Safeguarding 

12.12.25

As we approach the festive season, this is a time when belonging, connection, and care matter more than ever. The lead-up to Christmas can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming for some children. Routines change, emotions can run high, and there are more online opportunities and risks than usual. This update brings together some key reminders to help keep our school community safe, supported, and connected.

For many children, the weeks before Christmas can feel particularly busy or unsettled. As a school, we are continuing to focus on:

• Warm welcomes every morning so children arrive feeling noticed and valued.

• Checking-in with pupils who may be struggling with friendships, emotions, or worries.

• Predictable routines, especially as excitement builds, to help children feel secure.

• Encouraging connection through teamwork, shared activities, and opportunities to talk.

Belonging is one of the most powerful protective factors we can offer children — and small moments of kindness make the biggest difference.

Online Safety: A Reminder for Families

Christmas often means new devices, new apps, or new games. Before wrapping up a phone, tablet, console, or smartwatch, families may find it helpful to:

• Set up parental controls, privacy settings, and filters in advance.

• Talk about age-appropriate apps, and what to do if something online feels worrying or unkind.

• Remind children that screen time needs balancing with rest, play, and real-world connection.

• Have regular conversations about who they are talking to and what they are sharing online.

Some apps that require extra caution include messaging platforms with minimal age checks, anonymous chat features, or unmoderated content (e.g. Telegram, Kik, Reddit, or “vault” apps designed to hide content). We encourage families to explore apps together, keep passwords shared, and check in regularly.

At this time of year, safeguarding is not just about preventing harm — it is about making sure every child feels safe, connected, and cared for both in school and at home. Thank you for working together with us to support our pupils through this busy season.

If you have any concerns, questions, or need advice, please contact the safeguarding team at any time.

Wishing all our families a safe, calm, and joyful Christmas.

Always, 

Miss K 🌻