INCLUSIVITY

We are committed to providing an environment free from discrimination, victimisation, harassment and bullying. We pledge to act and interact in ways that contribute to an open, welcoming, diverse, inclusive and healthy community.

We expect all of our tutors, staff and participants to:

  • demonstrate care towards one another: treat others with kindness, empathy and patience
  • be respectful of others, valuing differing opinions, viewpoints and experiences
  • not invade other’s personal and emotional space, always seek consent
  • respect terminology and the right to self-describe
  • treat everybody as an individual and respect the needs of others
  • be open to learning, making space for open discussion, debate and feedback
  • have fun and find enjoyment in our creativity

CSSJ does not tolerate discrimination or harassment in any form. This includes direct or in- direct forms of discrimination. We will not tolerate inappropriate, threatening, offensive or harmful behaviour and language.

Anyone who experiences or witnesses behaviour that violates the Code of Conduct is encouraged to report it to one of the Senior Leadership Team. All reports will be treated as a serious matter, handled confidentially and dealt with in line with the CSSJ’s Anti-bullying and Harassment Policy.

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

We welcome students with disabilities however some class activities do require a degree of co-ordination, physical effort and good eyesight. We are very happy to arrange a visit or phone call to ascertain any additional access or support requirements prior to booking, and we are very happy to make any reasonable adjustments to ensure your enjoyment of your workshop. Please see our Access Guide for full details.

SAFEGUARDING POLICY

Central Scotland School of Jewellery

Safeguarding Policy

  1. Policy Statement

Central Scotland School of Jewellery Ltd (CSSJ) is committed to providing a safe, welcoming and respectful environment for all participants.

Although the majority of our provision is aimed at adults, we occasionally work with children and young people under the age of 18 through workshops, group visits, family sessions and special projects. We recognise our responsibility to take reasonable steps to promote the welfare of children and young people participating in our activities.

We believe that:

  • Children and young people should be treated with respect.
  • Everyone has the right to participate in creative activity safely.
  • Safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone working on behalf of CSSJ.
  • Concerns should be taken seriously and responded to appropriately.

This policy applies to:

  • staff;
  • freelance tutors;
  • volunteers;
  • visiting practitioners;
  • Directors acting on behalf of CSSJ.
  1. Scope of Activities

CSSJ Ltd is an independent jewellery school and creative workshop space offering practical classes and workshops in jewellery and related crafts.

Activities may involve:

  • hand tools;
  • soldering and heat processes;
  • sharp tools;
  • workshop equipment;
  • chemicals and materials used in jewellery making.

All activities involving under-18s will be risk-assessed and supervised appropriately.

  1. Principles

When working with under-18s, CSSJ will aim to:

  • provide a safe physical environment;
  • maintain appropriate supervision;
  • communicate clearly with parents/carers where appropriate;
  • avoid situations where adults are working alone with a child wherever possible;
  • ensure tutors and staff understand expected standards of behaviour;
  • respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
  1. Responsibilities

Overall responsibility for safeguarding sits with the Directors of CSSJ Ltd.

All staff, freelance tutors and volunteers are expected to:

  • behave appropriately towards children and young people;
  • follow health and safety procedures;
  • report concerns promptly;
  • avoid inappropriate language or behaviour;
  • maintain professional boundaries.

Freelance tutors are responsible for ensuring they hold any relevant insurance and disclosures required for the activities they deliver.

  1. Working Practices

CSSJ will aim to:

  • ensure under-18s are appropriately supervised;
  • maintain suitable tutor-to-student ratios;
  • obtain emergency contact information where appropriate;
  • seek parental/carer consent for participation by minors;
  • ensure activities are age-appropriate;
  • provide appropriate safety instruction and protective equipment.

Children under 16 will generally not be permitted to attend unsupervised adult classes unless specifically agreed in advance.

  1. Photography and Social Media

Photographs of under-18s will only be used with appropriate permission from a parent or guardian.

Names and identifying personal information about children will not be shared publicly without consent.

  1. Responding to Concerns

If a member of staff, tutor or volunteer becomes concerned about the welfare of a child or young person, they should:

  • remain calm;
  • listen appropriately;
  • avoid making promises of confidentiality;
  • make a written note of the concern;
  • report the matter to a CSSJ Director as soon as possible.

If a child is believed to be at immediate risk of harm, emergency services should be contacted.

  1. Recruitment and Disclosure Checks

Because CSSJ works with under-18s only occasionally and does not provide regulated childcare services, disclosure checks may not be required for every role.

However, CSSJ reserves the right to request PVG/Disclosure checks where activities or levels of contact make this appropriate.

  1. Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically and updated as required to reflect changes in legislation, guidance or CSSJ activities.