Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator
Unit: Unit 2.2: Understand legislation relating to the safeguarding, protection and welfare of children
Learning outcome: Understand policies and procedures for the safeguarding, protection and welfare of children
Assessment criteria: Explain the roles and responsibilities of the Early Years practitioner in relation to the safeguarding, protection and welfare of children
All Early Years practitioners have a duty of care to safeguard and protect the welfare of children in their care. This means taking all reasonable steps to ensure that children are not exposed to any risks of harm, including physical, emotional or sexual abuse.
Practitioners should be familiar with organisational policies and procedures, including those related to safeguarding. These will provide information about what to do if there are suspicions or allegations of harm, abuse or neglect. Practitioners are not expected to have read safeguarding legislation entirely but should understand the key points.
Early Years practitioners must also be aware of the signs and symptoms of abuse and report any suspicions or concerns to the designated safeguarding lead in their organisation. It is important for Early Years Practitioners to be able to work in partnership with other individuals and agencies in the best interests of the child. This could include health professionals, social workers and the child’s parents/carers.
It is also important for Early Years practitioners to create a safe and nurturing environment for children, where they feel supported and respected. Children should also be provided with age-appropriate information to help them protect themselves. This will help to prevent children from being drawn into harmful situations.