Safeguarding Policies

Music Academy Midlands Ltd

Safeguarding policy

This page includes the following organisational policies:

• Role description for the designated safeguarding officer.

• Dealing with disclosures and concerns about a child or young person.

• Managing allegations against staff and volunteers.

• Recording concerns and information sharing.

• Child protection records retention and storage.

• Code of conduct for staff and volunteers.

• Behaviour codes for children and young people.

• Photography and sharing images guidance.

• Safer recruitment.

• Online safety.

• Anti-bullying.

• Managing allegations.

• Whistleblowing.

• Induction, training, supervision and support.

Role description for the designated safeguarding officer

Safeguarding is vital for everyone who works with children and young people, whether it’s in a school, college, charity, place of worship, healthcare practice, or other type of premises. It requires full commitment from all staff in the organisation – as it’s everyone’s duty to look after children – particularly the designated safeguarding lead.

It’s crucial for organisations who work with children to have a designated safeguarding lead (previously known as a designated safeguarding officer or DSO). They must be well-equipped and prepared for the responsibility that comes with being a designated safeguarding lead (DSL), as they will coordinate and oversee safeguarding procedures, as well as act as a first point of contact for anyone with concerns.

In this article, we will provide an overview of what the DSL’s role involves and how to prepare for it. Understanding this will help you to ensure that children are protected and have a fulfilling, safe experience in your setting.

What is the Role of a Designated Safeguarding Lead?

The designated safeguarding lead has overarching responsibilities regarding safeguarding in their organisation. They will have an in-depth knowledge of safeguarding guidance (such as Keeping Children Safe in Education and Working Together to Safeguard Children) and related pieces of legislation (e.g. the Children Act 1989) that their workplace must follow.

They will apply this knowledge to help implement and maintain safeguarding procedures and policies, as well as be alert to safeguarding issues on a day-to-day basis. This includes ensuring that staff have received appropriate training, that their own training is up to date, safe recruitment practices are sufficient, and all actions are within the best interest of safeguarding children.

If the DSL identifies any concerns or another member of staff raises them, they will coordinate with the school where appropriate, the child’s primary caregiver(s), if suitable and the necessary external bodies to pursue a course of action.

What are the Responsibilities of a Designated Safeguarding Lead?

The DSL has a number of important responsibilities to fulfil on an ongoing basis. As the lead, it’s also part of their duty to ensure others in the organisation understand and follow safeguarding procedures. They will also work closely with any other senior individuals to coordinate safeguarding duties, such as Music Academy Midlands Ltd site managers, Music Academy Midlands Ltd school leads, head of music departments and DSL’s within education establishments.

The responsibilities of a designated safeguarding lead include:

Being available for all staff to discuss any safeguarding issues or concerns. They should ensure that all staff are aware of the DSL and deputy contact details.
Ensuring that cases of suspected or actual child protection or safeguarding concerns are referred to the appropriate agencies. The DSL will gather further information and evidence if needed.
Ensuring that all staff are fully trained in safeguarding and know how to spot and raise concerns. They will also help to maintain an effective staff supervision programme.
Undergoing regular refresher training themselves to ensure their safeguarding knowledge is as up to date as possible and in line with new guidance.
Ensuring that adequate reporting and recording systems are in place for safeguarding procedures, and that there are appropriate transferal procedures for records if students move.
Ensuring that the company’s safeguarding policies and procedures are up to date with the most recent statutory guidance, and that everyone who has safeguarding duties are familiar with any updates.
Communicating with families on the company’s policies and procedures, as well as any concerns or referrals where appropriate.
Complying with any Local Safeguarding Children Partnership (LSCP) requirements.
Ensuring their organisation has sufficient safer recruitment procedures.
Being aware of any children who may require specific safeguarding needs and have specific vulnerabilities.

Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s designated safeguarding lead must be trained in:

The law and guidance on safeguarding.
Types of abuse and the signs and indicators to look for.
How to build a safe culture so that people are safe and willing to share concerns.
Barriers to disclosure and recognition of safeguarding issues.
Safer recruitment.
Listening to and supporting those who have concerns.

Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s policy on DSL training

Training must be refreshed regularly in line with any updates or changes to guidance. Music Academy Midlands Ltd DSLs are to receive accredited, enhanced training each year as required to keep their knowledge up to date. This is especially important as the Department for Education often update their guidance, i.e. Keeping Children Safe in Education and Working Together to Safeguard Children.

Procedure for Dealing with disclosures and concerns about a child or young person

Why children reveal abuse

There are lots of reasons why a child or young person might tell someone they’re being abused, including:

Realising the abuse is wrong
Not being able to cope anymore
The abuse getting worse
Wanting to protect other children
Wanting the abuser to be punished
Trusting someone enough to tell them
Someone asks them directly

It can be very hard for them to open up about what’s happened to them. They might be worried about the consequences or that nobody will believe them. They might’ve told someone before and nothing was done to help them. Sometimes they might not know what’s happening to them is abuse and struggle to share what they’re feeling. Some children don’t reveal they’re being abused for a long time, some never tell anyone.

What to say to a child and how to respond.

Listen carefully to what they’re saying.

Be patient and focus on what you’re being told. Try not to express your own views and feelings. If you appear shocked or as if you don’t believe them it could make them stop talking and take back what they’ve said.

Give them tools to talk

If they’re struggling to talk to you, show them Childline’s letter builder tool. It uses simple prompts to help them share what’s happening and how they’re feeling.

Let them know they’ve done the right thing by telling you.

Reassurance can make a big impact. If they’ve kept the abuse a secret it can have a big impact knowing they’ve shared what’s happening.

Tell them it’s not their fault.

Abuse is never a child’s fault. It’s important they hear, and know this.

Say you’ll take them seriously.

They may have kept the abuse a secret because they were scared they wouldn’t be believed. Make sure they know they can trust you and you’ll listen and support them.

Don’t confront the alleged abuser.

Confronting the alleged abuser could make the situation worse for the child.

Explain what you’ll do next.

For younger children, explain you’re going to speak to someone who will be able to help. For older children, explain you’ll need to report the abuse to someone who can help.

Report what the child has told you as soon as possible.

Report as soon after you’ve been told about the abuse so the details are fresh in your mind and action can be taken quickly. It can be helpful to take notes as soon after you’ve spoken to the child. Try to keep these as accurate as possible.

How to report child abuse

If a child reveals abuse to you, it’s important to take it seriously, listen and report. And it’s vital you take the next steps to help keep them safe.

Report within 24 hours to the company or school DSL if in an education setting
If DSL is unavailable or the abuse pertains to the DSL report to the deputy DSL
If both are unavailable or the abuse pertains to the DSL and deputy DSL
Contact NSPCC report line:

You can also contact NSPCC report line:

24 hour online service:

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what-you-can-do/report-abuse/redirect/

Telephone lines: (Monday - Friday 8am - 10pm and 9am - 6pm weekends)

0808 800 5000

[email protected]

Report child abuse in education:

NSPCC (for children, young people and adults)

Telephone: 0800 136 663 (free)

It’s normal to feel anxious, nervous or unsure about acting on information shared to you. Letting the person responsible that you’re worried about a child could be the first step to helping protect them from a lifetime of abuse and neglect.

You can also find your local council here to report abuse:

https://www.gov.uk/report-child-abuse-to-local-council

What happens when you report abuse

The person to whom the abuse is reported will decide what to do. This could be your DSL, a school DSL or the nspcc helpline. For example, they might:

gather more information
ask a social worker to look into it
contact the police, if they think the child is at immediate risk or a crime has been committed

The person to whom information was disclosed to will tell you what happens next, but will not be able to give you any confidential information.

If you are concerned the report has not been acted upon, follow up as soon as possible. You can also contact the deputy DSL, or school deputy DSL, or contact nspcc or speak directly with your local council.

https://www.gov.uk/report-child-abuse-to-local-council

Music Academy Midlands Safeguarding Contact details:

Designated child protection lead

Name: Ryan Cush

Phone/email: 07590630359 / [email protected]

Managing allegations against or concerns about people who work or volunteer with children

Any allegation or concern that an employee or volunteer has behaved in a way that has harmed, or may have harmed, a child must be taken seriously and dealt with sensitively and promptly, regardless of where the alleged incident took place.

This includes people who you do not directly employ but who are working or volunteering with the children and young people in your care, for example supply teachers.

Depending on the situation, an appropriate response may involve:

the police investigating a possible criminal offence
your local child protection services making enquiries and/or assessing whether a child is in need of support
your organisation following the relevant disciplinary procedures with individuals concerned.

You should also make sure any children involved are given appropriate support.

This page shares best practice for managing allegations or concerns about abuse by someone who works or volunteers with children.

Your organisation should also have procedures for responding to allegations of abuse made against a child.

Procedures for managing allegations and concerns

Please see Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s procedures for dealing with allegations of abuse, complaints or concerns about a member of staff or volunteer:

How to report child abuse

Any allegation or concern that an employee or volunteer has behaved in a way that has harmed, or may have harmed has been revealed to you, it’s important to take it seriously, listen and report. And it’s vital you take the next steps to help keep them safe.

Report within 24 hours to the company or school DSL
If DSL is unavailable or the abuse pertains to the DSL report to the deputy DSL
If both are unavailable or the abuse pertains to the DSL and deputy DSL
Contact NSPCC report line:

You can also contact NSPCC report line:

24 hour online service:

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what-you-can-do/report-abuse/redirect/

Telephone lines: (Monday - Friday 8am - 10pm and 9am - 6pm weekends)

0808 800 5000

[email protected]

Report child abuse in education:

NSPCC (for children, young people and adults)

Telephone: 0800 136 663 (free)

You can also find your local council here to report abuse:

https://www.gov.uk/report-child-abuse-to-local-council

Roles and responsibilities

Music Academy Midlands Safeguarding Contact details:

Designated child protection lead

Name: Ryan Cush

Phone/email: 07590630359 / [email protected]

Please note: Should any allegation or concern happen within an educational setting, such as a school, you can always contact the DLS within a school.

Recording concerns about children’s safety and wellbeing and information sharing

If anyone in your organisation has concerns about a child or young person’s welfare or safety, it’s vital all relevant details are recorded. This must be done regardless of whether the concerns are shared with the police or children’s social care.

Keep an accurate record of:

• the date and time of the incident/disclosure

• the date and time of the report

• the name and role of the person to whom the concern was originally reported and their contact details

• the name and role of the person making the report (if this is different to the above) and their contact details

• the names of all parties who were involved in the incident, including any witnesses

• the name, age and any other relevant information about the child who is the subject of the concern (including information about their parents or carers and any siblings)

• what was said or done and by whom

• any action taken to look into the matter

• any further action taken (such as a referral being made)

• the reasons why the organisation decided not to refer those concerns to a statutory agency (if relevant).

Make sure the report is factual. Any interpretation or inference drawn from what was observed, said or alleged should be clearly reported as such. The record should always be signed and dated by the person making the report.

To ensure all necessary information is collected consistently we have a standard form for recording concerns available in our secure online storage location and may be available in paper form at certain Music Academy locations.

Recording concerns about adult behaviour:

Sometimes concerns might be raised about an adult who works or volunteers with children. This could be because they’ve:

• behaved in a way that has harmed, or may have harmed, a child

• committed a criminal offence against, or related to, a child

• behaved in a way that indicated they are unsuitable to work with young people.

You must keep clear and comprehensive records of all allegations made against adults working or volunteering with children, including:

In some cases, records should be kept for longer periods – see the ‘Exceptions’ section below for more information.

• what the allegations were

• how the allegations were followed up

• how things were resolved

• any action taken

• decisions reached about the person’s suitability to work with children.

Keeping these records will enable you to give accurate information if you are ever asked for it. For example:

• in response to future requests for a reference

• if a future employer asks for clarification about information disclosed as part of vetting and barring check

• if allegations resurface after a period of time.

Storage of child protection records

Music Academy Midlands’ child protection records are stored electronically, and are kept confidential and stored securely in individual student files. Electronic files are password protected and stored on computers with protection against hackers and viruses.

• Information about child protection concerns and referrals should are kept in a separate child protection file for each child, rather than in one ‘concern log’. The child protection file is started as soon as you become aware of any concerns.

• Music Academy keeps child protection files separate from a child’s general records. Student general records are kept in our MyMusicStaff location and there is a separate child protection file location for each student.

• If we need to share records (within your own organisation or externally), we will make sure they are kept confidential using passwords and encryption when sharing electronic files.

• Music Academy staff and volunteers do use their personal computers to make and store records, you need a clear agreement to ensure the records are being stored securely and transferred to our online location as soon as possible, destroying the original immediately after transfer is completed.

Retention periods: child protection records

Music Academy Midlands follows the recommended protocol in England, Scotland and Wales, that the file should be kept until the child is 25 (this is seven years after they reach the school leaving age) (Information and Records Management Society (IRMS), 2019).

Storing records relating to adults

Records relating to concerns about an adult’s behaviour are kept in the person’s confidential personnel file (not in a central ‘concerns log’) and a copy will be given to the individual.

Retention periods: concerns about adults

If concerns have been raised about an adult’s behaviour around children, Music Academy Midlands will follow the general rule of keeping the records in their personnel file at least until they reach their normal retirement age or for 10 years – whichever is longer (IRMS, 2019; Department for Education, 2021). This applies to both our volunteers and paid staff.

For example:

• if someone is 60 when the investigation into the allegation is concluded, keep the records until their 70th birthday

• if someone is 30 when the investigation into the allegation is concluded, keep the records until they are aged 65.

We will keep records for the same amount of time regardless of whether the allegations were unfounded. However, if we find that allegations are malicious we will destroy the record immediately.

Information should be retained even if the person stops working or volunteering for the organisation.

Exceptions

There are some situations where records need a longer retention period. For example, if:

• the records provide information about a child’s personal history, which they might want to access at a later date

• the records have been maintained for the purposes of research

• the information in the records is relevant to legal action that has been started but not finished

• the records have been archived for historical purposes (for example if the records are relevant to legal proceedings involving the organisation).

Music Academy Midlands Behaviour code for adults working with children

Purpose

This behaviour code outlines the conduct Music Academy Midlands Ltd expects from all our staff and volunteers. This includes trustees, agency staff, interns, students on work placement and anyone who is undertaking duties for the organisation, whether paid or unpaid.

The behaviour code aims to help us protect children and young people from abuse and reduce the possibility of unfounded allegations being made. It has been informed by the views of children and young people.

Music Academy Midlands Ltd is responsible for making sure everyone taking part in our services has seen, understood and agreed to follow the code of behaviour, and that they understand the consequences of inappropriate behaviour.

The role of staff and volunteers

In your role at Music Academy Midlands Ltd you are acting in a position of authority and have a duty of care towards the children and young people we work with. You are likely to be seen as a role model and are expected to act appropriately.

Responsibility

You are responsible for:

prioritising the welfare of children and young people
providing a safe environment for children and young people

ensuring equipment is used safely and for its intended purpose
having good awareness of issues to do with safeguarding and child protection and taking action when appropriate.

following our principles, policies and procedures

including our policies and procedures for child protection/safeguarding, whistleblowing and online safety
“Keeping Children Safe in Education Information for All School and College Staff” (Part one and Annex B)
Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s annually reviewed Child Safeguarding Policy and the procedure to follow if they have concerns about a child regardless of the presumed seriousness of the case, both from Music Academy Midlands Ltd and the policies in place for the schools where they are placed

staying within the law at all times
modelling good behaviour for children and young people to follow
challenging all unacceptable behaviour and reporting any breaches of the behaviour code to Ryan Cush (DSL) or school DSL if in an educational settings
reporting all concerns about abusive behaviour, following our safeguarding and child protection procedures

this includes behaviour being displayed by an adult or child and directed at any body of any age.

Rights

You should:

treat children and young people fairly and without prejudice or discrimination
understand that children and young people are individuals with individual needs
respect differences in gender, sexual orientation, culture, race, ethnicity, disability and religious belief systems, and appreciate that all participants bring something valuable and different to the group/organisation
challenge discrimination and prejudice
encourage young people and adults to speak out about attitudes or behaviour that makes them uncomfortable.

Relationships

You should:

promote relationships that are based on openness, honesty, trust and respect
avoid favouritism
be patient with others
exercise caution when you are discussing sensitive issues with children or young people
ensure your contact with children and young people is appropriate and relevant to the work of the project you are involved in
ensure that whenever possible, there is more than one adult present during activities with children and young people

if a situation arises where you are alone with a child or young person, ensure that you are within sight or hearing of other adults.
if a child specifically asks for or needs some individual time with you, ensure other staff or volunteers know where you and the child are.

only provide personal care in an emergency and make sure there is more than one adult present if possible

unless it has been agreed that the provision of personal care is part of your role and you have been trained to do this safely.

Respect

You should:

listen to and respect children at all times
value and take children’s contributions seriously, actively involving them in planning activities wherever possible
respect a young person’s right to personal privacy as far as possible.

if you need to break confidentiality in order to follow child protection procedures, it is important to explain this to the child or young person at the earliest opportunity.

Unacceptable behaviour

When working with children and young people, you must not:

allow concerns or allegations to go unreported
take unnecessary risks
smoke, consume alcohol or use illegal substances
develop inappropriate relationships with children and young people
make inappropriate promises to children and young people
engage in behaviour that is in any way abusive

including having any form of sexual contact with a child or young person.

let children and young people have your personal contact details (mobile number, email or postal address) or have contact with them via a personal social media account
act in a way that can be perceived as threatening or intrusive
patronise or belittle children and young people
make sarcastic, insensitive, derogatory or sexually suggestive comments or gestures to or in front of children and young people.

Upholding this code of behaviour

You should always follow this code of behaviour and never rely on your reputation or that of our organisation to protect you.

If you have behaved inappropriately you will be subject to our disciplinary procedures. Depending on the seriousness of the situation, you may be asked to leave Music Academy Midlands Ltd. We may also make a report to statutory agencies such as the police and/or the local authority child protection services.

If you become aware of any breaches of this code, you must report them to Ryan Cush (DSL). If necessary you should follow our whistleblowing procedure and safeguarding and child protection procedures.

Music Academy Midlands Ltd code for children and young people

Purpose

This code of behaviour was written in consultation with children and young people and is designed for children and young people. It aims to make sure everyone who participates in Music Academy Midlands Ltd's services knows what is expected of them and feels safe, respected and valued.

Music Academy Midlands Ltd's must make sure that everyone taking part in our services has seen, understood and agreed to follow the code of behaviour, and that they understand the consequences of inappropriate behaviour.

We expect people who take part in our services to display appropriate behaviour at all times. This includes behaviour that takes place outside our organisation and behaviour that takes place online.

Basic principles

This code of behaviour aims to:

identify acceptable and unacceptable behaviour
encourage cooperation, honesty, fairness and respect
create an environment where your self-esteem, self-respect and self-confidence will grow
encourage you to recognise and respect the rights of others
encourage you to take responsibility for your own behaviour
help resolve conflicts and make it clear what will happen if you decide not to follow the code.

Dos and don’ts

You should:

cooperate with others
be friendly
listen to others
be helpful
have good manners
treat everyone with respect
take responsibility for your own behaviour
talk to your teacher or Ryan Cush about anything that worries or concerns you
follow this code of behaviour and other rules (including the law)
Treat all equipment with respect, taking care to ensure it isn’t damaged and lasts for future users.
join in and have fun!

You shouldn’t:

be disrespectful to anyone else
bully other people (online or offline)
behave in a way that could be intimidating
be abusive towards anyone.
Mistreated, damage or disrespect equipment on purpose.

What happens if I decide not to follow the code of behaviour?

Minor or first-time incident

If you behave in a way that doesn’t follow our behaviour code, our staff or volunteers will remind you about it and ask you to comply with it. They will give you an opportunity to change your behaviour.

This gives you the chance to think and to plan how you could behave differently, with support from staff and/or volunteers.

Formal warning

If you continue not to follow the code of behaviour after your first reminder, or if your behaviour is more serious, you will be given a formal warning by the person running your activity.

They will make a record about what happened and inform your parents or carers if this is appropriate. They will also talk with you about what happened and agree what support you need to improve your behaviour in the future.

We may also decide that a sanction is appropriate such as restricting you from taking part in some activities

Final warning

If the support we have put in place isn’t helping you to change your behaviour, we may need to give you a final warning. Again this will be recorded and we’ll inform your parents or carers as appropriate.

At this point, we may need to talk with you and your parents or carers about other services that might be more able to give you the support you need.

Child protection procedures

If any member of staff or volunteer becomes concerned that your behaviour suggests you may be in need of protection or that you may present a risk of harm to other children and young people, they will follow our child protection procedures. This may involve making a referral to to the local authority.

If child protection procedures are necessary we will talk this through with you and your parents as soon as possible, unless doing so would put you in danger or interfere with a police investigation.

The role of parents and carers

We see parents and carers as valuable partners in promoting positive behaviour and will involve them as appropriate.

We will always inform and involve your parents or carers if you receive a formal warning about your behaviour, unless doing so would put you in danger.

Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s photography and filming policy statement

The purpose and scope of this policy statement

Music Academy Midlands Ltd works with children and families as part of its activities. These include:

1-2-1 or group music education services in person (outside of school hours)
1-2-1 or group music education services at a student’s home.
1-2-1 music education services remotely (online and outside of school hours)
1-2-1 music education services in person within schools (peripatetic tuition)
Band programs (group application of individual music skills)
One off courses & holiday clubs (online, in person and pre-recorded content)
Opportunities to perform (Music Academy shows & events)
Free events, workshops, access to equipment, teachers and instruments for local schools and the larger surrounding community.

The purpose of this policy statement is to:

• protect children and young people who take part in Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s services, events and activities, specifically those where photographs and videos may be taken

• set out the overarching principles that guide our approach to photographs/videos being taken of children and young people during our events and activities

• to ensure that we operate in line with our values and within the law when creating, using and sharing images of children and young people.

This policy statement applies to all staff, volunteers and other adults associated with Music Academy Midlands Ltd.

Legal framework

This policy has been drawn up on the basis of legislation, policy and guidance that seeks to protect children in England. Summaries of key legislation and guidance is available on NSPCC Learning:

online abuse legislation and guidance child protection legislation and guidance

We believe that:

• children and young people should never experience abuse of any kind

• we have a responsibility to promote the welfare of all children and young people and to take, share and use images of children safely.

We recognise that:

• sharing photographs and films of our activities can help us celebrate the successes and achievements of our children and young people, provide a record of our activities and raise awareness of our organisation

• the welfare of the children and young people taking part in our activities is paramount

• children, their parents and carers have a right to decide whether their images are taken and how these may be used, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation

• consent to take images of children is only meaningful when children, their parents and carers understand how the images will be used and stored, and are fully aware of the potential risks associated with the use and distribution of these images

• there are potential risks associated with sharing images of children online.

We will seek to keep children and young people safe by:

• always asking for written consent from a child and their parents or carers before taking and using a child’s image

• always explaining what images will be used for, how they will be stored and what potential risks are associated with sharing images of children

• making it clear that if a child or their family withdraw consent for an image to be shared, it may not be possible to delete images that have already been shared or published

• changing the names of children whose images are being used in our published material whenever possible (and only using first names if we do need to identify them)

• never publishing personal information about individual children and disguising any identifying information (for example the name of their school or a school uniform with a logo)

• making sure children, their parents and carers understand how images of children will be securely stored and for how long (including how we will control access to the images and their associated information)

• reducing the risk of images being copied and used inappropriately by:

• only using images of children in appropriate clothing (including safety wear if necessary)

• avoiding full face and body shots of children taking part in activities such as swimming where there may be a heightened risk of images being misused

• using images that positively reflect young people’s involvement in the activity.

We will also develop a procedure for reporting the abuse or misuse of images of children as part of our child protection procedures. We will ensure everyone involved in our organisation knows the procedures to follow to keep children safe.

Photography and/or filming for personal use:

When children themselves, parents, carers or spectators are taking photographs or filming at our events and the images are for personal use, we will publish guidance about image sharing in the event programmes and/or announce details of our photography policy before the start of the event. This includes:

• reminding parents, carers and children that they need to give consent for Music Academy Midlands Ltd to take and use their images

• asking for photos taken during the event not to be shared on social media or asking people to gain permission from children, their parents and carers before sharing photographs and videos that include them

• recommending that people check the privacy settings of their social media account to understand who else will be able to view any images they share

• reminding children, parents and carers who they can talk to if they have any concerns about images being shared.

Photography and/or filming for Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s use

We recognise that our group leaders may use photography and filming as an aid in activities such as music or drama. However, this should only be done with Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s permission and using our equipment.

Children, young people, parents and carers must also be made aware that photography and filming is part of the programme and give written consent.

If we hire a photographer for one of our events, we will seek to keep children and young people safe by:

• providing the photographer with a clear brief about appropriate content and behaviour

• ensuring the photographer wears identification at all times

• informing children, their parents and carers that a photographer will be at the event and ensuring they give written consent to images which feature their child being taken and shared

• not allowing the photographer to have unsupervised access to children

• not allowing the photographer to carry out sessions outside the event or at a child’s home

• reporting concerns regarding inappropriate or intrusive photography following our child protection procedures.

Photography and/or filming for wider use:

If people such as local journalists, professional photographers (not hired by Music Academy Midlands Ltd) or students wish to record one of our events and share the images professionally or in the wider world, they should seek permission in advance.

They should provide:

• the name and address of the person using the camera

• the names of children they wish to take images of (if possible)

• the reason for taking the images and/or what the images will be used for

• a signed declaration that the information provided is valid and that the images will only be used for the reasons given.

Music Academy Midlands Ltd will verify these details and decide whether to grant permission for photographs/films to be taken. We will seek consent from the children who are the intended subjects of the images and their parents and inform the photographer of anyone who does not give consent.

At the event we will inform children, parents and carers that an external photographer is present and ensure the photographer is easily identifiable, for example by issuing them with a coloured identification badge.

If Music Academy Midlands Ltd is concerned that someone unknown to us is using their sessions for photography or filming purposes, we will ask them to leave and (depending on the nature of the concerns) follow our child protection procedures.

If consent to take photographs is not given:

If children, parents and/or carers do not consent to photographs being taken, we will respect their wishes. We will agree in advance how they would like to be identified so the photographer knows not to take pictures of them, and ensure this is done in a way that does not single out the child or make them feel isolated.

We will never exclude a child from an activity because we do not have consent to take their photograph.

Storing images:

We will store photographs and videos of children securely, in accordance with our safeguarding policy and data protection law.

We will keep hard copies of images in a locked drawer and electronic images in a protected folder with restricted access. Images will be stored for a period of 3 years.

We will never store images of children on unencrypted portable equipment such as laptops, memory sticks and mobile phones.

Music Academy Midlands Ltd does not permit staff and volunteers to using any personal equipment to take photos and recordings of children. Only cameras or devices belonging to the Music Academy Midlands Ltd should be used.

Related policies and procedures

This policy statement should be read alongside our organisational policies and procedures, including

• Safeguarding and child protection policy and procedures.

• Code of conduct for staff and volunteers.

• Online safety policy and procedures for responding to concerns about online abuse.

Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s Safer Recruitment Policy

Policy Statement

Music Academy Midlands Ltd's safer recruitment policy statement sets out the organisation’s commitment to:

safeguarding and protecting all children and young people by implementing robust safer recruitment practices
identifying and rejecting applicants who are unsuitable to work with children and young people
responding to concerns about the suitability of applicants during the recruitment process
responding to concerns about the suitability of employees and volunteers once they have begun their role
ensuring all new staff and volunteers participate in an induction which includes child protection
Outline a list of the supporting procedures that accompany the policy
Ensure the policy is reviewed annually to ensure Music Academy Midlands Ltd's recruitment practices are up to date and in line with current policies, procedures and legislation.

Aims and objectives of Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s safer recruitment policy:

The overall aim is to ‘deter unsuitable applicants from applying for roles with vulnerable groups’. Music Academy Midlands ltd will also ensure that:

All candidates are treated fairly and consistently and in compliance with relevant legislation.

Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s recruitment and selection procedures:

Our recruitment and selection procedures consists of the following steps:

Outline the job role: including a detailed job description, requirements, qualifications, and experience level.
Advertise internally: Ask current staff and contacts for referrals to a list of potential and suitable candidates.
Advertise externally: Place paid and unpaid media advertisements, and contact education establishments such as universities and colleges as appropriate for the job role.
Screen applications: Review resumes and cover letters to identify the most qualified candidates.
Check references: Music Academy Midlands Ltd requires at least 2 relevant reference checks to be completed for all candidates.
Conduct interviews: Invite successful candidates to an interview where they will be asked further questions to assess their suitability for the role.
Make a decision: After reviewing all the information gathered during the recruitment process, Music Academy Midlands Ltd will make a decision on whether to offer the candidate a position or reject their application.
Onboarding: If a candidate is offered a position, they will be moved into the onboarding phase, which includes safety checks.
Communicate with candidates: Inform all candidates, whether successful or unsuccessful, of the outcome of the recruitment process.

Pre employment and vetting checks.

Our pre employment checks consists of the following steps:

Self-disclosure form: Potential candidates are required to complete a self-disclosure form, which is then signed by the candidate and reviewed by a senior member of Music Academy Midlands Ltd. This form helps to identify any potential issues or conflicts of interest that may affect the candidate's suitability for the role.
Reference checks: At least 2 references are obtained for each candidate and reviewed by a senior member of Music Academy Midlands Ltd. These references help to verify the candidate's work history, qualifications, and personal characteristics.
Rights to work checks: Music Academy Midlands Ltd verifies that candidates have the necessary rights to work in the country. These checks are completed and reviewed by a senior member of the organisation to ensure compliance with immigration laws and regulations.
Enhanced DBS checks: Enhanced DBS checks are conducted on all candidates, and the reference number, type, company, and date of the check are recorded and logged in a secure staff file location. These checks help to identify any criminal convictions or other issues that may affect the candidate's suitability for the role.
Other checks: Depending on the specific requirements of the role and the needs of the organisation, other checks may be required. These checks help to ensure that candidates meet the necessary requirements for the role and are able to perform the duties safely and effectively.
Review of results: A senior member of Music Academy Midlands Ltd reviews all of the results of the pre-employment checks to ensure that the candidate meets the requirements for the role.
Decision-making: Based on the results of the pre-employment checks, Music Academy Midlands Ltd makes a decision on whether to offer the candidate a position.
Communication with candidates: All candidates are informed of the outcome of the pre-employment checks process.

Onboarding Protocols.

Our pre employment checks consists of the following steps:

Safeguarding training: All staff members will complete online safeguarding training that is relevant to their position. This training helps staff to identify and report signs of abuse or neglect and to understand their responsibilities in safeguarding vulnerable individuals and updated every 2 years.
Policies: All policies are available in an online format and must be viewed and marked as complete by new staff within 6 weeks of their start date. This ensures that staff are familiar with the organisation's policies and procedures and are aware of their responsibilities in safeguarding.
Teaching practices: Teachers undergo a 6-week introductory course detailing Music Academy Midlands' teaching practices and available resources to ensure the quality of their work. This helps to ensure that teachers are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide high-quality tuition to students.
Probationary period: All new workers are on a 3-month probationary period to assess the quality of their tuition and ensure it meets the organisation's strict standard requirements. This helps to ensure that the organisation is employing staff who are capable of meeting the high standards expected of them.
Half-term CPD: All teachers participate in mandatory 2-month review and strategy sessions during half-term breaks to enable senior members of the company to support and understand any challenges that teachers and students are facing. This helps to ensure that teachers are able to provide the best possible service to students and that any issues are addressed in a timely manner.

Recruitment Statement.

Music Academy Midlands Ltd is committed to not only the highest safeguarding and recruitment practises but also the highest level of music education that is possible for our students and learners.

Online safety

The purpose of this policy statement is to:

• ensure the safety and wellbeing of children and young people is paramount when adults, young people or children are using the internet, social media or mobile devices

• provide staff and volunteers with the overarching principles that guide our approach to online safety

• ensure that, as an organisation, we operate in line with our values and within the law in terms of how we use online devices.

he policy statement applies to all staff, volunteers, children and young people and anyone involved in Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s activities.

Legal framework

This policy has been drawn up on the basis of legislation, policy and guidance that seeks to protect children in England. Summaries of the key legislation and guidance are available on the following NSPCC links:

• online abuse

• bullying

• child protection

We believe that:

• children and young people should never experience abuse of any kind

• children should be able to use the internet for education and personal

development, but safeguards need to be in place to ensure they are kept safe at all times.

We recognise that:

• the online world provides everyone with many opportunities; however it can also present risks and challenges

• we have a duty to ensure that all children, young people and adults involved in our organisation are protected from potential harm online

• we have a responsibility to help keep children and young people safe online, whether or not they are using Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s network and devices

• working in partnership with children, young people, their parents, carers and other agencies is essential in promoting young people’s welfare and in helping young people to be responsible in their approach to online safety

• all children, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation, have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse.

We will seek to keep children and young people safe by:

• appointing an online safety coordinator

• providing clear and specific directions to staff and volunteers on how to behave online through our behaviour code for adults

• supporting and encouraging the young people using our service to use the internet, social media and mobile phones in a way that keeps them safe and shows respect for others

• supporting and encouraging parents and carers to do what they can to keep their children safe online

• developing an online safety agreement for use with young people and their parents or carers

• developing clear and robust procedures to enable us to respond appropriately to any incidents of inappropriate online behaviour, whether by an adult or a child or young person

• reviewing and updating the security of our information systems regularly

• ensuring that user names, logins, email accounts and passwords are used effectively

• ensuring personal information about the adults and children who are involved in our organisation is held securely and shared only as appropriate

• ensuring that images of children, young people and families are used only after their written permission has been obtained, and only for the purpose for which consent has been given

• providing supervision, support and training for staff and volunteers about online safety

• examining and risk assessing any social media platforms and new technologies before they are used within the organisation.

If online abuse occurs, we will respond to it by:

• having clear and robust safeguarding procedures in place for responding to abuse (including online abuse)

• providing support and training for all staff and volunteers on dealing with all forms of abuse, including bullying or cyberbullying, emotional abuse, sexting, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation

• making sure our response takes the needs of the person experiencing abuse, any bystanders and our organisation as a whole into account

• reviewing the plan developed to address online abuse at regular intervals, in order to ensure that any problems have been resolved in the long term.

Related policies and procedures:

This policy statement should be read alongside our organisational policies and procedures, including:

• child protection

• procedures for responding to concerns about a child or young person’s wellbeing

• dealing with allegations of abuse made against a child or young person

• managing allegations against staff and volunteers

• code of conduct for staff and volunteers

• anti-bullying policy and procedures

• photography and image sharing guidance.

ANTI BULLYING

The purpose of this policy statement is:

• to prevent bullying from happening between children and young people who are a part of our organisation or take part in our activities

• to make sure bullying is stopped as soon as possible if it does happen and that those involved receive the support they need

• to provide information to all staff, volunteers, children and their families about what we should all do to prevent and deal with bullying

This policy statement applies to anyone working on behalf of Music Academy Midlands Ltd, including senior managers and the board of trustees, paid staff, volunteers, sessional workers, agency staff and students.

Separate documents set out:

• our code of behaviour for children, young people and adults

• our policies and procedures for preventing and responding to bullying and harassment that takes place between adults involved with our organisation.

What is bullying?

Bullying includes a range of abusive behaviour that is repeated

• intended to hurt someone either physically or emotionally. Find out more about bullying and cyberbullying:

Find out more about bullying and cyberbullying

Legal framework

This policy has been drawn up on the basis of legislation, policy and guidance that seeks to protect children in the UK. NSPCC Learning provides summaries of the key legislation and guidance on:

• bullying and cyberbullying

• online abuse

• child protection in each nation of the UK.

We believe that:

• children and young people should never experience abuse of any kind

• we have a responsibility to promote the welfare of all children and young people, to keep them safe and operate in a way that protects them.

We recognise that:

• bullying causes real distress and affects a person’s health and development

• in some instances, bullying can cause significant harm

• all children, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation, have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse

• everyone has a role to play in preventing all forms of bullying (including online) and putting a stop to bullying.

We will seek to prevent bullying by:

• developing a code of behaviour that sets out how everyone involved in our organisation is expected to behave, in face-to-face contact and online, and within and outside of our activities

• holding regular discussions with staff, volunteers, children, young people and families who use our organisation about bullying and how to prevent it

• providing support and training for all staff and volunteers on dealing with all forms of bullying, including racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic and sexual bullying

• putting clear and robust anti-bullying procedures in place.

Our regular discussions with staff, volunteers, children, young people and families will focus on:

• group members’ responsibilities to look after one another and uphold the behaviour code

• practising skills such as listening to each other

• respecting the fact that we are all different

• making sure that no one is without friends

• dealing with problems in a positive way

• checking that our anti-bullying measures are working well.

Responding to bullying

We will make sure our response to incidents of bullying takes into account:

the needs of the person being bullied

• the needs of the person displaying bullying behaviour

• needs of any bystanders

• our organisation as a whole.

We will review the plan we have developed to address any incidents of bullying at regular intervals, in order to ensure that the problem has been resolved in the long term.

More information about responding effectively to bullying is available:

• protecting children from bullying and cyberbullying

• recognising and responding to abuse.

Diversity and inclusion:

We recognise that bullying is closely related to how we respect and recognise the value of diversity.

We will be proactive about:

• seeking opportunities to learn about and celebrate difference

• increasing diversity within our staff, volunteers, children and young people

• welcoming new members to our organisation.

Related policies and procedures:

This policy statement should be read alongside our organisational policies and procedures including:

• safeguarding and child protection policy and procedures

• managing allegations made against a child or young person

• managing allegations of abuse made against staff and volunteers

• code of conduct for staff and volunteers

• equality, diversity and inclusion policies.

MANAGING ALLEGATIONS

If a member of Music Academy Midlands Ltd is made aware of an allegation or concern about inappropriate treatment of children by a member of staff at a school (including support staff, volunteers, and contractors), they should report this to the Headteacher, or Deputy in the Headteacher’s absence, or DSL.

The allegation should also be logged as a concern to Music Academy Midlands Ltd Music DSL. Depending on the level of concern/nature of the allegation Music Academy Midlands Ltd will need to report this to the LADO.

If a member of Music Academy Midlands Ltd is made aware of an allegation or concern about inappropriate treatment of children by a member of staff at a Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s after school site (including support staff, volunteers, and contractors), they should report this to the DSL.

Allegation against Music Academy Midlands Ltd Music staff:

If a high-level concern allegation is made against a member Music Academy Midlands Ltd staff, by a school, parent or other party, the allegation will be recorded on a Logging a Concern form and an internal investigation will commence. Additionally:

the allegation will be reported to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO),
the LADO will advise if other agencies (e.g., police) should be informed,
any telephone reports to the LADO will be followed up in writing within 48 hours,
following advice from the LADO, it may be necessary to suspend and/or remove the member
of staff from the host school pending the result of a full investigation of the allegation.
Music Academy Midlands Ltd will work with the LADO and the host school to ensure all parties are confident
with how the investigation has been handled.

Referral to DBS

The role of the DBS is to help prevent unsuitable people from working with children and vulnerable adults. Music Academy Midlands Ltd Music has a legal duty to make a referral to the DBS where they remove an individual from a regulated activity (or would have removed an individual had they not left) and they believe the individual has:

engaged in relevant conduct in relation to children and/or adults,
satisfied the harm test in relation to children and/or vulnerable adults, or
has received a caution or conviction for a relevant offence.
Referrals will be made as soon as possible when an individual is removed from regulated activity. How to refer to the DBS. DBS barring referral form - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
The legal duty to refer applies equally in circumstances where an individual is redeployed to another area of work that is not regulated activity, they are suspended, dismissed or when they have resigned.

WHISTLEBLOWING

Members of staff have an individual responsibility to bring matters of concern to the attention of senior leadership and/or relevant agencies. Although this can be difficult this is particularly important where the welfare of children may be at risk.

Contact the Whistleblowing Advice Line if:

Music Academy Midlands Ltd or another organisation doesn’t have clear safeguarding procedures to follow
concerns aren’t dealt with properly or may be covered up
a concern that was raised hasn’t been acted upon
you are worried that repercussions are likely to arise if you raise a concern.

The NSPCC runs a whistleblowing helpline which members of staff can if they do not feel able to raise concerns regarding failures internally.

Staff can call: 0800 028 0285 (8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday to Friday)

or email: [email protected]

Induction, training, supervision and support

All staff will undertake an appropriate level of safeguarding and child protection training (including online safety) at induction. All staff will undertake as a minimum:

Online child protection training on induction and every two years.
Regular safeguarding and child protection refresher training as part of the CPD programme every half term.
Part 1 and Annex B of KCSIE 2022 should be read and followed by all members of teaching staff and the management team.
Music Academy Midlands Ltd staff who do not directly work with children, will read Annex A of KCSIE 2022: Safeguarding information for school and college staff (a condensed Part one).
Music Academy Midlands Ltd’s Senior Leadership Team with responsibility for safeguarding will receive safeguarding training from a strategic perspective which will be updated regularly, to be disseminated to the rest of the leadership team.

The Director will ensure the DSL and the Deputy DSL attend the required safeguarding training when they first take up the role which will provide them with the knowledge and skills required to carry out the role effectively. The training will be updated every two years. In addition to formal training, their knowledge and skills will be updated at least annually, to keep up with any developments relevant to their role.

Music Academy Midlands Ltd

Safeguarding policy

This page includes the following organisational policies:

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