At Bill Quay Primary School, we regard the safeguarding of pupils as our main priority. We believe that we all have the right to be happy, to be safe and to learn; we all have the responsibility to make this happen.  We have robust safeguarding procedures including:

• Working together with other agencies to ensure adequate arrangements within our school to identify, assess, and support those pupils who are suffering harm;
• Safer recruitment practices when appointing new staff and volunteers;
• Regular training for our staff and governors to ensure the welfare and safety of our pupils;
• Clear guidance for staff and volunteers on how to behave and work with pupils;
• Staff are highly vigilant and report any concerns they have about a pupil's well-being swiftly;
• An ethos where concerns are discussed with parents, and pupils know that they can talk about their worries to an adult they trust;
• Safe computer access, with secure filtering and training for children and staff in e-safety. We also provide guidance to parents on e-safety;
• Safeguarding procedures which follow the recommended procedures by Gateshead Council.

Our safeguarding policies cover all aspects of school life and include:

• staff and visitors – ensuring they are vetted, informed and trained;
• pupil's behaviour – promoting safer and happier behaviours and lifestyles;
• parents and carers – promoting links & supporting families;
• premises – keeping them safe, pleasant and fit for purpose;
• curriculum – providing positive, life-affirming learning experiences;
• outside school – ensuring safer activities and environments outside school.

If you have any queries or concerns regarding the safety of a pupil, you can contact our designated safeguarding leaders:

• Mrs T Devine - Headteacher and Designated Safeguarding Lead 
• Mrs J Messenger - Assistant Headteacher and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead 
• Mrs J Bone - Assistant Headteacher and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead