The health, safety and well-being of all our pupils and staff at Norham High School is paramount.

Our priority is to provide a safe and welcoming environment where children are respected and valued. We know that children thrive better and are able to reach their full potential when we all work closely together. Safeguarding is a crucial part of school life. All staff receive regular training on how to keep children safe. Every member of the school community has a responsibility to keep all children safe.

Staff at Norham High School have a statutory responsibility to share any concerns they may have about a child in need of protection with other agencies and in particular Children’s Social Care, Police or Health. Our priority is to work with parents/carers, there may be times however, when we have to involve other people. Schools are not able to investigate concerns but have a legal duty to refer them. In most instances, the school will be able to inform the parents/carer of its need to make a referral. There are occasions when the school is advised by children’s social care or Police that the parents/carers cannot be informed whilst they investigate the matter. We understand the anxiety parents/carers understandably feel when they are not told about any concerns from the outset. The school follows legislation that aims to act in the interests of the child.

Parents are the most important people at keeping their children safe. You should always:

• Feel confident to raise concerns about your child.

• Talk to us if you need help or support.

• Read our policies about safety issues.

• Let the school know if your child has a medical condition.

• Let the school know if there is a change in your circumstances such as a house move, a new contact number, a change of name, a change of parental responsibility, emergency contacts.

• Let the school know if you have any court orders relating to the safety of your child.

The Safeguarding Team

Useful information