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QTS standards guidance

Q21(b) Know how to identify and support children and young people whose progress, development or well-being is affected by changes or difficulties in their personal circumstances, and when to refer them to colleagues for specialist support.

The Children Act 2004 and Every Child Matters agenda now form the basis for every school’s approach to safeguarding children and promoting their well-being. Enjoying and achieving, being healthy and staying safe are three of the key outcomes for children and young people.

Teachers and the wider workforce have important roles to play in identifying children who are troubled or whose progress is impeded by barriers to learning, and knowing when and to whom they should be referred for specialist support. Personal difficulties may adversely affect learners’ enjoyment of school, their achievement and progress, their mental or physical health, or may threaten their personal safety and well-being.

Teachers know that schools have a duty to take appropriate action to maintain the safety, security and well-being of learners by having secure evidence that staff have had their identity, qualifications and criminal records checked.