At Wilsthorpe School, part of The Two Counties Trust, safeguarding is at the heart of our School. That’s why we have developed our safeguarding campaign alongside Trust colleagues to ensure our students feel safe and happy at School. Every term we focus on a specific safeguarding theme tailored to the needs of our 11,000 students.
This term’s focus is ‘Worried About a Friend? – Being an Upstander.’ This encourages students to actively support their peers when they see someone in need. Being an upstander means not just noticing when a friend is struggling but taking steps to help; whether that’s reaching out to someone, offering support or talking to a trusted adult on their behalf. This complements our wider safeguarding message of ‘Talk to a Trusted Adult.
This term’s focus is particularly relevant as students navigate:
- Making friends: Encouraging inclusivity and helping students who may feel isolated.
- Body confidence and self-esteem: Addressing issues like body dysmorphia and promoting self-worth.
- Exam stress: Supporting peers through the pressures of exam preparation.
- Recognising harmful behaviours: Identifying issues like phone overuse, vaping and knowing when to intervene.
Throughout the term assemblies, Tutor Time and Personal Social Health and Economic (PSHE) lessons will explore these topics, providing students with practical strategies and guidance on how to support one another. By fostering a culture of trust and responsibility, we aim to create a safe, supportive environment where students look out for each other.
Safeguarding is a collective effort and by empowering students to be upstanders, we’re building a stronger, more supportive School community.
