Safeguarding

Safeguarding and Child Protection Statement

We recognise our moral and statutory responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils. We endeavour to provide a safe and welcoming environment where children are respected and valued. We are alert to signs of abuse and neglect and follow our procedures to ensure that children receive effective support, protection and justice.

Where it is believed that a child is at risk of or suffering serious harm, the school will follow, unless otherwise stated, UK Legislation and procedures based on UK best practice.

Prevention

Northfields is committed to early help and identification of unmet needs and vulnerabilities. The school works in partnership with other agencies to promote the welfare of pupils and keep children safe.

Protection

All staff and volunteers are trained to recognise and respond to abuse and neglect. All staff and volunteers are expected to be vigilant and must act quickly when they suspect a child is suffering, or likely to suffer, harm.

Support

Our school acknowledges the sensitivity and complex nature of safeguarding and child protection and therefore ensures that pupil, staff and families are supported appropriately.

At Northfields, we recognise that effective safeguarding systems are those which:

• Put the child’s needs first
• Provide children with a voice
• Promote identification of early help

Northfields does have access to the Child Development Unit (CDU) in Mauritius that can support Mauritian pupils and families at risk. However, there may be some circumstances where children within our community may not have similar support. Therefore, the school complies with Mauritian law, follows UK best practice, uses whatever resources available in Mauritius in order to help protect its pupils, and may seek advice and guidance from other networks depending on the issue.