1. Introduction
The Pet Academy is committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all
learners, particularly young people and vulnerable individuals. This Safeguarding Learners Policy
outlines our commitment to protecting these individuals from harm and ensuring their well-being.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all staff, instructors, volunteers, and anyone involved in the delivery of courses
and services at The Pet Academy. It covers the safeguarding of young people (under 18) and
vulnerable adults.
3. Definitions
– Young People: Individuals under the age of 18.
– Vulnerable Adults: Individuals aged 18 or over who may be at increased risk of harm due to factors
such as age, disability, mental health conditions, or other specific circumstances.
– Safeguarding: Protecting individuals from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and ensuring their health,
safety, and well-being.
4. Principles
4.1 Zero Tolerance
The Pet Academy has a zero-tolerance approach to any form of abuse, exploitation, or neglect.
4.2 Respect and Dignity
All learners should be treated with respect and dignity, and their rights to privacy and confidentiality
should be upheld.
4.3 Inclusive Environment
We aim to create an inclusive environment where all learners feel safe, supported, and valued.
4.4 Preventative Measures
We are committed to implementing preventative measures to safeguard young people and
vulnerable adults.
5. Roles and Responsibilities
Staff and Instructors are responsible for:
– Overseeing the implementation of this policy.
– Providing advice and support on safeguarding matters.- Coordinating responses to safeguarding concerns.
– Liaising with external agencies as necessary.
5.3 Learners and Parents/Guardians
Learners and their parents/guardians (where applicable) are encouraged to:
– Familiarise themselves with this policy.
– Report any concerns or incidents to a staff member.
6. Safeguarding Procedures
6.1 Safe Learning Environment
– Online Safety: Implementing measures to ensure the online safety of learners, including secure
platforms, monitoring, and reporting mechanisms.
– Accessibility: Ensuring that all course materials and communication methods are accessible to
learners with disabilities.
6.2 Use of Webex as an online learning tool
By accepting the Webex meeting ID and joining the meeting, with parental responsibility, you agree
to the terms set out within this document.
– Webex is only to be accessed by a device in a communal family space.
– A parent or guardian should be present throughout the course to take responsibility but also
to deal with any technical difficulties.
– Attendees should be dressed appropriately at all times.
– The meeting ID is to remain confidential and not to be shared to anyone that has not signed
up to the classroom.
– Recording, photos or screenshots of the Webex meeting are not allowed by participants.
– The Webex meeting will not be recorded.
– The Webex meeting will have a waiting room for participants to log on 15 minutes prior to
the meeting starting.
– The Webex meeting will be locked by an instructor 5 minutes after the start time so that it can
only be accessed by authorised participants. Unfortunately, anyone who arrives later to the
meeting will not be able to gain access even with the meeting ID.
– For participants, some Webex facilities will be disabled by the host instructors. This includes
but isn’t limited to the screen function, chat and screen share.6.3 Reporting Concerns
– Immediate Action: If a learner is in immediate danger, contact emergency services.
– Reporting: Concerns should be reported to the Pet Academy as soon as possible. Reports can be
made via email.
– Confidentiality: Reports will be handled with strict confidentiality, sharing information only with
those who need to know to ensure the learner’s safety.
6.4 Responding to Concerns
– Initial Assessment: The Pet Academy will conduct an initial assessment of the concern.
– Investigation: If necessary, a full investigation will be carried out, involving external agencies as
required.
7. Code of Conduct
7.1 Professional Boundaries
– Communication: Staff and instructors should maintain professional boundaries in all
communications with learners.
– Behaviour: All interactions with learners should be conducted in a manner that respects their
dignity and promotes a safe learning environment.
7.2 Online Conduct
– Social Media: Staff and instructors should avoid engaging with learners on personal social media
platforms.
– Virtual Classes: Ensure that virtual classes are conducted in a safe and professional manner, with
appropriate supervision and monitoring.
8. Monitoring and Review
8.1 Regular Review
This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains current and effective. Feedback from staff,
learners, and external agencies will be considered in the review process.
8.2 Continuous Improvement
We are committed to continuously improving our safeguarding practices. Any incidents or concerns
will be reviewed to identify lessons learned and areas for improvement.
9. Contact Information
For questions or to report a safeguarding concern, contact:
[email protected] adhering to this Safeguarding Learners Policy, The Pet Academy commits to ensuring the safety
and well-being of all learners, particularly young people and vulnerable adults, creating a secure
and supportive educational environment.
