Keeping Children Safe at Cottenham Village College
Cottenham Village College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and safety of all students and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
We are fully committed to ensuring that consistent, effective safeguarding procedures are in place to support families, students and staff at school.
Our Designated Safeguarding Lead is Helen Stearn, who is supported by a team of trained Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads. Outside of the school day, students and parents can report safeguarding concerns via the email address CVCtellus@astreacottenham.org or by leaving a voice message using our dedicated safeguarding voicemail (01954 288771).
The school will, in most circumstances, endeavour to discuss all concerns with parents about their children. However, there may be exceptional circumstances when the school will discuss concerns with Social Care and/or the Police without parental knowledge (in accordance with Child Protection procedures). The school will, of course, always aim to maintain a positive relationship with all parents. The school’s Safeguarding Policy is available publicly.
Link to copy of the CVC Safeguarding Policy
We are an Operation Encompass School. Operation Encompass is a police and education early information safeguarding partnership enabling schools to offer immediate support to children experiencing domestic abuse.
In addition to the safeguarding services available in school, there are important online resources and services available to students and their families. These include:
Childline (online, on the phone, anytime)
Advice, information and support
Reporting a Concern – Cambridge & Peterborough Social Care
If you are a family member, friend, member of the public and have concerns for a child or adult at risk.
NSPCC Keeping Children Safe
Support and tips to help you keep children safe. From advice on children’s mental health to staying safe online, support for parents and what to do if you’re worried about a child.
Cambridgeshire Police Safer Schools Newsletter
Updates and advice regarding issues affecting young people in our area.
Safeguarding Resource Hub
A free hub of national safeguarding resources to empower children, young people and all adults supporting them.