Child Protection & Safeguarding
Our commitment to your child’s safety
At Woodlands Primary School, your child’s safety, wellbeing and happiness are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to making our school a safe, caring and supportive place where every child feels protected, listened to and valued.
We follow national child protection guidance for Scotland, along with local procedures set by North Ayrshire Council’s Education Services and the multi-agency Child Protection Committee. This helps us work closely with parents and partner agencies to make sure children get the right support at the right time.
What does child protection mean?
Child protection is about keeping children safe from harm and taking action if there are concerns about a child’s wellbeing, including possible abuse or neglect. Just as importantly, it’s about promoting children’s wellbeing, listening to them, and making sure they feel supported.
All staff at Woodlands Primary School are trained to recognise concerns and know exactly what to do. We follow clear procedures and work in partnership with North Ayrshire Council and other agencies whenever support is needed.
Our Child Protection Policy
Our full Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy explains:
- How we recognise and respond to concerns
- How information is recorded and shared appropriately
- How we work alongside families and other professionals
- How children’s rights and wellbeing are always put first
Key safeguarding contacts
If you have any concerns about a child’s wellbeing, you can contact:
Child Protection Co-ordinator :
Mr Gordon Wilson, Head Teacher
📞 01294 279532
📧 woodlands@ea.n-ayrshire.sch.uk
Depute Child Protection Officers:
Mrs Lisa McGrath & Mrs Christine Sneddon, Depute Head Teachers
📞 01294 279532
📧 woodlands@ea.n-ayrshire.sch.uk
If your concern is urgent
If the school is closed, or you feel a concern needs immediate attention:
- North Ayrshire Council Social Work Services:
- 01294 310300 (Monday–Friday, 9am–4:45pm)
- 0800 328 7758 (out of hours)
- If a child is in immediate danger, please call 999 and ask for Police Scotland.
- For non-emergency concerns, you can contact Police Scotland on 101.
How parents can raise concerns
We welcome and encourage parents to speak to us if they have any worries about a child’s safety or wellbeing. You can:
- Speak with your child’s class teacher
- Contact a senior member of staff
- Get in touch with the Designated Child Protection Co-ordinator
- Use the school’s Complaints Procedure if needed
Working together
We believe children are best protected when schools and families work together. We are committed to:
- Listening carefully and responding respectfully to concerns
- Sharing information appropriately and sensitively
- Supporting children and families in a caring, partnership-based way
