Safeguarding

Safeguarding at Esher Church School

At Esher Church School, safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to creating a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment where every child is protected, valued and able to flourish. All staff, governors and volunteers share this responsibility and work together to ensure that children are safe, listened to and supported.

Our Safeguarding Team

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Claire Simpson Deputy DSLs: Mr Ollie May and Mrs Ellie Morris Safeguarding Governor: Mr Ed Fielding Headteacher: Mr Ollie May DDSL

Our DSL team is available every day to respond to concerns, support families and ensure children are safe.

If you ever have a concern about a child’s safety or wellbeing, please contact the DSL immediately via the school office.

Our Commitment to Safeguarding

We follow the statutory guidance in Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) and work closely with Surrey Children’s Services, the Police, Health professionals and other agencies.

We are committed to:

  • Providing a safe and welcoming environment
  • Listening to children and taking their concerns seriously
  • Acting quickly and appropriately when concerns arise
  • Working in partnership with parents and carers
  • Ensuring staff are well‑trained and confident in safeguarding practice
  • Promoting safe online behaviour
  • Ensuring safer recruitment of staff and volunteers
  • Supporting children’s mental health and wellbeing

If You Have a Concern

If you are worried about a child at Esher Church School, please contact the DSL or Deputy DSL as soon as possible. Concerns may include:

  • A change in behaviour
  • Worries about home life
  • Signs of neglect or physical harm
  • Online safety concerns
  • Attendance issues
  • A child telling you something that worries you

You can speak to us in person, call the school office, or email the safeguarding team.

If a child is at immediate risk, call 999.

Reporting Concerns About Staff or Volunteers

If you have concerns about the behaviour or conduct of a member of staff, volunteer or visitor, please contact the Headteacher or DSL immediately.

If the concern relates to the Headteacher, please contact the Safeguarding Governor.

We follow Surrey’s Managing Allegations procedures and will consult the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) where appropriate.

Attendance and Safeguarding

Good attendance is essential for children’s learning, wellbeing and safety. We monitor attendance closely and follow up unexplained or prolonged absences immediately. Where concerns arise, we may contact children’s social care or request a police welfare check.

Online Safety

We teach children how to stay safe online and work with families to promote safe use of technology at home. Our Online Safety Policy outlines how we protect children from online risks, including cyberbullying, inappropriate content and online grooming.

Safeguarding Policies

Our key safeguarding policies include:

These can be accessed via the school office or downloaded from our website.

Working Together

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. By working together—children, families, staff, governors and the wider community—we can ensure that every child at Esher Church School feels safe, supported and ready to learn.

If you ever need advice, support or guidance, please contact us. We are here to help.