Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment

Ofsted have reported on the extent of sexual violence and harassment in schools. The findings were shocking and this coupled with media coverage of the “Me Too” movement and the “Everyone’s Invited” campaign have really raised the profile and problems that our young people face.

At Thorpe St Andrew School and Sixth Form we are ensuring that all of our staff are aware of the dangers faced by our students and know what to do to support them.

We want all of our students to feel that they can talk to us to report any concerns and that we will always take them seriously giving appropriate support and advice.

We know that as parents and carers the job of bringing up your children is becoming increasingly difficult and as such we have included a number of recommended links which we hope you will find useful in keeping your children safe.

The Lucy Faithful Foundation - a child protection charity dedicated to preventing child sexual abuse. The Foundation works closely with frontline workers such as police officers, social workers and education staff to ensure that children are as safe as they can be. There is some excellent advice on this site for parents and carers. Links to the charity are found here
The DFE has recently commissioned a Helpline specifically for children and young people who have experienced abuse at school, and for worried adults and professionals that need support and guidance. Links to the helpline are found here
Where children make disclosures about a rape, an attempted rape or a serious sexual assault, whether this has happened recently or in the past, then (with their consent) we can make a referral to The Harbour Centre - information about the Harbour Centre can be found here

Alternatively a self referral can be made by the victim and DSL’s can signpost to The Harbour Centre - via the 24/7 support line, 01603 276381,

for advice and guidance.

If the individual is under 18 years of age, the police will also be informed via the safeguarding MASH team. In addition where a disclosure is
made, the DSL’s would make a CADS call

Please do feel that you as parents can contact us at any point and we will do our best to offer support and advice.