Safeguarding Statement

At OPAL Independent School we recognise that child protection and welfare considerations permeate all aspects of school life and must be reflected in all policies, procedures, practices, and activities. The school is committed to:

1. • Prioritising the protection and welfare of children above all other considerations.

1. • Complying fully with statutory obligations under the Children First Act 2015 and other relevant legislation.

1. • Cooperating with statutory authorities in all child protection matters.

1. • Adopting safe practices to minimise the risk of harm to children and protect staff from unnecessary risk.

1. • Encouraging openness and parental involvement in the education and welfare of all our young people.

1. • Maintaining confidentiality in all child protection matters.

Procedures and Measures

The school has implemented the following measures to safeguard children:

1. • Staff Recruitment and Vetting: All staff are recruited in accordance with statutory vetting requirements under the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Acts 2012–2016, and relevant Department of Education guidance.

1. • Training and Awareness: All staff receive appropriate Safeguarding training and annual refreshers. Records of training are maintained by the Senior Leadership Team.

1. • Reporting and Investigation: Procedures are in place for reporting concerns or allegations of harm, in line with Child Protection Procedures. Staff are aware of their mandated reporting responsibilities.

1. • Risk Assessment: The school conducts written assessments of potential risks to children while attending school or participating in school activities. These assessments are reviewed regularly and updated as necessary.

1. • Parental and Community Engagement: Our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy is accessible to parents, guardians, and the wider school community, and the school encourages active engagement in safeguarding practices, embedded in our school culture.