Safeguarding
3. Safeguarding Curriculum and Prevention
At SWANS, safeguarding is not just about responding to concerns, it is about prevention, education, and empowering children to keep themselves and others safe. We teach pupils how to recognise risk, speak up, and seek help through a carefully planned safeguarding curriculum.
How We Teach Safeguarding
Safeguarding themes are taught explicitly and progressively through:
- PSHE and RSE lessons
- Assemblies and whole-school themes
- Computing and online safety education
- Daily classroom practice and discussion
- Targeted support for individuals and groups
Teaching is age-appropriate, inclusive, and adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with SEND.
Key Safeguarding Themes Covered
Children are taught how to keep themselves safe in a range of contexts, including:
- Keeping safe in school and the community
- Anti-bullying and respectful behaviour
- Healthy friendships and relationships
- Consent and personal boundaries
- Mental health and emotional wellbeing
- Online safety and digital responsibility
- Recognising trusted and unsafe behaviour
- Knowing who and how to ask for help
These themes are revisited regularly so that learning is embedded and reinforced over time.
Online Safety Education
Online safety is a core part of our safeguarding curriculum. Pupils are taught to:
- Stay safe when using the internet and digital devices
- Understand privacy, passwords, and personal information
- Recognise unsafe or inappropriate online behaviour
- Know what to do if something online makes them feel worried or uncomfortable
This learning is supported by assemblies, computing lessons, and clear reporting routes in school.
Pupil Voice and Confidence
We encourage children to:
- Share worries openly
- Talk to trusted adults
- Look out for one another
- Understand that it is always right to speak up
Children are regularly reminded who the safeguarding adults are in school and how to ask for help.
Support for Vulnerable Pupils
We recognise that some children may need additional safeguarding support. We provide:
- Targeted teaching and small-group work
- Additional check-ins with trusted adults
- Adapted resources and communication approaches
- Close collaboration with families and external professionals
Working in Partnership with Parents
We work closely with parents and carers to reinforce safeguarding messages at home. Guidance, workshops, and trusted online resources are shared regularly to help families support children’s safety and wellbeing.
Our Safeguarding Culture
Safeguarding education at SWANS is underpinned by a strong culture where:
- Children feel safe, listened to, and valued
- Staff are vigilant and well-trained
- Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility
Through education, prevention, and strong relationships, we help children develop the knowledge, confidence, and resilience they need to stay safe.
