Child Safeguarding Policy and Statement
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Child Safeguarding Policy and Statement

Child Safeguarding Policy and Statement 

TOCCATA HOUSE MUSIC SCHOOL, DROGHEDAReg. No. 757967 Est. 1990 by Olive Powderly

43 Fair Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92YN90

Drogheda Grammar School – Stameen, Mornington Road, Co. Meath, A92 D9KF

+353 87 260 3079

info@toccata.ie

toccata.ie


Effective from: 6th January 2025
Reviewed on: 9th November 2026

Toccata House Music School is a music education programme for Children and Adults, committed to safeguarding the well-being of all children and young people who engage in our programmes, lessons, and activities. We recognise our duty of care to protect children from harm and to promote their welfare in line with the Children First Act 2015, the Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2017), and Tusla guidance. Toccata House Music School provides 30, 45 and 60 minute long music lessons on a private 1:1 basis and group setting. All staff, tutors, and volunteers share responsibility for safeguarding and will work in partnership with parents/guardians and statutory agencies where necessary.

 

  • 1. Scope

 

This policy applies to:

  • All children and young people under 18 years of age attending lessons, workshops, rehearsals, and performances organised by Toccata House Music School.
  • All members of staff, including tutors, administrators, and support staff.
  • Any volunteers, contractors, examiners or visiting musicians engaged by the school.

 

  • 2. Principles

 

  • The welfare of the child is paramount.
  • Children have the right to be protected, heard, and respected.
  • All suspicions and allegations of child abuse will be taken seriously, responded to promptly, and reported to the relevant authorities.
  • Staff and volunteers must conduct themselves in a way that safeguards children.

 

  • 3. Designated Liaison Person (DLP)

 

The school has appointed the following people for Designated Liaison Person (DLP) and Deputy DLP:

  • DLP: Edelian Pedrosa

+353 83 369 4223

  • DLP: Finn Faulkner

+353 86 060 9392

  • Deputy DLP: Louise McGahon

+353 87 359 0215

The DLP is the person responsible for:

  • Receiving child protection concerns.
  • Reporting concerns and allegations to Tusla – Child and Family Agency.
  • Liaising with An Garda Síochána if a child is in immediate danger.

 

  • 4. Recognising and Reporting Child Protection Concerns

 

Staff must be alert to signs of neglect, emotional abuse, physical abuse, or sexual abuse (as outlined in Children First National Guidance).

  • Concerns should be reported immediately to the DLP.
  • The DLP will determine if the concern meets the threshold for reporting to Tusla.
  • In cases of emergency where a child is at immediate risk, staff should contact An Garda Síochána (999/112).
  • Records of concerns and actions taken will be securely stored and kept confidential.

 

  • 5. Safe Recruitment and Training

 

  • All staff and volunteers who have access to children must undergo Garda Vetting before engagement.
  • Two references will be sought for all new staff.
  • Induction training will include a briefing on this policy and child safeguarding responsibilities.
  • All staff will complete Tusla’s Children First E-Learning Programme.

 

  • 6. Code of Behaviour for Staff

 

All staff and volunteers are expected to:

  • Treat children with dignity, sensitivity, and respect.
  • Use age-appropriate language and behaviour.
  • Report all concerns immediately to the DLP.
  • Maintain professional boundaries at all times.

Staff must never:

  • Engage in inappropriate physical contact or communication with a child.
  • Use physical punishment or degrading treatment.
  • Give children lifts in personal cars without parental consent and management approval.
  • Engage in physical contact with a child (kisses, hugs, etc.) unless it is a posture correction in a lesson, and it will be informed to the student before doing so. 

 

  • 7. Parental Involvement and Communication

 

  • Parents/guardians will be kept informed of activities, schedules, and policies.
  • Written consent will be obtained for trips, performances, and use of photographs/videos of children.
  • Concerns relating to a child’s welfare will be shared with parents unless doing so would put the child at further risk.

 

  • 8. Record Keeping & Confidentiality

 

  • All child protection concerns, disclosures, and actions taken will be documented.
  • Records will be stored securely and accessed only by the DLP, Deputy DLP, and relevant statutory bodies.
  • When possible, confidentiality will be maintained except where disclosure is required to protect a child.

 

  • 9. Managing Allegations Against Staff

 

  • Allegations will be taken seriously and managed in line with Tusla guidance.
  • The DLP will liaise with Tusla and An Garda Síochána as appropriate.
  • Staff subject to an allegation will be informed, treated fairly, and supported while the matter is investigated.

 

  • 10. Implementation and Review

 

  • This policy will be communicated to all staff, volunteers, parents, and students.
  • It will be reviewed every two years or sooner if required by legislative or organisational changes.
  • Compliance with the Children First Act 2015 and Tusla requirements will be ensured at all times.

Child Safeguarding Statement

In accordance with the requirements of the Children First Act 2015, the Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2017), and Tusla guidance, TOCCATA HOUSE MUSIC SCHOOL has developed the following Child Safeguarding Statement.

  1. Nature of Service

Toccata House Music School provides music education, including individual and small group lessons, workshops, rehearsals, and performances, for children and young people under the age of 18 and Adult Learners. 

  1. Risk Assessment

We have carried out a risk assessment of any potential harm to a child while participating in our services. Risks identified include:

  • Inappropriate or unsafe interactions between staff and children.
  • Inadequate supervision during lessons, rehearsals, or performances.
  • Risks associated with one-to-one teaching.
  • Risks relating to trips, concerts, or use of media/photography.

Procedures are in place to manage and reduce these risks. (Appendix 1)

  1. Procedures

Toccata House Music School has policies and procedures covering the following areas:

  • Child protection and welfare reporting procedures.
  • Safe recruitment, Garda vetting, and induction of staff.
  • Staff code of behaviour when working with children.
  • Supervision and parental involvement.
  • Use of facilities, trips, and digital/photographic content.
  • Managing allegations of misconduct against staff.
  • Complaints and whistleblowing procedures.
  1. Designated Liaison Person
  • DLP: Edelian Pedrosa

+353 83 369 4223

  • DLP: Finn Faulkner

+353 86 060 9392

  • Deputy DLP: Louise McGahon

+353 87 359 0215

All child protection concerns must be reported to the DLP, who will liaise with Tusla – Child and Family Agency and, if necessary, An Garda Síochána.

The safety and well-being of children are paramount. If you have any child protection or welfare concerns, you must report them immediately. We maintain a strict hierarchy of contact to ensure that a Designated Liaison Person (DLP) is always available in both operating locations, including weekends.

Staff must contact the individuals in the order listed until a live confirmation is received.

  • No Delayed Reporting: If your first contact does not answer immediately, do not leave a message and wait. Move directly to the next person on the list.
  • Official LiThe contacted DLP will formally handle the matter and liaise with Tusla – Child and Family Agency and, if necessary, An Garda Síochána.
  • Emergency Situations: If a child is in immediate danger and you cannot reach any of the DLPs listed above, you must contact An Garda Síochána or Tusla directly without delay. 

  1. Commitment

Toccata House Music School is committed to safeguarding the children and young people in our care. We are dedicated to listening to children, supporting families, and working with statutory bodies to ensure the safety and welfare of all.

  1. Review

This Child Safeguarding Statement will be reviewed every two years, or sooner if there is a material change in the service or relevant legislation, or any concerns during the academic year.

Appendix 1: Child Safeguarding Risk Assessment 

This risk assessment has been carried out in accordance with the Children First Act 2015 and Tusla guidance. It identifies potential risks of harm to children while availing of our services and the procedures we have in place to reduce these risks.

Risk Assessment Table

Area of Risk Identified Risk of Harm Procedures/Controls in Place
One-to-one

music lessons

Risk of inappropriate behaviour or harm where a staff member is alone with a child. – Rule of two in the building wherever possible.

– Visibility panels, open doors, or parent present.
– Staff Code of Behaviour enforced.
– Garda Vetting, Tusla cert. and references required for all staff.

Group lessons, rehearsals, and performances Risk of inadequate supervision or bullying between students. – Appropriate staff/student ratios maintained.
– Staff trained to recognise and respond to bullying.
– Supervision policy in place.
Trips, concerts, off-site events Risk of harm due to lack of supervision, transport arrangements, or overnight stays. – Written parental consent required.
– Staff/child ratios maintained.
– Risk assessments for trips undertaken.
Digital communications & media (photos, videos, recordings) Risk of inappropriate use of children’s images or contact via digital platforms. – Parental consent obtained for media use.
– No personal contact with children on social media.
– Images stored and used in line with GDPR.
Physical contact (e.g., instrument positioning, posture correction) Risk of inappropriate or misinterpreted physical contact. – Staff trained in safe teaching methods.
– Explanations given before any corrective contact.
– Alternative teaching methods (demonstration, verbal instruction) prioritised.
Staff recruitment Risk of unsuitable individuals being engaged. – Garda Vetting mandatory.
– Two written references required.
– Induction includes safeguarding training.
Allegations against staff Risk of child being harmed or staff member being unfairly treated. – Procedures in place for managing allegations.
– DLP liaises with Tusla and Gardaí.
– Support offered to both child and staff member.
General environment (practice rooms, waiting areas, toilets) Risk of harm due to inadequate supervision or inappropriate interactions. – Supervision policy in place.
– Clear access rules for parents/guardians.
– Regular monitoring of spaces.

Monitoring and Review

  • This risk assessment will be reviewed every 2 years (or sooner if necessary).
  • All staff will be made aware of these risks and controls during induction and refresher training.

TOCCATA HOUSE MUSIC SCHOOL, DROGHEDA

Staff Code of Behaviour

Effective from: January 6th 2025
Review on: November 2026

  1. Purpose

This Code of Behaviour outlines the standards expected of all staff and volunteers at Toccata House Music School when working with children and young people. Its aim is to ensure a safe, respectful, and positive environment in line with the Children First Act 2015 and Tusla guidance.

  1. General Principles

All staff must:

  • Treat all children and young people with respect, fairness, and dignity.
  • Act as positive role models in language, behaviour, and attitude.
  • Place the welfare of the child at the centre of their practice.
  • Uphold the values and reputation of Toccata House Music School.
  1. Professional Boundaries

Staff must:

  • Maintain clear professional boundaries with students.
  • Avoid favouritism, gifts, or special treatment of individual children.
  • Communicate with children only through approved channels (no personal phone, email, or social media contact).
  • Avoid socialising with students outside of school activities.
  • Dress appropriately, i.e.: Staff must maintain a clean, neat, and professional appearance. The school standard is Smart Casual / Business Casual.
  • Coverage & Safety: Clothing must provide adequate coverage during normal classroom movements (e.g., bending, reaching). Safe, practical, closed-toe footwear should be worn.
  • Unsuitable Attire: Items such as beachwear, shorts, flip-flops, gym wear, and clothing with offensive graphics, slogans, or political statements are not permitted.
  • Planned Absences: You must request planned time off or scheduled absences at least one month in advance. This notice is vital to give the management team sufficient time to arrange necessary shift coverage.
  • Unplanned Absences (Illness or Emergency): The one-month notice rule does not apply to sudden illness, medical emergencies, or unforeseen urgent circumstances.
  • Reporting Illness: In the event of an unexpected illness or emergency, you must notify your manager as soon as possible before your shift starts, following our standard call-out procedure.
  1. One-to-One Lessons & Supervision
  • Where possible, lessons should take place in rooms with glass panels, open doors, or visibility to others.
  • Parents/guardians are welcome to observe lessons if they wish, or if they have concerns.
  • Staff should never transport a child alone without prior written consent from a parent/guardian and approval from management.
  1. Physical Contact
  • Any physical contact (e.g., correcting posture, hand positioning) must be:
    • Appropriate, brief, and explained in advance. (Avoid where possible, use a pencil to point, etc.). 
    • Only carried out when necessary for teaching purposes.
    • Stopped immediately if the child expresses discomfort.
  • Alternative methods (demonstration, verbal instruction) should always be prioritised.
  1. Behaviour Management
  • Staff must use positive and respectful approaches.
  • Shouting, humiliating, or physically punishing a child is strictly prohibited.
  • Bullying, discrimination, or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
  1. Trips, Concerts, and Performances
  • Children must be supervised at all times during off-site events.
  • Written parental/guardian consent is required.
  • Staff should never be alone with a child in overnight accommodation or shared transport.
  1. Child Protection Concerns
  • Staff must familiarise themselves with the Child Safeguarding Policy.
  • All concerns, disclosures, or allegations must be reported immediately to the Designated Liaison Person (DLP).
  • There is always a DLP in both operating locations.
  • Staff must never promise confidentiality to a child making a disclosure.
  1. Use of Media and Technology
  • Photos, recordings, or videos of children may only be taken with prior written consent from parents/guardians.
  • Personal devices should not be used to record or photograph students.
  • Online teaching (if applicable) must follow school guidelines (professional background, parental awareness, recording if required).
  1. Breaches of the Code
  • Any breach of this Code of Behaviour will be taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.
  • Serious concerns will be reported to Tusla and/or An Garda Síochána as required.

Our Child Safeguarding Statement has been developed in line with requirements under the Children First Act 2015, Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2017), and Tusla’s Child Safeguarding: A Guide for Policy, Procedure and Practice. In addition to the procedures listed in our risk assessment, the following procedures support our intention to safeguard children while they are availing of our service: 

  • Procedure for the management of allegations of abuse or misconduct against workers/volunteers of a child availing of our service;
  • Procedure for the safe recruitment and selection of workers and volunteers to work with children;
  • Procedure for provision of and access to child safeguarding training and information, including the identification of the occurrence of harm;
  • Procedure for the reporting of child protection or welfare concerns to Tusla;
  • Procedure for maintaining a list of the persons (if any) in the relevant service who are mandated persons;
  • Procedure for appointing a relevant person.

All procedures listed are available upon request.

Implementation

We recognise that implementation is an on-going process. Our service is committed to the implementation of this Child Safeguarding Statement and the procedures that support our intention to keep children safe from harm while availing of our service. 

This Child Safeguarding Statement will be reviewed in September 2028, or as soon as practicable after there has been a material change in any matter to which the statement refers.

For queries, please contact Edelian Pedrosa, Relevant Person and DLP under the Children First Act 2015 via ed@toccata.ie or +353 83 369 4223.

TOCCATA HOUSE MUSIC SCHOOL

Est. 1990 by Olive Powderly

Olive Powderly AVCM(Hons) CTVCM FVCM BA(Open) DipMus

TEFL Phoenix ABC TEFL, ACELS-recognised

Victoria College of Music, London Examiner

Director of Studies

Obinna Nathaniel

School Owner

Edelian Pedrosa MMus(cand.) BA(Hons) FVCM(Hons) LVCM(Hons) AVCM(Hons) CTRIAM CELTA

ELT Cambridge CELTA, ACELS-recognized

Victoria College of Music, London Examiner

Assistant Director of Studies and School Manager

CHILD SAFEGUARDING POLICY 


Effective from: January 6th 2025
Review on: August 25th 2025

  1. Policy Statement

Toccata House Music School is committed to safeguarding the well-being of all children and young people who engage in our programmes, lessons, and activities. We recognise our duty of care to protect children from harm and to promote their welfare in line with the Children First Act 2015, the Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2017), and TUSLA guidance.

All staff, tutors, and volunteers share responsibility for safeguarding and will work in partnership with parents/guardians and statutory agencies where necessary.

  1. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All children and young people under 18 years of age attending lessons, workshops, rehearsals, and performances organised by Toccata House Music School.
  • All members of staff, including tutors, administrators, and support staff.
  • Any volunteers, contractors, examiners or visiting musicians engaged by the school.
  1. Principles
  • The welfare of the child is paramount.
  • Children have the right to be protected, heard, and respected.
  • All suspicions and allegations of child abuse will be taken seriously, responded to promptly, and reported to the relevant authorities.
  • Staff and volunteers must conduct themselves in a way that safeguards children.
  1. Designated Liaison Person (DLP)

The school has appointed a Designated Liaison Person (DLP) and a Deputy DLP:

  • DLP: Edelian Pedrosa:  toccataed@gmail.com
  • Deputy DLP: Finn Faulkner toccatahouseinfo@gmail.com

The DLP is the person responsible for:

  • Receiving child protection concerns.
  • Reporting concerns and allegations to TUSLA – Child and Family Agency.
  • Liaising with An Garda Síochána if a child is in immediate danger.
  1. Recognising and Reporting Child Protection Concerns

Staff must be alert to signs of neglect, emotional abuse, physical abuse, or sexual abuse (as outlined in Children First National Guidance).

  • Concerns should be reported immediately to the DLP.
  • The DLP will determine if the concern meets the threshold for reporting to TUSLA.
  • In cases of emergency where a child is at immediate risk, staff should contact An Garda Síochána (999/112).
  • Records of concerns and actions taken will be securely stored and kept confidential.
  1. Safe Recruitment and Training
  • All staff and volunteers who have access to children must undergo Garda Vetting before engagement.
  • Two references will be sought for all new staff.
  • Induction training will include a briefing on this policy and child safeguarding responsibilities.
  • All staff will complete TUSLA’s Children First E-Learning Programme.
  1. Code of Behaviour for Staff

All staff and volunteers are expected to:

  • Treat children with dignity, sensitivity, and respect.
  • Use age-appropriate language and behaviour.
  • Report all concerns immediately to the DLP.
  • Maintain professional boundaries at all times.

Staff must never:

  • Engage in inappropriate physical contact or communication with a child.
  • Use physical punishment or degrading treatment.
  • Give children lifts in personal cars without parental consent and management approval.
  1. Parental Involvement and Communication
  • Parents/guardians will be kept informed of activities, schedules, and policies.
  • Written consent will be obtained for trips, performances, and use of photographs/videos of children.
  • Concerns relating to a child’s welfare will be shared with parents unless doing so would put the child at further risk.
  1. Record Keeping & Confidentiality
  • All child protection concerns, disclosures, and actions taken will be documented.
  • Records will be stored securely and accessed only by the DLP, Deputy DLP, and relevant statutory bodies.
  • Confidentiality will be maintained except where disclosure is required to protect a child.
  1. Managing Allegations Against Staff
  • Allegations will be taken seriously and managed in line with TUSLA guidance.
  • The DLP will liaise with TUSLA and An Garda Síochána as appropriate.
  • Staff subject to an allegation will be informed, treated fairly, and supported while the matter is investigated.
  1. Implementation and Review
  • This policy will be communicated to all staff, volunteers, parents, and students.
  • It will be reviewed every two years or sooner if required by legislative or organisational changes.
  • Compliance with the Children First Act 2015 and TUSLA requirements will be ensured at all times.

Child Safeguarding Statement

In accordance with the requirements of the Children First Act 2015, the Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2017), and TUSLA guidance, TOCCATA HOUSE MUSIC SCHOOL has developed the following Child Safeguarding Statement.

  1. Nature of Service

Toccata House Music School provides music education, including individual and small group lessons, workshops, rehearsals, and performances, for children and young people under the age of 18 and Adult Learners. 

  1. Risk Assessment

We have carried out a risk assessment of any potential harm to a child while participating in our services. Risks identified include:

  • Inappropriate or unsafe interactions between staff and children.
  • Inadequate supervision during lessons, rehearsals, or performances.
  • Risks associated with one-to-one teaching.
  • Risks relating to trips, concerts, or use of media/photography.

Procedures are in place to manage and reduce these risks.

  1. Procedures

Toccata House Music School has policies and procedures covering the following areas:

  • Child protection and welfare reporting procedures.
  • Safe recruitment, Garda vetting, and induction of staff.
  • Staff code of behaviour when working with children.
  • Supervision and parental involvement.
  • Use of facilities, trips, and digital/photographic content.
  • Managing allegations of misconduct against staff.
  • Complaints and whistleblowing procedures.
  1. Designated Liaison Person
  • DLP: Edelian Pedrosa toccataed@gmail.com
  • Deputy DLP: Finn Faulkner toccatahouseinfo@gmail.com

All child protection concerns must be reported to the DLP, who will liaise with TUSLA – Child and Family Agency and, if necessary, An Garda Síochána.

  1. Commitment

Toccata House Music School is committed to safeguarding the children and young people in our care. We are dedicated to listening to children, supporting families, and working with statutory bodies to ensure the safety and welfare of all.

  1. Review

This Child Safeguarding Statement will be reviewed every two years, or sooner if there is a material change in the service or relevant legislation.

 

Appendix: Child Safeguarding Risk Assessment August 2025

This risk assessment has been carried out in accordance with the Children First Act 2015 and Tusla guidance. It identifies potential risks of harm to children while availing of our services and the procedures we have in place to reduce these risks.

Risk Assessment Table

Area of Risk Identified Risk of Harm Procedures/Controls in Place
One-to-one music lessons Risk of inappropriate behaviour or harm where a staff member is alone with a child. – Rule of two wherever possible (open doors, visibility panels, or parent present).
– Staff Code of Behaviour enforced.
– Garda Vetting and references required for all staff.
Group lessons, rehearsals, and performances Risk of inadequate supervision or bullying between students. – Appropriate staff/student ratios maintained.
– Staff trained to recognise and respond to bullying.
– Supervision policy in place.
Trips, concerts, off-site events Risk of harm due to lack of supervision, transport arrangements, or overnight stays. – Written parental consent required.
– Staff/child ratios maintained.
– Risk assessments for trips undertaken.
Digital communications & media (photos, videos, recordings) Risk of inappropriate use of children’s images or contact via digital platforms. – Parental consent obtained for media use.
– No personal contact with children on social media.
– Images stored and used in line with GDPR.
Physical contact (e.g., instrument positioning, posture correction) Risk of inappropriate or misinterpreted physical contact. – Staff trained in safe teaching methods.
– Explanations given before any corrective contact.
– Alternative teaching methods (demonstration, verbal instruction) prioritised.
Staff recruitment Risk of unsuitable individuals being engaged. – Garda Vetting mandatory.
– Two written references required.
– Induction includes safeguarding training.
Allegations against staff Risk of child being harmed or staff member being unfairly treated. – Procedures in place for managing allegations.
– DLP liaises with Tusla and Gardaí.
– Support offered to both child and staff member.
General environment (practice rooms, waiting areas, toilets) Risk of harm due to inadequate supervision or inappropriate interactions. – Supervision policy in place.
– Clear access rules for parents/guardians.
– Regular monitoring of spaces.

Monitoring and Review

  • This risk assessment will be reviewed every 2 years (or sooner if necessary).
  • All staff will be made aware of these risks and controls during induction and refresher training.

Toccata House Music School Owner

Obinna Nathaniel William

Toccata House Music School DLP

Edelian Pedrosa, Finn Faulkner

TOCCATA HOUSE MUSIC SCHOOL, DROGHEDA

Reg. No. 757967

43 Fair Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92YN90

Drogheda Grammar School – Stameen, Mornington Road, Co. Meath, A92 D9KF

087 260 3079

info@toccata.ie

toccata.ie

 

STAFF CODE OF BEHAVIOUR


Effective from: January 6th 2025
Review on: August 25th 2025

  1. Purpose

This Code of Behaviour outlines the standards expected of all staff and volunteers at Toccata House Music School when working with children and young people. Its aim is to ensure a safe, respectful, and positive environment in line with the Children First Act 2015 and Tusla guidance.

  1. General Principles

All staff must:

  • Treat all children and young people with respect, fairness, and dignity.
  • Act as positive role models in language, behaviour, and attitude.
  • Place the welfare of the child at the centre of their practice.
  • Uphold the values and reputation of Toccata House Music School.
  1. Professional Boundaries

Staff must:

  • Maintain clear professional boundaries with students.
  • Avoid favouritism, gifts, or special treatment of individual children.
  • Communicate with children only through approved channels (no personal phone, email, or social media contact).
  • Avoid socialising with students outside of school activities.
  1. One-to-One Lessons & Supervision
  • Where possible, lessons should take place in rooms with glass panels, open doors, or visibility.
  • Parents/guardians are welcome to observe lessons if they have concerns.
  • Staff should never transport a child alone without prior written consent from a parent/guardian and approval from management.
  1. Physical Contact
  • Any physical contact (e.g., correcting posture, hand positioning) must be:
    • Appropriate, brief, and explained in advance. (Avoid where possible, use a pencil to point etc) 
    • Only carried out when necessary for teaching purposes.
    • Stopped immediately if the child expresses discomfort.
  • Alternative methods (demonstration, verbal instruction) should always be prioritised.
  1. Behaviour Management
  • Staff must use positive and respectful approaches.
  • Shouting, humiliating, or physically punishing a child is strictly prohibited.
  • Bullying, discrimination, or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
  • Staff should dress appropriately at all times.
  1. Trips, Concerts, and Performances
  • Children must be supervised at all times during off-site events.
  • Written parental/guardian consent is required.
  • Staff should never be alone with a child in overnight accommodation or shared transport.
  1. Child Protection Concerns
  • Staff must familiarise themselves with the Child Safeguarding Policy.
  • All concerns, disclosures, or allegations must be reported immediately to the Designated Liaison Person (DLP).
  • Staff must never promise confidentiality to a child making a disclosure.
  1. Use of Media and Technology
  • Photos, recordings, or videos of children may only be taken with prior written consent from parents/guardians.
  • Personal devices should not be used to record or photograph students.
  • Online teaching (if applicable) must follow school guidelines (professional background, parental awareness, recording if required).
  1. Breaches of the Code
  • Any breach of this Code of Behaviour will be taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.
  • Serious concerns will be reported to TUSLA and/or An Garda Síochána as required.
  1. Staff Declaration

I have read and understood the Staff Code of Behaviour of Toccata House Music School. I agree to abide by its principles, policies, and procedures at all times.

Toccata House Music School, Safeguarding Policy and Covid 19 statement 2020

Safeguarding is the action that is taken to promote the welfare of children and protect them from harm. While protecting children from abuse is one part of safeguarding, children and young people also need safeguarding in order for them to grow, develop and achieve their full potential.

We are a private run music school, offering private classes on a one to one basis at our music school based at 43 Fair Street and Drogheda Grammar School, Mornington Road, Drogheda.

Toccata House Music School has a strong emphasis on child protection policies   with each teacher being GARDA Vetted every 3 years and also TUSLA certified as well.   (Copies of individual teachers vetting and TUSLA certificates are available to see on site at venues). Teachers have also read and signed our risk assessment and safe guarding polices which are strictly adhered too.

It is of utmost importance that every student who attends our music school whether adults, students/children should feel that they are in a safe and protected environment. The welfare of the child/young person/adult under our care is paramount.

Risk Assessment

We have carried out an assessment of any potential for harm to a child while availing of our services. Below is a list of the areas of risk identified and the list of procedures for managing these risks.

Risk Assessment  – risk identified and procedures:

  1.  Slips, trips or falls, are medium due to Code of Behaviour and Control Measures (available on request) – no running on corridors, or waiting area – also students not to leave bags or luggage lying around in case of accidents.   The same applies re: bags lying around or instrument s or books in classrooms, code of behaviour applies.

Any incidents to be reported to DLM by students to the school manager.

  1. Entrance to classrooms, students will not congregate outside doors of classrooms or main outdoor areas.  Teachers always check that this does not happen and that all students are in classes at appropriate lesson times. Any absenteeism of students, if not notified by parents are reported to Olive immediately.
  2. Movement of persons on corridors and stairs – students will walk at all times in corridors, stairs and outdoor areas to pre fabs. No running allowed.  Again attention is paid to control measures and code of behaviour. Students will not congregate in corridors, hallways but will utilise the waiting area that is provided.
  3. Students will not engage in unruly behaviour on site and will respect the presence of other users at venues.

Procedures

Our Child Safeguarding Statement has been developed in line with requirements under the Children First Act 2015, Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2017), and TUSLA’s Child Safeguarding: A Guide for Policy, Procedure and Practice. In addition to the procedures listed in our risk assessment, the following procedures support our intention to safeguard children while they are availing of our service.

Procedure for the management of allegations of abuse or misconduct against workers/volunteers of a child availing of our service.

Procedure for the safe recruitment and selection of workers and volunteers to work with children.

Procedure for provision of and access to child safeguarding training and information, including the identification of the occurrence of harm.

Procedure for the reporting of child protection or welfare concerns to TUSLA.

Procedure for maintaining  a list of the persons (if any) in the relevant service who are mandated personnel.

Procedure for appointing a relevant person.

All available upon request.

Implementation:

We recognise that implementation is an ongoing process. Our service is committed to the implementation of this Child Safeguarding Statement and the procedures that support our intention to keep children safe from harm while availing of our service.

Our Safeguarding Statement was reviewed on March 12th 2020 and is checked regularly.

For an queries,  please contact Olive Powderly and DLM under Child Protection First Act 2015.

Covid – 19 procedures will be put in place for reopening August/September 2020 with the addition of Covid – 19 social distancing,  screens, sanitizing units, gloves and masks (if needed)  will be on site. Staggering of classes to allow for safe arrival and departures of students will be enforced for the safety of students and staff of Toccata House Music School.  Also CIF Covid 19 online induction course has been attained by all members of staff of Toccata House Music School.

We, at Toccata House wish everyone a safe, and healthy return to music, and looking forward to seeing everyone at DGS and Fair street in August/September.