Security and Child Protection

Child Protection

The Designated Lead for Child Protection and Safeguarding is the Headteacher. In his absence, Mr Towler (Deputy Headteacher) or Mrs Shorten (AHT) take responsibility as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads. Our senior leadership team (SLT) are also able to take responsibility, if necessary. All staff have level 2 (or above) safeguarding training at regular intervals.

A link to our current Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy can be found above ('Statutory Information' tab). This is regularly updated, to reflect guidance in 'Keeping Children Safe in Education'. The Academy works with Essex Safeguarding Children Board.

Academy Security

The academy has secure external fencing to its perimeter. Additional internal fencing ensures the safety of children whilst on the school premises. There are 16 CCTV cameras on the academy site which operate 24 hours a day. Our best security device remains the ears and eyes of the people who work at the academy.

An automated barrier to the academy premises ensures agreed access only. Academy gates are opened at 8.40 a.m. and 3.10 p.m. Teaching Staff man the Main Gate and key positions around the entry areas at 8.40am. The gates are closed prior to 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. Access at all other times are by intercom system only.

  • Doors can be locked from the inside.

  • Entry systems have been installed on the two main entrance doors. Access can only be gained by staff, or by buzzing, when entry will then be given.

  • A ‘signing-in’ system is in operation for all visitors and parent helpers to the academy, who are required to wear identity lanyards (colour coded to reflect level of DBS clearance).

  • All visitors/parent helpers in the academy engaged in frequent and/or regulated activities are DBS checked.

  • All professionals have to provide identification.

  • When the academy is closed, there is an extensive alarm system in place which alerts the keyholder.

  • All staff wear badges to enable them to be identified.

We have emergency plans and procedures in place in the event of key events (e.g. Lockdowns and emergency evacuations) which can be viewed upon request.