Safeguarding

The care and well-being of all children, staff and visitors at Benhall is our highest priority. Whilst this does include duties such as making safeguarding referrals, keeping children safe is part of a wider school ethos which includes equipping children with the skills to become responsible citizens. This includes a commitment to PSHE (Personal Social and Health Education), online safety education and access to a broad and balanced curriculum which makes children aware of both British Values as well as those of different cultures, faiths and non-religious traditions.

• The Designated Safeguarding Leads for any safeguarding issues are the Head of School Mr Daniel Millican or the Executive Head Dr Paul Parslow-Williams. If they are not available then the Alternate Designated Safeguarding Leads are Miss Annie Flowers and Mrs Francesca Chilvers . The Name of the Safeguarding Governor is Mrs Carolyn Glennon.

• The senior member of staff who is qualified to deliver Group 1 and Group 2 Safeguarding courses is Paul Parslow-Williams. Mr Millican is also designated teacher for Looked After Children and Dr Parslow-Williams is the designated Online Safety Lead.

All staff work closely together in all issues of Safeguarding and report to the Governing Board when appropriate. 

There has an increase awareness in recent years with regard to the exposure of children and young people to various forms of extremism.  In many respects, radicalisation in whatever form is essentially an aspect of safeguarding. Furthermore, research suggests that young people who have experienced abuse, isolation etc or have special needs may be at more risk. As with more general Safeguarding, there is sometimes the perception that ‘it couldn’t happen here’, but evidence from Suffolk shows that it is. It is worth noting that extremism can occur across the political spectrum and more may also include causes such as environmentalism, animal rights and countryside cultural issues.

Identifying and supporting children who may be suffering from social isolation, domestic break-ups or other vulnerabilities early on in lives is one step that could prevent them from being drawn to radical or extremist groups later in their lives. 

Benhall St Mary's CofE Primary School is committed to instilling a culture of respect and tolerance. This is embedded in our School Vision.

To this end, pupils take part in activities based around raising awareness of British values, are taught the importance of being safe online and are encouraged to think critically and challenge the authenticity of media. As with other aspects of Safeguarding, if you have any concerns in this area, please contact the Designated Lead Professionals.

This link will take you to the Suffolk Safeguarding Children Board website if you require further information.