Why is Safeguarding Important?
Safeguarding is at the heart of teaching. Children aged 4–7 are still very young — they depend on adults to keep them safe and may not have the words to explain when something is wrong. That’s why teachers play a crucial role.
Safeguarding is important because it:
- Protects children from harm at a time when they are most vulnerable.
- Builds trust — children need to know adults will listen and take action.
- Ensures equality — every child has the right to feel safe, regardless of background.
- Prepares teachers — by recognising concerns quickly, teachers can act before problems grow.
In practice, safeguarding means following school policy, reporting to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), and never ignoring concerns. It is not about solving everything alone, but about making sure the right people are informed.
Remember: You’re not expected to have all the answers — but you are expected to act.
