WHAM THEATRE SCHOOLS - SAFEGUARDING & CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

Child Protection & Safeguarding at WHAM Theatre Schools

At WHAM Theatre Schools, safeguarding is at the heart of our ethos. We are dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where every child can thrive and grow in confidence through the performing arts.

WHAM Theatre Schools has a comprehensive safeguarding policy in place, which is available to parents and staff upon request. This policy is designed to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all students, incorporating best practices and regular reviews. Each location or franchisee operates with an adapted safeguarding policy, including appendix documents tailored to their local referral procedures, such as the Child protection & safeguarding requirements (and contact details) for each Local Authority's social services , duty care teams, and other relevant organisations.

As a Holiday, Activity & Food (HAF) Provider, we are required by local authorities to adhere to strict safeguarding regulations, ensuring we maintain the highest standards of care and compliance to uphold these vital partnerships.

Key Safeguarding Practices:

• All staff, including teachers and assistants, hold Enhanced DBS Checks registered on the update service, ensuring the highest level of clearance.
• Team members receive regular safeguarding training, supported by access to a dedicated training portal to stay informed of the latest best practices.
• The Principal or School Manager supervises each location, allowing them to oversee classes, support staff, and ensure safeguarding compliance.
• Regular risk assessments are carried out for all classes, with additional considerations for children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) or other specific needs.

Support and Guidance: Our safeguarding practices are further supported by our membership with ThirtyOne:Eight, a leading safeguarding consultancy. They provide a dedicated safeguarding helpline accessible to the WHAM Head Office Team, franchisees, team members, and teachers. This helpline offers expert advice and guidance whenever required, ensuring that concerns are addressed promptly and effectively. Both an in-office and out-of-hours service are available, offering continuous support.

How We Act on Safeguarding Concerns:

• Concerns are always treated with the utmost urgency & seriousness, following clear internal protocols to ensure swift and appropriate action.
• Each location’s safeguarding policy includes specific signposting in accordance with each local authorities reporting & social services referral process.

We are committed to upholding the highest standards of safety and care, ensuring every child feels secure and supported.

Parents are welcome to request access to our full safeguarding policy through their membership portal, or, via an online request system.