Safer recruitment
commitment
The Outdoor Learning Alliance is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff, volunteers, and partners to share this commitment and to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct.
We follow safer recruitment practices in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) and Ofsted recommendations. This includes:
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Rigorous pre-employment checks, including enhanced DBS clearance and verification of identity, qualifications, and employment history
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Clear expectations around safeguarding responsibilities, embedded in job descriptions, induction, and ongoing training
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Robust procedures for managing allegations and concerns, underpinned by a culture of vigilance, transparency, and accountability
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Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in all recruitment and employment practices
All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and safeguarding checks. We are dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment for every learner — and to ensuring that those who work with us are equipped and supported to uphold that vision.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. The Outdoor Learning Alliance is committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and responsive environment for all children and young people. We uphold the highest standards of practice, guided by statutory frameworks including Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE), Working Together to Safeguard Children, and the SEND Code of Practice.
Risk Assessments
All activities, environments, and individual needs are subject to rigorous risk assessments. These are regularly reviewed and adapted to ensure safety, accessibility, and therapeutic integrity across our provision.
Statutory Policies
We maintain a full suite of safeguarding policies, including child protection, safer recruitment, whistleblowing, and online safety. These are updated annually and shared with commissioners, schools, and families as part of our transparent governance.
Single Central Record (SCR)
We operate a fully compliant Single Central Record covering all staff, volunteers, and visiting professionals. This includes enhanced DBS checks, safeguarding training, and reference verification in line with DfE guidance.
Reporting & Liaison
Our Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) liaise closely with commissioning bodies, schools, and locality teams. We provide regular reports, incident logs, and strategic updates to ensure joined-up safeguarding and accountability. Daily debriefs and multi-agency communication are embedded in our practice.
For links to all of these, click below.