Safeguarding

We are committed to ensuring the safety, well-being, and protection of every student. Our safeguarding and child protection policies create a secure and supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. We take a proactive approach to safeguarding, ensuring that all staff, students, parents, and external partners play a role in maintaining a culture of safety, trust, and respect. Our policies align with local law and international best practices, reinforcing our dedication to student welfare.
Health & Wellbeing

Our Commitment to Safeguarding

Safeguarding is a whole-school responsibility, and we maintain high standards by:

  • Implementing Clear Policies & Procedures – Ensuring that staff and students understand how to recognize and report concerns.
  • Recruiting Safely – Vetting all staff, volunteers, and external contractors through criminal background checks and reference verification.
  • Training All Staff – Providing regular safeguarding training on recognizing and responding to risks.
  • Appointing Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) – Trained staff members responsible for handling child protection concerns.
  • Maintaining Confidential Reporting Systems – Giving students and staff a safe way to report concerns.

We create an environment where students feel safe, supported, and confident to speak up if they ever feel at risk.


A Safe & Supportive School Culture

We believe students learn best when they feel protected and valued. Our approach includes:

  • Empowering Students – Teaching them about their rights, personal boundaries, and how to seek help.
  • Building Trusted Relationships – Encouraging open dialogue between students, teachers, and counselors.
  • Zero Tolerance for Bullying & Harassment – Addressing incidents promptly through clear intervention strategies.
  • Promoting Online Safety – Teaching responsible internet use and protecting students from digital threats.
  • Providing Mental Health Support – Offering counseling services and well-being programs to support emotional resilience.

Through Social and Emotional and Health Education lessons, workshops, and assemblies, we ensure students develop self-awareness and confidence in managing personal safety.


Child Protection Procedures

If a safeguarding concern arises, we follow a clear and structured process to ensure immediate and appropriate action while prioritizing the child’s well-being.

For Students

Students who feel unsafe are encouraged to:

  • Speak to a trusted adult (teacher, counselor, or school leader).
  • Use the confidential reporting system to seek help.
  • Know that their concerns will be taken seriously.

For Staff

All staff are trained to:

  • Recognize signs of abuse, neglect, or misconduct.
  • Report concerns immediately to the Child Protection Lead (CPL).
  • Support students emotionally through active listening and reassurance.

Response & Action

  1. Immediate Safety Check – Ensuring the child is safe and supported.
  2. Investigation & Documentation – Recording concerns and gathering relevant details.
  3. Referral to Authorities – Reporting to social services or law enforcement if necessary.
  4. Family Support & Intervention – Providing guidance and resources to families when appropriate.

Safer Recruitment & Vetting Process

To maintain high safeguarding standards, we enforce a strict recruitment policy for all staff and volunteers who work with students.

Our process includes:

  • Background Checks – Criminal record screening for local and international hires.
  • Reference Verification – Contacting previous employers to confirm suitability.
  • Code of Conduct Compliance – Ensuring all staff follow professional safeguarding standards.
  • Ongoing Monitoring – Providing refresher training and regular evaluations.

External contractors, visiting specialists, and tutors must also meet safeguarding requirements before engaging with students.


Parental Involvement & Community Partnerships

We believe safeguarding is a shared responsibility and work closely with parents and the wider community to uphold the highest standards of student safety.

We provide:

  • Parent Workshops & Resources – Educating families about safeguarding risks and strategies.
  • Transparent Communication – Keeping parents informed and involved in child protection policies.
  • Collaboration with Child Protection Organizations – Partnering with experts to strengthen our approach.

Parents are encouraged to stay engaged, ask questions, and work with us to create a safe and nurturing environment for all students.


Our Commitment to a Safe Learning Environment

At St. Andrew’s International School, we are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of safeguarding and child protection. Every child deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported, and we take every measure necessary to uphold that commitment.

Through clear policies, rigorous training, proactive intervention, and a culture of trust, we ensure that St. Andrew’s remains a safe, welcoming, and protective environment for every student.


If you have a safeguarding concern or need support, please contact our Designated Child Protection Leads (CPLs) or school leadership.

For more details, please refer to our Child Protection Policy & Safer Recruitment Policy which can be found our Policies page.

Team

Gordon McKenzie

Principal & CEO
Not assigned

Catherine Azikiwe

Vice Principal, Head of Primary
Lucayan

Sonia Adderley

Vice Principal, Head of Secondary, Teacher
Taino

Nivia Bodie

Director of Admissions, College Counsellor
Taino

Janet Bridgewater

School Nurse
Taino

Pippa Sands

Counsellor, Yearbook Coordinator
Lucayan

Vashni Carey

Deputy Head of Primary School, IB PYP Coordinator
Taino

Janice Gaitor

Director of Student Support, Secondary School, Teacher, Business
Taino