Safeguarding

Safeguarding at Abbey Court School

At Abbey Court School, safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and all staff, volunteers, governors, and visitors play an important role in maintaining the highest standards of care.

Our safeguarding approach and policies follow national statutory guidance, including Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2024 and Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023). We have robust policies and procedures in place to identify concerns early, respond effectively, and work in partnership with families and external agencies.

Our Safeguarding Commitment

At Abbey Court School, we ensure that:

Children’s safety and wellbeing are prioritised at all times.
All staff are trained regularly in safeguarding, child protection, online safety, and safer working practice.
Concerns about a child are acted upon immediately, following clear reporting procedures.
We promote a culture of openness, where pupils know they can share worries and feel listened to.
We work collaboratively with Medway Children’s Services, health professionals, and other safeguarding partners.
Safer recruitment processes help ensure only suitable people work with our pupils.
Visitors are expected to follow safeguarding guidance throughout their time on site.

Designated Safeguarding Contacts

Vicky Aspin — Headteacher

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Jacqui Rudden — Deputy Headteacher

Zoe Silvester — Deputy Headteacher

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads (DDSLs)

To contact the safeguarding team:

office@abbeycourt.medway.sch.uk

01634 338220

Out-of-Hours / External Safeguarding Contacts

If a safeguarding concern arises outside school hours or you believe a child is at immediate risk please contact:

Medway Children’s Services – First Response

01634 334 466

Out-of-Hours Emergency Duty Team

03000 419 191

Police (Emergency)

999

Whistleblowing & Reporting Concerns About Staff

If you have concerns about the conduct of a member of staff, volunteer, or visitor, please report it to the Vicky Aspin, Headteacher (DSL).
If the concern involves the Headteacher, please contact the Jon Carthy, Chair of Governors via the school office.

External whistleblowing guidance:

NSPCC Whistleblowing Helpline: 0800 028 0285
Medway LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer): 01634 331 307

Keeping children safe in education Click here