Child Safeguarding Policy

At Optimise Education Ltd, safeguarding the welfare of children is a fundamental responsibility. This policy ensures that the safety and well-being of the children we work with are always prioritised.

1. Introduction

Optimise Education Ltd is committed to creating a safe, positive, and nurturing environment for all children engaging in our services. Safeguarding the welfare of children is everyone’s responsibility, and we work to ensure their safety at all times.

2. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and contractors working on behalf of Optimise Education Ltd who may interact with or impact the safety of children participating in our mock exams and associated activities.

3. Legal Framework

• Children Act 1989 and 2004
• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)
• Keeping Children Safe in Education (2023)
• The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and UK Data Protection Act 2018

4. Roles and Responsibilities

Safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone involved with Optimise Education Ltd. Specific roles include:

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Name: Katie Roberts
Email: katie.roberts@optimiseeducation.co.uk
Phone: 07467897252

Staff and Volunteers

• All staff and volunteers must adhere to this safeguarding policy at all times.
• Attend safeguarding training as provided by the company.
• Report concerns to the DSL promptly.

5. Recruitment and DBS Checks

All staff and volunteers working with children must undergo enhanced DBS checks as part of the recruitment process. Records of these checks will be securely kept and updated as required by law.

6. Code of Conduct

All staff must adhere to the following principles when working with children:

• Act in the best interest of the child at all times.
• Ensure all interactions are professional and appropriate.
• Avoid one-to-one situations unless necessary for safety reasons (e.g., first aid).
• Report inappropriate or concerning behaviour immediately.

7. Safeguarding During Mock Exams

• Parents/guardians must sign their children in and out at designated times.
• Children will only be released to their authorised collector as noted during registration.
• All sessions are supervised by DBS-checked staff.

8. Reporting Concerns

If you suspect a child is at risk of harm, follow these steps:

• Immediately contact emergency services (999) if a child is in immediate danger.
• Report concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
• The DSL will assess the situation and inform local authorities if necessary.

9. Online Safety

If any part of our service involves digital interaction, we ensure:

• Secure communication platforms are used for all online interactions.
• Staff are prohibited from private online communication with children.

10. Data Protection

We adhere to GDPR and the UK Data Protection Act, ensuring personal and sensitive data is securely processed and only shared when required by law or safeguarding duties.

11. Monitoring and Reviewing

This policy is reviewed annually or as required by changes in legislation. Last updated: [Insert Date Here]

12. Contact Information

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

Name: Katie Roberts
Email: katie.roberts@optimiseeducation.co.uk
Phone: 07467897252

Other Contacts:

• NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
• Police (Non-Emergency): 101