Safeguarding
The St Benedict Catholic Academy Trust is absolutely committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children in its schools. The culture in each of our schools is viewed through the lens of human dignity and so everyone is clear about professional boundaries, respect, and promoting an inclusive environment. This fosters the wellbeing and safety of all pupils and staff.
The Trust recognises that all our staff have a responsibility to safeguard children in accordance with the principles established by the Children Acts 1989 and 2004 and related guidance.
All employees, volunteers and governors within the Trust have access to and receive regular training in relation to safeguarding and child protection. Please see policy section for a copy of our Trust safeguarding and Child protection policy.
A copy of the latest Keeping Children Safe in Education Guidance issued by the Department for Education, can be located here.
Concerns
If you have any concerns regarding a pupil at one of our schools, please speak to the school's Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) in the first instance. Each school lists its DSL on their website.
If you have a safeguarding concern which you would like to raise with the Trust, please email:
If you have a concern about a pupil outside of school hours please contact the relevant Local Authority Social Services Department:
- Lewisham: 0208 314 6660
- Southwark: 0207 525 5000
- Greenwich: 0208 9214444
- Croydon: 0203 1890258
- Bromley: 0208 461 7373
If you think a child or young person is in immediate danger, the best thing to do is call 999 for the emergency services.
Digital Wellbeing
In today's digital age, technology has become an integral part of our lives, including for young people in schools. While technology offers numerous benefits, it's essential to recognise the potential negative impacts on digital wellbeing. Digital wellbeing refers to the overall health and happiness of individuals in relation to their technology use.
Why is digital wellbeing important for students?
- Balanced Technology Use: Promotes healthy and responsible use of technology, preventing excessive screen time and negative consequences.
- Mental Health: Helps to protect students' mental health by addressing issues like cyberbullying, online harassment, and the impact of social media on self-esteem.
- Academic Performance: Ensures that technology is used as a tool for learning, rather than a distraction, leading to improved academic outcomes.
- Healthy Relationships: Fosters healthy relationships, both online and offline, by teaching students how to communicate effectively and respectfully.
- Life Skills: Equips students with essential life skills, such as critical thinking, digital literacy, and online safety, preparing them for a digital future.