Prevent
In order for Bassingbourn Primary to fulfil the Prevent duty, it is essential that staff are able to identify children who may be vulnerable to radicalisation, and know what to do when they are identified. Protecting children from the risk of radicalisation should be seen as part of our wider safeguarding duties, and is similar in nature to protecting children from other harms.
We can also build pupils' resilience to radicalisation by promoting fundamental British values and enabling children to challenge extremist views. It is important to emphasise that the Prevent duty is not intended to stop pupils debating controversial issues (e.g. animal testing, religion, genetic engineering). On the contrary, schools should provide a safe space in which children, young people and staff can understand the risks associated with terrorism and develop the knowledge and skills to be able to challenge extremist arguments. The Prevent duty is entirely consistent with our existing responsibilities. It may be helpful for parents/carers to know that the law requires all the school staff to pass on information which raises concern that a child may be at risk from radicalisation. Mr Sweeney is the designated child protection officer for Prevent.
We fulfil the duty in four ways:
1. Risk assessment
2. Working in partnership with other schools
3. Staff training
4. Creating IT policies that help to education pupils about staying safe on line and protect children from accessing unsuitable material.
