Safeguarding
At John Henry Newman Catholic College, the safety and well-being of every student is our highest priority. We are deeply committed to protecting children and young people from harm, abuse, and neglect. Our aim is to foster a safe, supportive environment where students can thrive, learn, and grow.

Our Commitment to Safeguarding

  • Protection from Harm: We have robust policies to safeguard students from all forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual, and neglect. All concerns or allegations are taken seriously and handled in line with our safeguarding policy.
  • Safe Environment: Our goal is to create a respectful, inclusive, and supportive school environment. Our staff are trained to recognize and respond to signs of abuse or neglect and are dedicated to building positive, trusting relationships with students.
  • Prevention and Education: We actively promote a culture of safeguarding, teaching students about online safety, healthy relationships, and how to seek help if they feel unsafe. Students know who to approach if they have any concerns.
  • Reporting Concerns: Clear reporting procedures are in place for students, staff, and parents. Every concern is taken seriously, appropriately investigated, and followed up to ensure student safety and well-being.
  • Staff Training: All staff undergo regular safeguarding training to roles in keeping children safe. Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) are trained and equipped to handle safeguarding issues.
  • Partnership with Parents and Carers: We believe safeguarding is a shared responsibility and work closely with parents and carers to support children both at school and at home. We encourage parents to discuss safeguarding matters openly and report any concerns.

Reporting a Concern

If you are concerned about the safety or well-being of a child at our school, please contact our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) immediately or email feelingsafe@jhncc.org.

Safeguarding Contacts

  • Claire Webb – Assistant Headteacher of Safeguarding, SEND, and Pastoral Provision (DSL)
  • Maria Smith – School Social Worker (Deputy DSL)
  • Kelly Dunn – Deputy DSL
  • Sahfia Riaz – Deputy DSL
  • Sarah Thompson – Deputy DSL

Other Key Staff

  • Amy Hawkins – Attendance Officer
  • Clare Kendrick – Attendance Officer
  • Lesley Beddoes – School Psychotherapist
  • Rachel Sparkman – Senior Mentor for Mental Health
  • Rebecca Osborne – School Medical Officer
  • Mr. L. Stokes – Restorative Impact Centre Manager
  • Miss E. Jones – Behaviour Mentor
  • Miss S. McCoy – Behaviour Mentor

Our safeguarding procedures follow all relevant child protection laws and guidelines, including those of the Solihull Safeguarding Children’s Partnership.

External Support and Advice

General Child Protection and Well-being

Online Safety and Protection

Mental Health Support

Domestic Violence Support

Homelessness and Debt Support

Addressing Bullying

We are committed to a caring, friendly, and safe environment, where bullying of any kind is unacceptable. If bullying occurs, students can report it to any staff member or email our Safeguarding Team at feelingsafe@jhncc.org to receive support.