Wimbledon School Holiday Club Safeguarding Policy

Effective Date: March 2025
Last Updated: March 2025

1. Introduction

The safety and well-being of children attending our school holiday club are our highest priorities. This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children in our care.

2. Purpose and Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, parents, and children involved in the holiday club. It provides guidance on how to create a safe and nurturing environment, respond to concerns, and ensure compliance with relevant safeguarding legislation.

3. Legal Framework

This policy aligns with:

  • The Children Act 1989 & 2004

  • Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)

  • Working Together to Safeguard Children

  • Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) guidelines

4. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

The holiday club will have a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and a deputy, responsible for:

  • Implementing safeguarding procedures

  • Handling concerns and referrals

  • Liaising with external agencies

  • Providing staff training and updates

5. Safer Recruitment

All staff and volunteers will undergo:

  • Enhanced DBS checks

  • Identity and reference verification

  • Safeguarding training before commencing work

  • Ongoing supervision and professional development

6. Code of Conduct

Staff must:

  • Prioritize children's safety and well-being

  • Maintain professional boundaries

  • Report any concerns immediately

  • Never use physical punishment or inappropriate language

7. Child Protection Procedures

If a child discloses abuse or neglect, staff must:

  1. Listen carefully and reassure the child

  2. Record the information accurately and immediately

  3. Report concerns to the DSL without delay

  4. Maintain confidentiality and avoid promising secrecy

The DSL will assess the situation and make referrals to social services or other relevant authorities if necessary.

8. Preventing Harm

We will actively:

  • Promote positive behaviour and emotional well-being

  • Conduct risk assessments for activities and premises

  • Ensure children are supervised appropriately

9. Online Safety

  • Children will only access age-appropriate content

  • Staff will monitor and restrict online usage where applicable

  • Personal data and images of children will not be shared without consent

10. Allegations Against Staff

If an allegation is made against a staff member:

  • It must be reported to the DSL and head of the club

  • The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) will be contacted

  • The staff member may be suspended pending an investigation

11. Whistleblowing

Staff must report any safeguarding concerns, including those involving colleagues, to the DSL. If concerns remain, they should escalate to external safeguarding bodies.

12. Parental Responsibilities

Parents must:

  • Inform staff of any medical or special needs

  • Provide emergency contact details

  • Support the club’s safeguarding measures

13. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary in line with safeguarding legislation and best practices.

For any safeguarding concerns, please contact the Designated Safeguarding Lead or local child protection services immediately.