School of Curiosity

Health and Safety Policy updated July 2025

Aim of the policy

Is to provide a safe, secure, and pleasant environment for everyone, where people are safe and supported to fulfil their potential. We recognise responsibility under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to provide a safe and healthy environment for the teaching and support staff, the pupils and other people who come onto the premises.

We will take all reasonably practicable steps within our power to fulfil this responsibility. We also work in partnership with LEA to ensure the highest standard of practice.

When required we will seek Health & Safety advice from external agencies.

We will ensure that risk assessments are conducted, recorded, and implemented to guarantee, so far as is reasonably practicable, the provision and maintenance of:

• safe premises

• safe methods of using, handling, storing, and transporting of articles and substances

• suitable and sufficient information, instruction, training, and supervision to enable all employees to avoid hazards and contribute positively to their own safety and health at work

• a safe working environment with adequate arrangements for the welfare procedures in an emergency.

All employees have a legal obligation to take reasonable care for their own health and safety, for the safety of others and to co-operate in fulfilling their statutory duties.

School of Curiosity will

• ensure the health, safety and welfare of staff, pupils, and others to the best of our ability.

 • will be proactive in health and safety, risk management, reviewing current practice and implementing best practice.

• will ensure that all are aware of their Health and Safety responsibilities, this is supported through effective leadership, communication, and training.

• will work in partnership with LA representatives to ensure the highest levels of Health and Safety.

Teachers will

• observe the health & safety policy and procedures in school

• take reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves and of other persons who may be affected by their acts or omissions at work

• observe and adhere to systems of safe working and take any precautions necessary to ensure the safety of themselves and others affected by their work

• use the correct tools and equipment appropriate for the job and ensure that they are kept in good condition, and not adapted for unauthorised use

• make use of safety aids, appliances, equipment, and protective clothing provided

• report and seek advice, without delay, on any unsafe conditions, defects in the premises or equipment, or any shortcomings in health and safety arrangements

• do not intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided in the interests of health, safety, or welfare

• notify immediately any accident, injury, illness, disease, dangerous occurrence or near miss associated with the carrying out of their duties and responsibilities

• do not interfere with any plant or equipment which has been involved in an accident, or has been taken out of use pending an investigation

• familiarise themselves with the action to take in the event of fire or another emergency

• seek advice at the earliest opportunity if they have any concerns regarding health & safety of staff or students in the school

Visitors

Visitors and other users of the premises should be required to observe the health, safety, and welfare rules. In particular, parents and other volunteers helping out should be made aware of the health and safety policy applicable to them by the member of staff to whom they are assigned.

Teachers should report any potentially unauthorised visitors to Angela Hill as soon as possible. Teachers should not put themselves at risk challenging intruders but should ensure pupils are moved to a place of safety.

Seat belts

Taxis have seat belts provided and must be used.  We instruct pupils to wear seat belts at all times when the vehicle is moving. When teachers cars are used to transport pupils the law regarding child restraints is always followed without exception and relevant insurance documentation is checked.