a member of staff, you can phone
CHILDLINE N.I on 0800441111,
or NSPCC on 0800 800500.
These calls are free and will not show up on your telephone bill.

Please see below our