Safeguarding 101: Essential Knowledge and Best Practices for Educators 

At rTriibe are always looking for ways to support our rTriiber’s and with this in mind we thought that the below information would help with supporting you while working on supply. 

Supply staff play an important role in supporting safeguarding efforts in schools. While your time in a specific school may be temporary, you can still contribute to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for students. Here are some ways supply staff can help with safeguarding: 

1. Familiarise yourself with School Policies: Before starting an assignment, familiarise yourself with the school’s safeguarding policies and procedures, this should be given on arrival but if not please be sure to ask before attending your first lesson. This includes understanding the reporting mechanisms, confidentiality guidelines, and the chain of communication for safeguarding concerns. 

2. Attend Safeguarding Training: If the school offers safeguarding training for supply staff, make sure to attend it. This training can provide you with essential information on recognising signs of abuse or neglect, understanding your responsibilities, and knowing how to respond to safeguarding concerns appropriately. 

3. Be Observant: During your time in the school, pay attention to any signs or behaviours that may indicate potential safeguarding issues. These can include changes in a student’s behaviour, unexplained injuries, signs of bullying, or indicators of neglect. If you notice any concerns, follow the school’s reporting procedures immediately. 

4. Maintain Professional Boundaries: As a supply staff member, it’s important to maintain professional boundaries with students. Avoid engaging in inappropriate or excessive personal conversations, physical contact, or online communication. Follow the school’s code of conduct and policies regarding appropriate interactions with students. 

5. Follow School Procedures: Adhere to the school’s procedures for signing in and out, collecting and returning keys, and any other security measures in place. Compliance with these protocols helps ensure the safety and security of the school environment. 

6. Communicate with Staff: Collaborate and communicate with other staff members, including teachers, teaching assistants, and administrative personnel. They can provide valuable insights into students’ needs, behaviours, or any existing safeguarding concerns. 

7. Report Safeguarding Concerns: If you witness or become aware of any safeguarding concerns, report them immediately to the designated safeguarding lead (DSL) or the appropriate authority within the school. Follow the school’s reporting procedures and provide accurate and timely information regarding the concern. 

8. Maintain Confidentiality: It’s crucial to maintain strict confidentiality when dealing with safeguarding concerns. Only share information with authorised personnel who need to know in order to address the concern. Avoid discussing sensitive matters with other students, colleagues, or external parties. 

Remember, each school may have specific guidelines and procedures in place, so it’s essential to familiarise yourself with their policies and follow them accordingly. Your vigilance and commitment to safeguarding can contribute to creating a safe and supportive environment for students, even in your temporary role as supply staff.