Five parts of a strong school child protection policy

A child protection policy is only useful if staff can follow it on an ordinary day. Strong policies usually have five parts.

First, scope and definitions: who the policy covers and what counts as abuse, harassment or bullying. Second, a code of conduct that sets clear boundaries for adults working with children.

Third, a reporting and response procedure written as steps. Fourth, a named person responsible for child safety whom children, parents and staff can approach. Fifth, regular training with records of who attended.

We draft school-specific policies and SOPs and train staff to use them.

This article is general information, not legal advice.