Stranger Danger

At Bradstow School, the safety and wellbeing of our students is our top priority. We are committed to teaching children how to recognise and respond safely to strangers or unfamiliar situations, both in school and in the wider community.

Understanding the Risks
Children and young people, particularly those with additional needs or communication difficulties, can be more vulnerable to adults or peers who may wish to cause them harm. This may include strangers in public spaces, online contacts, or individuals attempting to manipulate or exploit them.

Our Approach

• Education and Awareness:
  We provide age-appropriate and accessible lessons on personal safety, including how to recognise strangers, avoid dangerous situations, and respond safely. Lessons are adapted to meet the learning needs of all students.
• Safe Practices:
  Students are encouraged to always inform a trusted adult if they feel unsafe or unsure. Staff model and reinforce safe behaviour, including staying in groups, using safe routes, and not sharing personal information with strangers.
• Digital Safety:
  We teach students how to stay safe online, including recognising risky interactions, reporting concerns, and understanding privacy and security settings.
• Staff Training:
  All staff receive safeguarding training, including guidance on recognising and responding to situations where a child may be at risk from strangers, exploitation, or inappropriate influence.
• Working with Families:
  We work closely with parents and carers to provide practical advice and strategies for keeping children safe outside of school. This includes guidance on travel safety, online safety, and recognising warning signs of unsafe situations.
• Supportive Environment:
  We foster a culture where students feel confident to ask for help, speak up about concerns, and access support from trusted adults in school.

Reporting Concerns
If a student, parent, or staff member has concerns about safety or potential risks from strangers, these should be reported immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). All reports are taken seriously and handled confidentially in line with our safeguarding policies.