About Us
Safeguarding
At Dorset House School, the safeguarding and welfare of our pupils is of paramount importance. We are committed to providing a safe, caring and supportive environment where children feel valued, listened to and protected from harm.
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. All members of staff, volunteers and governors share a collective duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in line with statutory guidance and best practice, including Keeping Children Safe in Education and Working Together to Safeguard Children.
Our Safeguarding Approach
Dorset House School operates a robust Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy which is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains fully compliant with the latest statutory guidance, including:
- Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)
- Working Together to Safeguard Children
- The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework, where applicable
Our policies and procedures clearly set out how safeguarding concerns are identified, recorded and responded to, including referrals to external agencies when necessary.
Staff Training and Responsibilities
All staff are required to read and understand Part One of Keeping Children Safe in Education and undertake regular, up‑to‑date safeguarding and child protection training appropriate to their role. Training is refreshed at least annually and supplemented through ongoing safeguarding briefings and updates.
Designated safeguarding leaders receive enhanced training to enable them to fulfil their responsibilities effectively and to provide advice and support to colleagues.
Working with External Agencies
Dorset House School works closely with external agencies, including children’s social care, health professionals, the police and local safeguarding partners, to ensure that pupils and families receive appropriate and timely support. We recognise the importance of effective information‑sharing and multi‑agency working in safeguarding children.
Safeguarding Leadership and Contact Details
The school has a strong and experienced safeguarding leadership team:
- Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Laura Hutchings
- Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads (DDSLs): Adam Bardouleau – Pastoral Lead and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
- Jason Marconi – Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead for Boarding
- Sarah Sutherland‑Booth – Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (EYFS)
If you have any concerns about the welfare of a child, or wish to discuss a safeguarding matter, please contact a member of the safeguarding team through the school office, who will ensure your enquiry is passed on promptly and confidentially.
