Safeguarding Policy

1. Policy Statement

OwlPath Academy is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all students. This safeguarding policy outlines our commitment to protecting children, young people, and vulnerable adults from harm, abuse, exploitation, and neglect during all interactions related to our online tuition services.

We believe that:

• The welfare of the student is paramount.
• All students, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse.
• Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.

2. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to:

• All staff members, including tutors and administrators
• Students enrolled in our programs
• Parents, guardians, and carers

3. Legal Framework

This policy is based on UK legislation and guidance, including (but not limited to):

• Children Act 1989 & 2004
• Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)
• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)
• Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR
• Guidance from local safeguarding partnerships and authorities

4. Definitions

• Safeguarding: Protecting people's health, wellbeing, and human rights, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse, and neglect.
• Child: A person under the age of 18.
• Vulnerable Adult: A person aged 18 or over who is unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation.

5. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

• Name: Chaitanya Akarapu
• Email: chaitanya.akarapu@imperialit.co.uk
• Phone: 07712629322

All safeguarding concerns must be reported to the DSL in the first instance.

6. Safer Recruitment

We ensure that all staff and tutors:

• Undergo enhanced DBS checks
• Provide two professional references
• Agree to and sign our Code of Conduct

7. Online Safety Measures

To promote a safe online learning environment, OwlPath Academy:

• Requires real names to be used by tutors and students
• Ensures all lessons are scheduled and monitored via our central booking system
• Does not allow private messaging or contact between tutors and students outside approved systems
• Requires tutors to use appropriate, professional backdrops
• Only permits session recording with written consent from parents or guardians

8. Code of Conduct

Tutors and staff must:

• Maintain professional boundaries at all times
• Not engage in private messaging or social media contact with students
• Report any concerns or disclosures immediately to the DSL
• Avoid being alone in a session with a student without parental awareness
• Refrain from sharing personal contact information

9. Recognising and Reporting Concerns

Staff should be alert to signs of abuse, which may include:

• Sudden changes in behaviour or personality
• Unexplained injuries
• Withdrawal or anxiety
• Inappropriate sexual language or behaviour

If a concern arises:

1. Record details clearly and factually
2. Report immediately to the DSL
3. Do not promise confidentiality – explain that concerns must be shared with appropriate parties

10. Responding to Disclosures

If a student discloses abuse:

• Remain calm and listen
• Let them speak freely
• Reassure them they've done the right thing
• Do not ask leading questions
• Report the disclosure to the DSL as soon as possible

11. Data Protection and Confidentiality

All student data is handled in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR.

• Safeguarding records are stored securely and only accessible to authorized personnel.
• Confidentiality is maintained unless sharing is required to protect a child.

12. Training and Awareness

• New staff receive induction that includes this policy
• The DSL provides updates as needed on best practice and policy changes

13. Review of Policy

This policy will be reviewed annually or after any safeguarding incident or legal change.

• Next Review Date: 1 September 2026
• Approved by: Chaitanya Akarapu
• Date Approved: 1 September 2024