K2S17 – The duty of all within the sector to safeguard children, including the general responsibility for health and safety that applies to all colleagues and to employers.

What would I do if a member of staff was not following the correct procedures?

Firstly I would ensure that my own knowledge of my job description and relevant policies was up to date before confidently dealing with a potentially difficult situation.

Is the member of staff just questionable or using poor practices or are they putting the children into dangerous situations.

It can be a difficult situation if the member of staff involved has been in the position longer or has a higher position than you; however, I would seek the advice of the Head teacher or Deputy Head teacher.

My priority would always be to ensure that the children are receiving a secure and safe environment with no threats to their well being.

Depending on the severity of the situation I would speak to the member of staff privately and discuss the problem in a positive manner, taking into account any personal problems they may be dealing with. I would also offer my assistance if they required extra training or advice.

If the issue is more serious or I felt that the children’s safety is at risk, I would go directly to the Head teacher, Deputy Head teacher or Governors if situation involved senior member of staff.  It is the responsibility of the Governors to lay down correct procedures and ensure they are workable and comply with the current laws.  Or alternatively you could approach an outside agency such as social services.

K2H23 – When and how to use safety equipment such as safety gates, socket covers, window and drawer catches, cooker guards, safety harness. Safety in respect of animals, plants, sand pits and outdoor spaces.

Within my settings Nursery and Reception classes we use appropriate safety equipment within the children’s age range i.e.

• Electric Plug covers. (To prevent children putting their fingers or objects into sockets).
• Cupboard door locks. (To prevent children from opening cupboards which may contain hazardous items).
• Wall mounted boiling hot water dispenser. (Adult reach only prevent children from burns).
• Foam and carbon dioxide fire extinguishers. (Located in different areas within the setting – Adult use only).
• Fire blanket. (To prevent child from further burns to be used in emergencies only).

All equipment and toys will be safety checked with the relevant kite mark:

• Product will not catch light easily from cigarettes and matches.
• Product is not fire proof.
• Manufacturer’s self declaration that product meets basic EU legal requirements.
• This is not a safety symbol.
• The Kite mark confirms that British Standards Institution has tested the product and that it meets a particular standard.
• Unsuitable for Children under the age of three, may contain small parts.
• The lion mark shows that a toy meets British safety standards.
• British Standard Institute safety mark which ensure product meets a particular standard.

All inappropriate equipment such as medication, first aid equipment, cleaning products, paints, glues and cutlery are stored in adult reach only cupboards or child locked cupboards. (Please reference K2H21 and K2S15).

Within the Nursery setting they have one animal, XXX the guinea pig in which the children have contact.  This contact is closely supervised at all times and is limited to small group of children at a time so not to distress XXX.  All children are supervised washing their hands thoroughly after handling or feeding XXX.  The hutch is stored in the Nursery’s outside area and is regularly cleaned by a member of staff.  Children and parents are encouraged to take turns in looking after XXX outside term times and a rota is available if any nursery children would like a turn.  The Early years Co-ordinator has the overall responsibility of the care of the guinea pig including any vaccinations, worming and health problems.  (Please reference K2H21).

The Nursery also has a large outside sand pit which is covered at the end of the day to ensure it remains free of contamination from animal faeces. (Please reference K2H21).

The nursery’s outside area has a high fence and is securely gated at all times.  The play area has a designated space for boisterous play which has a soft adsorb impact material and a separate shelter for protection from different weather conditions.  All climbing frame’s, play houses and larger equipment is regularly safety checked by the Caretaker.  All bikes etc also undergo similar checks on a regular basis. (Please reference K2H21).

All categories of Health and Safety are set down within the School Health and Safety policy in line with relevant laws and legislations.  This document and procedures are the responsibility of the School’s Governing body and Head teacher.  (Please reference K2S15).

K2S15 – Setting’s safety, safeguarding and protection and emergency procedures, what these are and why they must be followed, including controls on substances harmful to health and other key aspects of health and safety.

Building Safety:

The Head teacher is responsible for securing the building and maintaining the security and safety of the children (Please reference K2H16).  The caretaker under the direction of the Head teacher is responsible for opening and securing the building.

During periods of severe weather conditions, arrangements for maintaining safe access to and from the premises are determined by the Head teacher.

Building complies with UK building legislation (Please reference K2H21) which includes disabled access.

The main entrance of the school has an inner entrance in which you must ‘buzz’ to speak to the receptionist.  The door cannot be opened from the outside; someone has to physically open it from inside.  All visitors must arrange visits via the telephone and make an appointment.  All visitors’ identification will be verified and they will be asked to sign in and out of the visitors’ book.

All gates and outside access is locked (Please reference K2H30).

Maintenance of the premises and housekeeping will be undertaken by the Caretaker.  The Caretaker will ensure daily that all corridors, passageways and gangways are kept clear of rubbish and obstructions.

All members of staff should report immediately to the Caretaker any defective furniture, damage, wear and tear of the premises.

The Head teacher is responsible for any maintenance work on the premises.  The Governors will also determine the programme of any structural maintenance.

The Head teacher will be responsible for submitting proposals of any adaptation and improvements to the premises to the Director of Education.

Health and safety inspections will be carried out once every term.  These will be initiated by the Head teacher and the Health and Safety representative.  Inspection and report forms will be completed and a copy forwarded to the local authorities Health and Safety Officer.

All provisions of Health and safety information are the responsibility of the Head teacher (Please reference K2H16).

Safety Equipment:

All equipment compliant with Safety regulations (Please reference K2H21, K2H16, K2H27 and  K2H30).

All electrical equipment is compliant and safety checked (Please reference K2H21).

All fire equipment compliant and safety checked (Please reference K2H30 and K2H27).

All medication checked and locked securely. (Please reference K2H27).

Within the Nursery area they have extra safety equipment installed for the younger age range these include:

• Electric plug covers.
• Cupboard door locks.
• All children’s paints and glue are kept out of reach or in child locked cupboards within the messy area.

(Please reference K2H21).

All relevant members of staff have access to up to date records which are kept on every child (Please reference K2H21) which include any dietary requirements and food allergies.

Control of Hazardous substances:

Using chemicals or other hazardous substances can put people’s health at risk, so the law requires all employers to control exposure to prevent ill health.

All employers must follow the eight steps laid down in the COSHH legislation:

1. Assess the risks.
2. Decide what precautions are needed.
3. Prevent or adequately control exposure.
4. Ensure that control measures are used and maintained.
5. Monitor the exposure.
6. Carry out appropriate health surveillance.
7. Prepare plans and procedures to deal with accidents, incidents and emergencies.
8. Ensure employees are properly informed, trained and supervised.

www.coshh-essentials.org.uk

For the vast majority of chemicals used within the school i.e. commercial cleaning products the presence of the warning label will indicate whether COSHH is relevant.

All hazardous substances used in the school are maintained by the Caretaker and an inventory of all these substances is kept.

• Very toxic or toxic
• Harmful or irritant
• Corrosive

An inventory list should include the names of all the substances used in the school with a risk assessment which includes exposure as per the school’s Health and Safety policy.

All members of staff are responsible for the correct disposal of hazardous substances following the relevant risk assessment sheet.

The caretaker is also responsible for ensuring that report forms are available for reference for the local exhaust ventilation council contractor.

All waste is collected daily by the Caretaker and Cleaners, who arrange its safe storage in secure containers.  Any items of waste that are not covered by the general waste agreement with the council must under the direction of the Head teacher and Caretaker have special arrangements made with the local authorities for their disposal.

The guidelines to the correct adult to children supervision (Please reference K2P25) are exercised to ensure children’s well being.  All teachers are responsible for effective supervision which includes emergency procedures, safe working practices within their teaching area, that adequate risk assessments have been made in practical lessons and that careful control of products are made during practical lessons.

It is the responsibility of the school’s Governors and the Head teacher to ensure all members of staff have been CRB (complete background screening LTD also Umbrella Company of the Criminal Records Bureau) checked. This check will eliminate and provide clarity on all applicants, providing an in depth criminal history.

Children’s overall well being set within the school (please reference K2S31 and K2S32). Children’s expected behaviour management (please reference K2D35, K2D36 and K2D37).

For effective infection control and hygiene (please reference K2H24).

All categories of Health and Safety are set down within the School Health and Safety policy in line with relevant laws and legislations.  This document and procedures are the responsibility of the School’s Governing body and Head teacher.

People searched for:

K2H20 – Routine Safety checking and maintenance of equipment and outdoor spaces.

As per the guidelines set within the Health and safety policy the Caretaker is responsible for the maintenance of the school grounds and outside equipment.  The Caretaker must ensure that all safety equipment is checked.

The outside area must be free of broken glass, animal faeces and other hazards.

The Caretaker must also ensure that all toilet facilities are maintained and are in a clean and hygienic condition, are adequately ventilated and supplied with adequate washing facilities i.e. soap, paper towels etc.

All members of staff are responsible for checking that their classroom / work area is safe before use and to ensure handling and storage of equipment and substances are adhered to according to the Health and Safety policy. All members of staff must not neglect or misuse equipment.

The maintenance of the premises and housekeeping is the responsibility of the School’s Governing committee and the Head teacher.

Smoking is prohibited within the School’s premises including the outside area as per current laws and legislations.

All categories of Health and Safety are set down within the School Health and Safety policy in line with relevant laws and legislations.  This document and procedures are the responsibility of the School’s Governing body and Head teacher.

People searched for:

K2H26 – How to supervise children safety, modifying your approach according to age, needs and abilities.  The balances between safety and risk, and challenge and protection for children.

How do I supervise a child without overprotecting them?

Firstly, I would assess the risk and make a safety judgement in the activity they are performing according to their age.  I would ensure that the activity or equipment is appropriate for their age or set age related tasks.

I would ensure all equipment or games are age related and that all equipment has been regularly checked for any safety issues i.e. general wear and tear.

I would ensure that all children have a safe environment, which will at the same time encourage them to become more independent e.g. storing equipment pens, scissors etc in cupboards which are assessable to children.

I would plan ahead thinking of any obstacles which may cause harm ensuring that the children have appropriate supervision e.g. ensuring that area is clear of any obstruction.

I would ensure that the children also have a clear understanding of the school’s appropriate behaviour and boundaries and what effect these will have if they are not adhered to i.e. consequences of their own actions.  Also they must be encouraged to follow the daily routines of the setting.

I would ensure that all children are encouraged to problem solve on their own before intervening, letting them ask for help and coming down to their level.

I would make sure that there is correct adult to children supervision and that appropriate supervision is in place in case of any unseen circumstances.

I would ensure that all members of staff are located in appropriate areas within the setting and that they have a good visibility of all the children especially if they are working closely with an individual child or a small group.

People searched for:

K2S1118 – The legislation, guidelines and policies which form the basis for action to safeguard children.

Health and Safety Policy:-

I have read and understood the Health and Safety policy, to mean that the overall health and safety of all children attending the school and all members of staff is the responsibility of the Governing Body and the Head Teacher.

The policy must comply with the council health and safety policy statement; the Education Service’s organisation and arrangements and Codes of practices and Codes of Safe Working Practice.  The Head teacher and Governing Body must ensure they are implementing the current Health and Safety at work Act and other safety legislations, including any amendments ensuring that all members of staff are fully trained and up to date.

It is the duty of all members of staff to take reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves and of other persons who may be affected by their actions at work.

The children must observe all the health and safety rules of the school, listen and follow instructions of any member of staff in an emergency situation.

The caretaker under the direction of the Head teacher must ensure the maintenance and housekeeping of the premises is in line with the Health and Safety policy.  The Head teacher must also arrange and implement inspections including annual inspections with the local authorities.

K2S1118 The legislation, guidelines and policies which form the basis for action to safeguard children.

Children’s Act 1989

All Local Authorities have a duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, working in partnership with the parents they must assess a child’s needs and ensure the safe upbringing of children by their own families if safe to do so.  All Local Authorities are required to produce plans setting out their provisions of children’s services i.e. educational services, local Housing services, Health Services.

All Local Authorities can seek a court order if it is in the best interest of the child and the welfare of said child will be of paramount consideration.

All Local Authorities are charged with duties to identify children in need and to safeguard and promote their welfare and to provide a range of services appropriate to those children’s needs.

All children in need must have provisions to the following services:

• Advice, guidance and counselling.
• Occupational, social, cultural and recreational activities.
• Home help including laundry facility.
• Facilities or assistance with travel to and from any services provided.
• Assistance to enable the child and the family to have a holiday.

Additional financial provisions are also in place for children with disabilities.

The Act also legislates to protect children who may be suffering or are likely to suffer significant harm.  All Local Authorities have a duty to investigate when there is reasonable cause to suspect that a child is suffering or is likely to be subject to significant harm.  The investigation must include an objective of the child’s needs, including the risk of abuse and the need for protection, as well as the family’s ability to meet those needs.

Parental responsibility

Parental responsibility includes all the rights, duties, power, responsibilities and authority which a parent has in relation to the child.

All birth mothers and fathers married to the mother at the time of birth have automatic responsibility.  Any natural fathers who are not married at the time of birth can acquire parental responsibility by a formal agreement obtained on an application to the Court.

Guardians can be appointed to have parental responsibility upon the death of the parents.

Within the Act a child is defined any person under the age of 18 years.

The main aim of the act is to encourage greater partnership between statutory authorities and parents.

People searched for:

K2H19 – Safety factors and recognised standards of equipment and materials for children.  Importance of using equipment that is appropriate for the age, needs and abilities of the child.  The importance of following manufacturers’ guidelines.

The recognised standards for materials and equipment are:

• The CE mark is the manufacturer’s declaration that their product meets all the relevant legal requirements.  You find this mark on electrical goods, toys and cycle helmets.
• The Lion Mark is used by British toy manufacturers; it shows that the toys meet British Standards.

The manufacturer or distributor must indicate clearly on the packaging or the instructions certain risks and minimum age of child.  The British Standard BS EN 71 is a recognised standard for the safety of toys which are sold in the UK or Europe.  This standard includes that toys must be flame resistant, must not present a risk of poisoning; they should not have any sharp edges or spikes and no possibility of young children choking or being harmed by small parts.  Toys that comply with this standard can be considered safe for children to use.

The importance of checking and following the manufacturer’s guidelines:-

• Check the state of the toy before use.
• Look for the manufacturer’s recommendation such as ‘To be used only under adult supervision’.
• Read all instructions for use and details of the toy.
• Keep all relevant information concerning the manufacturer of the toy in event of any complaints.
• Follow manufacturer’s guidelines on minimum age such as ‘not suitable for 0-3 year olds’.

K2C9 – Communication difficulties that may exist and how these can be overcome.

Barriers to effective communication:

• Hearing difficulties or deaf.
• Poor vision or blind.
• Ill health.
• Special educational needs.
• Physical disability.
• Poor language skills or English as an additional language.
• Environment factors.
• Background noise or high levels of noise.
• Poor vision within the setting.
• Environment too hot or too cold i.e. uncomfortable temperature.
• Disruptive child.
• Time of day i.e. tiredness.
• Stress levels i.e. not organised, staff shortages.
• Lack of privacy.
• Interferes from others.

Personal Aspects:

• Negative body language.
• Talking over you.
• Poor listener.
• Unwell.
• Facial expressions.
• How you look i.e. untidy.
• Recognition.
• Signals, tone of voice i.e. aggression, rudeness.
• Speech level of understanding.
• Interrupting.
• Patronising, talking down to you.
• Hand gestures and movements.

People searched for:

K2D5 – Why it is important to help children make choices and how you can assist them to do this.

K2C6 – The key features of effective communication and why it is important to model this when interacting with adults and children.

K2C7 – The main differences between communicating with adults and communicating with children.

Survey:-

Why do you think Lisa felt it was important for the younger children to be included in the survey?

• Part of the school.
• Have their say.
• Responsibility.
• Independence and confidence.
• Sense of belonging and pride in their school.
• Views are being listened to.
• Look after the new area or equipment (respect it).
• Choice of menu they will eat the food provided.
• Dietary needs and healthy options.

What would have been the main difference in those questions for the adults, those for the older children and those for the younger ones?

Adult:

• The wording in the survey.
• Voting box and or tick list.
• Feedback slip and or area for relevant comments.
• Covering letter to adults of the importance of the survey and date of when you required answers back.
• Meeting to discuss the survey in detail.

Older:

• Competition to design a new menu or new outside area (use as a teaching tool).
• Voting box and or tick list.
• Ensure wording within age range capabilities.
• Discuss in group time for input and ideas.

Younger:

• Make the survey fun.
• Use tools or make it into a game.
• Ensure the children understand what was being asked of them.
• Broken down questions to age range capabilities.
• Discuss ideas in group time, take a vote.

How do you find out the views and opinions of the children in your setting?

• I would ask what they liked or disliked about their school.
• I would observe the children to see what activity was used the most and for how long.
• I would use tools such as smiley faces for voting or camera for taking pictures of what they liked best or disliked within the school.
• Group discussions to express ideas and views.