Safeguarding Policy

At Paideia, the safety and wellbeing of children and vulnerable individuals are our highest priority. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safeguarding in all tutoring relationships, whether conducted online or in person. This policy outlines our obligations and the responsibilities of tutors and staff in ensuring a safe learning environment.

1. Purpose and Scope

This policy is designed to protect children and vulnerable individuals from harm and to ensure all tutors working through Paideia understand and follow the correct safeguarding procedures.

This policy applies to:

  • All tutors registered on our platform

  • All staff members employed or contracted by Paideia

  • All users engaging with our services involving individuals under 18 or vulnerable adults

2. Our Commitment

We are committed to:

  • Promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults

  • Ensuring all tutors’ documents are thoroughly screened and hold an Enhanced DBS check (with children’s barred list where applicable)

  • Providing clear guidelines on safeguarding responsibilities

  • Creating an environment where learners feel safe, supported, and respected

3. Tutor Responsibilities

All tutors using Paideia must:

  • Hold and maintain a valid Enhanced DBS certificate (if working with under-18s or vulnerable individuals)

  • Always maintain professional boundaries with students

  • Never initiate or engage in personal, romantic, or inappropriate relationships with students

  • Report any safeguarding concerns to our Designated Safeguarding Officer immediately

  • Ensure lessons are conducted virtually.

  • Avoid using language or content that is discriminatory, offensive, or inappropriate

  • Not share personal contact information outside of the platform

For online lessons, tutors must:

  • Ensure the environment is free from inappropriate visuals or background noise

  • Respect the student’s comfort and terminate sessions if they appear distressed or uncomfortable

  • Never record lessons or take screenshots without consent

  • Refrain from contacting students outside of the tutoring platform

4. Parental and Guardian Involvement

  • A parent or guardian must consent to any tutoring involving a student under 18

  • We recommend that a responsible adult be present or nearby during lessons for minors

5. Reporting Concerns

If a tutor suspects a student is at risk of harm or has disclosed abuse, they must:

  • Contact the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) immediately via info@pieducation.org.uk

  • Provide a factual account using the student’s own words as much as possible

  • Not attempt to investigate or confront any involved parties themselves

All concerns will be handled sensitively, confidentially, and in line with data protection laws and statutory guidance. Where necessary, we will work with the police or social services.

6. Recognising Abuse

Tutors should be alert to the signs of physical, emotional, sexual abuse or neglect. Warning signs may include:

  • Unexplained injuries

  • Sudden changes in behavior or mood

  • Fearfulness or reluctance to speak openly

  • Poor hygiene or malnourishment

  • Withdrawal from social interactions

7. Online Safety and Cyberbullying

Online abuse is a growing concern. Tutors should be vigilant for signs of:

  • Cyberbullying

  • Grooming or exploitation

  • Inappropriate communication

All online sessions on Paideia may be monitored or recorded for safeguarding and quality assurance.

8. Confidentiality and Data Protection

All personal and contact information must be treated as confidential and stored securely. Tutors must comply with GDPR and never share student data with third parties.

9. Breaches of Policy

Failure to comply with this safeguarding policy may result in:

  • Immediate removal from the platform

  • Referral to appropriate authorities

  • Legal action in cases involving criminal behavior