1. Policy Statement

Belfort Education is a small, boutique tutoring agency committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners. We believe that everyone has the right to feel safe, valued, and respected. This policy outlines how we protect children, young people, and adults at risk who engage with our services.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. All tutors, staff, contractors, and associates working with Belfort Education are required to adhere to this policy at all times.

2. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to:

• All children and young people aged 4–18

• Adult learners, including those who may be considered vulnerable

• All tutors (including freelance and online tutors)

• Directors, staff, contractors, and volunteers

It covers all tutoring delivered by Belfort Education, including:

• One-to-one and group tuition

• Online lessons

• In-person lessons in homes, schools, or agreed venues

• Educational activities and communications linked to tutoring

3. Legal Framework (UK)

This policy is informed by relevant UK legislation and guidance, including:

• Children Act 1989 and 2004

• Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)

• Working Together to Safeguard Children

• The Equality Act 2010

• Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR

4. Definitions

Safeguarding: Protecting children and adults at risk from abuse, harm, or neglect and promoting their welfare.

Child: Anyone under the age of 18.

Abuse: A form of maltreatment, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, or neglect.

DSL: Designated Safeguarding Lead – the person responsible for safeguarding at Belfort Education.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

The Directors of Belfort Education act as the Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs). They are responsible for:

• Ensuring safeguarding procedures are followed

• Acting as the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns

• Making referrals to relevant authorities when necessary

• Keeping safeguarding records secure and confidential

• Ensuring tutors receive safeguarding guidance

Tutors and Staff

All tutors and staff must:

• Read and follow this safeguarding policy

• Act in the best interests of learners at all times

• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately

• Maintain professional boundaries

• Attend safeguarding training when required

6. Safer Recruitment

Belfort Education is committed to safer recruitment practices. This includes:

• Enhanced DBS checks for tutors working with children

• Verification of identity and right to work

• Collection of references

• Assessment of suitability during recruitment

Tutors must notify Belfort Education immediately of any changes that may affect their suitability to work with children.

7. Code of Conduct

All tutors and staff must:

• Treat learners with respect and dignity

• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries

• Avoid being alone with a child in a closed or unobservable environment where possible

• Use appropriate language and behaviour at all times

• Avoid physical contact unless appropriate and necessary

• Never communicate with learners via personal social media accounts

Online lessons must be conducted using approved platforms and, where appropriate, with parental awareness.

8. Online Safeguarding

When delivering online tuition, Belfort Education ensures:

• Lessons take place on secure platforms

• Tutors use professional accounts

• Communication is appropriate and logged where possible

• Parents are aware of online lesson arrangements for children

Tutors must not record sessions without prior consent.

9. Recognising Abuse and Neglect

Tutors and staff should be alert to signs of:

• Physical abuse

• Emotional abuse

• Sexual abuse

• Neglect

Concerns may arise from behaviour, appearance, disclosures, or changes in demeanour.

10. Responding to Safeguarding Concerns

If a learner discloses information or a concern is identified:

1. Listen carefully and calmly

2. Do not promise confidentiality

3. Reassure the learner they have done the right thing

4. Record the concern accurately and promptly

5. Report immediately to the DSL

If a child is in immediate danger, emergency services should be contacted.

11. Reporting and Referrals

The DSL will decide whether a referral is required and may contact:

• Local Authority Children’s Services

• The Local Safeguarding Partnership

• Police or emergency services

All concerns and actions taken will be recorded securely.

12. Confidentiality and Data Protection

Safeguarding information is handled sensitively and shared only on a need-to-know basis. Records are stored securely in line with UK GDPR and Belfort Education’s Privacy Policy.

13. Allegations Against Tutors or Staff

Any allegation against a tutor or staff member will be taken seriously and handled promptly. The individual may be suspended from duties while investigations take place. Relevant authorities will be informed where required.

14. Whistleblowing

Belfort Education encourages staff and tutors to raise concerns about unsafe practices without fear of reprisal. Concerns should be reported directly to the DSL.

15. Equality and Inclusion

Belfort Education is committed to safeguarding all learners regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or background.

16. Review of Policy

This policy is reviewed annually or sooner if legislation or guidance changes.

Last reviewed: February 2026

Next review due: February 2027

Belfort Education

Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do.