1. Our Commitment
Apex Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people who use our services. We believe that all children have the right to learn in a safe, supportive environment free from harm, abuse or neglect.
This policy applies to all tutors, staff, volunteers and contractors working with or on behalf of Apex Academy.
2. DBS Checks
All tutors and staff who work directly with children undergo appropriate background checks before commencing employment or engagement with Apex Academy:
- Enhanced DBS checks are required for all tutors and staff with regular contact with children
- DBS certificates are verified before employment and renewed in line with statutory guidance
- We subscribe to the DBS Update Service where applicable to ensure ongoing suitability
- Any individual who refuses a DBS check or whose check reveals relevant information will not be permitted to work with children
Parents and guardians may request confirmation that their child's tutor holds a valid enhanced DBS check by contacting info@apex-academy.uk.
3. Safer Recruitment
Our recruitment process includes:
- Identity verification and right-to-work checks
- Enhanced DBS checks for all roles involving contact with children
- Reference checks from previous employers or professional contacts
- Interview processes assessing suitability to work with children
- Induction training covering safeguarding policies and procedures
4. Code of Conduct
All staff and tutors must:
- Treat every child with dignity and respect
- Never use physical punishment or humiliating treatment
- Never engage in inappropriate communication with children outside approved academy channels
- Never be alone with a child in circumstances that could be misinterpreted, except where necessary and with appropriate safeguards
- Report any safeguarding concern immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead
- Complete safeguarding training as required
5. Designated Safeguarding Lead
Apex Academy has a designated person responsible for safeguarding matters:
All safeguarding concerns should be reported to the Designated Safeguarding Lead without delay.
6. Recognising & Reporting Concerns
Staff are trained to recognise signs of abuse, neglect or harm including:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Neglect
- Child exploitation (including online)
If a member of staff has a concern about a child, they will:
- Record the concern accurately and promptly
- Report it to the Designated Safeguarding Lead immediately
- Never investigate independently or promise confidentiality to the child
- Refer to Walsall Children's Services or the police where there is immediate risk of harm
Parents and guardians who have a safeguarding concern about a child at Apex Academy should contact us immediately. If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.
7. Walsall & Local Authority Contacts
- Emergency: 999
- NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
- Childline: 0800 1111
- Walsall Council Children's Services: Contact via Walsall Council's main switchboard or website for current safeguarding referral details
8. Online Safety
Where online tuition or digital resources are used:
- Sessions are conducted on approved platforms with appropriate security settings
- Students are supervised and sessions are not recorded without consent
- Staff do not communicate with students via personal social media accounts
- Students are taught safe online behaviour as part of our broader educational approach
9. Physical Environment
Our Walsall campus at 28 Hollyhedge Ln, Walsall WS2 8PT is maintained to provide a safe learning environment:
- Lessons take place in supervised group settings (maximum 6 students per class)
- First aid provisions are available on site
- Fire safety and emergency procedures are in place and reviewed regularly
- Visitors must sign in and are never left unsupervised with children
10. Photography & Data
- We do not use photographs or video of students for marketing without explicit written consent from parents/guardians
- Personal data relating to children is handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy
11. Policy Review
This policy is reviewed at least annually and updated in response to changes in legislation, statutory guidance (including Keeping Children Safe in Education) and best practice. All staff receive updated training following any significant changes.
12. Contact
For safeguarding enquiries or to report a concern:
Email: info@apex-academy.uk
Phone: +44 7455 188335
Address: Apex Academy, 28 Hollyhedge Ln, Walsall WS2 8PT, United Kingdom