Introduction

The University of Chichester Academy Trust Board recognises its moral and statutory responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children. We make every effort to provide a safe and welcoming environment underpinned by a culture of openness where both children and adults feel secure, able to talk and believe that they are being listened to. We maintain an attitude of “it could happen here” where safeguarding is concerned. The purpose of this policy is to provide staff, volunteers and governors with the framework they need in order to keep children safe and secure in our academies and to inform parents and guardians how we will safeguard their children whilst they are in our care. Specific guidance is available to staff within the procedure documents contained in this policy.

While recognising its own legal responsibilities in the matter of child protection, the Board requires all staff, pupils, parents and visitors to act safely and to co-operate in meeting these obligations. The Board believes that child protection is the responsibility of all adults. It will encourage employees to take an active role in ensuring that the highest standard of child protection is extended to all our pupils.

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Trust and noted by each Local Governing Body in the summer or early autumn terms, but by the end of September each year at the very latest. Local Governing Bodies have a responsibility to ensure the academy-related information in the policy remains current.

Key Document Information

• Owner: Education Team
• Last Review Date: September 2025
• Next Review Date: Summer 2026