Safeguarding at Bright Light Education

At Bright Light Education, we are committed to providing high-quality tutoring services that not only meet academic standards but also prioritise the safety and well-being of our students. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of DBS checks, the legal framework for safeguarding in the UK, and how we ensure the highest level of safeguarding at Bright Light Education.

Why Safeguarding in Education Matters

Safeguarding in education is about ensuring that children and young people are protected from harm, abuse, and neglect while they are under the care of educational services. Education providers must create a safe and supportive environment where students can thrive, both academically and personally.

The safeguarding process includes everything from protecting students from physical and emotional abuse to preventing exploitation and neglect. As tutors, we hold a position of trust, and it is essential that we provide a safe space where students can learn and grow without fear of harm.

The Legal Framework for Safeguarding in the UK

In the UK, safeguarding in education is governed by a robust legal framework. Some key pieces of legislation and guidance include:

• KCSIE – This is the statutory guidance for schools and colleges on safeguarding children and safer recruitment.
• The Children Act 1989 and 2004 – This Act outlines the legal duty of local authorities, schools, and other agencies to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.
• The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 – This Act established the legal framework for the vetting and barring of individuals who wish to work with vulnerable groups, including children.
• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018) – This government guidance provides a framework for all professionals who work with children, outlining how they should work together to safeguard and promote children’s welfare.
• The Education Act 2002 – This legislation includes provisions related to safeguarding in education settings, making it clear that schools and educational providers have a legal duty to promote the welfare of students.

What is a DBS Check?

A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is a vital background screening process used to ensure that individuals who work with vulnerable groups, such as children and vulnerable adults, do not have any criminal convictions that would make them unsuitable for such roles. The DBS check provides a comprehensive view of an individual’s criminal history, if applicable, and flags any safeguarding concerns. This process helps employers make informed decisions about whether a person is suitable to work in environments where safeguarding is paramount, such as in schools or with private tutors.

Bright Light Education and Safeguarding

At Bright Light Education, safeguarding is a core value that influences everything we do. We take extensive measures to ensure that our tutors are fully qualified, experienced, and committed to the safety of our students. Here’s how we ensure our safeguarding practices are of the highest standard:

1. Assessing Safeguarding Knowledge in the Interview Process

When recruiting new tutors, we conduct thorough interviews that assess their knowledge and understanding of safeguarding issues. This is a vital part of the hiring process, as we want to ensure that every tutor not only has the academic qualifications but also understands the importance of safeguarding in education.

2. Enhanced DBS Certificate, Overseas Checks and Teacher Prohibition Check

All of our tutors must have an enhanced DBS before they are allowed to teach. This provides a detailed criminal history, including any cautions or convictions. We also carry out Overseas Police Checks where applicable, and conduct a Teacher Prohibition Check to ensure no individual is barred from teaching. These checks are essential to verifying each tutor’s suitability to work with children.

3. Manditory DBS Update Service Registration

All tutors must be signed up for the DBS Update Service. This service allows us to monitor any changes or updates to their DBS status, ensuring that we are always aware of any new information that could affect their suitability to work with students. This service helps us maintain ongoing safeguarding practices throughout the duration of their time tutoring with Bright Light Education.

4. Daily DBS Monitoring via The Tutors’ Association

To ensure that our safeguarding processes remain up to date, we use The Tutors’ Association’s Daily DBS Checker system. This system automatically monitors the DBS certificates of our tutors on a daily basis, alerting us to any changes in their criminal record status. This allows us to act swiftly if there are any concerns about a tutor’s suitability, ensuring the ongoing safety of our students.

5. Designated Safeguarding Leads

Both Dani and Charlotte, the founders of Bright Light Education, are Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs). As DSLs, they are responsible for overseeing all safeguarding practices within the company and providing guidance and support to tutors on safeguarding issues. Their leadership ensures that safeguarding remains a top priority in all aspects of the business.

6. Regular Safeguarding Training and KCSIE Compliance

To maintain the highest standards of safeguarding, we require all tutors to complete safeguarding training every two years. This training ensures that they are up-to-date with the latest safeguarding practices, legislation, and procedures. By regularly refreshing their knowledge, we ensure that our tutors are equipped to respond to any safeguarding concerns promptly and effectively. They must also declare that they have read Part 1 of Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).

7. Professional References

As part of our recruitment process, we obtain two professional references from previous employers or clients, verifying both the tutor’s experience and professional conduct.

At Bright Light Education, the safety and well-being of our students is our top priority. By ensuring that all our tutors are DBS checked, trained in safeguarding, and subject to regular monitoring, we provide a secure and nurturing environment where students can thrive academically without concern. Safeguarding is not just a legal requirement but a core principle that guides everything we do. We believe that by adhering to the highest safeguarding standards, we can help our students reach their full potential, both academically and personally.

If you’re looking for a tutor who not only has academic expertise but also the commitment to ensuring your child’s safety, Bright Light Education is here to help. Let us support your child’s educational journey in a safe, supportive, and caring environment.