Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy
Greek School of Bishop’s Stortford – Out-of-School Club
The Greek School of Bishop’s Stortford is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children in our care. We provide a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment where children are protected from abuse, neglect, harm, exploitation and radicalisation Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. All staff and volunteers are expected to remain alert to safeguarding concerns and to report concerns promptly.
Designated Safeguarding Leads
- Markella Afenti-Sassis – Headteacher
- Sofia Zacharaki – Chair of Governors
Our Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) coordinate safeguarding concerns and work with parents and relevant safeguarding agencies when necessary.
Our Safeguarding Responsibilities
We:
- follow current safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance;
- use appropriate safer recruitment and DBS procedures;
- ensure staff and volunteers receive appropriate safeguarding training;
- provide appropriate supervision of children;
- maintain professional boundaries;
- take concerns about abuse, neglect, bullying, peer-on-peer abuse, online safety and exploitation seriously;
- respond to concerns about radicalisation in accordance with safeguarding and Prevent guidance;
- record and respond to safeguarding concerns appropriately; and
- maintain secure and confidential safeguarding records.
If a Child Raises a Concern
Children are encouraged to speak to a trusted adult if they are worried or feel unsafe. If a child makes a disclosure, staff will listen carefully, take the concern seriously, avoid leading questions, reassure the child and report the concern to a Designated Safeguarding Lead without delay. Concerns will be recorded factually and dealt with in accordance with our safeguarding procedures.
Online Safety
We recognise that safeguarding includes children’s online lives. Staff remain alert to risks including cyberbullying, online grooming and exploitation, harmful or inappropriate content, and online radicalisation.
Radicalisation and Extremism
The School recognises the importance of protecting children from the risk of radicalisation and extremism. Any concerns will be reported to the Designated Safeguarding Lead, who will follow the appropriate safeguarding and Prevent procedures.
Immediate Concerns
If a child is in immediate danger, call 999 and inform a Designated Safeguarding Lead as soon as possible. For safeguarding concerns in Hertfordshire, contact Hertfordshire Children’s Services on 0300 123 4043.
The School follows current Keeping Children Safe in Education 2026, Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026, relevant Prevent guidance, and Hertfordshire safeguarding procedures.
Policy reviewed: September 2026
Next review: September 2027
