Catch22’s approach to safeguarding all of our learners is founded in the nature of our relationships. We prioritise assessing and managing the needs of our learners and have a dynamic approach to identification, assessment and response to risk.

In order to fulfil this responsibility effectively, all practitioners should make sure their approach is child-centred. This means that they should consider, at all times, what is in the best interests of the child. 

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is defined as: 

• protecting children from maltreatment, 

• preventing the impairment of children’s mental and physical health or development, 

• ensuring that children grow up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care, and 

• taking action to enable all children to have the best outcomes. 

The Spires Academy fully recognises the responsibility we have to safeguard and promote the welfare of young people.

Safeguarding Policies

Key Safeguarding Contacts at The Spires Academy

The designated safeguarding lead for The Spires Academy is Trisha Patel, Assistant Headteacher, who can be contacted at t.patel@thespiresacademy.org.uk or on 07738 074988

The designated officers for Northamptonshire County Council are:

• Designated Officer: Administrator 01604 364041

• Designated Officer: Andy Smith 01604 367862

• Designated Officer: Christine York 01604 362633

Safeguarding during Covid-19

Information for Students

We encourage children at The Spires Academy to speak to any member of staff if they feel worried or concerned. However, we are aware that sometimes it can be difficult to talk to an adult.

If you think you or someone you know is being abused, or neglected, or have any safeguarding issues that you would like to report, or simply get some advice on, you can do this by using this link: 

Report a Safeguarding Concern Link

Any reports made on here will be shared with Gemma Roberson, the Head of Safeguarding for Catch22. 

Student Safeguarding Useful Links

• Young Person's Guide to Keeping Children Safe

• Young Persons Guide to Working Together to Safeguard Children 

• External Agency Student Support

• YPI Counselling General Leaflet 

• What Makes a Good Relationship Leaflet 

Information for Parents

The Spires Academy works with many other organisations and agencies to support and safeguard the young people with whom we work.

If you are worried about yourself or someone else, the following links may be useful in directing you to an organisation that can help:

• Barnardos 
• Catch22 
• Childline 
• NSPCC 
• YPI Counselling (counselling for young people) 

Online Safety:

Please see below for useful documents, websites and posters regarding keeping your child safe in the online world.

Other Useful Documents