In line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (2021) safeguarding and welfare requirements (section 3), childcare providers must take necessary steps to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.
The designated safeguarding lead (DSL) is the lead practitioner for safeguarding and must attend a child protection training course (3.5), taking advice from the Suffolk Safeguarding Partnership (the local safeguarding partnership), or local authority on appropriate training courses. Childminders must take the lead responsibility themselves. We advise that childminders and members of staff in group childcare should receive at least 2 hours safeguarding training, have a good understanding of safeguarding, and regularly renew their learning.
Whilst the EYFS (2021) does not make recommendations in terms of the frequency of safeguarding training, the guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ 2020 states:
All staff should receive appropriate safeguarding and child protection training which is regularly updated. In addition, all staff should receive safeguarding and child protection updates (for example, via email, e-bulletins and staff meetings), as required, and at least annually, to provide them with relevant skills and knowledge to safeguard children effectively.
It is recommended, therefore, that staff are regularly updated with safeguarding issues, policies and procedures during staff meetings, or via email or bulletins. These updates should be recorded in staff training records.
Practitioners undertaking the designated safeguarding lead role should refresh their safeguarding training every two to three years.
When selecting training you must ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of Suffolk Safeguarding Partnership’s (SSP) safeguarding processes and procedures. Suffolk County Council provide training that reflects current SSP procedures:
Safeguarding courses
Information about courses and how to apply can be found via the link below