Safeguarding Conversations

When behaviour changes, how do professionals know whether it's a behaviour issue, a wellbeing concern, or something that warrants safeguarding consideration? In this episode of Safeguarding Conversations, Sam and Sara explore the important distinction between behaviour management and safeguarding. They discuss professional curiosity, recognising patterns over time, understanding behaviour in context, and the role of effective collaboration in ensuring children receive the right support at the right time.

When does striving to succeed become harmful? In this episode of Safeguarding Conversations, Sam and Sara examine perfectionism, academic pressure and safeguarding. They explore the signs of unhealthy perfectionism, its links to anxiety and school avoidance, and how schools can help pupils aim high while protecting their wellbeing and sense of self-worth.

Safeguarding is more than compliance; it's about culture. Join Sam and former headteacher Sara Spinks as they discuss the vital role of headteachers in leading safeguarding effectively. From staff training and safer recruitment to governance, attendance, online safety and the voice of the child, this episode offers practical guidance for leaders committed to keeping safeguarding at the heart of school life.

As KCSIE 2026 comes into force, Sam and Sara explore the key safeguarding priorities for the new academic year, including Part One reading requirements, Family Help, safer recruitment, online safety, DSL resilience, information sharing and AI.

In this episode of Safeguarding Conversations, Sam and Sara unpack the latest guidance on spare adrenaline auto‑injectors in schools. They clarify when these life‑saving devices can be used, dispel common misunderstandings, and explore what to do in a first-time emergency. A clear, practical guide to balancing legal duties with swift action when every second counts.

Explore the key changes in KCSIE 2026 in this episode of Safeguarding Conversations. Sam and Sara break down major updates, from expanded DSL responsibilities to AI, mental health, serious violence and safer recruitment, highlighting what schools must do to stay compliant, confident and ready for the new academic year.

Explore why transitions can increase vulnerability for children with SEND. This episode highlights how changes in routine, environment, and relationships can impact wellbeing and safeguarding, and why careful planning, communication, and collaboration are key to supporting pupils through periods of change.

Explore how "near misses" in safeguarding—moments where harm was avoided—offer powerful insights for schools and colleges. This episode highlights the value of early observation, clear communication, and consistent recording in recognising risks before they escalate, and how reflective, blame-free cultures strengthen safeguarding practice.

Explore how the Crime and Policing Act 2026 goes beyond policing to reshape safeguarding. This episode highlights new offences like child criminal exploitation, the growing risks of AI-driven abuse, and a shift towards earlier intervention, prevention, and multi-agency responsibility to better protect children and vulnerable people.

Explore how the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 is reshaping online safety for young people. This episode unpacks a shift from reactive moderation to prevention, new powers over platform features, evolving age verification, and Ofcom's expanded role—highlighting what this means for the future of children's digital lives.