Bright Start Preschool Policies

Accident/Incident Policy

Introduction
The procedure for reporting accidents and incidents to the HSE under RIDDOR requirements.

Aim
Brightstart follow the guidelines of the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) for the reporting of accidents and incidents. Child protection matters or behavioral incidents between children are not regarded as incidents and there are separate procedures for this.

Procedures
Our Accident Book
• Is kept in the yellow ‘Ofsted grab box’ which is always kept in a safe and secure place
• Is accessible to staff and volunteers, who all know how to complete it; and
• Is reviewed by Nicky or Ellie at least termly to identify any potential/actual hazards
• All injuries and accidents are recorded with the injury sustained and treatment immediately the incident is dealt with. Parents are also called to warn them.
Reporting accidents and incidents
• Parents are notified immediately an accident occurs and are pre-warned of any injuries to avoid shock on collection.
• Accident forms are signed by parents on the day of the incident/accident. The accident form is completed by the member of staff who witnessed the accident and signed. The parent is called to be pre-warned of any incidents/injuries.
• Ofsted is notified as soon as possible, but at least within 14 days, of any instances which involve:
• Food poisoning affecting two or more children looked after on the premises
• A serious accident/injury to, or serious illness of, a child in our care and the action we take in response; and
• The death of a child in our care
First Aid Box
• A first aid box is kept on the back table out of the reach of the children and checked regularly by the latest person to complete first aid training, or either Nicky/Ellie to ensure that the contents are in date and have been replenished.
• There is a separate first aid ‘bum bag’ which is a replica of the first aid box which is available to take on trips/outings. This is found in the locked staff cupboard.
• There are surplus products stored in the top cupboard.

Local child protection agencies are informed of any serious accident or injury to a child, or the death of any child, while in our care and we act on any advice given by those agencies.

Any food poisoning affecting two or more children or adults on our premises is reported to the local Environmental Health Department.

We meet our legal requirements in respect of the safety of our employees and the public by complying with RIDDOR. We report to the Health & Safety Executive:
• Any work related accident leading to an injury to a child/adult, for which they need hospital treatment
• Any work related injury to a member of staff, which results in them being unable to work for 7 consecutive days
• When a member of staff suffers from a reportable work related disease or illness
• Any death, of a child or adult that occurs in connection with activities relating to our work; and any dangerous occurrences. This may be an event that causes injury or fatalities or an event that does not cause an accident but could have done eg a gas leak.

Our Incident Book
• We have access to telephone numbers for emergency services, including the local police. Where we rent the premises we ensure that we have access to the person responsible and that there is a shared procedure for dealing with emergencies.
• We keep an incident book for recording major incidents, including those that are reportable to the H&SE
• These incidents include:
o Break in, burglary, theft
o An intruder gaining unauthorized accessed to the premises.
o A fire, flood, gas leak or electrical failure
o Attack on a member of staff or parent on the premises nearby
o Any racist incident involving staff/family on the premises
o A notifiable disease/illness, outbreak of food poisoning affecting 2 or more children
o The death of a child/adult
o A terrorist attack or threat of one
• In the incident book we record the date and time of the incident, nature of the event, who was affected, what was done about it or if it was reported to the police and if so a crime report number. Any follow up or insurance claim made is also recorded.
• In the unlikely event of a terrorist attack, we follow the advice of the emergency services with regard to evacuation, medical aid and contact the children’s families. Our standard Fire Safety and Emergency Evacuation policy will be followed and staff will take charge of the children. The incident is recorded when the threat is averted.
• In the unlikely event of a child dying on the premises, the emergency services are called and the advice of the services are followed.
• The incident book is not for recording issues of concern involving a child. This is recorded in the bumps before brightstart book or in the safeguarding file, of child’s individual file.

Safety of Premises

• The premises including over floor space and outdoor space are fit for purpose and suitable for the ages of the children cared for, including the activities provided on the premises.
• All fire safety, hygiene and health and safety legislation are adhered to
• Brightstart have an emergency evacuation and lock down procedure
• Appropriate fire detection and control equipment and are regularly inspected by a fire officer

Attendance Policy

Aim
It is the intention of Bright Start to ensure children have regular attendance at preschool as this is crucial for child development and well being in their early years. This policy outlines our expectations, procedures for reporting absences, and the actions we will take in cases of unexplained or prolonged absences, and is in line with the new guidance from Ofsted.

Expectations for Attendance
• We expect children to attend their scheduled sessions regularly and punctually. Sessions either begin at 9 am or 12 noon. Parents/carers are responsible for ensuring their child’s attendance. If a child is unable to attend, parents/carers must notify us as soon as possible, either by message, email or calling us.

Reporting Absences
• Parents/carers must notify Brightstart of their child’s absence on the first day of the absence. Absences can be reported by telephone/message: 07858 188867 or via
Email: brightstartbg@hotmail.co.uk
When reporting an absence, please provide the child’s full name, reason for absence (e.g. illness, appointment) and the expected duration of absence.

Unexplained Absences
• If a child is absent without notification, we will attempt to contact the parent/carer using the primary contact number provided, either by message or calling. If we are unable to reach the parent/carer, we will attempt to contact the secondary emergency contact provided. All contact attempts and outcomes will be recorded. If we are unable to make contact and have concerns about the child’s welfare, we will follow our safeguarding procedures and contacting emergency contacts if parents or carers are not contactable.

Prolonged Absences
• A prolonged absence is defined as 2 consecutive sessions of absence without a valid explanation.
• If a child is absent for a prolonged period, we will: Make repeated attempts to contact parents/carers and emergency contacts. Send a written communication (e.g., email/text or letter) to the parent/carer. Consider a home visit, if appropriate and following internal procedures which could include the withdrawal of the child’s nursery placement. Consult with our safeguarding lead if there are concerns about the child’s welfare.

Trends in absences
• We will consider patterns and trends in a child’s absence and their personal circumstances, using professional judgement when deciding if the child’s absence should be considered as prolonged. Consideration will be given to the child’s vulnerability, parent/carer’s vulnerability and their home life. Any concerns will be referred to local children’s social care services and/or a police welfare check requested.

Illness
• If your child is unwell, please keep them at home to prevent the spread of infection.
(Sickness and diarrhoea remain away from the setting for 48 hours after the last bout)
• * Please inform us of any contagious illnesses, such as chickenpox, measles etc
• Children should not return to the setting until they are symptom-free or as advised by a medical professional.

Late Arrival/Early Collection
• Please inform us if your child will be arriving late or collected early. Late arrivals can disrupt the learning environment, so we encourage punctuality.
• Only authorised persons can collect children. Please inform us of any changes to collection arrangements.

Late Collection
• It is important that you arrive on time to collect your child. If for any reason you are unable to, please arrange for a family member or friend to collect your child and inform the preschool. In the unlikely event that you are unable to make alternative arrangements, you will incur a charge for late collection.

Safeguarding
• Staff are trained to identify and respond to safeguarding concerns.
• Any concerns about a child’s welfare will be reported to the designated safeguarding lead (Nicky Thompson or Ellie Thompson).
• We will follow our safeguarding procedures and work with relevant authorities as necessary.
• Where a child is deemed at risk, consent with parent or carer does not have to occur

Review
• This policy will be reviewed annually or as needed to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with relevant legislation.

Behaviour Management Policy

Policy Statement
Our setting believes that children flourish best when their personal, social and emotional needs are met and where there are clear and developmentally appropriate expectations for their behaviour. Brightstart are responsible for supporting, understanding and managing behaviours in an appropriate way.

Children need to learn to consider the views and feelings, needs and rights of others and the impact that their behaviour has on people places and objects. This is a developmental task that requires support, encouragement, teaching and setting the right example. The principles that underpin how we achieve positive and considerate behaviour exist within the programme for promoting personal, social and emotional development.

Procedures
We have two named people, Nicky Thompson and Ellie Thompson, who have overall responsibility for our programme of supporting personal, social and emotional development, including issues concerning behaviour.

Nicky/Ellie Thompson are responsible for;
 Keeping up to date with legislation, research and thinking on promoting positive behaviour and on handling children’s behaviour where it may require additional support;
 Accessing relevant sources of expertise on promoting behaviour within the programme for supporting personal, social and emotional development; and
 Check that staff have relevant in service training on promoting positive behaviour.

The setting expects all staff to;
 Recognise that codes for interacting with other people vary between cultures and require staff to be aware of – and respect – those used by members and children of the setting.
 Provide a positive model of behaviour by treating children, parents and one another with friendliness, care and courtesy.
 Familiarise themselves with the setting’s behaviour policy and its guidelines
 Keep to the guidelines within this policy and apply them consistently.
 Work in partnership with children’s parents/carers. Parents/carers are regularly informed about their children’s behaviour by their key person. We work with parents to address recurring inconsiderate behaviour, using our observation records to help us understand the cause and decide jointly how to respond appropriately.

Strategies
 We require all staff to use positive strategies for handling any inconsiderate behaviour, by helping children find solutions in ways which are appropriate for their age and stage of development. For example; acknowledgement of feelings, explanation as to what is acceptable, and supporting children to gain control of their feelings so they can learn a more positive response.
 We ensure there are enough popular toys and resources and sufficient activities available so that children are meaningfully occupied without the need for unnecessary conflict over sharing and waiting for turns.
 We acknowledge considerate behaviour
 We support each child in developing self esteem, confidence and feelings of competence.
 We support each child in developing a sense of belonging in our group, so they feel valued and welcome
 We avoid creating situations in which children receive adult attention only in return for inconsiderate behaviour.
 When children behave in inconsiderate ways, we help to understand the outcomes of their action and support them in learning how to cope more appropriately.
 We never use physical punishment or threaten corporal punishment or any punishment that would affect a childs well being negatively. Brightstart have to take reasonable steps to ensure corporal punishment is not given by anyone who is caring for or in regular contact with any child.
 If on the extremely rare occasion physical intervention is taken to avert immediate danger of personal injury or any person including a child, or to manage a child’s behaviour it will not be considered as corporal punishment.
 Any situation where a physical intervention has to be made to safeguard a child from extreme harm or injury it needs to be logged in the physical intervention book. Details of such an event are brought to the attention of Nicky/Ellie Thompson and recorded in the children’s personal file also. The child’s parent/carer is informed on the same day.
 We do not use techniques intended to single out and humiliate individual children.
 In cases of racist or other abuse, we make clear immediately the unacceptability of the behaviour and attitudes, by means of explanation rather than personal blame and speak to both child’s parent/carers at the end of the day to explain the situation.
 We do not raise our voices in a threatening way to respond to children’s inconsiderate behaviour.

Children under two/three years
 When children under three years behave in inconsiderate ways we recognise that strategies for supporting them will need to be developmentally appropriate and differ from those of older children.
 We recognise that young children are unable to regulate their emotions such as fear, anger or distress and require sensitive adults to help them do this.
 Common examples of this include tantrums, biting or fighting. Staff are calm and patient, offering comfort to intense emotions, helping children to manage their feelings.
 If tantrums, biting or fighting are frequent we try to find out an underlying cause, using a behavior monitoring sheet to identifying why this may be occurring.
 We focus on ensuring a child’s attachment figure in the setting, their key person, is building a strong relationship to provide security to the child.

Rough and Tumble Play and Fantasy Aggression
Young children often engage in play that has aggressive themes – such as superhero and weapon play; this behaviour is not a precursor to hurtful behaviour, although it may need addressing using strategies as above.
 We recognise that teasing and rough and tumble play are normal for young children and acceptable within limits. We regard these kinds of play as pro-social and not as problematic or aggressive.
 We will develop strategies to contain play that are agreed with the children, and understood by them, with acceptable behavioural boundaries to ensure children are not hurt.
 We are able to tune in to the content of the play, perhaps to suggest alternative strategies for heroes and heroines, making the most of ‘teachable moments’ to encourage empathy and explore alternative scenarios and strategies for conflict resolution.

Hurtful Behaviour
 We recognise that young children behave in hurtful ways towards other because they have not yet developed the means to manage intense feelings.
 We do not engage in punitive responses to a young child’s rage.
 We help a child to understand the effect that their hurtful behaviour has had on another child; we do not force children to say sorry, but encourage this where it is clear that they are genuinely sorry.
 When hurtful behaviour becomes problematic we work with parents/carers to identify the cause and find a solution together.

Physical Intervention Log
• A log of any occasion where physical intervention is used must be recorded on the same day, with parents being informed on the same day or as soon as is reasonably practicable.

laints Policy

Policy Statement
We are committed to providing an excellent service to children and their families, but in the unlikely event that you may have a concern about anything we do, this policy provides clear guidelines for you to follow. The Welfare Requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requires early years providers to put in place written procedures for dealing with complaints from parents, provide parents with the complaints procedure and details for Ofsted, with an explanation that parents can make a complaint to Ofsted if they wish, and keep a written record of complaints and their outcome.

Complaints Procedure – informal complaints
The complaint or concern should be raised verbally to the Manager or acting Manager of the setting. Most informal complaints involve issues where there is no risk to children or where staff behavior does not constitute as misconduct. Where this is the case the process of ‘resolution through dialogue’ will be used. A copy of the notes of complaint will be recorded in the Complaints file alongside a report of the outcome.

Complaints Procedure – formal complaints
The complainant will be asked to put the complaint in writing and will be asked to fill out a complaints form. The settings management will also be informed of all formal complaints. A person making a complaint may refer the matter to Ofsted if they are dissatisfied with the way in which the complaint was handled by the setting, or if the complaint is serious/suggests a breach of the EYFS welfare requirements and/or learning and development requirements. A parent, or other individual, making a complain to Ofsted about a provider may and can do anonymously if they wish. For safeguarding allegations against staff or the manager, the settings designated safeguarding officer will report the allegation to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) to inform them of the allegation and to seek advice on how to move forward with the investigation. This may include other agencies if it is not deemed appropriate for the setting to carry out the investigation. The setting must also inform Ofsted as soon as it is reasonably practical. Failure to comply with this procedure is an offence. For all complaints that relate to child protection please refer to the settings Safeguarding Policy and the settings Whistleblowing Policy.

Investigation of Complaints
All written complaints must be investigated and the complaint must be notified of the outcome within 28 days of having received the complaint. This includes written complaints made by email. The complainant will be provided with the following details
• the process that was taken to ensure that the complaint was fully investigated, such as interviews, reviews of records.
• Who was involved in the investigation without identifying any individuals named in the complaint including staff or any children and any referrals that were made to external agencies eg. The local authority, social care or Ofsted.
Details of the outcome of the investigation that took place will be recorded. This includes
• any actions identified by the setting
• any actions taken by Ofsted
• any action taken by another external agency, where the setting has their permission to do so.
The outcome of the investigation:
• identifying areas for improvement within the provision
• if the setting has dismissed any member of staff following the investigation, and if so, under what circumstances
• if the setting has dismissed a member of staff for misconduct because they placed a child under significant harm the setting will inform the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA).
Recording and Storing Complaints, providers must provide Ofsted, on request, with a written record of all complaints made during any specified period, and the action which was taken as a result of each complaint. The record of complaints should be kept for at least three years. All complaints made by parents will be kept in a complaints file. The setting has a complaint summary record to accompany the complaints form. This can also be used to log staff complaints. Any serious complaints will be kept in a locked filing cabinet to ensure confidentiality. The complaints form will not name the complainant or any children to ensure confidentiality. Complaints will only be shared on a need to know basis.

How to contact Ofsted
• We make available to parents/carers on our notice board, contact details of Ofsted and how they should contact them should they wish to.
• Parents are made aware of any impending visit by Ofsted, and following inspection are provided with details of how to access a copy of the report.

Door Policy
Including Arrival, Departure and Visitors

Statement of Intent
This policy aims to outline the safe arrival and departure of children in and out of the setting. It also states the procedure to follow when a visitor attends the setting. Brightstart Pre-school have adopted this policy to maintain the highest standards of care and safety to the children, their families and the staff.
Methods Used:
• A daily checklist completed by a Pre-school worker ensures all exterior doors to the property are checked and secured as appropriate, and supervised before any children can be on site.
• Staff arrange themselves so all open doors during arrivals and departures are covered by a staff member and are then closed securely immediately.
• These doors are not left unmanned whilst parents are still in the building.
• A signing in book is used to log the arrival and departure times of all children, staff, volunteers, stay and play sessions and visitors and who is collecting the child.
• Children will not be released into the care of another adult unless parents have spoken to staff, and sent a photo of the person collecting and a password assigned for the adult collecting.
• All doors are kept secured during the day so no visitors can gain unauthorised access to the premises, and no children can get out.
• At all times the garden gate must be kept locked with the keypad code only being shared with staff.
• When a visitor/parent turns up out of normal opening hours (9am, noon, 3 and 5pm) the door will be opened to find out who is collecting/visiting, the door then closed before going off to get the appropriate child. Again parents should notify the setting if they will be coming outside of the normal hours. (A ring door will be being installed over the next 4 months -prior to Christmas 2026) to heighten security further.
Safe Arrival of Children
At 9am the front door to the pre-school will be opened. A staff member will use the signing in book to log each child’s arrival. Children MUST be logged on the signing in book as they enter pre-school, for this to be done children may need to wait to ensure the staff member on the door has seen them coming in. This must include the time they arrive, leaving time and who is collecting, and includes children who arrive late.
However we understand the need may arise for parents to settle their children and you are welcome to come in to pre-school if your child requires support or you need to speak with their keyworker/pre-school manager.
The doors will be closed at 09:10. Please stick to dropping off during this time where-ever possible. Parents arriving later than this must call 07858 188867 to alert staff of their arrival. Once all parents have left the building and all outside doors are secured then the children’s class registration/mat time can begin.
Safe Departure of Children
After our end of day group sessions the children will be asked to sit on the carpet area. Once we have sung our goodbye song the staff deploy themselves so the front door is covered. All additional staff must stay with the children to ensure their close supervision and entertaining the children whilst the doors are open. Children will be required to stay on the carpet until their name is called. They may then go to the person collecting them. The staff member on the entrance door must sign out each child that is collected and no adult will be allowed to enter the building unless the child they are there to collect has been signed off in the signing in book. If an adult arrives to collect a child that is not someone who is written down to collect then staff will check messages on the phone and call the parent/carers listed in the contact book. Parents must be contacted to collect the child or provide verbal consent, a child will not be allowed to go with anyone else if not previously arranged. Children staying for the afternoon session will be preparing for lunch time with staff
When all morning children have been collected the register must be checked again to ensure all children have been signed out correctly. If collecting early the staff member will close the front door whilst they go and collect your child so please wait outside patiently.
At 12.15, the children attending the afternoon session must be signed in on the signing in book and have the afternoon register taken to ensure everyone is present. The same exit procedure must be carried out at the end of an afternoon to ensure the children’s safety.
Visitors to the Setting
If a visitor arrives at the setting their identification must be checked to verify who they are, if needs be their office can be phoned to verify their identity. Whilst their identity is being verified the visitor MUST remain outside of the building.
Once their identification has been verified, they can be let into the building. The pre-school manager needs to be informed when any visitor has arrived. All visitors MUST sign into the visitors log. The front door will need to be secured behind the visitor by the staff member who has let them in.
All personal belongings of the visitor must remain in the kitchen away from the children.
Visitors must be accompanied by a staff member at all times when in the setting and if coming into the setting to work directly with the children they must present either their id card or a full enhanced DBS certificate which is relevant to the childcare workforce sector.
When the visit is finished the visitor must sign out and be escorted from the building. Staff will need to ensure the front door is locked after the visitor has left the building.
Lock Down Procedure
In the event that a visitor to the setting is attempting to gain entry without permission, staff must calmly move all children to the upstairs rooms ensuring they have checked the bathrooms and garden. The key phrase to alert all staff is “Close the door”. The children will remain upstairs & the classroom doors will be locked once inside so that if anyone gains access to the building the children are secure with at least ¾ members of staff. If staff are not able to get the children upstairs they will lock themselves and the children in the disabled toilet cubicle. If they are outside and unable to safely come inside they will be escorted to Emilas for refuge. Staff must telephone the police on 999 for assistance and remain upstairs or in their safe location until the police arrive. Once the police have dealt with the intruder all parents must be contacted and asked to collect their children immediately. The staff must write witness accounts and hand them to the police with a copy of all accounts being kept on file in the settings Safeguarding File. The settings Manager will then report the incident to OFSTED within 24 hours.

Health & Safety Policy

Policy Statement
Bright Start believes that the health and safety of children and staff is of paramount importance. We make our setting a safe and healthy place for children, parents, staff and volunteers.
• We aim to make children, parents, staff and volunteers aware of health and safety issues and to minimise the risks and hazards to enable the children to thrive in a healthy and safe environment.
• The member of staff responsible for health and safety is: Nicky Thompson and Ellie Thompson.
• We display the necessary Health and Safety Poster in the Kitchen.
We have public liability insurance and the certificate is displayed on the notice board.

Procedures
• Our induction training for staff and volunteers includes a clear explanation of health and safety issues.
• Records are kept of these induction sessions and new staff and volunteers are asked to sign the records to confirm they have taken part.
• As necessary health and safety training is included in the annual training plans and health and safety is discussed regularly at staff meetings.
• We operate a no-smoking policy.
• Children are made aware of health and safety issues through discussions and planned activities and routines.

Safety of Adults
• Adults are provided with guidance about the safe storage, movement and lifting of large equipment.
• The sickness of staff and their involvement in accidents is recorded. The records are reviewed termly to identify any issues that need to be addressed.
• Staff have been given a copy of the new Covid-19 policy to read and sign

Windows
• All windows accessible to children contain safety glass.

Doors
• We take precautions to prevent children’s fingers from being trapped in doors.

Electrical/gas Equipment
• All electrical and gas equipment conforms to safety requirements and is checked regularly.
• Our boiler/electrical/meter cupboard is not accessible to children.
• Fires, heaters, electric sockets and wires are properly guarded and the children are taught not to touch them.
• There are sufficient sockets to prevent overloading.
• The temperature of the hot water is controlled to prevent scalds.
• Lighting and ventilation is adequate in all areas including storage areas.

Storage
• All resources and materials which are used by the children are stored safely.
• All equipment and resources are stored or stacked safely to prevent them accidentally falling or collapsing.

Outdoor Area
• Our outdoor area is securely fenced.
• Our outdoor area is checked for safety and cleared of rubbish before it is used.
• Our outdoor sandpit, water tray and mud area is covered when not in use and cleaned regularly.
• All outdoor activities are supervised at all times.

Hygiene
• Our daily routines encourage the children to learn about personal hygiene.
• We have a schedule for cleaning resources and equipment, dressing up clothes and furnishings.
• The toilet has a good standard of hygiene, including hand washing and drying facilities and disposal facilities for nappies.
• We implement good hygiene practices by:
– Cleaning tables between activities
– Cleaning and checking toilets regularly
– Wearing protective clothing – such as aprons and disposable gloves as appropriate.
– Providing sets of clean clothes.
– Providing tissues and wipes

Activities and Resources
• Before purchase or loan equipment and resources are checked to ensure they are safe for the ages and stages of children currently attending the setting.
• The layout of play equipment allows adults and children to move safely and freely between activities.
• All equipment is regularly checked for cleanliness and safety, any dangerous items are repaired or discarded.
• All materials including paint and glue are non-toxic.
• Sand is clean and suitable for children’s play.
• Physical play is constantly supervised.
• Children learn about health safety and personal hygiene through the activities we provide and the routines we follow.

Legal Framework
• Health and Safety at Work Act (1974)
• Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (1999)
• Electricity at Work Regulations (1989)
• Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) (2002)
• Manual Handling Operations Regulations (1992 (amended 2004))
• Health and Safety (display screen equipment) Regulations (1992)

Ill of Infectious Child Policy

Policy Statement
We provide care for healthy children through preventing cross infection of viruses and bacterial infections and guard against allergic reactions through identifying allergies and preventing contact with the allergenic substance.

Procedures for Children who are sick or Infectious
• If children appear unwell during the day – have a temperature, sickness, diarrhoea or pains particularly in the head or stomach – the key person calls the parent and asks them to collect the child, or make arrangements for a known carer to collect the child on their behalf at the parents request.
• If a child appears to have a temperature this is checked using a strip or forehead thermometer which is kept in the first aid box.
• If a temperature is recorded the child is kept cool by removing top clothing and sponging their head with cool water. In extreme cases the setting will administer Calpol (only with consent from the parent) and take the child to the nearest hospital and the parent informed immediately.
• The setting can refuse admission to children who have a temperature, sickness and diarrhoea or a contagious condition.
• After sickness or diarrhoea parents are asked to keep their child home for at least 48 hours after the last bout and will be refused entry if they return to preschool before the 48 hours has passed
• The setting has a list of excludable diseases and current exclusion times on the wall for all parents to see which is in line with guidance from WHO

Reporting of Notifiable diseases
• if a child or adult is diagnosed as suffering from a notifiable disease under the Health Protection (Notification) Regulations (2010), the GP will report it to the Health Protection Agency.
• When the setting has been officially made aware of the notifiable disease the manager informs Ofsted and acts immediately upon any advice given by the HPA.

Protocol for systematic children and staff with suspected Covonavirus
This is taken from current guidance from the DfE (August 2026) and is as follows:

High Temperature or Feeling Unwell:
• Children and staff who are unwell and have a high temperature must stay at home. They can return to the setting when the high temperature is gone and they feel well enough to attend.

Mild Symptoms Only:
• Children with mild symptoms (such as a slight cough, runny nose, or sore throat) cancontinue to attend childcare if they otherwise feel well.

Positive Test
• Routine testing is no longer required or recommended.

Procedures for children with allergies
• When parents start their child at the setting they are asked if the child suffers from any known allergies or interolerances. This is recorded on the registration form. And transferred to the notices on wall in hall and kitchen.
• If a child has an allergy a risk assessment is completed to consider the following.
– The allergen
– The nature of the allergic reaction and severity
– What to do in the case of a reaction i.e medication and how to administer it.
– Control measures i.e. how can contact be prevented.

This information is kept in the child’s file and all staff made aware of it.

Insurance Requirements
The insurance will automatically include children with any disability or allergy, but certain procedures must be strictly adhered to as set out below. For children suffering life threatening conditions or requiring invasive treatments; written confirmation to extend setting’s insurance will be obtained.

At all times the administration of medication will be compliant with Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements of the EYFS, the setting’s Administering Medicines Policy and follow procedures given in Managing Medicines in Schools and Early Years Settings (DfES2005)

Mobile Devices Policy

Policy Statement
The welfare, safety and protection of every child in our care is of paramount importance, we take our responsibility to safeguard children seriously. We have procedures in place which we ask everyone to respect and to help promote the safety of children in our care.

Bright Start Pre-school has a no use of mobile devices policy whilst the children are on the premises. It is our intention to provide an environment in which children, parents and staff are safe from images being recorded and inappropriately used, also from staff being distracted from their work with children.

Mobile Phones
We believe staff should be completely attentive during their working hours to ensure all children receive good quality care and attention. Mobile phones must NOT be used during working hours and should be kept away from children and on silent and kept on the cupboard in the kitchen.

Under no circumstances should a member of staff use their personal mobile to contact a parent/carer. Users bringing personal devices into the setting should ensure there is no inappropriate or illegal content on the device.

It is the responsibility of all staff to be vigilant and report any concerns to the setting manager.

The manager/owner reserves the right to check images of a member of staff’s mobile device should there be any concerns over inappropriate use. Should any inappropriate material be found then our LADO will be contacted immediately as will the police. Guidance will be followed with regards to dismissal.

Smart Watches
Whilst we appreciate that many people now own smart watches, when worn to the setting they should be put on Do Not Disturb so no messages etc are received while in the preschool.

Parents and Visitors
Parents or visitors who arrive using a mobile or taking a call on a mobile should be asked to end the call immediately or leave the premises. Visitors should be asked to leave their mobile phones in a safe area.

Cameras and Capturing Images and videos

Photographs taken for the purpose of recording a child participating in activities or celebrating their achievements is an effective form of recording their progression in the EYFS. All parents are asked permission for this in writing. However it is essential that photographs are taken and stored appropriately as required by the GDPR.

• Only the designated setting’s camera/setting phone is to be used to take photos of the children
• All staff are responsible for the location of the camera; this should be kept locked away when not in use
• Images stored on the camera/phone should be downloaded as soon as possible and then deleted from both the camera and the computer on which they have been downloaded to
• At gatherings such as sports day, parties and shows we will always ask parents not to upload any photos they take to any social media site.

This policy is in place to protect and safeguard both children and staff

Safeguarding Policy

Key Contacts

Name Contact information eg. Setting email/phone number
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Nicky Thompson 07523 284 379
01732 884248
Nicola.sarah.thompson@virgin.net
brightstartbg@hotmail.co.uk
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
Ellie Thompson

Laura O’Doherty 07505 076877
Ellie.thompson1998@icloud.com

07506 733953
Lauraodoherty90@hotmail.co.uk

Manager/Proprietor Nicky Thompson 07523 284379
01732 884248
Nicola.sarah.thompson@virgin.net
brightstartbg@hotmail.co.uk
Other key staff eg chain safeguarding lead n/a

Safeguarding Policy

Key Contact Personnel within the setting: Nicky Thompson

Contact person in their absence: Ellie Thompson
Laura O’Doherty

Contact details for LADO: 03000 41 08 88
Email: kentchildrenslado@kent.gov.uk
Contact details for Education
Safeguarding Team: West Kent: Worrall House
30 Kings Hill Avenue
West Malling
Kent, ME19 4AE
T: 
03301 65 14 40


North Kent: Worrall House
30 Kings Hill Avenue
West Malling
Kent, ME19 4AE
T: 
03301 65 12 40

This is a core policy that forms part of the induction for all staff. It is a requirement that all members of staff have access to this policy and sign to say they have read and understood its contents.

Contents

Page
What to do if you have a welfare concern flowchart

1. Child Focused Approach to Safeguarding 4

2. Key Responsibilities 7

3. Child Protection Procedures 10

4. Specific Safeguarding Issues 15

5. Supporting Children Potentially at Greater Risk of Harm 22

6. Online Safety 23

7. Staff Engagement and Expectations 26

8. Safer Recruitment and Allegations Against Staff 27

9. Opportunities to Teach Safeguarding 30

10. Physical Safety 30

11. Local Contacts 31

Appendix 1: Categories of Abuse 32

Appendix 2: Support Organisations 35

1. Child Focused Approach to Safeguarding

Every child deserves the best possible start in life and the support that enables them to fulfil their potential. Children develop quickly in the early years and a child’s experiences between birth and age five have a major impact on their future life chances. A secure, safe and happy childhood is important in its own right.’ Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) 2021

1.1 Introduction

• The Registered Person, Nicola Thompson of Brightstart Preschool Ltd believe that all those directly involved with our setting have an essential role to play in making it safe and secure. Our setting aims to create the safest environment within which every child can achieve their full potential and we take seriously our responsibility to promote the welfare and safeguard all the children and young people entrusted to our care.

• Brightstart Preschool Ltd recognise our statutory responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children. Safeguarding is everybody’s responsibility and all those directly connected (staff, volunteers, governors, leaders, parents, families, and children) are an important part of the wider safeguarding system for children and have an essential role to play in making this community safe and secure.

• Brightstart Preschool Ltd believe that the best interests of children always come first. All children (defined as those up to the age of 18) have a right to be heard and to have their wishes and feelings taken into account and all children regardless of age, sex (gender), ability, culture, race, language, religion or sexual identity, have equal rights to protection.

• This policy applies where there are any child protection concerns regarding children who attend the settings but may also apply to other children connected to the setting, for example, siblings or younger staff (under 18s) or children on student/work placements.

• Staff working with children at Brightstart Preschool Ltd will maintain an attitude of ‘it could happen here’ where safeguarding is concerned. When concerned about the welfare of a child, staff will always act in the best interests of the child and if any member of our community has a safeguarding concern about any child or adult, they should act and act immediately.

• As part of the safeguarding ethos of the setting we are committed to:
o Maintaining children’s welfare as our paramount concern
o Providing an environment and culture in which children feel safe, secure, valued, and respected, confident to talk openly and sure of being listened to
o Developing appropriate and positive relationships between children and the adults that care for them
o Providing suitable support and guidance so that children have a range of appropriate adults who they feel confident to approach if they are in difficulties
o Using learning opportunities to increase self-awareness, self-esteem, assertiveness, and decision making. This is so that young children develop a range of contacts and strategies to ensure their own protection and understand the importance of protecting others
o Working with parents/carers to build an understanding of the setting’s responsibility to ensure the welfare of all children including the need for referral to other agencies in some situations
o Ensuring all staff have regular and appropriate training (including induction) to enable them to recognise the signs and symptoms of abuse and ensure they are aware of the setting’s procedures and reporting mechanisms
o Monitoring children who have been identified as ‘in need’ including the need for protection, keeping confidential records which are stored securely and shared appropriately with other professionals.
o Developing effective and supportive liaison with other agencies.

• The procedures contained in this policy apply to all staff, including trustees, temporary or third-party agency staff and volunteers.

• Brightstart Preschool Ltd adheres to the Kent Safeguarding Children Multi-Agency Partnership (KSCMP) safeguarding children’s procedures. The full KSCMP procedures document and additional guidance relating to specific safeguarding issues can be found on the KSCMP website: www.kscmp.org.uk

1.2 Policy context

• This policy is implemented in accordance with our compliance with the statutory guidance from the Department for Education, Early Years and Foundation Stage (EYFS) 2021, especially section 3: the safeguarding and welfare requirements.

• This policy has been developed in accordance with the principles established by the Children Acts 1989 and 2004 and related guidance. This includes but is not limited to:
o Keeping Children Safe in Education 2022 (KCSIE)
o Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018 (WTSC)
o Ofsted: Education Inspection Framework’
o Framework for the Assessment of Children in Need and their Families 2000
o Kent and Medway Safeguarding Children Procedures
o Early Years and Foundation Stage Framework 2021 (EYFS)
o The Education Act 2002
o The Human Rights Act 1998
o The Equality Act 2010 (including the Public Sector Equality Duty)

• Brightstart Preschool Ltd will continue to follow government guidance in response to the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic; regardless of the action required, our safeguarding principles will always remain the same. We will amend this policy and our approaches, as necessary.

• Brightstart Preschool Ltd recognise that as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, some members of our community may have been exposed to a range of adversity and trauma including bereavement, anxiety and in some cases experienced increased welfare and/or safeguarding risks. We will work with local services, such as health and the local authority, to ensure necessary support is in place.

1.3 Definition of safeguarding

• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018) states that safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is defined as:
o protecting children from maltreatment.
o preventing impairment of children’s mental and physical health or development.
o ensuring that children grow up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care; and
o taking action to enable all children to have the best outcomes.

• It also reminds us that safeguarding “is everyone’s responsibility” and everyone who comes into contact with children and families has a role to play. Everyone should consider wider environmental factors in a child’s life that may be a threat to their safety and/or welfare.
• The setting acknowledges that safeguarding includes a wide range of specific issues including (but not limited to):
o Abuse and neglect
o Bullying, including cyberbullying
o Child-on-child abuse
o Children with family members in prison
o Children Missing Education (CME)
o Child missing from home or care
o Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)
o Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE)
o Contextual safeguarding (risks outside the family home)
o County lines and gangs
o Domestic abuse
o Drugs and alcohol misuse
o Fabricated or induced illness
o Faith abuse
o Gender based abuse and violence against women and girls
o Hate
o Homelessness
o Human trafficking and modern slavery
o Mental health
o Nude or semi-nude image sharing, aka youth produced/involved sexual imagery or “Sexting”
o Online safety
o Preventing radicalisation and extremism
o Private fostering
o Relationship abuse
o Serious violence
o Sexual violence and sexual harassment
o So-called ‘honour-based’ abuse, including Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage
o ‘Upskirting’

• Annex B of ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ (KCSIE) contains important additional information about specific forms of abuse and safeguarding issues.
• If staff have any concerns about a child’s welfare, they should act on them immediately. They should follow this policy and speak to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (or deputy).

1.4 Related safeguarding policies

This policy is one of a series of our integrated safeguarding portfolio and should be read and actioned in conjunction with the policies as listed below:
o Abuse and Neglect
o Attendance, including lost or missing children
o Arrivals and departures, including collection procedures and uncollected child arrangements
o Behaviour management
o Complaints
o Confidentiality
o Data protection and information sharing
o Emergency procedures such as evacuations and lockdowns
o First aid and accidents, including administering medication and managing illness, allergies, heath, and infection
o Health and safety
o Image use
o Managing allegations against staff
o Mobile and smart technology
o Online safety
o Personal and intimate care
o Risk assessments, such as trips/outings, use of technology
o Safe and healthy eating
o Safer recruitment
o Sleep and rest policies
o Social media
o Staff behaviour policy/code of conduct, including Acceptable Use of Technology Policies (AUP)
o Ratios and lone working expectations
o Visitors policy
o Whistleblowing

Supporting Guidance (to be read and followed alongside this document)
o “Guidance for Safer Working Practice for Adults who Work with Children and Young People in Education Settings” – Safer Recruitment Consortium
o “What to do if you are worried a child is being abused” – DfE, March 2015
o Early Years Foundation Stage 2021 Welfare Requirements
o UK Council for Internet Safety (UKCIS) “Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years settings: online safety considerations”

• These documents can be found in Lever Arch Safeguarding file or the Safeguarding directory of the Macbook.

1.5 Policy compliance, monitoring and review

• Brightstart Preschool Ltd will review this policy at least annually (as a minimum) and will update it as needed, so that it is kept up to date with safeguarding issues as they emerge and evolve, including lessons learnt. The policy will also be revised following any national or local updates, significant local or national safeguarding events and/or learning, and/or any changes to our own procedures.

• All staff (including temporary staff and volunteers) will be provided with a copy of this policy. (which can be found in the policy file)

• Parents/carers can obtain a copy of the Child Protection Policy and other related policies on request. Additionally, our policies can be viewed via our website: on our website or in policy file

• The policy forms part of our development plan and will be reviewed annually by the Nicola Thompson which has responsibility for oversight of safeguarding and child protection systems.

• The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and manager will ensure the Registered Person receive regular reporting on safeguarding activity and systems. They will not receive details of individual children’s situations or identifying features of families as part of their oversight responsibility.

2. Key Responsibilities

2.1 Governance and leadership

• Nicola Thompson and the leadership team have a strategic responsibility for our safeguarding arrangements and will comply with their duties under legislation. They have regard to the KCSIE 2022 guidance and will ensure our policies, procedures and training is effective and complies with the law at all times.

• Nicola Thompson will facilitate a whole setting approach to safeguarding which involves everyone. They will ensure that safeguarding and child protection are at the forefront and underpin all relevant aspects of process and policy development, so that all systems, processes, and policies operate with the best interests of the child at their heart.

• Nicola Thompson is aware of their obligations under the Human Rights Act 1998, the Equality Act 2010, (including the Public Sector Equality Duty), and the local multi-agency safeguarding arrangements set out by the Kent Safeguarding Children Multi-Agency Partnership (KSCMP).
o This includes but is not limited to safeguarding all members of our community (for example, staff, children, parents/carers and other family members) identified with protected characteristics within the Equality Act: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation.
o For further information about our approaches to equality, diversity, and inclusion, please access our policies/website.

• Nicola Thompson and the leadership team will ensure that there are policies and procedures in place to ensure appropriate action is taken in a timely manner to safeguard and promote children’s welfare.

• Nicola Thompson will ensure that the Designated Safeguarding Leads are supported in their role and are provided with sufficient time so they can provide appropriate support to staff and children regarding any safeguarding and welfare concerns.

• Nicola Thompson will ensure that our child protection and safeguarding policies and procedures are understood and followed by all staff.

2.2 Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

• The EYFS states; ‘a practitioner must be designated to take lead responsibility for safeguarding children in every setting’. Nicola Thompson of Brightstart Preschool appointed (Nicky, Ellie and Laura) as the Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL) for our setting; they are appropriately qualified and experienced to enable them to fulfil this role.

• The setting has also appointed Deputy DSLs who will have delegated responsibilities and act in the DSL’s absence.
o Nicky, Owner, DSL
o Ellie, Deputy Manager, DSL
o Laura, Supervisor, DSL

• The DSL has overall responsibility for the day-to-day oversight of safeguarding and child protection systems (including online safety) in the setting. Whilst the activities of the DSL may be delegated to the deputies, the ultimate lead responsibility for safeguarding and child protection remains with the DSL and this responsibility will not be delegated.

• The Designated Safeguarding Lead (and any deputies) will be most likely to have a complete safeguarding picture and will be the most appropriate person to advise staff on the response to any safeguarding concerns.

• It is the role of the DSL to:
o Act as the central contact point for all staff to discuss any safeguarding concerns
o Maintain a confidential recording system for safeguarding and child protection concerns
o Coordinate safeguarding action for individual children
 When supporting children with a social worker or looked after children, the DSL should have the details of the child’s social worker in the authority that looks after the child.
o Liaise with other agencies and professionals in line with EYFS 2021 and WTSC 2018
o Ensure that locally established procedures as put in place by the three safeguarding partners as part of the Kent Safeguarding Children Multi-Agency Partnership (KSCMP) procedures, including referrals, are followed, as necessary.
o Represent, or ensure the setting is appropriately represented at multi-agency safeguarding meetings (including child protection conferences)
o Managing and monitoring the setting’s role in any multi-agency plan for a child.
o Being available during setting hours for staff to discuss any safeguarding concerns and ensuring adequate and appropriate DSL cover arrangements in response to any closures and out of hours and/or out of term activities.
o Ensuring all staff access appropriate safeguarding training and relevant updates in line with the recommendations within EYFS 2021.
o Liaise with the DSLs to inform them of any safeguarding issues, especially ongoing enquiries under section 47 of the Children Act 1989 and police investigations.

• The DSL will undergo appropriate and specific training to provide them with the knowledge and skills required to carry out their role. Deputy DSLs will be trained to the same standard as the DSL. The DSLs’ training will be updated formally at least every two years, but their knowledge and skills will be updated through a variety of methods at regular intervals and at least annually.

2.3 Members of staff

• The EYFS 2021 requires providers ‘to take all necessary steps to keep children safe and well’’ and accordingly, everyone involved in the care of young children has a role to play in their protection.

• All members of staff in our setting are part of the wider safeguarding system for children and are in a unique position to observe any changes in a child’s behaviour or appearance. Our staff play a particularly important role in safeguarding as they are in a position to identify concerns early, provide help for children, promote children’s welfare and prevent concerns from escalating.

• All members of staff have a responsibility to:
o provide a safe environment in which children can learn.
o be aware of the indicators of abuse and neglect so that they can identify cases of children who may need help or protection.
o know what to do if a child tells them that they are being abused, neglected, or exploited and understand the impact abuse and neglect can have upon a child.
o be able to identify and act upon indicators that children are, or at risk of developing mental health issues.
o be prepared to identify children who may benefit from early help.
o understand the early help process and their role in it.
o understand our safeguarding policies and systems.
o undertake regular and appropriate training which is regularly updated.
o be aware of the local process of making referrals to children’s social care and statutory assessment under the Children Act 1989.
o know how to maintain an appropriate level of confidentiality.
o reassure children who report concerns that they are being taken seriously and that they will be supported and kept safe.

• Staff at Brightstart Preschool recognise that children may not feel ready or know how to tell someone that they are being abused, exploited, or neglected, and/or they may not recognise their experiences as being abusive or harmful. This should not prevent staff from having professional curiosity and speaking to a DSL if they have any concerns about a child.

• Staff at Brightstart Preschool will determine how best to build trusted relationships with children, young people and parents/carers which facilitate appropriate professional communication in line with existing and relevant policies, for example, our behaviour policies.

2.4 Children

• Children have a right to:
o Feel safe, be listened to, and have their wishes and feelings taken into account.
o Confidently report abuse, knowing their concerns will be treated seriously, and knowing they can safely express their views and give feedback.
o Receive help from a trusted adult.
o Learn how to keep themselves safe, including online.

2.5 Parents and carers

• Parents/carers have a responsibility to:
o Understand and adhere to any relevant setting policies and procedures.
o Talk to their children about safeguarding issues and support the setting in their safeguarding approaches.
o Identify behaviours which could indicate that their child is at risk of harm including online.
o Seek help and support from the setting or other agencies.

3. Child Protection Procedures

3.1 Recognising indicators of abuse and neglect

• Staff will maintain an attitude of ‘it could happen here’ where safeguarding is concerned. When concerned about the welfare of a child, staff will always act in the best interests of the child.

• All staff are made aware of the definitions and indicators of abuse and neglect as identified by Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018) and Keeping Children Safe in Education 2022. This is outlined locally within the Kent Support Levels Guidance.

• Brightstart Preschool recognise that when assessing whether a child may be suffering actual or potential harm there are four categories of abuse (for more in-depth information, see appendix 1):
o Physical abuse
o Sexual abuse
o Emotional abuse
o Neglect

• By understanding the indicators or abuse and neglect, we can respond to problems as early as possible and provide the right support and services for the child and their family.

• All members of staff are expected to be aware of and follow the below approach if they are concerned about a child:

‘What to do if you are worried a child is being abused’ 2015

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that concerns may arise in many different contexts and can vary greatly in terms of their nature and seriousness. The indicators of child abuse and neglect can vary from child to child. Children develop and mature at different rates, so what appears to be worrying behaviour for a younger child might be normal for an older child. It is important to recognise that indicators of abuse and neglect do not automatically mean a child is being abused however all concerns should be taken seriously and will be explored by the DSL on a case-by-case basis.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises abuse, neglect, and safeguarding issues are rarely standalone events and cannot always be covered by one definition or one label alone. In many cases, multiple issues will overlap with one another, therefore staff will always be vigilant and always raise concerns with a DSL.

• Parental behaviors can indicate child abuse or neglect, so staff will be alert to parent-child interactions or concerning parental behaviours; this could include parents who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol or if there is a sudden change in their mental health.

• Children may report abuse happening to themselves, other children, or their family members. All reports made by children to staff will be taken seriously and will be responded to in line with this policy.

• Safeguarding incidents and/or behaviours can be associated with factors and risks outside the setting. Children can be at risk of abuse or exploitation in situations outside their families; extra-familial harms take a variety of different forms and children can be vulnerable to multiple harms including (but not limited to) sexual exploitation, criminal exploitation, sexual abuse, serious youth violence and county lines.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that technology can be a significant component in many safeguarding and wellbeing issues; children are at risk of abuse online from people they know (including other children) and from people they do not know; in many cases, abuse will take place concurrently via online channels and in daily life.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that some children have additional or complex needs and may require access to intensive or specialist services to support them.

• In all cases, if staff are unsure of what action to take, they will always speak to the DSL (or deputy).

3.2 Responding to child protection concerns

• If staff are made aware of a child protection concern, as appropriate to the child’s age/ability, they are expected to:
o listen carefully to the child, reflecting back the concern.
o be non-judgmental.
o Avoid using any leading questions; only prompting the child where necessary, with open questions to clarify information. For example, who, what, where, when or Tell, Explain, Describe (TED).
o not promise confidentiality as concerns will have to be shared further, for example, with the DSL and potentially Integrated Children’s Services.
o be clear about boundaries and how the report will be progressed.
o record the concern using the facts, for example, words the child uses or recording the location of any marks using a body map, in line with our record keeping requirements.
o inform the DSL (or deputy), as soon as practically possible.

• If staff have any concerns about a child’s welfare, they are expected to act on them immediately. If staff are unsure if something is a safeguarding issue, they will speak to the DSL (or deputy).

• The DSL or a deputy should always be available to discuss safeguarding concerns. If in exceptional circumstances, a DSL is not available, this should not delay appropriate action being taken by staff. Staff should speak to Nicky Thompson, take advice from the Education Safeguarding Service or a consultation with a social worker from the Front Door (for contact information, see flowchart. In these circumstances, any action taken will be shared with a DSL as soon as is possible.

• All staff are made aware that early information sharing is vital for the effective identification, assessment, and allocation of appropriate service provision, whether this is when problems first emerge, or where a child is already known to other agencies. Staff will not assume a colleague, or another professional will act and share information that might be critical in keeping children safe.

• Brightstart Preschool will respond to safeguarding concerns in line with the Kent Safeguarding Children Multi-Agency Partnership procedures (KSCMP).
o The full KSCMP procedures and additional guidance relating to reporting concerns and specific safeguarding issues can be found on their website: www.kscmp.org.uk

• In Kent, Early Help and Preventative Services and Children’s Social Work Services are part of Integrated Children’s Services (ICS). Specific information and guidance to follow with regards to accessing support and/or making referrals in Kent can be found here: www.kelsi.org.uk/support-for-children-and-young-people/integrated-childrens-services

• Where it is identified a child may benefit from Early Help support (as provided by ICS) , the DSL (or deputy) will generally lead as appropriate and make a request for support via the Front Door.
o The DSL will keep all Early Help cases under constant review and consideration will be given to escalating concerns to the Front Door or seeking advice via the Education Safeguarding Service if the situation does not appear to be improving or is getting worse.

• All staff are made aware of the process for making referrals to Integrated Children’s Services and for statutory assessments under the Children Act 1989, especially section 17 (children in need) and section 47 (a child suffering, or likely to suffer, significant harm) that may follow a referral, along with the role they might be expected to play in such assessments.

• Where a child is suffering, or is likely to suffer from harm, or is in immediate danger (for example, under section 17 or 47 of the Children Act), a ‘request for support’ will be made immediately to Kent Integrated Children’s Services (via the ‘Front Door’) and/or the police, in line with KSCMP procedures.
o Brightstart Preschool recognise that in situations where there are immediate child protection concerns for a child as identified in line with Support Level Guidance, it is NOT to investigate as a single agency, but to act in line with KSCMP guidance which may involve multi-agency decision making.
o The DSL may seek advice or guidance from an Area Education Safeguarding Advisor from the Education Safeguarding Service before deciding next steps.
o They may also seek advice or guidance from a social worker at the Front Door service who are the first point of contact for Integrated Children’s Services (ICS).

• In the event of a request for support to the Front Door being necessary, parents/carers will be informed and consent to this will be sought by the DSL in line with guidance provided by KSCMP and ICS. Parents/carers will be informed of this, unless there is a valid reason not to do so, for example, if to do so would put a child at risk of harm or would undermine a criminal investigation.

• If, after a request for support or any other planned external intervention, a child’s situation does not appear to be improving, or concerns regarding receiving a decision or the decisions made, staff or the DSL will re-refer (if appropriate) and/or DSLs will follow the KSCMP escalation procedures to ensure their concerns have been addressed and, most importantly, that the child’s situation improves. DSLs may request support with this via the Education Safeguarding Service.

3.3 Recording concerns

• All safeguarding concerns, discussions, decisions, and reasons for those decisions, will be recorded in writing on the setting safeguarding incident/concern form and passed without delay to the DSL. Our records will include a clear and comprehensive summary of any concerns, details of how concerns were followed up and resolved, a note of any action taken or not taken, how any decisions were reached and any outcomes.
• Incident/Welfare concern forms are kept in the safeguarding folder in the yellow ofsted grab tray
• Records will be completed as soon as possible after the incident/event, using the child’s words and will be signed and dated by the member of staff. Child protection records will record facts and not personal opinions. A body map will be completed if visible marks or injuries have been observed.
• If there is an immediate safeguarding concern the member of staff will consult with a DSL before completing the form as reporting urgent concerns takes priority.
• If members of staff are in any doubt about recording requirements, they will discuss their concerns with the DSL.
• Child protection records will include a clear and comprehensive summary of the concern, details of how the concern was followed up and resolved and details regarding any action taken, decisions reached and the outcome.
• Child protection records will be kept confidential and stored securely. Child protection records will be kept for individual children and will be maintained separately from all other records relating to the child in the setting. Child protection records are kept in accordance with data protection legislation and are retained centrally and securely by the DSL.
• All child protection records will be transferred in accordance with data protection legislation to the child’s subsequent setting or school, under confidential and separate cover as soon as possible. Child protection files will be transferred securely to the new DSL, separately to the child’s main file, and a confirmation of receipt will be obtained.
• In addition to the child protection file, the DSL will also consider if it would be appropriate to share any information with the DSL at the new setting or school in advance of a child leaving, for example, information that would allow the new setting or school to continue to provide support.
• Where the setting receives child protection files from another setting, the DSL will ensure key staff such as the Special Educational Needs Co-Ordinators (SENCOs) will be made aware of relevant information as required.
• Where a child joins the setting and no child protection files are received, the DSL will proactively seek to confirm from the previous setting whether any child protections exist for the child, and if so, if the files have been sent.

3.4 Multi-agency working

• Brightstart Preschool recognises the pivotal role we have to play in multi-agency safeguarding arrangements and is committed to its responsibility to work within the KSCMP multi-agency safeguarding arrangements as identified within ‘Working Together to Safeguard Children’.

• Nicola Thompson and DSL will work to establish strong and co-operative local relationships with professionals in other agencies, including the safeguarding partners in line with local and national guidance.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises the importance of multi-agency working and is committed to working alongside partner agencies to provide a coordinated response to promote children’s welfare and protect them from harm. This includes contributing to KSCMP processes as required, such as, participation in relevant safeguarding multi-agency plans and meetings, including Child Protection Conferences, Core Groups, Strategy Meetings, Child in Need meetings or other early help multi-agency meetings.

• The setting will allow access for Kent Children’s Social Work Service and, where appropriate, from a placing local authority, to conduct, or to consider whether to conduct, a section 17 or a section 47 assessment.

3.5 Confidentiality and information sharing

• Brightstart Preschool recognises our duty and powers to hold, use and share relevant information with appropriate agencies in matters relating to child protection at the earliest opportunity as per statutory guidance outlined within EYFS 2021 and KCSIE 2022.

• Brightstart Preschool has an appropriately trained Data Protection Officer (DPO) as required by the UK General Data Protection Regulations (UK GDPR) to ensure that our setting is compliant with all matters relating to confidentiality and information sharing requirements.

• Staff will have due regard to the relevant data protection principles, which allow them to share and withhold personal information. The Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR do not prevent the sharing of information for the purposes of keeping children safe. Fears about sharing information must not be allowed to stand in the way of the need to safeguard and promote the welfare and protect the safety of children. KCSIE 2022, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and the DfE ‘’Information sharing advice for safeguarding practitioners’’ (2018) guidance provides further details regarding information sharing principles and expectations.

• Nicola Thompson and DSL will disclose relevant safeguarding information about a child with staff on a ‘need to know’ basis.

• All members of staff must be aware that whilst they have duties to keep information confidential, in line with our confidentiality policy. Staff also have a professional responsibility to be proactive in sharing information as early as possible to help identify, assess, and respond to risks or concerns about the safety and welfare of children; this may include sharing information with the DSL and with other agencies as appropriate.

• In regard to confidentiality and information sharing staff will only involve those who need to be involved, such as the DSL (or a deputy) and Kent Integrated Children’s Services. All staff are aware they cannot promise a child that they will not tell anyone about a report of any form of abuse, as this may not be in the best interests of the child.

3.6 Complaints

• All members of our community should feel able to raise or report any concerns about children’s safety or potential failures in our safeguarding regime. The setting has a complaints procedure available to parents, members of staff and visitors who wish to report concerns or complaints. This can be found in the complaints file in the moderation file.
• Whilst we encourage members of our community to report concerns and complaints directly to us, we recognise this may not always be possible. Children, young people, and adults who have experienced abuse at school can contact the NSPCC ‘Report Abuse in Education’ helpline on 0800 136 663 or via email: help@nspcc.org.uk

• Staff can also access the NSPCC whistleblowing helpline if they do not feel able to raise concerns regarding child protection failures internally.
o Staff can call 0800 028 0285 (8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday to Friday) or email help@nspcc.org.uk.

• The leadership team at Brightstart Preschool will take all concerns reported seriously and all complaints will be considered and responded to in line with the relevant and appropriate process.
o Anything that constitutes an allegation against a member of staff or volunteer will be dealt with in line with section 8 of this policy.

4. Specific Safeguarding Issues

• Brightstart Preschool is aware of a range of specific safeguarding issues and situations that can put children at greater risk of harm. Whilst some of these issues may be more likely to involve older children, early years children may still be at risk at of harm, or concerns may be identified where there are risks for children’s family members or siblings, and/or young staff members, including for example, children on work placements/experience.

• Where staff are unsure how to respond to specific safeguarding issues, they should follow the processes as identified in part 3 of this policy and speak with the DSL or a deputy.

4.1 Bruising in non-mobile children

• Bruising in babies, infants or children with complex needs that are not mobile (meaning a child who is unable to move independently through rolling, crawling, cruising, or bottom shuffling) is unusual and should always be explored.

• If our setting is concerned about actual or suspected bruising on a non-mobile child, we will respond in line with the ‘Kent and Medway Protocol for the Management of Actual or Suspected Bruising in Infants and Children who are not Independently Mobile’ procedures (2.2.8 of the KSCMP procedures). In summary, these procedures state:
o If a child appears seriously ill or injured, emergency treatment should be sought through an emergency department (ED) and the Kent ICS should be notified of the concern and the child’s location.

o In all other cases:
 Staff must inform the DSL immediately and describe and document accurately on a body map, the size, shape, colour, and position of the mark/s on the head and/or body.
 Any explanation of the history of the injury or comments by the parents/carers will be documented accurately (verbatim) in the child’s record, along with the body map.
 If there is a concern about parental response to the injury, no explanation, or an explanation that is inadequate, unlikely or does not rule out abuse or neglect, an immediate referral will be made to Kent ICS, who have responsibility for arranging further multi-agency assessments.
 If there are concerns regarding the immediate safety of the child or staff, the police will be called.
 If the setting is in any doubt as to how to respond to bruising on a non-mobile child, advice will be sought from the Education Safeguarding Service and/or the Front Door.

4.2 Child-on-child abuse

• All members of staff at Brightstart Preschool recognise that children can abuse other children (referred to as child-on-child abuse, previously known as ‘peer-on-peer’ abuse), and that it can happen both inside and outside of the setting and online.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that child-on-child abuse can take many forms, including but not limited to:
o Bullying, including cyberbullying, prejudice-based and discriminatory bullying
o Abuse in intimate personal relationships between children
o Physical abuse which can include hitting, kicking, shaking, biting, hair pulling, or otherwise causing physical harm
o Sexual violence and sexual harassment
o Consensual and non-consensual sharing of nudes and semi-nude images and/or videos (also known as ‘sexting’ or youth produced sexual imagery)
o Causing someone to engage in sexual activity without consent, such as forcing someone to strip, touch themselves sexually, or to engage in sexual activity with a third party
o Upskirting (which is a criminal offence), which typically involves taking a picture under a person’s clothing without their permission, with the intention of viewing their genitals or buttocks to obtain sexual gratification, or cause the victim humiliation, distress or alarm
o Initiation/hazing type violence and rituals

• Any allegations of child-on-child abuse will be recorded, investigated, and dealt with in line with this child protection policy.

• Brightstart Preschool adopts a zero-tolerance approach to child-on-child abuse. We believe that abuse is abuse and it will never be tolerated or dismissed as “just banter”, “just having a laugh”, “part of growing up” or “boys being boys”; this can lead to a culture of unacceptable behaviours and can create an unsafe environment for children and a culture that normalises abuse, which can prevent children from coming forward to report it.

• All staff have a role to play in challenging inappropriate behaviours between children. Staff recognise that some child-on-child abuse issues may be affected by gender, age, ability, and culture of those involved. For example, for gender-based abuse, girls are more likely to be victims and boys more likely to be perpetrators.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that even if there are no reported cases of child-on-child abuse, such abuse is still likely to be taking place and it may be the case that it is just not being reported. As such, it is important that staff speak to the DSL (or deputy) about any concerns regarding child-on-child abuse.

• Brightstart Preschool want children to feel able to confidently report abuse and know their concerns will be treated seriously. All allegations of child-on-child abuse will be reported to the DSL and will be recorded, investigated, and dealt with in line with associated policies, including child protection, anti-bullying, and behaviour. Children who experience abuse will be offered appropriate support, regardless of where the abuse takes place.

• Concerns about children’s behaviour, including child-on-child abuse taking place offsite will be responded to as part of a partnership approach with children and parents/carers. Offsite behaviour concerns will be recorded and responded to in line with existing appropriate policies, for example anti-bullying, acceptable use, behaviour and child protection policies.

• Alleged victims, alleged perpetrators and any other child affected by child-on-child abuse will be supported by:
4.3 Child-on-child sexual violence and sexual harassment

• When responding to concerns relating to child-on-child sexual violence or harassment, Brightstart Preschool will follow the principles of the guidance outlined in Part five of KCSIE 2022.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that sexual violence and sexual abuse can happen anywhere, and all staff will maintain an attitude of ‘it could happen here.’ Brightstart Preschool recognises sexual violence and sexual harassment can occur between two children of any age and sex. It can occur through a group of children sexually assaulting or sexually harassing a single child or group of children and can occur online and face to face (both physically and verbally). Sexual violence and sexual harassment is never acceptable.

• All victims of sexual violence or sexual harassment will be reassured that they are being taken seriously, regardless of how long it has taken them to come forward, and that they will be supported and kept safe. A victim will never be given the impression that they are creating a problem by reporting sexual violence or sexual harassment, or ever be made to feel ashamed for making a report.

• Abuse that occurs online or outside of the setting will not be dismissed or downplayed and will be treated equally seriously and in line with relevant policies/procedures, for example anti-bullying, behaviour, child protection, online safety.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that the law is in place to protect children and young people rather than criminalise them, and where appropriate, this will be explained in such a way to children that avoids alarming or distressing them.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that an initial disclosure to a trusted adult may only be the first incident reported, rather than representative of a singular incident and that trauma can impact memory, so children may not be able to recall all details or timeline of abuse. All staff will be aware certain children may face additional barriers to telling someone, for example because of their vulnerability, disability, sex, ethnicity, and/or sexual orientation.

• The DSL (or deputy) is likely to have a complete safeguarding picture and will be the most appropriate person to advise on the initial response.
o The DSL will make an immediate risk and needs assessment which will be considered on a case-by-case basis which explores how best to support and protect the victim and the alleged perpetrator, and any other children involved/impacted, in line with part five of KCSIE 2022 and relevant local/national guidance and support, for example KSCMP procedures and support from the Education Safeguarding Service.
o The risk and needs assessment will be recorded and kept under review and will consider the victim (especially their protection and support), the alleged perpetrator, and all other children, and staff and any actions that are required to protect them.
o Any concerns involving an online element will take place in accordance with relevant local/national guidance and advice.

• Reports will initially be managed internally by the setting and where necessary will be referred to Integrated Children’s Services (Early Help and/or Children’s Social Work Service) and/or the police. Important considerations which may influence this decision include:
o the wishes of the victim in terms of how they want to proceed.
o the nature of the alleged incident(s), including whether a crime may have been committed and/or whether Harmful Sexual Behavior has been displayed.
o the ages of the children involved.
o the developmental stages of the children involved.
o any power imbalance between the children.
o if the alleged incident is a one-off or a sustained pattern of abuse – sexual abuse can be accompanied by other forms of abuse and a sustained pattern may not just be of a sexual nature.
o that sexual violence and sexual harassment can take place within intimate personal relationships between children.
o understanding intra familial harms and any necessary support for siblings following incidents.
o whether there are any ongoing risks to the victim, other children, adult students, or staff.
o any other related issues and wider context, including any links to child sexual exploitation and child criminal exploitation.

• The setting will in most instances engage with both the victim’s and alleged perpetrator’s parents/carers when there has been a report of sexual violence; this might not be necessary or proportionate in the case of sexual harassment and will depend on a case-by-case basis.
o The exception to this is if there is a reason to believe informing a parent/carer will put a child at additional risk.
o Any information shared with parents/carers will be in line with information sharing expectations, our confidentiality policy, and any data protection requirements, and where they are involved, will be subject to discussion with other agencies (for example Children’s Social Work Service and/or the police) to ensure a consistent approach is taken.

• If at any stage the DSL is unsure how to proceed, advice will be sought from the Education Safeguarding Service.

4.4 Nude and/or semi-nude image sharing by children

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that consensual and non-consensual sharing of nudes and semi-nude images and/or videos (also known as youth produced/involved sexual imagery or “sexting”) can be a safeguarding issue; all concerns will be reported to and dealt with by the DSL (or deputy).

• When made aware of any concerns involving the taking or sharing of consensual and non-consensual sharing of nudes and semi-nude images and/or videos by children (under 18s), staff are advised:
o to report any concerns to the DSL immediately.
o never to view, copy, print, share, forward, store or save the imagery, or ask a child to share or download it – this may be illegal. If staff have already inadvertently viewed imagery, this will be immediately reported to the DSL.
o not to delete the imagery or ask the child to delete it.
o to avoid saying or doing anything to blame or shame any children involved.
o to reassure the child(ren) involved and explain that the DSL will be informed so they can receive appropriate support and help. Do not promise confidentiality, as other agencies may need to be informed and be involved.
o not to investigate or ask the child(ren) involved to disclose information regarding the imagery
o to not share information about the incident with other members of staff, children, or parents/carers, including the families and child(ren) involved in the incident; this is the responsibility of the DSL.

• DSLs will respond to concerns in line with the non-statutory UKCIS guidance: ‘Sharing nudes and semi-nudes: advice for education settings working with children and young people’ and the local KSCMP guidance. When made aware of a concern involving consensual and non-consensual sharing of nudes and semi-nude images and/or videos:
o The DSL will hold an initial review meeting to explore the context and ensure appropriate and proportionate safeguarding action is taken in the best interests of any child involved. This may mean speaking with relevant staff and the children involved as appropriate.
o Parents/carers will be informed at an early stage and be involved in the process to best support children, unless there is good reason to believe that involving them would put a child at risk of harm.
o All decisions and action taken will be recorded in line with our child protection procedures.
o A referral will be made to ICS and/or the police immediately if:
 the incident involves an adult (over 18).
 there is reason to believe that a child has been coerced, blackmailed, or groomed, or there are concerns about their capacity to consent, for example, age of the child or they have special educational needs.
 the image/videos involve sexual acts and a child under the age of thirteen, depict sexual acts which are unusual for the child’s developmental stage, or are violent.
 a child is at immediate risk of harm owing to the sharing of nudes and semi-nudes.
o The DSL may choose to involve other agencies at any time if further information/concerns are disclosed at a later date.
o If DSLs are unsure how to proceed, advice will be sought from the Education Safeguarding Service.

4.5 Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) and Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE)

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that both Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) and Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) are forms of abuse that occur where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance in power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child into taking part in sexual or criminal activity, in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, and/or for the financial advantage or increased status of the perpetrator or facilitator and/or through violence or the threat of violence. CSE and CCE can affect children, both male and female and can include children who have been moved (commonly referred to as trafficking) for the purpose of exploitation.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that children can become trapped in CCE as perpetrators can threaten victims and their families with violence or entrap and coerce them into debt. Children involved in criminal exploitation often commit crimes themselves which can mean their vulnerability as victims is not always recognised (particularly older children) and they are not treated as victims, despite the harm they have experienced. The experience of girls who are criminally exploited can also be very different to that of boys. We also recognise that boys and girls being criminally exploited may be at higher risk of child sexual exploitation (CSE).

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that CSE can occur over time or be a one-off occurrence and may happen without the child’s immediate knowledge, for example through others sharing videos or images of them on social media. CSE can affect any child who has been coerced into engaging in sexual activities and includes 16- and 17-year-olds who can legally consent to have sex. Some children may not realise they are being exploited, for example they may believe they are in a genuine romantic relationship.

• If staff are concerned that a child within the setting or our wider community may be at risk of CSE or CCE, immediate action should be taken by speaking to the DSL or a deputy.

4.6 Serious violence

• All staff are aware of the indicators which may signal children are at risk from or are involved with serious violent crime. These may include unexplained gifts or new possessions, increased absence, a change in friendships or relationships with older individuals or groups, a significant decline in performance, signs of self-harm or a significant change in wellbeing, or signs of assault or unexplained injuries. Unexplained gifts or new possessions could also indicate children have been approached by, or are involved with, individuals associated with criminal networks or gangs and may be at risk of CCE.

• Any concerns regarding serious violence will be reported and responded to in line with other child protection concerns by speaking with a DSL or deputy. The initial response to child victims is important and staff will take any allegations seriously and work in ways that support children and keep them safe.

4.7 So-called Honour Based Abuse (HBA)

• So-called ‘honour’-based abuse (HBA) encompasses incidents or crimes which have been committed to protect or defend the honour of the family and/or the community, including female genital mutilation (FGM), forced marriage, and practices such as breast ironing.

• All forms of HBA are abuse, regardless of the motivation, and concerns will be responded to in line with section 3 of this policy. Staff will report any concerns about HBA to the DSL (or a deputy). If there is an immediate threat, the police will be contacted.

• Whilst all staff will speak to the DSL (or deputy) about any concerns regarding female genital mutilation (FGM), there is a specific legal duty on teachers to report to the police.
o Section 5B of the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 (as inserted by section 74 of the Serious Crime Act 2015) places a statutory duty upon teachers in England and Wales, to report to the police where they discover (either through disclosure by the victim or visual evidence) that FGM appears to have been carried out on a girl under 18.
o It will be rare for teachers to see visual evidence, and they should not be examining children, however teachers who do not personally report such concerns may face disciplinary sanctions. Further information on when and how to make a report can be found at: Mandatory reporting of female genital mutilation procedural information and FGM Fact Sheet.
o Unless the teacher has good reason not to, they should still consider and discuss any FGM concerns with the DSL (or a deputy), and ICS should be informed as appropriate.
o
4.8 Preventing radicalisation

• Brightstart Preschool is aware of our duty under section 26 of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015 (the CTSA 2015), to have “due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism”, also known as the Prevent duty and the specific obligations placed upon us as an education provider regarding risk assessments, working in partnership, staff training, and IT policies.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that children are vulnerable to extremist ideology and radicalisation and staff will be alert to changes in children’s behaviour which could indicate that they may be in need of help or protection.

• Staff will report any concerns to the DSL (or a deputy), who is aware of the local procedures to follow. If there is an immediate threat, the police will be contacted via 999.

4.9 Cybercrime

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that children with particular skill and interest in computing and technology may inadvertently or deliberately stray into ‘cyber-enabled’ (crimes that can happen offline but are enabled at scale and at speed online) or ‘cyber dependent’ (crimes that can be committed only by using a computer/internet enabled device) cybercrime.

• Whilst this may be unlikely to affect children attending our setting, it may impact others in the community. If staff are concerned that a child may be at risk of becoming involved in cyber-dependent cybercrime, the DSL or a deputy will be informed.

• Where there are concerns about ‘cyber-enabled’ crime such as fraud, purchasing of illegal drugs online, child sexual abuse and exploitation, or other areas of concern such as online bullying or general online safety, they will be responded to in line with the child protection and other appropriate policies.

4.10 Domestic abuse

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that domestic abuse can encompass a wide range of behaviours and may be a single incident or a pattern of incidents. That abuse can be, but is not limited to, psychological, physical, sexual, financial, or emotional abuse. Children can be victims of domestic abuse and may see, hear, or experience the effects of abuse at home and/or suffer domestic abuse in their own intimate relationships (teenage relationship abuse). Domestic abuse can have a detrimental and long-term impact on children’s health, well-being, development, and ability to learn.

• If staff are concerned that a child may be at risk of seeing, hearing, or experiencing the effects of domestic abuse in their home, or in their own intimate relationships, immediate action should be taken by speaking to the DSL or a deputy.

4.11 Mental health

• All staff recognise that mental health problems can, in some cases, be an indicator that a child has suffered or is at risk of suffering abuse, neglect or exploitation.

• Staff are aware that children’s experiences, for example where children have suffered abuse and neglect, or other potentially traumatic Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), can impact on their mental health, behaviour, and education.

• Staff are well placed to observe children day-to-day and identify those whose behaviour suggests that they may be experiencing a mental health problem or be at risk of developing one.

• If staff have a mental health concern about a child that is also a safeguarding concern, immediate action should be taken by speaking to the DSL or a deputy.

5. Supporting Children Potentially at Greater Risk of Harm

• Whilst all children should be protected, Brightstart Preschool acknowledge that some groups of children are potentially at greater risk of harm. This can include the following groups:

5.1 Safeguarding children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND)

• Brightstart Preschool acknowledges that children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) or certain health conditions can face additional safeguarding challenges and barriers for recognising abuse and neglect.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that children with SEND may face additional communication barriers and experience difficulties in managing or reporting abuse or challenges. Children with SEND will be supported to communicate and ensure that their voice is heard and acted upon.

• All members of staff are encouraged to appropriately explore potential indicators of abuse such as behaviour, mood changes or injuries and not to assume that they are related to the child’s disability. Staff will be mindful that children with SEND or certain medical conditions may be disproportionally impacted by behaviours such as bullying, without outwardly showing any signs.

• Members of staff are encouraged to be aware that children with SEND can be disproportionally impacted by safeguarding concerns, such as exploitation, peer group isolation or bullying including prejudice-based bullying.

• To address these additional challenges, our setting will always consider implementing extra pastoral support and attention for children with SEND. The DSL will work closely with the SENDco (Nicky or Laura) to plan support as required.

• Our setting has robust intimate/personal care policies which ensure that the health, safety, independence, and welfare of children is promoted, and their dignity and privacy are respected. Arrangements for intimate and personal care are open and transparent and accompanied by robust recording systems. Further information can be found in our policies:

5.2 Children requiring mental health support

• Brightstart Preschool has an important role to play in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our children. Mental health problems can, in some cases, be an indicator that a child has suffered or is at risk of suffering abuse, neglect or exploitation.

• Where there are concerns regarding possible mental health problems for children, staff should:
• Age/ability appropriate education will be provided to children to help promote positive health, wellbeing, and resilience.

5.3 Children Missing from Education (CME)

• Children missing from education, particularly persistently, can act as a vital warning sign to a range of safeguarding issues including neglect, sexual abuse, and child sexual and criminal exploitation – particularly county lines. Although children attending our setting are under statutory education age, a robust response may help support the identification of abuse at an early stage. Further information about our attendance policy and expectations regarding absences can be found in our policy file

• Where possible, the setting will hold more than one emergency contact number for each child so we have additional options to make contact with a responsible adult if a child missing education is also identified as being a welfare and/or safeguarding concern.

5.4 Children who need a social worker (child in need and child protection plans)

• The DSL will hold details of social workers working with children in the setting so that decisions can be made in the best interests of the child’s safety, welfare, and educational outcomes.

• Where children have a social worker, this will inform our decisions about their safety and promoting their welfare, for example, responding to absences and provision of pastoral and/or educational support.

5.5 Looked after children, previously looked after children and care Leavers

• Brightstart Preschool] recognises the common reason for children becoming looked after is as a result of abuse and/or neglect and a previously looked after child also potentially remains vulnerable.

• Where the setting believes a child is being cared for as part of a private fostering arrangement (occurs when a child under 16 or 18 if the child is disabled is cared for and lives with an adult who is not a relative for 28 days or more) there is a duty to recognise these arrangements and inform the Local Authority via the Front Door.

5.6 Members of the community who are Lesbian, Gay, Bi, or Trans (LGBT)

• The fact that a child, a young person or an adult may be LGBT is not in itself an inherent risk factor for harm, however, Brightstart Preschool recognises that children, young people or adults who are LGBT or may be perceived to be LGBT (whether they are or not) can be targeted. Our staff will endeavour to provide a safe space which enables all members of our community to speak out or share any concerns.

6. Online Safety

The EYFS 2021 recommends settings access the UK Council for Internet Safety (UKCIS) ‘Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years settings: online safety considerations’

• It is essential that children are safeguarded from potentially harmful and inappropriate material or behaviours online. Brightstart Preschool will adopt a whole setting approach to online safety which will empower, protect, and educate children and staff in their use of technology, and establish mechanisms to identify, intervene in, and escalate any concerns where appropriate.

• Brightstart Preschool will ensure online safety is considered as a running and interrelated theme when devising and implementing our policies and procedures, and when planning our education approaches, staff training, the role and responsibilities of the DSL and parental engagement.

• Brightstart Preschool identifies that the breadth of issues classified within online safety is considerable, but can be categorised into four areas of risk:
o Content: being exposed to illegal, inappropriate or harmful content. For example, pornography, fake news, racism, misogyny, self-harm, suicide, anti-Semitism, radicalisation, and extremism.
o Contact: being subjected to harmful online interaction with other users. For example, peer to peer pressure, commercial advertising and adults posing as children or young adults with the intention to groom or exploit them for sexual, criminal, financial or other purposes.
o Conduct: personal online behaviour that increases the likelihood of, or causes, harm. For example, making, sending and receiving explicit images (including consensual and non-consensual sharing of nudes and semi-nudes and/or pornography), sharing other explicit images and online bullying.
o Commerce: risks such as online gambling, inappropriate advertising, phishing and or financial scams.

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that technology, and the risks and harms related to it, evolve, and change rapidly. We will carry out an annual review of our approaches to online safety.

• Nicola Thompson will be informed of any online safety concerns by the DSL, as appropriate. The named governor for safeguarding will report on online safety practice and incidents, including outcomes, on a regular basis to the wider governing body.

6.1 Policies and procedures

• The DSL has overall responsibility for online safety within the setting but will liaise with other members of staff, for example Nicola Thompson and IT support/technicians as necessary.

• The DSL will respond to online safety concerns in line with our child protection and other associated policies, including our Anti-bullying policy, Social Media policy and behaviour policies.
o Internal sanctions and/or support will be implemented as appropriate.
o Where necessary, concerns will be escalated and reported to relevant partner agencies in line with local policies and procedures.

• Brightstart Preschool uses a wide range of technology. This includes: computers, laptops, tablets and other digital devices, the internet, our learning platform and email systems although we do not readily have wifi
o All setting owned devices and systems will be used in accordance with our acceptable use policies and with appropriate safety and security measures in place.
• Brightstart Preschool recognises the specific risks that can be posed by mobile and smart technology, including mobile/smart phones, cameras and wearable technology. In accordance with the EYFS 2021 Brightstart Preschool has appropriate policies in place which address the use of mobile and smart technology and cameras and are shared and understood by all members of the community. These policies can be found in policy file.

6.2 Appropriate filtering and monitoring

• In line with requirements of the Prevent duty, Brightstart Preschool will do all we reasonably can to limit children’s exposure to online risks through setting provided IT systems and will ensure that appropriate filtering and monitoring systems are in place.
o Our leadership team and relevant staff have an awareness and understanding of the filtering and monitoring provisions in place, manage them effectively and know how to escalate concerns when identified.
o If children or staff discover unsuitable sites or material, they are required to immediately contact a member of DSL and block and delete content
o All users will be informed at a level appropriate to their age/ability and/or role and access, that use of our systems can be monitored, and that monitoring will be in line with data protection, human rights, and privacy legislation.
o Filtering breaches or concerns identified through our monitoring approaches will be recorded and reported to the DSL who will respond as appropriate.
o Any access to material believed to be illegal will be reported immediately to the relevant agencies, such as the Internet Watch Foundation and the police.
o When implementing appropriate filtering and monitoring, Brightstart Preschool will ensure that “over blocking” does not lead to unreasonable restrictions as to what children can be taught with regards to online teaching and safeguarding.

• Whilst filtering and monitoring is an important part of our online safety responsibilities, it is only one part of our approach to online safety.

6.3 Information security and access management

• Brightstart Preschool is responsible for ensuring an appropriate level of security protection procedures are in place, in order to safeguard our systems as well as staff and children. Further information can be found in please see policy file for a comprehensive list of policies relating to this.

• Brightstart Preschool will review the effectiveness of these procedures periodically to keep up with evolving cyber-crime technologies.

6.5 Staff training

• Brightstart Preschool will ensure that all staff receive online safety training as part of induction and that ongoing online safety training and update for all staff will be integrated, aligned and considered as part of our overarching safeguarding approach.

6.6 Educating children

• Brightstart Preschool will ensure a comprehensive curriculum response is in place to enable children to learn about and manage online risks effectively as part of providing a broad and balanced age-appropriate curriculum. ‘Education for a Connected World Framework’ and DfE ‘Teaching online safety in school’ guidance.

6.7 Working with parents/carers

• Brightstart Preschool will build a partnership approach to online safety and will support parents/carers to become aware and alert of the potential benefits and risks and to reinforce the importance of children being safe online by:
o Providing age appropriate books for children to look at
o Putting links on the website and notice board
o Uploading any new/relevant information on the group chat

• Brightstart Preschool will ensure parents/carers understand what systems are used to filter and monitor their children’s online use on site, what their children are being asked to do online, including the sites they will be asked to access and who from setting (if anyone) their child is going to be interacting with online. We do not readily have wifi in the setting and the children do not have access to online activities

• Where the setting is made aware of any potentially harmful risks, challenges and/or hoaxes circulating online, national or locally, we will respond in line with the DfE ‘Harmful online challenges and online hoaxes’ guidance to ensure we adopt a proportional and helpful response.

7. Staff Engagement and Expectations

7.1 Staff awareness, induction and training

• All members of staff have been provided with a copy of part one/annex A of ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ 2022 which covers safeguarding information for staff. In addition,
o Setting management staff, including the DSL will read KCSIE in its entirety.
o All members of staff who work directly with children will read annex B.
o All members of staff have signed to confirm that they have read and understood the KCSIE guidance shared with them. They have read and understood and signed all policies in the file.

• All new staff and volunteers (including agency and third-party staff) receive safeguarding and child protection training including information to ensure they are aware of our internal safeguarding processes, as part of their induction. This training is regularly updated and is in line with advice from the safeguarding partners. All Staff are required to carry out the statutory cp training alongside their induction training
• In addition to specific child protection training, all staff will receive regular safeguarding and child protection updates, at least annually, to provide them with relevant skills and knowledge to safeguard children effectively. This occurs in staff supervisions, meetings and when new information is ascertained
• Brightstart Preschool recognises the expertise staff build by undertaking safeguarding training and from managing safeguarding concerns on a daily basis and staff are encouraged to contribute to and shape our safeguarding arrangements and child protection policies.
• The DSL will maintain an up-to-date record of who has been trained and will provide an annual report to the Nicola Thompson detailing safeguarding training undertaken.

7.2 Safer working practice

• All members of staff are required to work within our clear guidelines on safer working practice as outlined in our staff behaviour policy/code of conduct.

• The DSL will ensure that all staff and volunteers (including agency and third-party staff) have read our child protection policy and are aware of our expectations regarding safe and professional practice via the staff behaviour policy/code of conduct

• Staff will be made aware of our behaviour management and physical intervention policies. Staff will manage behaviour effectively to ensure a good and safe educational environment and will have a clear understanding of the needs of all children. Any physical interventions and/or use of reasonable force will be in line with our agreed policy and procedures, and national guidance.

• All staff will be made aware of the professional risks associated with the use of social media and electronic communication (such as email, mobile phones, texting, social networking). Staff will adhere to relevant policies including staff behaviour policy, mobile and smart technology, and social media.

7.3 Supervision and support

• The induction process will include familiarisation with child protection responsibilities and procedures to be followed if members of staff have any concerns about a child’s safety or welfare.
• The setting will ensure that members of staff are provided with appropriate supervision in accordance with the statutory requirements of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) 2021.
• Nicola Thompson of Brightstart recognise regular, planned, and accountable supervision, which is a two-way process, offers support and develops the knowledge, skills and values of an individual, group, or team. We see its purpose is to monitor the progress of professional practice and to help staff to improve the quality of the work they do, thus improving outcomes for children as well as achieving agreed objectives. Supervision also provides an opportunity to discuss sensitive issues including the safeguarding of children and any concerns raised about an individual or colleague’s practice.
• The setting will ensure all members of staff and volunteers will receive regular and planned supervision sessions. Uninterrupted time will be set aside to ensure any supervision sessions effective for both practitioner and management to ensure that:
o All staff are competent to carry out their responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
o All staff are supported by the DSL in their safeguarding role.
o All members of staff have regular reviews of their own practice to ensure they improve over time.

• Any member of staff affected by issues arising from concerns for children’s welfare or safety can seek support from the DSL.

• The DSL will also put staff in touch with outside agencies for professional support if they so wish. Staff can also approach organisations such as their Union, the Education Support Partnership or other similar organisations directly.

8. Safer Recruitment and Allegations Against Staff

8.1 Safer recruitment and safeguarding checks

• Brightstart Preschool is committed to developing a safe culture and ensuring that steps are taken to recruit staff and volunteers who are safe to work with children and staff.
• Nicola Thompson of Brightstart Preschool are responsible for ensuring that the setting follows safe recruitment processes outlined within guidance, including accurate maintenance of the staff records/Single Central Record (SCR). The SCR is a list of staff, volunteers and registered person/trustees/committee members and includes appropriate information which may include:
o Dates of recruitment
o References
o Identity checks
o Criminal records check reference number, including date and details of person who completed it
o Eligibility to work in the UK checks
o Other essential key data.

• The setting will obtain an enhanced check by Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) in respect of every person aged 16 and over (including for unsupervised volunteers, and supervised volunteers who provide personal care) who:
o works directly with children
o lives on the premises on which the childcare is provided and/or
o works on the premises on which the childcare is provided (unless they do not work on the part of the premises where the childcare takes place, or do not work there at times when children are present).

• An additional check by the DBS (or checks if more than one country) will also be made for anyone who has lived or worked abroad.

• Nicola Thompson of Brightstart Preschool is responsible for ensuring that the setting adopts an application, vetting and recruitment process which places safeguarding at its center, regardless of employee or voluntary role.

• Nicola Thompson of Brightstart Preschool is responsible for ensuring that the setting follows safe recruitment processes outlined within guidance. At least one member of the interview panel will have completed safer recruitment training.

• Nicola Thompson of Brightstart Preschool is aware of the requirements to make appropriate checks regarding the disqualification status of all staff, including volunteers and temporary staff.

• We advise all staff to disclose any reason that may affect their suitability to work with children including convictions, cautions, court orders, and warnings.

• We will ensure that all staff and volunteers have read the staff behaviour policy/code of conduct and understand that their behaviour and practice must be in line with it.

8.2 Allegations/concerns raised in relation to staff, including supply teachers, volunteers and contractors

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that it is possible for any member of staff, including volunteers, contractors, agency and third-party staff (including supply staff) and visitors to behave in a way that:
o Indicates they have harmed a child, or may have harmed a child
o Means they have committed a criminal offence against or related to a child
o behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates he or she may pose a risk of harm to children or
o behaved or may have behaved in a way that indicates they may not be suitable to work with children.

• Any concerns or allegations about staff will be recorded and dealt with appropriately in line with national guidance (Part four of KCSIE 2022) and the local Kent allegations arrangements. In depth information can be found within our ‘Managing Allegations against Staff’ and/or staff behaviour policy/code of conduct policy. This can be found in the policy file. Ensuring concerns are dealt with effectively will protect those working in or on behalf of the setting from potential false allegations or misunderstandings.

• As part of our approach to safeguarding, the setting adopts an open and transparent culture in which all concerns are dealt with promptly and appropriately. All staff and volunteers should feel able to raise concerns about poor or unsafe practice and potential failures in the setting safeguarding regime. The leadership team at Brightstart will take all concerns or allegations received seriously.

• Allegations should be referred immediately to the manager who will contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) to agree further action to be taken in respect of the child and staff member. In the event of allegations of abuse being made against the manager, staff are advised that allegations should be reported to the next member of senior management who will contact the LADO.

• Where managers are unsure how to respond to a concern about a member of staff, advice will be sought via the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) Enquiry Line and/or the Education Safeguarding Service.

• All records of concerns will be kept confidential and will be held securely and retained and in compliance with safeguarding requirements, as well as the Data Protection Act 2018 and the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and other relevant policies and procedures (for example HR/Personnel and data retention policies).

• In all cases where concerns are reported against staff, once proceedings have been concluded, the manager (and if they have been involved the LADO) will consider the facts and determine whether any lessons can be learned and if any improvements can be made.

8.3 Safe Culture

• As part of our approach to safeguarding, we will create and embed a culture of openness, trust and transparency in which our values and expected behaviour as set out in our staff behaviour policy/code of conduct are constantly lived, monitored and reinforced by all staff, and any concerns are dealt with promptly and appropriately.

• Staff are encouraged and should feel confident to self-refer, if they have found themselves in a situation which could be misinterpreted, might appear compromising to others, and/or on reflection they believe they have behaved in such a way that they consider falls below the expected professional standards. This includes where concerns may be felt to be deliberately invented or malicious; such allegations are extremely rare and as such all concerns should be reported and recorded.

• All staff and volunteers should feel able to raise any concerns about poor or unsafe practice and potential failures in our safeguarding regime. The management team at Brightstart will take all concerns or allegations received seriously.

• All members of staff are made aware of our Whistleblowing procedure. It is a disciplinary offence not to report concerns about the conduct of a colleague that could place a child at risk.

• Staff can access the NSPCC whistleblowing helpline if they do not feel able to raise concerns regarding child protection failures internally. Staff can call 0800 028 0285 (8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday to Friday) or email help@nspcc.org.uk.
• Brightstart Preschool has a legal duty to refer to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) anyone who has harmed, or poses a risk of harm, to a child, or if there is reason to believe the member of staff has committed one of a number of listed offences, and who has been removed from working (paid or unpaid) in regulated activity or would have been removed had they not left. The DBS will consider whether to bar the person.
o If these circumstances arise in relation to a member of staff at our setting, a referral will be made as soon as possible after the resignation or removal of the individual in accordance with advice from the LADO and/or Name (Nicola Thompson of Brightstart Preschool).

• Brightstart Preschool have a duty to inform Ofsted of any allegations of serious harm or abuse by any person living, working, or looking after children at the premises (whether the allegations relate to harm or abuse committed on the premises or elsewhere). We will also notify Ofsted of the action taken in respect of the allegations. Notifications will be made as soon as is reasonably practicable, but at the latest within 14 days of the allegations being made and are aware that to not do so would be an offence.

9. Opportunities to Teach Safeguarding

• Brightstart Preschool recognises that children learn best when they are healthy, safe, and secure, when their individual needs are met, and when they have positive relationships with the adults caring for them. Our setting will provide a welcoming, safe, and stimulating environment where children can enjoy learning and grow in confidence.

• We recognise that early years settings play an essential role in helping children to understand and identify the parameters of what is appropriate child and adult behaviour; what is ‘safe’; to recognise when they and others close to them are not safe; and how to seek advice and support when they are concerned.

• Brightstart Preschool will provide age-appropriate educational opportunities to enable early years children to develop self-awareness, self-esteem, social and emotional understanding, assertiveness, and decision making so that they have a range of contacts and strategies to ensure their own protection and understand the importance of protecting others, including online.

• Brightstart Preschool recognise that a one size fits all approach may not be appropriate for all children, and a more personalised or contextualised approach for more vulnerable children, victims of abuse and some SEND children might be needed.

• Systems have been established to support the empowerment of children to talk to a range of staff. Children at Brightstart Preschool will be listened to and heard and their concerns will be taken seriously and acted upon as appropriate.

10. Physical Safety

10.1 Use of ‘reasonable force’

• There may be circumstances when it is appropriate for staff to use reasonable force in order to safeguard children from harm. Staff will be made aware of the behaviour management and physical intervention policies, and any physical interventions and/or use of reasonable force must be in line with our agreed policy and procedures and national guidance.

10.2 The use of premises by other organisations

• Where services or activities are provided separately by another body using the setting facilities/premises, the manager and the registered person/trustees/committee will seek written assurance that the organisation concerned has appropriate policies and procedures in place with regard to safeguarding children and child protection, and that relevant safeguarding checks have been made in respect of staff and volunteers. If this assurance is not achieved, an application to use premises will be refused.

• Safeguarding requirements will be included in any transfer of control agreement (i.e., lease or hire agreement), as a condition of use and occupation of the premises. Failure to comply with this will lead to termination of the agreement.

10.3 Site security

• All members of staff have a responsibility for maintaining awareness of buildings and grounds security and for reporting concerns that may come to light.

• Appropriate checks will be undertaken in respect of visitors and volunteers coming into the setting as outlined within national guidance. Visitors will be expected to sign in and out via the office visitors’ log and to display a visitor’s badge whilst on site.

• Staff and visitors will be expected to adhere to any safety arrangements implemented in response to any Covid-19 restrictions.

• The setting will not accept the behaviour of any individual (parent or other) that threatens our safety or security or leads others (child or adult) to feel unsafe. Such behaviour will be treated as a serious concern and may result in a decision to refuse access for that individual to the site.

11 . Local Support

• All members of staff in Brightstart Preschool are made aware of local support available.

 Education Safeguarding Service
o Area Safeguarding Advisor
 www.theeducationpeople.org/our-expertise/safeguarding/safeguarding-contacts/
o Online Safety in the Education Safeguarding Service
 03301 651 500
 onlinesafety@theeducationpeople.org (non-urgent issues only)

 LADO Service
o Telephone: 03000 410 888
o Email: kentchildrenslado@kent.gov.uk

 Integrated Children’s Services/ Children’s Social Work Services
o Front Door: 03000 411 111
o Out of Hours Number: 03000 419 191

 Early Help
o www.kelsi.org.uk/special-education-needs/integrated-childrens-services/early-help-and-preventative-services and www.kelsi.org.uk/special-education-needs/integrated-childrens-services/early-help-contacts

 Kent Police
o 101 or 999 if there is an immediate risk of harm
o Insert details for local support. For example, local PCSO.

 Kent Safeguarding Children Multi-Agency Partnership (KSCMP)
o kscmp@kent.gov.uk
o www.kscmp.org.uk
o 03000 421 126

 Adult Safeguarding
o Adult Social Care via 03000 41 61 61 (text relay 18001 03000 41 61 61) or email social.services@kent.gov.uk

Appendix 1: Categories of Abuse

All staff should be aware that abuse, neglect, and safeguarding issues are rarely standalone events that can be covered by one definition or label. In most cases multiple issues will overlap with one another.

Abuse: a form of maltreatment of a child. Somebody may abuse or neglect a child by inflicting harm, or by failing to act to prevent harm. They may be abused by an adult or adults or another child or children. It should be noted that abuse can be carried out both on and offline and be perpetrated by men, women, and children.

Sexual abuse: involves forcing or enticing a child or young person to take part in sexual activities, not necessarily involving a high level of violence, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. The activities may involve physical contact, including assault by penetration (for example rape or oral sex) or non-penetrative acts such as masturbation, kissing, rubbing, and touching outside of clothing. They may also include non-contact activities, such as involving children in looking at, or in the production of, sexual images, watching sexual activities, encouraging children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways, or grooming a child in preparation for abuse (including via the internet). Sexual abuse is not solely perpetrated by adult males. Women can also commit acts of sexual abuse, as can other children.

Signs that MAY INDICATE Sexual Abuse
• Sudden changes in behaviour and performance
• Displays of affection which are sexual and age inappropriate
• Self-harm, self-mutilation or attempts at suicide
• Alluding to secrets which they cannot reveal
• Tendency to cling or need constant reassurance
• Regression to younger behaviour for example thumb sucking, playing with discarded toys, acting like a baby
• Distrust of familiar adults, for example, anxiety of being left with relatives, a childminder or lodger
• Unexplained gifts or money
• Depression and withdrawal
• Fear of undressing for PE
• Sexually transmitted disease
• Fire setting

Physical abuse: a form of abuse which may involve hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, or scalding, drowning, suffocating or otherwise causing physical harm to a child. Physical harm may also be caused when a parent or carer fabricates the symptoms of, or deliberately induces, illness in a child.

Signs that MAY INDICATE physical abuse
• Bruises and abrasions around the face
• Damage or injury around the mouth
• Bi-lateral injuries such as two bruised eyes
• Bruising to soft area of the face such as the cheeks
• Fingertip bruising to the front or back of torso
• Bite marks
• Burns or scalds (unusual patterns and spread of injuries)
• Deep contact burns such as cigarette burns
• Injuries suggesting beatings (strap marks, welts)
• Covering arms and legs even when hot
• Aggressive behaviour or severe temper outbursts.
• Injuries need to be accounted for. Inadequate, inconsistent, or excessively plausible explanations or a delay in seeking treatment should signal concern.

Emotional abuse: the persistent emotional maltreatment of a child such as to cause severe and adverse effects on the child’s emotional development. It may involve conveying to a child that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person. It may include not giving the child opportunities to express their views, deliberately silencing them or ‘making fun’ of what they say or how they communicate. It may feature age or developmentally inappropriate expectations being imposed on children. These may include interactions that are beyond a child’s developmental capability as well as overprotection and limitation of exploration and learning or preventing the child participating in normal social interaction. It may involve seeing or hearing the ill-treatment of another. It may involve serious bullying (including cyberbullying), causing children frequently to feel frightened or in danger, or the exploitation or corruption of children. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of maltreatment of a child, although it may occur alone.

Signs that MAY INDICATE emotional abuse
• Over reaction to mistakes
• Lack of self-confidence/esteem
• Sudden speech disorders
• Self-harming
• Eating Disorders
• Extremes of passivity and/or aggression
• Compulsive stealing
• Drug, alcohol, solvent abuse
• Fear of parents being contacted
• Unwillingness or inability to play
• Excessive need for approval, attention, and affection

Neglect: the persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and/or psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of the child’s health or development. Neglect may occur during pregnancy as a result of maternal substance abuse. Once a child is born, neglect may involve a parent or carer failing to: provide adequate food, clothing, and shelter (including exclusion from home or abandonment); protect a child from physical and emotional harm or danger; ensure adequate supervision (including the use of inadequate care-givers); or ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment. It may also include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to, a child’s basic emotional needs.

Signs that MAY INDICATE neglect.
• Constant hunger
• Poor personal hygiene
• Constant tiredness
• Inadequate clothing
• Frequent lateness or non-attendance
• Untreated medical problems
• Poor relationship with peers
• Compulsive stealing and scavenging
• Rocking, hair twisting and thumb sucking
• Running away
• Loss of weight or being constantly underweight
• Low self esteem

Appendix 2: Support Organisations

NSPCC ‘Report Abuse in Education’ Helpline
• 0800 136 663 or help@nspcc.org.uk

National Organisations
• NSPCC: www.nspcc.org.uk
• Barnardo’s: www.barnardos.org.uk
• Action for Children: www.actionforchildren.org.uk
• Children’s Society: www.childrenssociety.org.uk
• Centre of Expertise on Child Sexual Abuse: www.csacentre.org.uk

Support for Staff
• Education Support Partnership: www.educationsupportpartnership.org.uk
• Professional Online Safety Helpline: www.saferinternet.org.uk/helpline
• Harmful Sexual Behaviour Support Service: https://swgfl.org.uk/harmful-sexual-behaviour-support-service

Support for Children and Young People
• ChildLine: www.childline.org.uk
• Papyrus: www.papyrus-uk.org
• The Mix: www.themix.org.uk
• Shout: www.giveusashout.org
• Fearless: www.fearless.org
• Victim Support: www.victimsupport.org.uk

Support for Adults
• Family Lives: www.familylives.org.uk
• Crime Stoppers: www.crimestoppers-uk.org
• Victim Support: www.victimsupport.org.uk
• The Samaritans: www.samaritans.org
• NAPAC (National Association for People Abused in Childhood): www.napac.org.uk
• MOSAC: www.mosac.org.uk
• Action Fraud: www.actionfraud.police.uk
• Shout: www.giveusashout.org
• Advice now: www.advicenow.org.uk

Support for Learning Disabilities
• Respond: www.respond.org.uk
• Mencap: www.mencap.org.uk
• Council for Disabled Children: https://councilfordisabledchildren.org.uk

Contextual Safeguarding Network
• https://contextualsafeguarding.org.uk/

Kent Resilience Hub
• https://kentresiliencehub.org.uk/

Substance Misuse
• We are with you (formerly Addaction): www.wearewithyou.org.uk/services/kent-for-young-people/
• Talk to Frank: www.talktofrank.com

Domestic Abuse
• Domestic abuse services: www.domesticabuseservices.org.uk
• Refuge: www.refuge.org.uk
• Women’s Aid: www.womensaid.org.uk
• Men’s Advice Line: www.mensadviceline.org.uk
• Mankind: www.mankindcounselling.org.uk
• National Domestic Abuse Helpline: www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
• Respect Phoneline: https://respectphoneline.org.uk

Criminal and Sexual Exploitation
• National Crime Agency: www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/who-we-are
• It’s not okay: www.itsnotokay.co.uk
• NWG Network: www.nwgnetwork.org
• County Lines Toolkit for Professionals: www.childrenssociety.org.uk/information/professionals/resources/county-lines-toolkit

Honour Based Abuse
• Karma Nirvana: https://karmanirvana.org.uk
• Forced Marriage Unit: www.gov.uk/guidance/forced-marriage
• FGM Factsheet: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/496415/6_1639_HO_SP_FGM_mandatory_reporting_Fact_sheet_Web.pdf
• Mandatory reporting of female genital mutilation: procedural information: www.gov.uk/government/publications/mandatory-reporting-of-female-genital-mutilation-procedural-information
• The right to choose – government guidance on forced marriage: www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-right-to-choose-government-guidance-on-forced-marriage

Child-on-Child abuse, including bullying, sexual violence and harassment
• Rape Crisis: https://rapecrisis.org.uk
• Brook: www.brook.org.uk
• Disrespect Nobody: www.disrespectnobody.co.uk
• Upskirting – know your rights: www.gov.uk/government/news/upskirting-know-your-rights
• Lucy Faithfull Foundation: www.lucyfaithfull.org.uk
• Stop it Now! www.stopitnow.org.uk
• Parents Protect: www.parentsprotect.co.uk
• Anti-Bullying Alliance: www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk
• Diana Award: www.antibullyingpro.com/
• Bullying UK: www.bullying.co.uk
• Kidscape: www.kidscape.org.uk

Online Safety
• NCA-CEOP: www.ceop.police.uk and www.thinkuknow.co.uk
• Internet Watch Foundation (IWF): www.iwf.org.uk
• Childnet: www.childnet.com
• UK Safer Internet Centre: www.saferinternet.org.uk
• Report Harmful Content: https://reportharmfulcontent.com
• Marie Collins Foundation: www.mariecollinsfoundation.org.uk
• Internet Matters: www.internetmatters.org
• NSPCC: www.nspcc.org.uk/onlinesafety
• Get Safe Online: www.getsafeonline.org
• Parents Protect: www.parentsprotect.co.uk
• Cyber Choices: https://nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/what-we-do/crime-threats/cyber-crime/cyberchoices
• National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC): www.ncsc.gov.uk

Mental Health
• Mind: www.mind.org.uk
• Moodspark:https://moodspark.org.uk
• Young Minds: www.youngminds.org.uk
• We are with you: www.wearewithyou.org.uk/services/kent-for-young-people/
• Anna Freud: www.annafreud.org/schools-and-colleges/

Radicalisation and hate
• Educate against Hate: www.educateagainsthate.com
• Counter Terrorism Internet Referral Unit: www.gov.uk/report-terrorism
• True Vision: www.report-it.org.uk

Children with Family Members in Prison

Safe Sleeping Policy

Signed by: Date:

1. Rationale and Policy Considerations
The Policy on Safe Sleep specifies the safe and suitable sleeping arrangements for all children attending Brightstart.
Sleep is important for young children and it directly impacts on their wellbeing and development. Safe sleep is important for all children.

Legislation and regulatory requirements
• Having a clear, written policy and procedure on Safe Sleep is a requirement under Regulation 10 of the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016
• Providing for safe sleep is also included under Regulation 19 Health, Welfare and Development of the Child; Regulation 20 Facilities for Rest and Play; Regulation 23 Health, Safety and Welfare of the Child; Regulation 27 Supervision and Regulation 29 Premises.

Children’s needs
Children need:
• Access to appropriate, safe and comfortable rest and/or sleep facilities.
• To be able to rest or sleep safely and comfortably whenever they need to.

Parents’/Families’ needs
Parents/guardians need to:
• Know that their child will be able to sleep and/or rest in a safe and comfortable environment according to their individual needs.
• To be assured that their child will have access, at any time, to a cot or child bed/mat (appropriate for their age), in a clean, safe and appropriately supervised sleep area that is free of risks and hazards.
• Be assured that if any incident arises in relation to the wellbeing of their child while they are sleeping, all appropriate measures will be taken by the service to protect their child and to notify them at the earliest possible time.

2. Definitions/Glossary

SIDS Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SUDI Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (commonly referred to as Cot Death) is the sudden death of an infant or young child which is unexpected by history and in which a thorough post mortem examination fails to demonstrate an adequate cause for death.
First Light Formerly Irish Sudden Infant Death Association (ISIDA) provides support and information and promotes research into the sudden unexpected and often unexplained death of a child.

3. Policy Statement
All children are provided with clean, safe and comfortable rest and/or sleep facilities as individually needed. We work in partnership with parents/guardians in relation to their child’s sleep needs and patterns as much as possible.
All children under 2 years have access to a travel cot. Children aged 2–3 years are provided with camp beds or pull out sofa beds and each child’s individual need for sleep or rest is facilitated appropriately. All cots and beds for children conform to recognised safety standards.
Procedures and rotas are in place for supervising and regularly checking sleeping children with a check rota on the back wall. Sleeping children are always individually and frequently checked in person. The sleep area is kept clean, calm, quiet and comfortable so that babies can relax, rest and sleep.
Staff members follow first aid procedures they have been taught, in the event a child/baby is found unresponsive and/or not breathing.
As well as safe sleep provision, all children will be provided with opportunities to have quiet or rest periods, within the daily curriculum/programme, that meet their individual needs throughout the session/day.
Sleep environment
• Children are placed on their back on their own separate sleep space ie firm mattress or cot bed.
• All sleep surfaces contain a firm base, waterproof mattress covers, and lightweight bedding – this is tucked around the child below their should to prevent head covering. Sleep bags can be used but need to be provided by parent/carer
• If a blanket is used the child must be placed feet to foot at the bottom of the bed with blankets tucked in
• Cots have no extra items such as toys, pillows, extra blankets, bumpers, wedges or straps
• Children should not get too hot or cold with the recommended temperature being 16-20 degrees
• Childrens heads must not be covered
• Children are always within the sight and hearing of the staff when sleeping and have regular checks which are logged on the back wall
• The person putting the child to sleep is responsible to put out clean bedding and check on the child at specific intervals.
• Checks must be made of each sleeping child in the room, in person, at least every 10 minutes.
• Each child’s Key Person is responsible for sharing information with the child’s parents or guardians.

Trael Cots/beds/sofas
• An adequate number of beds are provided to ensure that all children have access to a suitable cot or bed as appropriate for their needs.

Health and Safety
Hygiene (See Health and Safety Policy)
• Individual bed linen is provided for each child – it is hygienic, easily accessed, and washed after each use
• Separate storage is provided for clean linen and a basket for linen that is due for washing. Clean linen is kept in the top cupboard and the soiled linen in the linen basket in kitchen.Safety of cots and child beds
Dealing with emergencies
• In the event of finding a baby or child who appears to be unresponsive and breathing or not breathing the staff member trained in emergency First Aid Response will respond immediately and appropriately.
• The Manager or the person who is in charge at that time notifies the child’s parents/guardians as soon as possible of the current situation.
• The person who found the child and has been resuscitating the child gives a detailed account of events to the paramedics on their arrival.
• Staff follow the direction of the paramedical staff.
• The Manager or person in charge ensures that parents have been informed.
• The scene is to be left as it is.
• Families of the other children may need to be notified of the incident by the Manager.
• Staff support is essential following any such incident.

Uncollected Child Policy

Policy Statement
In the event that a child is not collected at the end of a session, the setting puts into practice agreed procedures. These ensure the child is cared for safely by an experienced and qualified practitioner who is known to the child. We will ensure the child receives a high standard of care in order to cause as little distress as possible.

Procedures
Parents of children starting at the setting are asked to provide the following specific information which is recorded on our Registration Form:

 Home address and telephone number.
 Place of work telephone number (If applicable)
 Mobile telephone number (if applicable)
 Names addresses and telephone numbers of adults who are authorized by the parents to collect their child from the setting.
 Who has parental responsibility for the child.
 Information about any person who does not have legal access to the child.
 On occasions when parents or the persons normally authorized to collect the child are not available they will provide us with details of the person who will be collecting their child. We agree with parents how this person will identify themselves.
 We inform parents that we apply our child protection procedures as set out in our child protection policy in the event that their children are not collected from setting by an authorized adult within one hour after the setting has closed and the staff can no longer supervise the child on our premises.
 If a child is not collected at the end of a session, we follow the following procedures;
 All reasonable attempts are made to contact the child’s parents/carers
 If this is unsuccessful, the adults who are authorized by the parents to collect the child are contacted.
 The child does not leave the setting with anyone other than those named on the registration form, unless specifically authorized by the parents/carers.
 If no-one collects the child after half hour and there is no-one who can be contacted to collect the child, we apply the procedures for uncollected children:
 We contact the local authority children’s social services care team
 The child stays at the setting in the care of two fully vetted workers until the child is safely collected either by the parents or by a social care worker.
 Social Care will aim to find the parent or relative, if they are unable to do so, the child will become looked after by the local authority.
 Under NO circumstances do staff go to look for the parent, nor do they take the child home with them.
 A full written report of the incident is recorded in the child’s file.
 In some circumstances, Ofsted may be informed.

Whistle Blowing Policy

Introduction
Bright Start is committed to the highest possible standards of openness and accountability. If employees and others working with us (including volunteers) have concerns regarding any aspect of our work we encourage them to come forward and voice their concerns. In some instances, concerns may need to be expressed on a confidential basis.

Aim
This policy is intended to encourage individuals to raise serious concerns internally within the setting, without fear of reprisal or victimisation, rather than over-looking a problem or raising the matter outside.

This policy aims to ensure individuals:
• Can feel confident in raising serious concerns and to question and act upon concerns about practice
• Are provided with avenues to raise concerns and receive feedback on any action taken
• Receive a response to their concerns and are aware of how to pursue the matter further if they are not satisfied with the outcome
• Can be reassured that they will be protected from reprisals or victimisation if they may a disclosure.
• Are aware that, in the case of Bright Start employees, a false of malicious disclosure will be addressed in accordance with our disciplinary procedure.

Scope
The Whistleblowing Policy applies to all employees, volunteers and those working on the Bright Start premises.

Concerns that are raised will be addressed in accordance with the associated Whistleblowing procedure and these can include matters such as:
• Conduct which is, has been or is likely to be an offence or breach of law
• Conduct that has occurred, is occurring or is likely to occur the result of Bright Start failing to comply with a legal obligation. Eg. Unauthorized use of public funds, possible fraud and corruption, sexual or physical abuse of clients, or other unethical conduct discrimination or any kind and waste/frivolous expenditure.
• Disclosures related to past, current or likely miscarriages of justice
• Past, currently or likely health and safety risks, including risks to the public as well as other employees
• Past, current or likely damage to the environment
• Concerns about any aspect of service provision

Bright Starts Complaints Procedure should be used to raise any issues, concerns or complaints of a health and safety nature which are not confidential.

Confidentiality
All concerns raised will be treated in confidence and every effort will be made not to reveal the individual’s identity if this is their wish. However, in certain cases, it may not be possible to maintain confidentiality if the individual is required to come forward as a witness.

Anonymous Allegations
Concerns expressed anonymously are much less powerful than those that are attributed to a named individual. However, anonymous allegations will be considered and investigated at The Owner’s discretion. In exercising the discretion, the factors to be taken into account would include:
• The seriousness of the issues raised
• The credibility of the concern; and
• The likelihood of confirming the allegation from attributable sources

Untrue Allegations
Disciplinary action will only be taken against individuals who knowingly make a false, malicious or vexatious allegation.

Bribery Act 2010
Bright Start has a zero tolerance approach to acts of bribery or corruption. Any instances of suspected bribery and corruption must be reported. If you do not feel able to report your concerns to your line manager, the Whistleblowing Procedure can be used to confidentially raise this matter.

Brightstart Pre-school Ltd

Bright Start Preschool Ltd
Parish Hall, 25 Quarry Hill Road, Borough Green, TN15 8AQ
Tel: 07858 188867
Email: brightstartbg@hotmail.co.uk

Parental Contract
To enable us to provide and maintain the highest standards of care, and to ensure there is clarity about the contractual relationship between parents and the Pre-school, we set out below our standard conditions:-

Admission
1. All children will be considered for entry to the Pre-school once the registration form has been completed and returned to us.
2. A deposit of £50 is required to hold your child’s space. This will be taken off of your first invoice once your child has started preschool with us. If you child does not however start the preschool the deposit is non returnable.
Welfare of the Child
3. We will do all that is reasonable to safeguard and promote your child’s welfare. Our Pre-school will work with children, parents, external agencies and the community to ensure the welfare and safety of children and to give them the very best start in life.
4. Where a child is not fully potty trained parents of the child must provide sufficient nappies and wipes for each day and spare clothes while potty training. These will only be used on your child.
Health and Medical Matters
5. If your child becomes ill during a Pre-school session, the person in charge will contact the parent/carer or the emergency contact indicated on the Registration Form. It is the parent’s responsibility to inform the Pre-school immediately of any changes to these contact details.
6. If your child is suffering from a communicable illness, they should not be brought to Pre-school until such time as the infection has cleared. If a child is suffering from either sickness or diarohea the child is required to remain absent from preschool for a period of 48 hours after the last bout of sickness/diarohea.
7. A full copy of the Pre-school’s Infection Control Policy is available from the Pre-school. Parents/carers are asked to refer to the Illness/Communicable Disease List displayed in the hall for your information on the minimum periods of exclusion from the Pre-school.
8. Parents/carers are required to notify the Pre-school if your child is absent from the Pre-school for any reason, indicating the reason for absence.
9. The preschool will ask parents to collect a sick child from setting if they are ill, contagious or generally unfit to be in the setting.
10. The Pre-school cannot administer any medicine to a child unless prescribed by a doctor/pharmacist and presented in its original packaging. Should the child be on prescribed medication it is the responsibility of the parent/carer to notify the Pre-school, or Key Person, and to sign the necessary form of consent prior to any medication being administered to the child.
11. Pre-school staff will act in loco parentis whilst your child is in our care and as such we reserve the right to call an ambulance in an emergency and escort your child to the Emergency Department of the nearest hospital. In that event, the Pre-school will contact parents/carers immediately to meet them at the hospital.
Food and Dietary Requirements
12. We will work with parents/carers to provide suitable healthy and nutritious food for children who have a special dietary requirement, as diagnosed by a doctor or dietician, or due to religious beliefs. The Pre-school will take all reasonable care to ensure that a child does not come into contact with certain foods. Nuts, of any variety, will not be accepted into the Pre-school at any time.
13. Parents must adhere to our Healthy eating Policy by providing a healthy and nutritious lunch and drink for their child. All lunch boxes must contain a freezer block during the summer terms.
Concerns / complaints
14. Any question, concern or complaint about the care or safety of a child must be made in the first instance to the Pre-school Manager. If the matter cannot be resolved at this level by following the Settings Complaints Policy and Procedures, the parent has the right to complain to Ofsted. Parents however must try to work with the setting to overcome an issue, if not the complaint would be unfounded.
Disclosures
15. In order to ensure the Child’s welfare and happiness, the parent/carer must disclose any medical condition, health problem or allergy affecting the child, any concerns about the child’s safety or wellbeing, or any family circumstances or court order which might affect the child at the time of the application or as soon as it is known.
Fees
16. All fees are charged half termly and must be paid by the first day of the current term. Fees will be invoiced to the person(s) named on the Registration Form. Fees are payable during periods of absence from the Pre-school, including sickness and any holidays taken when the Pre-school is open.
17. Fees are reviewed annually and so any increases will only occur once during the year. Any such increase will be notified by the Pre-school at least one half-term in advance of the increase being applied.
18. One term’s written notice is required if you no longer require the place, if you wish to withdraw your child or make changes to your child’s session days. Until that notice has expired, fees are payable.
19. Fees will not be refunded or waived for absence through sickness or any other reason. This rule is necessary so that the Pre-school can budget for its own outgoings. If the Pre-school has to be closed due to any reason beyond the control of the Pre-school, such as power failure or adverse weather conditions, no compensation will be paid or refund given.
20. There is a £20 concessionary charge added to invoices for any child who is claiming any funding allocation. This is charged termly. Concessionary charges go towards the cost of consumables.
Unpaid Fees
19. If fees remain unpaid beyond the 1st day of the current term and go into arrears, the Pre-school have the right to reduce the hours a child attends the preschool to the funded hours only, until the bill is settled.
20. For dishonoured cheques/payments, bank charges apply, which will be added to the amount of the fees sought from the parent. In these instances, the Pre-school reserves the right to add on any other reasonable costs incurred in seeking payment.
21. We understand and will exercise our statutory right to claim interest and compensation for debt recovery costs under the late payment legislation [Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998] if we are not paid according to agreed credit terms.
Late Collection
22. The Pre-school arranges staffing to cover normal hours, and seeks to recover those and all other costs through the normal fee arrangements. That staffing does not provide cover outside the normal working hours of the Pre-school. Whilst the Pre-school seeks to provide some cover in emergencies, an additional fee will be charged if children are persistently picked up late. A late collection fee of £3.00 for first 10 minutes late, then £1 per every five minutes after that.
Belongings
23. The Pre-school does not accept responsibility for accidental damage or loss of property. Parents are requested to keep their child’s personal items to a minimum and label clearly all belongings.
24. Parents are requested to send the children to Pre-school in clothes and shoes suitable for play and painting. Parents are strongly recommended that children do not attend with items that could cause injury to the child i.e. hooped earrings.
Insurance
25. The Pre-school undertakes to maintain those insurances required by law. Details of these are available from the Pre-school Manager. Copies of the current Employer’s Liability and Public Liability Insurance Policies are displayed on the preschool notice board.
General
26. You should be aware that the Pre-school takes photographs within the setting which will be used in your child’s Learning Journey. Parental preference is adhered to and permission will be sought via the Settings Permission Form which is completed separately and when required. The child’s name/photo will not be used in any promotional material.
Safeguarding Children
27. It is understood that the Pre-school is under obligation to report to the relevant authorities any incident where we consider a child may have been abused or neglected. This may be done without informing the parent/carer.
28. Any information given by a parent or carer regarding their child will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, except in cases where harm towards a child is suspected.
29. The divulging of confidential information relating to the Pre-school, its employees, children or customers to any third party, is considered a breach of confidence and, as such, is regarded as constituting gross misconduct which could lead to summary dismissal from employment for staff or cancellation of a Pre-school place. This includes all Social Networking sites, emails, text messages.
30. Staff are instructed to limit discussions with parents regarding the Pre-school or your child to Pre-school hours only and when on Pre-school premises. Parents /carers are asked to respect that fact and not approach staff outside of those times.
31. Incidents are dealt with in house and any conflicts must be supported by the child’s Key Person or Nicky. This includes all Social Networking sites, emails, text messages.
Security
32. Parents/carers are welcome to visit the Pre-school; however we will not admit anyone without prior notification. It is the parent/carer’s responsibility to ensure that staff are aware of who will be collecting your child. No child will be allowed to leave the building with anyone, known or not, without prior notification. No child will be allowed to be collected by a minor. A password system is in operation.
Data Protection
33. It is a legal requirement on the Pre-school to hold information about children using the Pre-school and its staff. Basic information is used for registers, invoices and for emergency contacts; however, all records are held securely. It is parent’s responsibility to update their child’s records, such as change of address, contact details, emergency numbers. Parents must complete their child’s Unique Stories, when and where stated.
Legal Contract
34. The offer of a place and its acceptance by parents gives rise to a legally binding contract on the terms of these Terms and Conditions and the Policies and Procedures of the Pre-school. It is important that parents and staff adhere to those terms; any queries about them should be raised with the Pre-school Manager. Policies and Procedures are available on request and in the main hall every day.
Parent Behaviour
35. Parents must behave in a polite, respectful way in the setting. Parents are responsible for their child’s behaviour and safety before school and as soon as, they are handed over in the main hall at end of sessions. Regular unruly behaviour by your child that causes harm to another child may result in termination of your contract. Parents must not be under the influence of any substances or alcohol, this will result in us contacting the appropriate agencies, if we find you unfit to safely care for your child. Parents who threaten staff,other parents, make accusations or exaggerate and inflame an incident involving the children, staff or other parents, will result in termination of your contract and removal of your child, with immediate effect.
Termination of contract
36. Parents must give half a terms notice in writing, when cancelling a place.

For more information or to discuss your child care needs, please contact us on: brightstartbg@hotmail.co.uk or call Nicky on 07858 188867

Once you have accepted a place you are agreeing to abide by the terms of this contract and accept the Policies and Procedures within the setting