Every Child Matters – Safeguarding in Partnership

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Shrewsbury International School Bangkok City Campus hosted a Lecture Series titled ‘Every Child Matters – Safeguarding in Partnership.’ Led by Fiona Betts, our Vice Principal and Designated Safeguarding Lead, the lecture aimed to shed light on child protection and safeguarding, not only within the school but also extended to parents as part of our collective mission to ensure the welfare of our children.

Student safeguarding is globally practised, involves a broader duty of care to ensure that all students experience safe and effective care. It involves proactive, preventative measures and creating an environment where students can thrive safely and positively. During the lecture, Ms Betts emphasised that every staff member at Shrewsbury International School Bangkok City Campus has been trained to recognise potential safeguarding concerns. These concerns can be as subtle as a child displaying anxiety or distress. Is it something within the school environment that is bothering them? Or could it be an issue they’re facing at home? Addressing these concerns is the first step in unravelling the underlying issues that might affect a child’s well-being.

However, safeguarding doesn’t start and end at the school gates; it also extends into our homes. Parents play a pivotal role in this endeavour. It’s important for parents to be informed, involved, and proactive in maintaining a safe environment for their children. This requires an understanding of healthy boundaries, effective communication, and creating a safe environment where children can grow and develop.

Healthy boundaries are essential in any relationship, especially between parents and children. It’s about defining limits while nurturing independence. Children need to understand what is acceptable and what is not, both within the family and in the outside world. Parents should foster open communication with their children, encouraging them to express their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement. Creating a safe environment at home is not just about physical safety; it also involves emotional and psychological well-being. Children should feel secure, loved, and free to be themselves.

In conclusion, safeguarding is not a singular responsibility; it is a partnership between the school and parents. It is a shared commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of where they are, feels safe and protected. It’s about looking out for signs, creating an atmosphere of open communication, and providing a loving and secure environment where our children can thrive. At Shrewsbury International School Bangkok City Campus, we are committed to this cause to ensure that ‘Every Child Matters.’