Training interview: Safeguarding

TN spoke to Rogers Dance Academy’s Kieran Rogers about the safeguarding courses his team have completed with Child Protection Training UK…

What work does Rogers Dance Academy carry out with young children?

KR: The academy delivers an extensive education programme for all ages and abilities, offering a range of dance activities right across the country. We provide multicultural workshops in early years and primary settings which are curriculum-linked, raising attainment and achievement and helping to get young people active.

Why did you decide to take safeguarding training with Child Protection Training UK?

KR: We work with children, as well as vulnerable people; safeguarding training in this area is mandatory and everyone’s responsibility. We chose Child Protection Training UK in particular because of recommendations made by the schools and nursery managers we’ve worked with. We also found that their website offered a wealth of advice, including up-to-date information on current legislation.

What training have you taken, and what did it involve?

KR: All of our staff and freelance teachers have undertaken the Level , 2 and 3 training, in line with government legislation. Child Protection Training UK were fantastic as they were able to offer us a variety of training seminars to suit our needs – from on-site training days, to twilight and weekend sessions, which ensured all our staff were equipped with the knowledge necessary to spot signs of abuse and follow the correct reporting procedures. All the courses we’ve undertaken were a day long, except for the twilights which took place over two sessions.

From day one we were given guidance and support on policy implementation, and were offered advice and training on safeguarding issues exceeding Ofsted’s requirements. We’ve found their hands on approach particularly useful – safeguarding is a sensitive topic, but having practical examples delivered in a down-to-earth manner is something that we’ve all appreciated.

How useful have you found the training?

KR: We found the courses extremely useful, as they deliver the right amount of training for each level within our team. Because we work within schools and early years settings on a daily basis, it’s essential that child protection is embedded as part of our culture and practices – sharing real life examples of past and current cases has given us peace of mind that our practice, and the procedures that we’ve implemented, meet the guidance set out by government, and has given us a solid foundation in identifying and addressing safeguarding concerns.

Are you intending to complete any further training in this area?

KR: Safeguarding training is an ongoing process – to ensure that we meet Ofsted requirements, all staff receive updated training regularly – and we fully intend to work closely with Child Protection Training UK moving forward, as they offer excellent value for money. We will also be undertaking further training around the Vetting and Barring scheme with them as part of our continuing safeguarding commitment.

For more information on courses available from Child Protection Training UK, visitchildprotectiontraininguk.co.uk

Further opportunities…

Stay positive

Positive Learning specialises in providing training for nurseries, playgroups and childminders across the UK. Its courses are designed to meet Ofsted requirements (advice and support in the lead up to inspections is also available) whilst its trainers are themselves experienced practitioners. For further information, contact Michael Smith on 01243 544960 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Play it safe

PPK supplies HSE Certificated courses in First aid at Work and Emergency First Aid, plus recertification and annual refresher courses. It also offers a Certificate in Paediatric First Aid, Fire Certification, Manual Handling, Health & Safety level 2 and Food Safety level 2. It provides training around the country. Visit ppktraining.co.uk

Be professional

The CWDC has announced the eight training providers which will the lead the next EYPS recruitment phase. Amongst them is The University of Northampton, which will be running all EYPS Pathways across the East Midlands from January 2012. For more information or to request an application form, call the EYPS Administrator on 01604 892 076 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)