Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what guidelines his Department set for schools on reporting people who injure children to the Police.

We are clear that schools should be safe learning places for all children.

Keeping children safe in education (KCSIE) is statutory guidance which all schools must have regard to when carrying out their duties to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.

If a child has been harmed, is at risk of harm or is in immediate danger, a referral should be made to children’s social care and/or the police.

KCSIE is clear that all staff should be aware of the process for making referrals to children’s social care.

Allegations against teachers should be referred to the local authority designated officer. The reasons for referral include behaving in a way that has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child. In some cases, a referral to the police will also be appropriate. The designated officer will discuss this with the school.