Purpose
Evolution Education is committed to preventing, identifying and responding to all forms of peer-on-peer abuse (also described in statutory guidance as child-on-child abuse). Allegations are always taken seriously and never dismissed as 'banter', 'part of growing up' or 'children being children'.
Scope
This policy applies to all students, staff, volunteers and visitors across all Evolution Education centres. It covers abuse that occurs between children, including online and offline behaviour, whether on site, during activities, or elsewhere where Evolution Education has a duty of care.
Definitions
Peer-on-peer abuse (child-on-child abuse) includes, but is not limited to:
- Bullying (including cyberbullying)
- Physical abuse
- Sexual violence
- Sexual harassment
- Upskirting
- Initiation / hazing-type violence and rituals
- Sexting / sharing nude or semi-nude images
- Prejudiced behaviour
- Harmful online behaviour
Responsibilities
- All staff report concerns immediately.
- The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or a Deputy DSL (DDSL) assesses risk the same day.
- Victims are supported and protected.
- Alleged perpetrators receive a fair investigation and appropriate safeguarding response.
- Parent schools, parents and carers, and external agencies are involved where appropriate.
- The Chief Executive Officer / Proprietor holds strategic accountability for safeguarding culture and compliance.
Procedures
Reporting
- Record the concern immediately.
- Inform the DSL or DDSL.
- Complete the safeguarding record.
- Preserve evidence (including devices or online content where safe and appropriate; do not view or forward illegal images).
- Follow safeguarding procedures and any multi-agency direction.
Contact: admin@evolution-sportsgroup.com or 07944 985698. If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.
Risk assessment
The DSL completes a written risk assessment considering:
- Immediate safety
- Ongoing supervision
- Contact between students
- Support required
- Multi-agency involvement
Support
Victims receive pastoral support, safety planning and referrals where appropriate. Support is also considered for others affected, including alleged perpetrators, in line with safeguarding and behaviour practice.
Confidentiality
Information is shared on a need-to-know basis, in accordance with KCSIE and data protection requirements.
Monitoring
This policy is reviewed annually or following statutory changes. The Leadership Team monitors implementation through safeguarding records, incident analysis, student voice, staff feedback and school improvement planning. Last reviewed: January 2026.
Review Cycle
This policy is reviewed annually by the Designated Safeguarding Lead and approved by the Proprietor / Leadership Team, or sooner following changes in legislation, statutory guidance, or significant incidents. Next formal review: January 2027. Approved by the Proprietor / Leadership Team.
Related Policies
Child Protection and Safeguarding; Anti-Bullying; Behaviour for Learning; Online Safety; Searching and Screening; Allegations Against Staff; Low-Level Concerns; SEND; Equality, Inclusion and Anti-Discrimination; RSHE; Complaints; Data Protection.
Legislation and guidance
This policy has regard to Keeping Children Safe in Education (latest DfE edition), Working Together to Safeguard Children, the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014, the Equality Act 2010, DfE guidance on sharing nudes and semi-nudes, and related online safety guidance. Where Independent School registration is completed, this policy will be reviewed against any updated registration conditions and DfE requirements.