Stephenson Way, Newton Aycliffe, County Durham DL5 7DD

office@swans.education

01325300324

Stephenson Way Academy and Nursery School

At SWANS we WILL READ...

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Safeguarding

7. Culture of Safeguarding

At SWANS, safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. We work hard to create a strong, open safeguarding culture where children feel safe, valued, and confident to speak up, and where all adults understand their responsibility to protect children.

Safeguarding Is Everyone’s Responsibility

All staff, volunteers, governors, and visitors:

  • Understand that safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone’s responsibility
  • Are trained regularly and kept up to date with safeguarding guidance
  • Know how to recognise concerns and report them promptly

Safeguarding is embedded into daily practice, not treated as a separate task.

A Listening School

We promote a culture where:

  • Children are encouraged to share worries and concerns
  • The voice of the child is valued and acted upon
  • Pupils know who the safeguarding adults are and how to get help

Children are regularly reminded that it is always right to speak up.

Well-Trained and Vigilant Staff

Staff receive:

  • High-quality safeguarding training
  • Regular updates and reminders
  • Clear guidance on procedures and reporting routes

This ensures concerns are identified early and acted upon appropriately.

Working Together to Keep Children Safe

Safeguarding at SWANS is strengthened through:

  • Positive relationships with families
  • Strong partnership working with external agencies
  • Clear communication and shared responsibility

Our Commitment

Through a strong safeguarding culture, we ensure that:

  • Children feel safe and supported
  • Concerns are taken seriously and acted upon
  • Safeguarding remains a key priority in all aspects of school life

Safeguarding is not just a policy — it is how we work every day.