Maestro Academy of Music Safeguarding Policy

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At Maestro Academy of Music, we are deeply committed to the safety and well-being of all our students. We engage learners in dynamic, interactive music lessons while ensuring the protection of children, young people, and vulnerable members of society. We believe that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and we are dedicated to providing an environment where all participants feel safe and supported, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation.

Our Beliefs and Commitment

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We believe that:

• Every child, young person, and vulnerable member of society has the absolute right to feel safe and protected from any situation that could cause physical or psychological harm.

• The welfare of children is paramount, and it is our collective responsibility to promote their well-being.

• Safeguarding involves protecting children from maltreatment, preventing impairment of their health and development, ensuring safe and effective care, and taking action to ensure they have the best outcomes.

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Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)

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Natasha Cowperthwaite, Director and Owner of Maestro Academy of Music, serves as the Safeguarding Officer. Natasha is responsible for ensuring all tutors have an up-to-date Enhanced DBS check and are trained to recognize signs of abuse or neglect.

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Key Safeguarding Responsibilities

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• Protect children, young people, and vulnerable members of society from abuse.

• Prevent impairment of health and development.

• Ensure safe and effective care.

• Take immediate action to protect those at risk, sharing information responsibly.

 

Types of Abuse

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Abuse can manifest in various forms, including:

• Physical Abuse: Inflicting physical harm, such as hitting or shaking.

• Sexual Abuse: Involving a child in sexual activities, from inappropriate comments to assault.

• Emotional Abuse: Failing to provide love and encouragement, often through constant criticism or ignoring.

• Neglect: Failing to meet a child’s basic needs, such as food, warmth, and medical care.

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Signs of Abuse

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• Recurrent bruising or injuries

• Sudden changes in behaviour (withdrawn, aggressive, or attention-seeking)

• Poor supervision, inadequate clothing, or constant hunger

• Unexplained pain or fear of adults

• Sexualized behaviour or exposure to inappropriate materials

 

These signs may indicate abuse, but they could also result from other circumstances. In any case, all concerns should be reported.

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Action to Take

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If a tutor suspects abuse or if a student discloses it, the following steps should be taken:

1. Record: Document any information or suspicions at the time of the event.

2. Report: Share concerns immediately with the Safeguarding Officer.

3. Refer, Don’t Investigate: Always refer suspicions to the proper authorities, such as Social Services or the Police, but never attempt to investigate allegations on your own.

 

Safety Protocols for One-to-One Teaching

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Maestro Academy of Music recognizes the importance of establishing clear boundaries and ensuring the safety of both students and tutors in one-to-one lesson settings. To this end, we have implemented the following safety protocols:

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• Parental Involvement: If worried, parents or guardians are welcome to sit in on lessons, particularly for younger students.

• Maintaining Professional Boundaries: Tutors are trained to maintain appropriate physical and emotional boundaries with students. This includes avoiding personal contact (except on occasions of correcting posture and/or hand position) and ensuring all feedback and communication are constructive and professional.

• Regular Check-ins: Tutors will regularly check in with parents or guardians about a student's progress, concerns, or behaviour, fostering a partnership between home and the academy.

 

Guidance for Tutors

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Tutors must:

• Treat all students with respect.

• Maintain clear, professional boundaries at all times.

• Take action if they suspect abuse or are informed about it.

• Document all incidents of concern and inform the Safeguarding Officer.

• Avoid physical contact, inappropriate language, or any form of verbal or emotional manipulation.

 

Tutors must never:

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• Engage in rough or sexually suggestive behaviour.

• Allow inappropriate language or actions to go unchallenged.

• Make sexually suggestive comments, even in jest.

• Perform tasks of a personal nature that a student can manage themselves.

• Ignore or dismiss allegations made by students.

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How to Respond to Concerns

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If a student expresses concern or discloses abuse:

• Listen carefully: Take what the student says seriously and reassure them that they were right to speak up.

• Act immediately: Report the concern to the Safeguarding Officer, document the conversation, and, if necessary, contact local authorities.

• Avoid interrogation: Do not ask leading questions or attempt to investigate. Your role is to listen and pass the information to professionals.

• Maintain confidentiality: Only discuss the case with those directly responsible for safeguarding in the academy.

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Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment

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We are committed to:

• Respecting students’ privacy and personal boundaries.

• Providing a fun and encouraging learning environment.

• Fostering trust through positive reinforcement and constructive feedback.

• Involving parents and carers where possible in their child’s musical journey.

• Promoting a culture where children feel comfortable speaking up and seeking help.

 

In Conclusion

At Maestro Academy of Music, safeguarding is an integral part of our mission. We are dedicated to ensuring that every child, young person, and vulnerable member of society feels safe and supported in our care, and we will take all necessary measures to protect their well-being. Through our policies and vigilant practices, we aim to foster a nurturing and secure environment where music education thrives.