York College & University Centre receives Leaders in Safeguarding Gold Award

The independent body’s Scrutiny and Validation Panel gave our safeguarding provision the highest quality mark possible in recognition of the exacting standards that are met at Sim Balk Lane.

Institutions that achieve Gold status have been proven to demonstrate outstanding commitment to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults. 

It also confirms that organisations have exceeded standard requirements by showing exceptional safeguarding practice and a deeply embedded safeguarding culture.

Commenting on the audit and review, a Leaders in Safeguarding spokesperson said: “You can be confident that your safeguarding arrangements have been thoroughly examined by the auditors and quality assured by the Leaders in Safeguarding Scrutiny and Validation Panel to ensure they comply with our exacting standards. The Scrutiny and Validation Panel have decided that you should receive the Gold Award.”

Among the report’s findings, it was noted that safeguarding and student wellbeing were embedded across the curriculum and operational culture, with a safeguarding team, a responsive pastoral team and specialist staff ensuring timely and effective intervention.

It was also considered that York College is well integrated into the local safeguarding network, incorporating regular engagement with the LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer), Prevent leads, the Channel Panel and local police.

Other areas in which the college excelled included the priority of support for vulnerable learners, with policies explicitly recognising risk among young people with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), LAC (Looked-After Children) and those exposed to trauma.

College’s “solid” commitment to safer recruitment was reported, meanwhile, as it was evident all staff working with children and vulnerable adults had been appropriately vetted, trained and supported. 

It was detailed, too, that contractors and external providers working on site are required to complete safeguarding briefings and guidance is issued to ensure they understand reporting processes and professional conduct expectations.

Pictured with the Leaders in Safeguarding Gold Award certificate are (from left-to-right): York College Safeguarding Coordinator Jenny Edwards; York College Safeguarding and Wellbeing Manager Astrid Croasdale and York College Safeguarding Officer Carrie Watson.

To learn more about our wellbeing service, please click here