1. Purpose of the Policy

This Safeguarding Policy outlines our school’s commitment to protecting the well-being of all its students and staff. This policy aims to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where students and staff feel respected and empowered to reach their full potential. It clarifies the responsibilities of staff and school management and provides a framework for responding to concerns about student safety and welfare.

2. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to all students enrolled at BTU SFL. It also applies to all staff members, including teaching staff and administrative staff, who interact with students. 

3. Our understanding of safeguarding 

Safeguarding in higher education focuses on creating a supportive environment that promotes student well-being and protects them from harm. We recognize that students, even those over 18, may face unique challenges that impact their safety and welfare. This policy acknowledges the duty of care owed to all students and aims to address potential risks proactively. It recognizes that safeguarding is not just about preventing serious harm but also about promoting a culture of respect, dignity, and inclusion.

4. Guiding Principles

The following principles underpin this Safeguarding Policy:

Student and Staff Welfare: The well-being and safety of students and staff are our priorities.

Respect: All students and staff will be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their background, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or socio-economic status. We are fully committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (see our DEI policy for more details) 

Confidentiality: Information shared by students and staff members will be treated with sensitivity and confidentiality, according to the laws on the protection of personal information, and their identities will not be shared with any third parties. 

Collaboration: We will work in partnership with students and staff to address safeguarding concerns effectively.

Accountability: Clear roles and responsibilities are defined for implementing this policy.

Transparency: Safeguarding procedures will be transparent and accessible to all students and staff on the BTU SFL website. 

5. Responsible Persons

The director of BTU SFL and the BTU SFL Secretary are responsible for ensuring the implementation of the policy within the school.

6. Procedures for Reporting Concerns

Any student or staff member who has a concern about the safety or well-being of a student or another staff member should report it to the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) as soon as possible. Concerns can be reported verbally or in writing. If reported verbally, a written record of the concern will be made.

Confidentiality: All reports will be treated confidentially. However, in cases where there is a risk of serious harm, information may need to be shared with relevant authorities.

Investigation: The responsible parties will promptly and appropriately investigate all reported concerns. 

Support: Support will be offered to both the individual reporting the concern and the student/ staff member whose welfare is in question.

7. Policy Reviews

This policy will be reviewed and updated annually or as required by legislation or best practice changes. The review will involve consultation with staff and students.