Key changes in KCSIE 2024: What schools need to know

The latest update to the 2024 Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidance has been released , bringing a few critical changes that schools must be aware of. These updates, which were not included in the draft document, are crucial for ensuring that your School's safeguarding policies are up-to-date and compliant.

Who does this apply to?

This guidance document applies to, but is not limited to, the following:

governing bodies of maintained schools (including maintained nursery schools) and colleges;
proprietors of independent schools (including academies, free schools, and alternative provision academies) and nonmaintained special schools. In the case of academies, free schools and alternative provision academies, the proprietor will be the academy trust;
management committees of pupil referral units (PRUs); and
senior leadership teams.

What are the changes?

New definition of safeguarding and promoting welfare

In Part One, paragraph 3, the definition of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children has been updated . Schools should reference the following points in their policies:

providing help and support to meet the needs of children as soon as problems emerge.
protecting children from maltreatment, both within and outside the home, including online.
preventing the impairment of children's mental and physical health or development.
ensuring that children grow up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care.
taking action to enable all children to achieve the best outcomes.

This amendment aligns with the duties outlined in the updated 'Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023' guidance. Schools must update their policies accordingly to reflect these changes.

Changes to safer recruitment guidance

Another update is the removal of the link to the 'UK Centre for Professional Qualifications' from Part 3, which dealt with safer recruitment. This service no longer provides advice on behalf of the UK Government on regulated professions and recognition of professional qualifications - the service ceased in December 2023.

Amendment to Annex A: Safeguarding information for school and college staff

On 3 September, a further amendment was made to Annex A (page 143), which provides safeguarding information for school and college staff. The definition of safeguarding was slightly reworded to remove a reference to the 'Children's Social Care National Framework,' as schools and college staff are not required to comply with this framework .

Staying informed

As always, it's crucial for schools to stay informed about the latest changes to KCSIE. A full list of substantive changes can be found in Annex F of the guidance. Ensure your staff are aware of these updates and that your policies are revised to reflect the latest standards. By keeping up-to-date with these changes, schools can continue to provide a safe and supportive environment for all students.