At Dorchester Learning Centre, keeping children safe is at the centre of everything we do. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and every adult in our school community works together to make sure our students feel protected, supported and able to thrive. 

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We are proud to be a Trauma Informed School, which means we understand that every child has a unique story, and we respond with empathy, kindness and consistency. When student’s share their story with us, they are met with understanding, dignity and respect, and supported by staff who have secure knowledge of the signs of harm.  Children’s voices matter deeply to us. We make sure that students know who they can talk to and that they will always be listened to. Their thoughts, worries and ideas help shape the way we support them every day and inform safeguarding decision making. We empower students to keep themselves safe and know where to seek further help as they move into independence. 

We believe safeguarding works best when we work together. We work collaboratively with families, carers, external professionals and safeguarding partners to ensure concerns are identified early. We recognise that effective protection and early help rely on strong relationships and shared responsibility. We are proactive in making well evidenced multi-agency referrals where necessary. 

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We create a safe and inclusive environment where every student feels they belong and is protected from harm. Staff are well trained, confident in their duties and professionally curious and alert to risk. At Dorchester Learning Centre, safeguarding isn’t just a policy—it’s who we are, how we work, and the commitment we make to every student and family who walks through our doors.