At TutorCruncher, we recognise that student wellbeing and safeguarding are fundamental responsibilities for all tutoring companies. Tutors do more than just teach - they play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of their students. This guide is designed to help tutoring companies navigate their legal responsibilities, adopt best practices, and take practical steps to maintain the highest standards of child protection.
We have also released a new feature called Safeguarding/Wellbeing Concerns designed to help you report, track, and manage safeguarding/wellbeing concerns with ease.
Understanding Safeguarding in Tutoring
Safeguarding encompasses the measures taken to protect children from harm, abuse, and neglect. In the UK, all individuals working with children, including tutors, have a statutory duty to safeguard and promote their welfare. This responsibility is underscored by the Department for Education's guidance on safeguarding and social care for children.
Given the often one-on-one nature of tutoring, tutors may be privy to sensitive information or observe signs of distress that others might miss. Therefore, it's imperative for tutors to be vigilant and proactive in their safeguarding duties.
While the term ‘safeguarding’ is more commonly used in the UK, its principles are universal and crucial for any organisation working with minors. In the U.S., child protection laws are primarily governed at the state level, with each state having its own set of laws and regulations aimed at safeguarding children.
Legal Obligations for UK based Tutoring Companies
Tutoring companies in the UK are required to:
Ensure enhanced DBS checks: All tutors must undergo Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks before commencing work.
Implement a comprehensive safeguarding policy: This policy should outline procedures for identifying and reporting concerns, and must be regularly reviewed and updated.
Provide regular safeguarding training: Continuous professional development is vital for effective safeguarding. Tutors should engage in regular training sessions to stay updated on the latest policies and practices. Organisations like The Tutors’ Association and NSPCC offer specialised courses tailored for tutors, focusing on child protection and safeguarding.
These obligations align with the standards set by The Tutors' Association.
Note: While it's a legal requirement under Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) for schools and colleges to appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), it may also be useful for out-of-school settings, such as tuition centres, after-school clubs and other extracurricular education providers, as 'best practice'.
Legal Obligations for US based Tutoring Companies
Tutoring companies in the US share similar legal obligations to those in the UK, which include the following:
Ensure background checks: All tutors must undergo thorough background checks, including criminal history and child abuse clearances, to ensure they are fit to work with children.
Implement a comprehensive safeguarding policy: This policy should outline procedures for identifying and reporting concerns and must be regularly reviewed and updated.
Provide regular safeguarding training: Tutors should receive ongoing training to stay informed about best practices and legal requirements.
Comply with mandatory reporting laws: In many states, certain professionals, including tutors, are legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect to appropriate authorities.
Best Practices for Safeguarding in Tutoring
To create a safe and supportive learning environment, tutoring companies across the UK and US should adopt the following practices:
Maintain professional boundaries: Tutors should establish clear boundaries to foster a respectful and secure atmosphere.
Secure communication channels: Use secure platforms for online tutoring sessions and keep records of all communications.
Parental involvement: Engage parents or guardians in the tutoring process, ensuring transparency and collaboration.
Regular monitoring and feedback: Implement systems to monitor tutoring sessions and gather feedback to identify and address any concerns promptly.
Responding to Safeguarding Concerns: For UK tutoring companies
If a safeguarding issue arises, tutors and tutoring companies should:
Record the concern: Document the details of the concern, including dates, times and observations. You can use TutorCruncher’s new Safeguarding/Wellbeing Concerns feature to document these safeguarding/wellbeing concerns.
Report to the DSL: Immediately inform the Designated Safeguarding Lead within the organisation.
Contact authorities if necessary: If a child is in immediate danger, contact emergency services or the local authority's child protection team.
Follow up: Ensure that appropriate actions have been taken and maintain records of all steps followed.
For detailed procedures, refer to the guidance provided by The Tutors' Association.
Responding to Safeguarding Concerns: For US tutoring companies
If a safeguarding issue arises, tutors and tutoring companies in the US should:
Record the concern: Document the details of the concern, including dates, times, and observations. You can use TutorCruncher’s new Safeguarding/Wellbeing Concerns feature to document these safeguarding/wellbeing concerns.
Report to authorities: Immediately inform the appropriate authorities, such as child protective services or law enforcement, as required by state laws.
Follow up: Ensure that appropriate actions have been taken and maintain records of all steps followed.
For detailed procedures, refer to the guidance provided by the Child Welfare Information Gateway.
In Conclusion
Safeguarding is a collective responsibility that requires commitment, vigilance, and continuous improvement. By adhering to legal obligations, implementing best practices, and fostering an environment of trust and safety, tutoring companies can ensure the well-being of their students.
For tutoring companies operating in the UK, we recommend referring to the following resources:
For tutoring companies operating in the US, we recommend referring to the following resources: