CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

The school has drawn up a detailed document outlining the policies and procedures concerning Child Protection, in line with advice received from the Department of Education. This has been agreed by the school Governors and distributed to all teachers and all ancillary staff who will have direct contact with pupils.  A copy of the full document is available onrequest from the school office.

Below we have attempted to outline the main elements of our policy and procedures.

The Designated Teacher for Child Protection is Mr Loughrey and in his absence MrsMcIlveen will act in this capacity.

Child Abuse comes in a variety of forms – Physical, Sexual, Emotional and Neglect.  Staff should be aware of the symptoms of each of these.  Should any member of staff suspect that abuse has occurred, when an allegation has been made or when they are concerned about the welfare of a child the matter will be reported to the Designated Teacher.  The Designated Teacher will report to the Headmaster who, on the evidence disclosed, will decide whether a referral will be made to Social Services, the NE Education & Library Board and/or the Police.  If doubts exist he will consult with Social Services or the NE Board before making a decision whether to refer the matter further.

Where a suspected case of abuse is to be referred, the parents will be informed (if the parent is not the suspected or alleged abuser).  The welfare of the child is paramount and confidentiality is subordinate to the need to protect the child.

The school can play a part in the prevention of abuse through the curriculum.  Children can be taught about the risks of different types of abuse and can be equipped with the skills they need in order to keep them safe, by recognising unwelcome approaches or behaviour, and developing the confidence to resist them as far as possible.

The school will put self protection programmes in place to help children recognise and deal with potentially dangerous situations. Parents have a vital role in examining and discussing the same precautions with their children.

Parents can be assured that, apart from informing those who must know, confidentiality will be maintained at all times and records will be kept under secure conditions.

Any parent who wishes to have clarification on any point contained in this information sheet or wishes to receive a copy of the complete Policy and Procedures document, is welcome to contact the Headmaster or Mr Loughrey (Designated Officer for Child Protection).