Beyond Policies: Child-on-Child Abuse in Schools and the Critical Role of DSL Supervision
🏷️ From £135
🎧 DSL
📍 Mill Hill School
✅ Included in BSA CPD Pass
Course outline
Drawing on recent cases of child-on-child sexual abuse in schools, including boarding schools, this two-hour seminar will explore the particular safeguarding challenges faced by schools where children live as well as learn. It will examine how abuse can remain hidden for years, the barriers that prevent children from disclosing their experiences, and the importance of an immediate, child-centred response that prioritises safety over institutional reputation.
The seminar will explore the critical role of school staff and Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) in identifying patterns of harm, managing complex safeguarding concerns, and ensuring that appropriate protective measures are implemented. It will consider how regular professional supervision provides DSLs with the space to reflect on difficult cases, challenge assumptions, recognise overlooked risks, and navigate the emotional and ethical demands of their roles.
Through case-based discussion and reflective practice, participants will consider how effective supervision can strengthen professional judgement, accountability and safeguarding cultures, helping boarding schools move beyond policies towards meaningful protection for every child.
Learning outcomes
- Recognise the specific risks and safeguarding challenges associated with child-on-child abuse in boarding school environments.
- Explore how professional supervision supports DSLs in managing complex cases, challenging assumptions and identifying overlooked risks.
- Strengthen decision-making, professional accountability and reflective practice when responding to child-on-child abuse.
- Develop practical approaches to supervision that promote safer boarding environments, protect children and ensure institutional interests never take precedence over their welfare.
This event will be held jointly with:
Speaker:
