Child protection

Changes in the law, notably the Children's Act (1989), mean that staff in schools have a duty to report any concerns that they may have that any child may be suffering significant harm, particularly as a consequence of possible abuse. It is a Department for Education requirement that each school in the country nominates a senior member of staff who will have special responsibility for Child Protection. In Sheffield, this member of staff, known as the Child Protection Liaison Teacher, has been in receipt of training in this area, and can be trusted to deal with all these matters with professional confidentiality.

As a school, we have close contacts with the School Health Service, Family and Community Services and the Police, any or all of whom may become involved if abuse is suspected or alleged.

The school has a responsibility to collate basic information such as who has parental responsibility for a child, and to pass this information to the relevant agencies if so requested. In the event of an investigation into possible child abuse, the school has a duty to co-operate with the investigating agencies to the best of their ability to promote the welfare of the child. Whilst the school will always attempt to work in partnership with parents and try to ensure that parents are fully informed of , and participate in, any action concerning their child, if there is a conflict of interest, the welfare of the child must be the paramount consideration.

Should you wish to discuss Child Protection and the safety of your child, or indeed, any other topic involving your child, please feel free to contact the school.