The beginning of a new academic year is a point of transition for many children, as they begin the next step of their academic journey. When a child begins at a new education setting, sharing relevant information about their circumstances is important to the child’s safety, welfare and educational outcomes. Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023 is clear that where children leave a school or college, the designated safeguard lead should ensure their child protection file is transferred to the new school or college as soon as possible, and within five days for an in-year transfer or within the first five days of a new term. This should be transferred separately from the main pupil file, ensuring secure transit, and confirmation of receipt should be obtained. In addition to the child protection file, the designated safeguarding lead should also consider if it would be appropriate to share any additional information with the new school or college to help them put in place the right support to safeguard the child and help the child to thrive in their new setting.
To support this process, ‘Child Protection Record Transfer: Frequently Asked Questions’ is available on the HSCP website to respond to frequently asked questions. This includes a template for confirming records have been received. A ‘Transfer of CP Records Flowchart for Educational Settings’ is also available.