Safeguarding Policy

1. Purpose and Commitment
The Little Phonics Club is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children attending sessions. All children have the right to learn in a safe, secure, and nurturing environment, free from harm, abuse, or neglect.

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2. Safeguarding Training
Miss Alicia holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and has completed accredited Level 3 Designated Safeguarding Lead in line with national safeguarding standards.

This training ensures she is fully equipped to:

• Recognise and respond to signs of abuse or neglect

• Make appropriate referrals to the school's DSL or local safeguarding authority

• Maintain confidential and accurate records

• Understand and act upon responsibilities under the Prevent Duty

Miss Alicia refreshes this training every two years to stay up to date with best practice and statutory guidance.

 

3. Responding to Concerns
Any concerns about a child’s welfare—whether physical, emotional, or behavioural—will be taken seriously and acted upon promptly.

Concerns may arise from:

• A child’s behaviour, appearance, or disclosures

• Observations during sessions

All concerns will be recorded factually, including dates, times, and any direct quotes. Miss Alicia will:

• Monitor the situation

• Speak with the child and/or parents if appropriate

• Contact the school's DSL or local authority if further action is needed

If there is an immediate risk of harm, Miss Alicia will contact emergency services (999) without delay.

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4. Reporting Procedures
During Little Phonics Club sessions, Miss Alicia follows the school’s safeguarding policies and works under the guidance of the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). She is responsible for:

• Recording any concerns that arise during sessions

• Reporting concerns promptly to the school’s DSL

Ensuring any notes or records are kept confidential and passed to the DSL as required

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5. Prevent Duty
In line with the Prevent Duty, Miss Alicia remains alert to signs that a child may be at risk of radicalisation or exposure to extremist views. Indicators might include:

• Sudden changes in behaviour

• Expressing extremist ideologies

• Withdrawal or increased isolation

Concerns relating to radicalisation are treated as safeguarding issues and handled through the same procedures.

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6. First Aid

Miss Alicia holds a valid Paediatric First Aid qualification appropriate for working with children. This training ensures she is equipped to respond confidently to a range of child-specific medical emergencies, including CPR, choking, allergic reactions, and minor injuries.

In addition, Miss Alicia is trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid, enabling her to recognise signs of emotional distress, anxiety, or mental health concerns in children, and respond with appropriate support or onward referral if needed.

A fully stocked first aid kit is always present on site, and all incidents—whether physical or emotional—are recorded appropriately. First aid training is reviewed and renewed regularly to maintain up-to-date knowledge and compliance.

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7. Review and Access

• This policy is reviewed annually or when guidance changes.

• A copy is available to all parents and carers on request.

• Miss Alicia remains committed to best safeguarding practice across all areas of her provision.

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