Safeguarding

Keeping Children Safe

The safety and wellbeing of our students is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a school environment where every young person feels secure, respected, and supported. Safeguarding is a shared responsibility, and we work closely with students, staff, parents, carers, and external agencies to ensure our school is a safe place to learn and grow.

 

Safeguarding at OBHS

All OBHS staff receive regular, up-to-date safeguarding training and are equipped to identify when a student may need support. We have robust systems in place to ensure any concerns are addressed quickly and effectively. In line with national guidance, our recruitment practices are rigorous to help keep all students safe.

Visitors to OBHS are also made aware of our safeguarding expectations and must follow them at all times when on site.

We actively teach students how to keep themselves and each other safe. Key safeguarding themes are covered through:

 

  • Tutor time and assemblies
  • Learning for Life (PSHE) lessons
  • Posters and guidance around the school
  • Ongoing discussions with staff

 

The school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead is Mr Dwight. Our experienced Safeguarding Team work together to ensure our safeguarding procedures remain effective and in line with government policy.

If you have concerns about the welfare or safety of a student, please contact the school immediately. We will respond with the appropriate care and urgency.

You can read our safeguarding policy here

 

Operation Encompass

OBHS is proud to be part of Operation Encompass, a joint initiative with Norfolk County Council and Norfolk Police. This programme helps us support children who may have witnessed domestic abuse. We know how vital it is to offer care and intervention when young people are affected by such experiences.

For more details, visit

www.operationencompass.org

 

Online Safety at OBHS

In today’s digital world, being online is a huge part of young people’s lives. Whether for learning, creativity, or social connection, it’s vital that students know how to stay safe online.

We provide regular e-safety education through:

 

  • PSHE lessons
  • Assemblies
  • Parental newsletters

 

Topics we cover include:

 

  • Online reputation and digital footprint
  • Cyberbullying
  • Accessing inappropriate content
  • Sexting and sharing images
  • Protecting personal information

 

We also help students understand the impact that screen time can have on their mental health, sleep, and overall wellbeing.

 

Supporting Parents with E-safety

We understand that conversations at home are one of the most powerful ways to keep children safe online. While young people may be confident using technology, they still need guidance, boundaries, and support.

We encourage parents to explore the resources below to support conversations at home:

 

Keeping Children Safe Online – NSPCC

Family Agreement – Childnet

Online Safety Hub – Olympus Trust

Guide to Instagram – Common Sense Media

 

If you would like further information, training or support, please contact our safeguarding team.

 

Mental Health and Support Services

If you or someone you know is struggling, these services can help:

 

NHS 111 Option 2 – For urgent mental health support in Norfolk and Suffolk

Childline – 0800 1111 – www.childline.org.uk

Samaritans – 116 123 – www.samaritans.org

YoungMindswww.youngminds.org.uk

Kooth – Free, safe online counselling – www.kooth.com

NSPCC – 0808 800 5000 – www.nspcc.org.uk

 

Helpful Contacts

 

Mermaids (LGBTQ+ support) – 0808 801 0400 – www.mermaidsuk.org.uk

Mindwww.mind.org.uk

Victim Support – 0808 168 9111 – www.victimsupport.org.uk

Place2Bewww.place2be.org.uk

 

At OBHS, we know that safeguarding is not just a policy—it's a daily practice. Together, through shared values of Community, Ambition and Respect, we are building a safe, supportive environment where every young person can thrive.