top of page

Child Safeguarding Policy

​

Rock and Pop Academy Ltd – Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

Context for Schools:
This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding and child protection as a visiting music education service delivering instrumental lessons, workshops, and enrichment programmes across schools in the UK. We operate on school premises, in collaboration with school leadership and designated safeguarding leads (DSLs), and always work in accordance with each school’s specific safeguarding procedures.

​

1. Statement of Intent

Rock and Pop Academy Ltd is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of every child we work with. Our tutors operate within a safeguarding-first framework and are fully aware of their responsibilities when working in educational settings. We aim to complement and support the safeguarding standards already in place within each school we visit.

We believe that:

  • Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

  • Music sessions should be safe, inclusive, and nurturing environments.

  • All concerns or disclosures are taken seriously and acted upon appropriately.

​

2. Designated Safeguarding Person (DSP)

Our Designated Safeguarding Person is Steven Sammut. The DSP is responsible for safeguarding coordination, policy updates, and communication with external agencies such as Social Care, LSCB, or Ofsted. In every instance, our tutors will also report to the host school’s DSL.

​

3. Legal Framework and Guidance

This policy aligns with:

  • Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2024

  • Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023

  • Prevent Duty (updated guidance 2023)

  • The Children Act 1989 and 2004

​

4. Key Principles

  • The welfare of the child is paramount.

  • All children have equal rights to protection from abuse, regardless of gender, age, culture, religion, disability, or background.

  • Safeguarding concerns will always be taken seriously and acted upon appropriately.

  • Confidentiality is maintained where appropriate, but concerns will be shared with designated safeguarding personnel when necessary.

  • All visiting staff receive annual safeguarding training and updates, including Prevent, FGM, CSE, peer-on-peer abuse, and mental health indicators.

​

5. Safer Recruitment and Vetting

All Rock and Pop Academy tutors and staff:

  • Hold an Enhanced DBS check with barred list clearance (renewed every three years or through the update service).

  • Provide at least two child-related professional references.

  • Undergo child protection and safeguarding training prior to placement.

  • Provide proof of identity and qualifications

​

6. Training

All staff complete annual safeguarding training which covers:

  • Child sexual exploitation (CSE)

  • Child criminal exploitation (CCE and county lines)

  • Mental health and safeguarding

  • Peer-on-peer abuse

  • Prevent duty and radicalisation

  • FGM

  • Online safety and upskirting

​

7. Working in Schools

We understand that schools remain the primary safeguarding authority on site. As a visiting provider, we ensure our tutors:

  • Sign in on arrival and follow all visitor and safeguarding procedures.

  • Are familiarised with and adhere to the host school’s safeguarding policy.

  • Immediately report any safeguarding concerns to both the school DSL and our own DSP.

​

8. Recognising and Responding to Abuse

Staff are trained to recognise signs of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect and exploitation. Indicators may include physical injuries, behavioural changes, fear of certain adults, inappropriate knowledge of sexual matters, or disclosure by the child.

If abuse is suspected or disclosed:

  • Stay calm, listen carefully, and reassure the child.

  • Do not ask leading questions.

  • Record the disclosure verbatim, noting names, times, and dates.

  • Inform the school’s DSL immediately and notify Rock and Pop Academy’s DSP.

​

9. Allegations Against Staff

If an allegation is made against a Rock and Pop Academy tutor:

  • The concern will be reported to the Academy DSP and the school DSL.

  • Immediate action will be taken to ensure the child’s safety.

  • Suspension may be implemented pending investigation.

  • The DSP will liaise with the LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer) as necessary.

​

10. Review and Monitoring

This policy is reviewed annually and updated in line with changes to statutory guidance or local safeguarding protocols.

Policy Created: January 2013
Last Reviewed: September 2022
Next Review Due: September 2025

If you'd like a long  version of this policy for parents or schools, or a printable safeguarding summary for staff, let us know and email admin@rockandpopFoundation.com.

 

 

 

 

​

bottom of page