We place much emphasis on our pastoral responsibility for the young people in our care and the welfare of the child is paramount.

We recognise that our pupils have a fundamental right to be protected from harm and take all reasonable steps to ensure that their welfare is safeguarded and their safety preserved. Only then will they be able to learn effectively.

All members of Parkhall Integrated College staff, both teaching and support, are trained in child protection, are alert to the possible signs of child abuse and are aware of the guidelines and procedures to follow if abuse is suspected.

The following principles form the basis of our Child Protection Policy.

1. It is a child’s right to feel safe at all times, to be heard, listened to and taken seriously.
2. We have a pastoral, responsibility towards the children in our care and should take all reasonable steps to ensure their welfare is safeguarded and their safety is preserved.
3. In any incident the child’s welfare must be paramount, this overrides all other considerations.
4. A proper balance must be struck between protecting children and respecting the rights and needs of parents and families; but where there is conflict the child’s interest must always come first.

School Safeguarding Team

Parents are encouraged to contact the designated teacher/deputy designated teacher if they have any concerns. A copy of the child protection policy is distributed to parents annually. A copy of the policy can be found in the policies section of this website.