The responsibility to promote the welfare and safeguarding of all pupils both in our school and in the wider community is taken extremely seriously by the Trustees, Governors and all members of staff at St Martin's.

The school has 3 Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) who have overall responsibility for child protection. Our DSLs are: Rachel Appleby (Head of School), Helen Thompson (Assistant Headteacher and SENCO) and Julie Howarth (Learning Mentor). 

Our commitment to safeguarding is embedded in the ethos and core values of the school and stretches across all aspects of school life;

Ensuring that we; Put the welfare of children above all else. Provide an environment in which children feel safe and secure, valued and respected enabling them to be able to talk openly and with confidence knowing they will be listened to. Are seen as an important part of the wider safeguarding community system for all children. Work with parents to build an understanding of the school’s responsibility to ensure the welfare of all children including the need for referral to other agencies in some situations Develop effective and supportive liaison with other agencies including Early Help, social services and the police.

We are committed to:

Ensuring we Provide; A rigorous system for safer recruitment that undertakes all the necessary checks that provides the reassurance that we keep children safe – in line with our safer recruitment policy. A fully trained staff who are able to respond appropriately to any safeguarding situation that may arise. Information to all staff and volunteers so that they are aware of the school’s procedures, lines of communication and responsibilities and are able to recognise signs and symptoms of abuse. A rigorous monitoring system so that children and young people who have been identified as “in need” including the need for protection; keeping confidential records which are stored securely and shared appropriately with other professionals

Ensuring the Curriculum; Provides opportunities for children to understand how to keep themselves safe. Increases self-esteem, assertiveness, self-awareness and decision making so that children have a range of contacts and strategies to ensure their own safety and understand the importance of protecting others. Provides an awareness of what bullying is and how to respond to it. Delivers the understanding of on-line safety and equips pupils with the skills to enable them to keep safe and how to seek advice and support.

If you have a concern about the safety of a child then please contact any of the school Designated Safeguarding Leads straight away. During school hours this can be done by phoning 01304 206620 or email rappleby@stmartins.kent.sch.uk

Useful Links

NSPCC - Keeping Children Safe

Online Safety - Visit the Online Safety section of our website for further information and advice.

Think You Know - A brilliant site to support your role as a parent in keeping your child safe online.

Report Abuse - If you are not able to speak to the Designated Safeguarding Lead at the school then you can contact Kent Safeguarding Team Directly here