Children Safeguarding Policy

1. Introduction

Clever Club tutors is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and respectful learning environment for all children and young people (anyone under 18, as defined by the Children Acts 1989, 2004 & 2008).

All staff, subcontractors, and freelancers have a duty to ensure the highest standards of care and protection for children under their supervision.

2. Purpose

This policy aims to:

• Protect children and young people using our services.
• Guide staff, contractors, students, and families on safeguarding best practices.

3. Who This Applies To

This policy covers everyone working on behalf of Clever Club Tutors, including:

• Directors, managers, staff
• Subcontractors, freelancers, and tutors
• Volunteers and students

4. Legal Framework

This policy is based on safeguarding laws and guidance in England, including the Children Acts and local authority procedures.

5. Our Safeguarding Commitment

Clever Club tutors believes all children deserve a safe, respectful environment and protection from harm. We are committed to:

• Making child welfare a top priority
• Treating all children equally, regardless of background or identity
• Taking action on all concerns or allegations
• Promoting open communication with parents and children
• Ensuring our tutors are trained, vetted, and supported

6. How We Keep Children Safe

We will:

• Listen to and respect children and families
• Appoint a nominated safeguarding lead
• Follow clear safeguarding and online safety procedures
• Train staff in child protection practices
• Recruit safely with DBS checks and vetting
• Handle data securely, in line with data protection laws
• Provide clear safeguarding info to children and families
• Work with local safeguarding authorities when needed
• Have clear policies for managing complaints and concerns
• Maintain a zero-tolerance stance on bullying and abuse
• Promote a culture of respect and openness

7. Reporting Concerns

Clever Club Tutors tutor's must report any safeguarding concerns to management immediately. Management will escalate to the LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer) or DCPO (Designated Child Protection Officer) where appropriate. Freelancers not employed directly by Clever Club Tutors should report concerns directly to the local council's LADO.

8. Allegations of Abuse

If a tutor is suspected of harming a child or behaving inappropriately, the concern must be reported immediately to the relevant local authority (LADO/DCPO). Investigations must be handled fairly, quickly, and professionally.

Outcomes may be:

• Unsubstantiated
• Substantiated but resolved through disciplinary action
• Substantiated and referred to external safeguarding authorities

9. Recording Incidents

All child protection concerns must be:

• Documented accurately
• Include written records of conversations and reports
• Referred to the local authority (LADO/DCPO)

10. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed every 3 years or when legal or organisational changes occur. The review will be clearly dated.