Safeguarding & Wellbeing
Under the Education Act 2002 (Section 175), schools must make arrangements to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. Parents/carers should know that the law (Children Act 1989) requires all school staff to pass on information which gives rise to a concern about a child’s welfare, including risk from neglect, physical, emotional or sexual abuse.
The staff will seek, in general, to discuss any concerns with the parents/carers, and where possible, seek their consent to a referral to Social Care. This will only be done where such discussion will not place the child at increased risk of significant harm. Schools will seek advice from Social Care when they have reasonable cause to suspect a child may be suffering or likely to suffer significant harm. Occasionally, concerns are passed on which are later shown to be unfounded.
Parents/carers will appreciate that the designated person for safeguarding (child protection) was carrying out their responsibilities in accordance with the law and acting in the best interests of all children.
DSL Email Address: dsl@thehinckleyschool.co.uk
Kate Priestnall - DSL (Director of Safeguarding and Student Welfare):
Direct Email: KPriestnall@thehinckleyschool.co.uk
Isobel Pawley - Full Time DDSL (Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead):
Direct Email: IPawley@thehinckleyschool.co.uk
Additional DDSLs: P Tomkins, N Hall, N Bennett
Chair of Governors: Danielle Goodayle
Our annual staff training and regular updates are delivered by Mrs Priestnall, our DSL, who is an NSPCC accredited trainer. Mrs Priestnall and Miss Pawley also both hold a postgraduate certificate in attachment, trauma and mental health.
Our team have created a 'Mental Health & Support Directory' for families to signpost and link support services. To download and view this directory, please click here.
Links & Resources
- Domestic Violence Notifications / Encompass
- Anti-Bullying Information and Support / Anti-Bullying Alliance
- Information and Support Focussing on Stopping Child Exploitation (CE) / Stop CSE
- Referral Form for Children's Support Services - Healing Together
