The staff of St.Joseph’s Primary School, are committed to ensuring that 'Safeguarding children' at our school is given the highest priority and permeates all aspects of school life so that our pupils are safe in school, at home, online and in the community.

We endeavour to be meticulous and systematic in our implementation of policies and routines. Safeguarding our pupils involves every member of the school community and we ensure the awareness of safeguarding issues and concerns remains a key focus throughout the year for governors, staff, parents and pupils. All school staff and volunteers undertake relevant safeguarding training upon commencing employment and receive bi/annual updates as appropriate.

Robust systems of record keeping and reviews of all linked policies and procedures are in place to ensure that all appropriate steps are taken to promote children's safety. It is only through these proactive measures that we ensure we are in a position to achieve this. The school has a duty of care and the right to take reasonable action to ensure the welfare and safety of its pupils. If a member of staff has cause to be concerned that a child may be subject to ill-treatment, neglect or any other form of abuse, the school will follow child protection procedures and inform Children’s Services of its concern.

The Safeguarding and Child Protection Team

2024/25

If any child in school has a concern they know they can speak to any member of the safeguarding team at any time. Any concerns shared with other staff members are brought to the attention of the Safeguarding Team. The wellbeing of our pupils is of utmost importance to all our staff. This message is reiterated regularly to our pupils through assemblies, circle time and links with outside agencies such as NSPCC and PSNI.

If you have a concern that a child is being harmed, is at risk of harm, or you receive a disclosure (intentionally or unintentionally) you must contact one of the designated safeguarding leads as quickly as possible. You will find the names of these members of staff above and in the school’s Child Protection Policy.

The Safeguarding and Child Protection policy is available on the Website and a hard copy can be requested from the School Office.

Designated Teacher:                Mrs Connor

                                               Contact Email: lconnor796@c2ken.net

Deputy Designated Teacher:     Mr McVeigh

                                               Contact Email: jmcveigh446@c2ken.net

Governor for Safeguarding and Child Protection        

Chair of the Board of Governors:   Mr N. Addis