Safeguarding Policy

Onyx School of Performing Arts Safeguarding Policy 2025

1. Policy Statement

Onyx School of Performing Arts Ltd is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people.
We believe every child has the right to learn and thrive in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.

This policy applies anyone working on behalf of Onyx School of Performing Arts - senior managers, staff and volunteers.


2. Aims of This Policy

Our safeguarding policy aims to:

  • Protect children from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
  • Create a safe and supportive environment where children feel secure.
  • Ensure staff understand their safeguarding responsibilities.
  • Respond quickly and appropriately to concerns or disclosures.
  • Work in partnership with parents, carers, and external agencies when needed.


3. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Savannah-Raé Gordon (Principal) is the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
The DSL is responsible for:

  • Overseeing safeguarding across the school.
  • Acting as the first point of contact for concerns about a child’s welfare.
  • Liaising with local safeguarding partners, social care, and police where necessary.


4. Recognising Abuse and Neglect

All staff and volunteers are trained to recognise signs of abuse, including:

  • Physical abuse – hitting, shaking, or causing physical harm.
  • Emotional abuse – persistent emotional maltreatment or humiliation.
  • Sexual abuse – involving a child in sexual activity.
  • Neglect – persistent failure to meet a child’s basic needs.

Any concerns will be taken seriously and reported immediately to the DSL.


5. Safer Recruitment

Onyx School of Performing Arts follows safer recruitment procedures, including:

  • DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks for all staff and volunteers.
  • Reference checks before appointment.
  • Clear safeguarding training during induction.


6. Responding to Concerns

If a child is at risk of harm:

  1. Staff must immediately report concerns to the DSL.
  2. The DSL will take appropriate action, which may include contacting children’s social care or the police.
  3. Concerns and actions will be recorded securely and kept confidential.

We will always act in the best interest of the child.


7. Code of Conduct for Staff & Volunteers

  • Treat children with respect and dignity.
  • Never use physical punishment or humiliating language.
  • Avoid being alone with a child where possible.
  • Report any inappropriate behaviour immediately.


8. Online Safety

  • Children’s images will only be used with parental consent.
  • Social media or online communications will be professional and appropriate.
  • Digital safeguarding measures are in place to protect children’s personal information.


9. Confidentiality

All safeguarding information is handled sensitively and only shared with relevant professionals when necessary to protect a child.


10. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually by the Principal (DSL) to ensure it remains up-to-date and compliant with safeguarding guidance.