Prevent
At Bradstow School , the safety, wellbeing, and development of our students are our highest priorities. We are fully committed to fulfilling our responsibilities under the Prevent Duty, which forms part of the UK Government’s counter-terrorism strategy . This duty requires schools to take proactive steps to prevent students from being drawn into extremism or terrorism while ensuring a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
Understanding Vulnerabilities in a Special School Setting
We recognise that some of our students may be more vulnerable to radicalisation or extremist influences due to learning difficulties, communication challenges, or social and emotional vulnerabilities. These students may have difficulty understanding complex concepts, recognising manipulative behaviours online or in person, or expressing concerns about harmful influences. At Bradstow School, we take these factors into account when planning our safeguarding and Prevent strategies.
Our Approach
- Promoting Fundamental British Values:
We actively teach and model democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. This is done through accessible and age-appropriate activities, lessons, and social interactions, ensuring all students can engage and understand. - Early Identification and Support:
All staff receive specialised safeguarding and Prevent training focused on recognising signs of radicalisation in students with additional needs. Behavioural changes, withdrawn behaviour, new or extreme views, or online activity concerns are taken seriously and addressed promptly. - Personalised Safeguarding Plans:
Students at higher risk may have individual safeguarding or risk management plans. These plans provide clear strategies for supporting the student, engaging their family, and monitoring progress in a sensitive and structured way. - Safe Online Use and Digital Awareness:
Students are supported to navigate the online world safely. We provide tailored guidance on recognising harmful or extremist content and understanding safe ways to communicate online. - Engagement with Families and Carers:
We work closely with parents, carers, and guardians, recognising their crucial role in safeguarding. We provide guidance and advice to help families support their children in understanding safe behaviour and avoiding harmful influences. - Partnership Working:
We maintain strong links with local safeguarding boards, police, mental health services, and specialist agencies. This ensures coordinated support for students who may be at risk of radicalisation or extremism. - Inclusive and Supportive School Culture:
We foster a culture where students feel safe to express themselves, share concerns, and engage in positive dialogue. We encourage critical thinking, resilience, and emotional literacy as protective factors against extremist influence.
Training and Responsibilities
All staff—including teaching, support, and specialist staff—receive Prevent and safeguarding training relevant to working with children with additional needs. The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and deputies receive advanced Prevent training and coordinate the school’s response to any concerns.
Reporting Concerns
Any staff member, student, parent, or visitor who has concerns about radicalisation or extremism is encouraged to contact the DSL. All concerns are treated confidentially and are addressed in line with our safeguarding policies and statutory guidance.
