Safeguarding Children Policy

At Edurium, the safety and wellbeing of children is our top priority. This policy outlines the principles, responsibilities, and procedures that guide our approach to safeguarding. All staff, tutors, volunteers, parents, and students must comply with this policy to ensure that Edurium provides a safe, secure, and supportive environment.

1. Scope

This policy applies to all children and young people under the age of 18 who attend tuition sessions at Edurium. It also applies to all staff, tutors, contractors, and volunteers working on behalf of Edurium at our venues, including community centres and churches.

2. Legal Framework

This policy is based on the principles of the Children Act 1989 and 2004, the Education Act 2002, and the statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ (KCSIE).

3. Key Principles

– The welfare of the child is paramount.
– All children have the right to protection from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination.
– Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, including staff, tutors, parents, and venue providers.
– Concerns must be reported immediately and handled sensitively and appropriately.

4. Responsibilities

– **Edurium Management:** Responsible for ensuring safeguarding procedures are implemented and reviewed annually.
– **Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):** Dr Artin Backtash-Rad is the DSL and first point of contact for all safeguarding concerns.
– **Tutors and Staff:** Must complete safeguarding training and follow this policy at all times.
– **Parents/Guardians:** Must work in partnership with Edurium to ensure the safety of their children.

5. Safer Recruitment

Edurium follows safer recruitment procedures to ensure only suitable adults work with children. All tutors and staff undergo DBS checks, reference checks, and interviews assessing safeguarding awareness.

6. Code of Conduct

Staff and tutors must:
– Treat all children with respect.
– Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
– Avoid being alone with a child whenever possible.
– Use appropriate language and behaviour.
– Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the DSL.

7. Recognising and Reporting Abuse

Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and neglect. Staff must remain vigilant for signs of abuse such as sudden changes in behaviour, unexplained injuries, or withdrawal. All concerns must be reported immediately to the DSL, who will follow local safeguarding procedures.

8. Online Safety

As technology is used in some Edurium sessions, we ensure that all online activities are monitored and safe. Children will never be contacted by tutors outside of official Edurium communication channels.

9. Review of Policy

This Safeguarding Children Policy is reviewed annually, or sooner if there are significant changes to safeguarding legislation, our operations, or venues.