Safeguarding at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary School

At Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary School, the health, safety and wellbeing of all children are of paramount importance. Parents and carers entrust their children to us each day with the expectation that we provide a safe, nurturing and faith-filled environment in which every child can grow and flourish. Rooted in Christ and guided by Gospel values, we strive to ensure that this trust is honoured in all that we do.

Safeguarding Statement – “It could happen here”

At Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary School, we recognise our moral, spiritual and statutory responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all pupils. Guided by our Catholic faith, we show concern for every member of our school community, recognising the dignity, uniqueness and worth of each individual.

We are committed to providing an environment where children and adults feel safe, secure, valued and respected, and where they are confident to speak out if they have any worries, knowing they will be listened to and supported with care and compassion.

We are vigilant to the signs of abuse and neglect and follow robust procedures to ensure that children receive effective support, protection and, where necessary, intervention. Child protection is an integral part of our safeguarding responsibilities, and we expect all staff, governors, volunteers and visitors to share this commitment to keeping children safe.

Safeguarding at Our Lady of Fatima follows the procedures of the relevant local safeguarding partnerships and statutory guidance, including Keeping Children Safe in Education. Our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy supports this commitment and is available on the school website.

Safeguarding – Everyone’s Responsibility

At Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary School, we firmly believe that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. In declaring our commitment, the term “school” encompasses staff, pupils, parents, governors, clergy, volunteers and all those involved in the life and work of the school.

All members of staff, including teaching and support staff, receive regular safeguarding training, which is updated annually. This training covers key areas outlined in statutory guidance.

We have clear and effective procedures for recording and responding to safeguarding concerns and work closely with external agencies, including Children’s Services, health professionals, and the police, to ensure the best outcomes for our pupils. Additional guidance and updates are provided as needed throughout the year.

As a Catholic school, our safeguarding practice is underpinned by our mission to promote justice, compassion and understanding in our world. Our warm, caring ethos and strong faith are evident throughout the school, enabling every child and adult to grow, learn and worship together in safety.

DSL team

Mr Shanahan is our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Our Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads (DDSL) are:

Mr Rayson-Leese and Mrs Hale