Safeguarding
Pastoral care and safeguarding are at the heart of what we do at Lancing College. In order to flourish academically and thrive in the enriching environment at the college, pupils should feel safe and able to voice any concerns that they have. The safeguarding team works closely with Housemasters/Housemistresses, House matrons, tutors and teachers to identify emerging safeguarding needs in our pupils and assist in putting support in place.
Safeguarding extends to all staff at the College and a healthy safeguarding culture involves staff, pupils and parents communicating about the issues and challenges we and our pupils face today. The College also works closely with external experts and agencies to ensure the best possible care for our pupils.
The Safeguarding Team works closely with Housemasters and Housemistresses, who have significant experience in supporting pupils through any challenges they may face. Each pupil is assigned a dedicated Academic Tutor, with whom they meet weekly to discuss academic progress and any wider concerns. A Saturday morning tutor period provides further opportunities for guidance and support. In addition to seeking support from staff, pupils can raise concerns electronically via the ‘Whisper’ platform, whether for themselves or on behalf of others.
Additionally, a group of trained Sixth Form pupils offers peer support, ensuring pupils always have someone to turn to. These Sixth Form Peer Supporters undertake rigorous training with the College Counsellors and the DSL to equip them in listening skills and in signposting to the most appropriate help. Seeking help—whether from staff or fellow pupils—is actively encouraged and is a key strength of the Lancing community.
All staff and senior pupils receive comprehensive child protection training, led by Gary Bird (Assistant Head, Safeguarding & Designated Safeguarding Lead, DSL), supported by a team of Deputy DSLs (DDSLs). Andrew Chappell (Assistant Head, Pastoral) oversees boarding provision, ensuring a safe, supportive, and structured environment for all pupils. Staff use ‘MyConcern’ to ensure all pastoral information is shared and managed effectively.
Pupils are also taught about how to stay safe online both formally in their PSHE lessons as well as informally through guidance from the pastoral team. Details of our Online Safety Policy can be found here.
The Safeguarding Team
Mr Gary Bird
Designated Safeguarding Lead ad Assistant Head, Safeguarding
Email or call 01273 465774
Mrs Fern Britnell
Safeguarding Deputy and Sankey’s HMM
Email or call 01273 465893
Mr Andy Brown
Safeguarding Deputy and Director of IT
Email or call 01273 465701
Mr James Grime
Safeguarding Deputy
Email
Mrs Charlotte Malik
Safeguarding Deputy and Saint’s AHMM
Email or call 01273 465778
Ms Anne McKane
Safeguarding Deputy and Handford HMM
Email or call 01273 465886
Ms Emma-Kate
Senior Deputy Head
Email or call 01273 465812
Ms Siobhan Denning
Governor Lead for Child Protection
Further information can be found in our policy on the main College website.
Safeguarding Team email: Safeguarding@lancing.org.uk In an emergency dial 999
For advice if you are not in school, ring the NSPCC on 0808 800 500 or Childline on 0800 1111