Safeguarding at Eythorne Elvington Community Primary School

At Eythorne Elvington, safeguarding and the welfare of every child are our highest priorities. Our governors, staff, families, and pupils all play a part in making our community a safe, secure, and welcoming environment. We are committed to working collaboratively with parents and carers — whether that’s through face-to-face conversations, parent questionnaires, or feedback during consultations — to continue improving how we protect and support all of our children.

Our Approach to Safeguarding

  • We strive to foster an atmosphere where every child feels respected, listened to, and confident that their voice matters.

  • We encourage open communication, so pupils know they can come forward if they ever have concerns.

  • Our school culture supports kindness, inclusivity, and mutual respect among all members of our community.

Safeguarding Team

  • Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Neil Garvey, Head Teacher

  • Deputy DSL: Shaun Hutcheon (Assistant Headteacher)

These staff members are always available to address safeguarding concerns. Every day, the DSL and Deputy DSL review ongoing concerns and consider any new referrals raised by staff or parents. If you are worried about a child’s welfare — whether your own or someone else’s — please don’t hesitate to speak to a member of the safeguarding team.

Online Safety

We take online safety very seriously. In school, we teach pupils how to use technology responsibly and how to protect themselves from harm. At home, we ask for your support: together, we can ensure children are safeguarded when using devices, apps, and platforms. We regularly run workshops for parents and carers to help you understand new risks and to guide you in keeping your children safe online.

Our Legal Framework

Our safeguarding practices are informed by the latest Department for Education (DfE) statutory guidance, including Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2025. This guidance outlines the legal duties schools have to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. You can find more information in the full guidance here: Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025 (GOV.UK) GOV.UK+2GOV.UK Assets+2

KCSIE 2025 includes updated safeguarding expectations, such as the importance of monitoring online risks (including misinformation, conspiracy theories, and AI-generated content), stronger oversight of alternative provision, and robust attendance-related safeguarding measures. epm.co.uk+2Glide+2

Your Role in Keeping Children Safe

  • If you have a concern, please speak to the DSL or Deputy DSL in person, by phone, or via email.

  • Take part in our feedback opportunities — we welcome suggestions for improving safeguarding.

  • Use the resources we provide about online safety and talk to your child about how they use the internet.