Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do at CSS. As Designated Safeguarding Lead at CSS, I am committed to ensuring that every child and young person feels safe, valued and supported. Our approach is rooted in trauma-informed practice, recognising that many of our learners may have experienced adversity, trauma or challenges that can impact their behaviour, wellbeing and ability to engage in education.
At CSS, safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. Our culture is built on the understanding that safeguarding concerns are not something that might happen elsewhere, but that they do happen here. This mindset ensures that we at CSS, remain vigilant, professionally curious and responsive to the needs of our young people and their families.
Many of our pupils have experienced disruption to their education and may face additional vulnerabilities and complexities. Safeguarding is embedded into the culture at CSS. We prioritise attendance, so children are present, seen and safe. We believe that behaviour is a form of communication, and through strong relationships, empathy and understanding, we seek to identify and respond to the underlying needs of the young people in our community. Our staff are trained to recognise signs of vulnerability and to act swiftly when concerns arise.
Through detailed and timely reporting, our safeguarding team is able to assess concerns quickly and coordinate the right support at the right time. We work closely with families, external agencies and other professionals to ensure that children and young people of CSS, receive the help they need to thrive both in and beyond school.

At CSS, safeguarding is more than a statutory duty. It is the foundation of our culture, guiding every interaction and decision we make so that our young people can feel safe, build trust, and be the best they can be.


Helpful organisations for students: