Are you a governor? What do you expect from a governor who is responsible for safeguarding?

[GlitteredAcorns]

First time as a governor, responsible for wellbeing and safeguarding. What can I expect that will be expected of me? If that makes any sense?

Have you read the school's Child Protection Policy and Keeping Children Safe in Education? They should outline your role. Also look at OFSTED's information on inspecting safeguarding.

Our named governor meets with the DSL regularly to monitor school effectiveness. We discuss staff training, safer recruitment, current national and local issues, they review our record keeping (anonymised), help with the self evaluation, etc. As named Safeguarding governor you should have additional training and that should point you in the right direction. Schools do vary a little, so a meeting with your head / DSL is the priority.

It is a big role, one I personally wouldn't give to a new governor. I assume that you are not a parent at the school? If you are then you shouldn't really be in the role (Not a legal requirement but best practice)

1. Access LA safeguarding CPD. Essential and immediate.

1. Understand your statutory role. What are you responsible for?

assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/788234/governance_handbook_2019.pdf

assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/830121/Keeping_children_safe_in_education_060919.pdf

1. Half termly meetings during the school day, the length will vary depending on the safeguarding situation of the school

1. Support annual section 175 audit process. External review at least every 3 years. Lead on monitoring the post Ofsted audit plan,

1. Ensure that all other governors access relevant safeguarding CPD.

1. Monitor the SCR (this may be the Chair)

Do you also have children who are looked after? Attendance?

To add

Safer recruitment trained.
Site security (will be part of 175 typically). Liaise with H&S governor and site manager.
Lead on challenge of HT safeguarding report to governors
Probably sit on the relevant sub committee (school specific)- may Chair it.
Lead on checking (not writing) all safeguarding policies. Ensure safeguarding information on the website is accurate and legally compliant.

Thank you all so much. 15thOctober2019 you've scared me a little!