What is the Prevent Strategy
What is the Prevent Strategy?
The Prevent Strategy is part of the UK Government's wider safeguarding responsibilities and aims to protect children and young people from being drawn into terrorism, extremism, or radicalisation. Schools have a legal duty to help safeguard pupils from risks both online and offline, just as they do with other safeguarding concerns such as bullying, abuse, or exploitation.
What do we mean by extremism and radicalisation?
Extremism is the promotion of views or actions that oppose fundamental British values such as democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs.
Radicalisation refers to the process by which a person may come to support extremist ideas or groups.
Children and young people can be vulnerable to influence from a range of sources, including social media, online content, peer groups, or individuals who seek to exploit them.
How does our school support the Prevent Strategy?
At Reynolds Academy, safeguarding is our highest priority. We aim to provide a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where pupils feel valued and respected.
We support the Prevent Strategy by:
- Promoting respect, tolerance, and diversity
- Encouraging critical thinking and open discussion
- Teaching pupils how to stay safe online
- Helping children develop resilience and confidence
- Providing a curriculum that promotes British values and positive relationships
Our staff receive weekly safeguarding and regular Prevent training so they can identify concerns and provide appropriate support when needed.
Will the school discuss concerns with parents?
If any concerns arise about a child's wellbeing or safety, the school will speak with parents or carers. However, as with all safeguarding matters, there may be situations where we need to seek advice from external agencies first to ensure the child remains safe.
What can parents do to help?
Parents and carers play an important role in keeping children safe. You can help by:
- Talking openly with your child about their online activity
- Encouraging respectful discussion and critical thinking
- Being aware of changes in behaviour or friendship groups
- Helping your child understand how to stay safe online
- Contacting the school if you have any concerns
If you would like more information about the Prevent Strategy or safeguarding at our school, please contact the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Designated Safeguarding Lead - Mrs R Scott
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead - Miss K Lindley and Mrs H Rushworth
Nominated Governor for Safeguarding – A Manders
Additional information can also be found on the UK Government website.
