Safeguarding

Wilberforce Primary takes the safeguarding of children very seriously. 

• We follow the statutory guidance from the Department for Education, including the latest updates from Keeping Children Safe in Education (2025).
• All staff and volunteers are thoroughly vetted, including checks through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and online screening, as part of our safer recruitment procedures.
• Attendance is treated as a safeguarding concern. We follow up on unexplained or persistent absences to ensure children are safe and supported.

• All staff are trained to recognise and respond to the signs of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
• Training includes the Prevent Strategy (to safeguard against radicalisation), awareness of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), and how to respond to sexual harassment or violence.
• We follow a clear set of procedures when concerns arise, and all matters are handled with sensitivity and care.

• Children are taught how to stay safe in the community, online, and in relationships.
• We help them understand risks such as misinformation, online grooming, and inappropriate content, and encourage critical thinking and respectful behaviour.
• We also educate children about consent, boundaries, and how to seek help if they feel unsafe.

• Speak to any member of staff you feel comfortable with.
• For concerns related to online safety or digital media, you can report directly to the Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre via www.ceop.police.uk.

Our Safeguarding Team

• Connie McKinney – Assistant Principal
• Annabelle Windsor – SENCO
• Zena Kirby – Attendance and Family Liaison Officer

Together, they ensure safeguarding is embedded in every aspect of school life.

Further Support and Information

There is a wealth of information online about the different forms of abuse and how to keep children safe. If you would like more guidance or support, please explore the links below. Our safeguarding policy can be found here.