The Child Protection programme seeks to support the child’s development in ways which will foster security, confidence and independence. It should be regarded as central to the well-being of the individual and is therefore seen to be an intrinsic part of all aspects of the curriculum.

Specific aims of the policy might include any or all of the following:_

To enhance children’s

• self esteem

• self confidence

• assertiveness

• communication skills

• personal safety

by developing appropriate skills to make reasoned, informed choices, judgements and decisions.

* As part of a statutory discipline policy to have a whole-school policy against Bullying through recognition of the abuse of power between adults, between adults and children, and between children.

* To ensure that staff are well-informed about Child Protection issues.

* To ensure that staff are well-informed about school procedures for reporting concerns as outlined in these Guidelines.

* To ensure that staff are aware of their duty of care and their responsibility to report.

* To provide a model for appropriate and effective communication between children, teachers, parents and other adults working with children.

* To promote co-operation with statutory agencies in the multi-agency response to Child Protection.

Means by which the policy will be put into effect may include:

* By providing an environment within the school and classroom in which every child is valued as a member of the community.

* By allowing a variety of opportunities for class and group discussion of thoughts and feelings in an atmosphere of trust, acceptance and tolerance.

* By identifying a range of people to whom children can turn to share concerns and discuss problems.