A leader in Switzerland discusses the importance of using software to help track pupil issues and updating PSHE programmes if incidents occur
25th January 2024, 6:00am TES Magazine
In this instalment in our Safeguarding Around the World series, we head to Switzerland to chat with Liz Free, CEO and director of International School Rheintal (ISR).
She explains how her school proactively monitors for potential incidents using software systems and talks about the importance of updating PSHE (personal, social, health and emotional) programmes for pupils in light of any incidents that may occur.
How do you ensure a consistent approach to safeguarding?
As is the case in most schools, safeguarding and child protection training is part of the staff induction plan for all roles.
This includes an online training component with a short assessment to assess understanding alongside face-to-face training from our designated safeguarding lead (DSL). In addition, the first day of every term includes a refresher and staff are mandated to complete one online course, which is allocated based on need.
This year, for example, all staff completed a data protection course. In the past, online courses have covered peer-on-peer abuse and bereavement. The DSLs and deputy DSLs also complete level 3 child protection lead training every three years.
Our child protection and safeguarding, safer recruitment, whistleblower, health and safety and data protection policies are reviewed every three years too.
We take a proactive approach to recruitment and have an extensive safer recruitment policy that aims to put safeguarding of our community at the heart of the process.
This means we only accept applications on our own forms (we don’t take CVs, where information can be hidden) and require three references, including from the candidate’s previous head of school/organisation. We also have a clear policy on selection panels and decision-making protocols…
You can read the full article via TES Magazine.
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