Child Protection policy

Educational Center “Liberated School”

Founder Elena Chegodaeva

Principal/Academic director Polina Eistrikh-Geller

Revised: August 2024

The International Educational Center “Liberated School” provides every child with high-quality education in an atmosphere of mutual respect, building a reliable foundation for life and learning anywhere in the world. We create a space where children can freely express themselves, discover their interests, and forge their own developmental paths, while educators continuously enhance their professional skills.

Our goal is to help children feel confident in a changing world, fostering a generation that values freedom, responsibility, and mutual understanding.

1. Aims and Objectives of the Policy

1.1. To ensure that all children studying at the “Liberated school” are in a safe environment, free from violence, exploitation, abuse, and neglect.

1.2. To foster a culture of attentiveness and responsibility within the school community regarding children’s welfare, providing proper oversight and prompt response to any signs of potential harm.

1.3. To establish clear procedures for identifying, documenting, reporting, investigating, and responding to cases that may pose a threat to a child’s safety or well-being.

1.4. To ensure that all school personnel, including teachers, administrative staff, technical and support staff, have received appropriate training in child protection and are aware of their responsibilities.

2. Scope of the Policy

2.1. This policy applies to all students of the “Liberated school,” including those in preschool programs (if applicable), primary, secondary, and senior levels, as well as participants in Cambridge International A Level programs.

2.2. The policy is mandatory for all school employees, volunteers, interns, representatives of partner organizations, visitors, and any individuals interacting with students.

3. Definitions

3.1. Child Protection – A set of measures aimed at preventing and responding to all forms of violence, abuse, exploitation, neglect, and maltreatment that a child may experience.

3.2. Child Abuse or Neglect includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse; neglect of basic needs; bullying; and all other forms of exploitation.

3.3. Child Protection Lead – A staff member appointed by the school management who is primarily responsible for coordinating child protection measures, providing staff training, and responding to incidents.

4. Principles of the Policy

4.1. Children’s Rights: All decisions and actions must be based on the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, prioritizing the child’s best interests.

4.2. Zero Tolerance for Violence: Any form of violence or exploitation is unacceptable. All suspicions of wrongdoing must be promptly investigated.

4.3. Confidentiality and Respect for the Individual: Information related to possible abuse or neglect is treated with strict confidentiality. Information is collected and shared only as necessary to protect the child and in accordance with the law.

4.4. Professionalism and Competence: All staff members must undergo regular training on child protection issues, be informed about this policy, and adhere to it.

4.5. Early Intervention: Ensure early detection of signs of distress or potential risk to the child, and take immediate action.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

5.1. School Management:

5.2. Child Protection Lead:

5.3. School Staff (Teachers, Administrators, Support Staff):

5.4. Parents/Guardians:

6. Procedures for Identification, Reporting, and Response

6.1. Identifying Signs: Staff should be alert to signs of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, or bullying. They should note behavioral changes, emotional states, appearances, and academic performance.

6.2. Reporting Suspicion: If there is suspicion or knowledge of abuse:

6.3. Investigation and Response:

6.4. Support for Victims and Involved Parties:

7. Training and Professional Development

7.1. All staff members receive regular training and attend workshops on child protection, including recognizing signs of abuse and the proper response.

7.2. Knowledge is updated at least once a year, taking into account changes in legislation, Cambridge International guidelines, and the evolution of best practices.

7.3. Parents and guardians are periodically provided with informational materials about how they can contribute to their child’s safety.

8. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Review of the Policy

8.1. The policy and child protection practices are regularly reviewed by the school’s management and the Child Protection Lead, taking into account feedback from staff, students, parents, and external regulatory bodies.

8.2. The policy is reviewed at least once every three years or more frequently if there are changes in local legislation or Cambridge International requirements.

8.3. The results of evaluations, identified issues, or recommendations lead to adjustments and improvements in the policy and procedures.

9. Documentation and Data Storage

9.1. All data on cases or suspicions are recorded in confidential registers accessible only to authorized personnel.

9.2. Data is stored in accordance with applicable legislation on data processing and personal data protection.

10. Communication and Information

10.1. The policy is available to all interested parties: staff, parents, students (in an age-appropriate format), and regulatory authorities.

10.2. Upon hiring or beginning collaboration, all new staff members and volunteers become acquainted with the policy and confirm their commitment to adhere to it.

Sources:

MANAGING ALLEGATIONS OF CHILD ABUSE BY EDUCATORS AND OTHER ADULTS: Protocol for International Schools (September 2018), International Task Force on Child Protection (ITFCP).