The Alto School of Music in Dublin is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children
and adults participating in its music classes. This Child Safeguarding Statement outlines the school's
commitment to protecting children and provides guidelines and procedures for staff, management,
and parents/guardians to ensure their safety in premises rented in primary and secondary schools, as
well as community centers.
Our Safeguarding Statement has been formulated in accordance with the obligations outlined in the
Children First Act 2015, Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children
(2017), and Tusla's Child Safeguarding: A Guide for Policy, Procedure, and Practice.
Alto School of Music is committed to:
a) Providing a safe and secure environment for children participating in its music classes.
b) Complying with all relevant child protection legislation and guidelines in Ireland.
c) Implementing comprehensive recruitment and screening procedures for staff.
d) Promoting awareness and vigilance among staff, management, parents/guardians, and children
regarding child protection.
e) Providing appropriate support and training to staff to enhance their knowledge and skills in child
protection.
Recruitment and Screening
a) All staff and volunteers who will have unsupervised access to children must undergo a rigorous
screening process, including reference checks, vetting by the National Vetting Bureau, and
interviews.
b) Verification of relevant qualifications and experience will be conducted, and necessary credentials
will be obtained.
c) Applicants will be required to provide proof of identity and complete an application form that
includes a declaration of their suitability to work with children.
Code of Conduct
a) All staff will be required to adhere to a code of conduct that promotes respectful and professional
interactions with children and adults.
b) Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, or any form of harmful behavior towards children
will not be tolerated.
Reporting Procedures
a) Any staff member who becomes aware of or suspects child abuse or neglect must report it
immediately to the management of the Alto School of Music.
b) Parents/guardians will also be encouraged to report any concerns they may have regarding the
well-being of their child.
c) Reports will be handled in a confidential and sensitive manner, and the appropriate authorities will
be notified as required by law.
-
Training and Education
a) All staff will receive comprehensive child protection training (Tusla) that covers recognition of signs
of abuse, appropriate reporting procedures, and how to create a safe and supportive environment.
b) Regular refresher training will be provided to ensure that all staff and volunteers are up-to-date
with best practices in child protection.
Communication and Awareness
a) The Alto School of Music will communicate its Child Safeguarding Statement and procedures to
staff, parents/guardians, and students, ensuring they have access to the necessary information.
b) Information about child protection will be provided to parents/guardians at the time of enrollment
and through regular communication channels.
c) The policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with changing
legislation and best practices.
Premises Safety
a) The Alto School of Music will conduct regular safety checks of rented premises, including primary
and secondary schools, and community centers, to ensure they meet appropriate safety standards.
b) Any safety concerns identified will be promptly reported to the relevant authorities and premises
owners for resolution.
Review and Monitoring
The Alto School of Music will conduct regular reviews of its Child Safeguarding Statement and
procedures to ensure their effectiveness and compliance. Any necessary updates or improvements
will be implemented promptly.
The Alto School of Music is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all children
and adults participating in its music classes. This Child Safeguarding Statement outlines the school's
dedication to protecting the welfare of children and provides a framework for promoting their safety
and well-being. By working together, we can create a secure and enjoyable experience for everyone
involved.
This Child Safeguarding Statement was reviewed in May 2023.
Please contact altoschoolofmusic@gmail.com for any further queries.