Date Reviewed 21.07.25

Next Review Due: 21.07.26

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Jack Johnson 07453707666

1. Policy Statement

Didsbury Music School is committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where children, young people, and vulnerable adults feel secure, valued, and respected. Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all students is a priority, and we expect all staff, tutors, and volunteers to share this commitment.

2. Aims of this Policy

To protect children, young people, and vulnerable adults who receive music tuition at our school.

To provide all staff and tutors with guidance on safeguarding responsibilities.

To ensure consistent and effective safeguarding procedures across our school.

3. Legal Framework

This policy has been developed in accordance with the following legislation and guidance:

Children Act 1989 and 2004

Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) – latest update

Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)

The Children and Families Act 2014

Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006

Data Protection Act 2018 & UK GDPR

4. Roles and Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): The DSL is responsible for coordinating safeguarding concerns, making referrals, and liaising with local safeguarding agencies.

All Staff and Tutors: Must read and adhere to the Safeguarding Policy, attend safeguarding training, and report concerns to the DSL without delay.

5. Recruitment and DBS Checks

All staff, tutors, and volunteers working with children and young people will:

Be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Provide references and evidence of qualifications.

Complete safeguarding induction and training before working with students.

6. Code of Conduct

Tutors and staff must:

Treat all students with dignity and respect.

Avoid any behaviour that could be misinterpreted or lead to harm.

Never be alone with a student in a closed room without visibility or parental consent.

Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times.

7. Recognising and Responding to Concerns

Staff and tutors must be alert to signs of:

Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse

Neglect

Bullying or harassment

Mental health concerns

If a safeguarding concern is identified:

Listen carefully without judgment.

Do not promise confidentiality – explain you may need to share the information.

Report the concern to the DSL immediately.

8. Online Safety & Remote Lessons

All online lessons must be conducted via approved platforms.

Parents/carers must be aware of the sessions and ideally present in the home.

Tutors must dress and behave appropriately and conduct lessons in a neutral environment (e.g., not a bedroom).

9. Whistleblowing

All staff have a duty to report any concerns about poor or unsafe practices, including those involving colleagues. Reports will be treated in confidence and investigated fully.

10. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if there are changes in legislation, guidance, or significant safeguarding incidents.

For questions or to report a safeguarding concern, please contact:

Jack Johnson - Designated Safeguarding Lead

📧 didsburymusicschool@gmail.com 📞 07453707666