At The Gateway Primary Academy, safeguarding our pupils is our highest priority. We are committed to protecting children from all forms of harm, including the risk of radicalisation and exposure to extremist views.

The Prevent Duty forms part of the Government's wider counter-terrorism strategy and aims to stop people from being drawn into terrorism or supporting extremist ideologies.

We recognise that protecting children from radicalisation is just as important as protecting them from other safeguarding risks.

What is Radicalisation?

Radicalisation is the process by which an individual comes to support extremist ideas, groups or activities. This can happen online, through social media, through personal relationships, or through exposure to inappropriate content.

Children and young people may be vulnerable to radicalisation for a variety of reasons, including:

• Feelings of isolation or exclusion
• Exposure to extremist views online
• Peer pressure
• Personal or family difficulties
• A desire to belong to a group or cause
• Experiences of discrimination or injustice

How We Keep Children Safe

At The Gateway Primary Academy, we:

• Have robust safeguarding procedures in place.
• Ensure all staff receive Prevent Duty training.
• Promote British Values through our curriculum and wider school life.
• Encourage pupils to think critically and challenge misinformation.
• Teach children how to stay safe online.
• Foster an inclusive environment where differences are respected and celebrated.
• Work closely with families, local authorities and safeguarding agencies when concerns arise.

Our curriculum helps pupils develop resilience, confidence and respect for others so they can make informed choices and become responsible members of society.

Promoting British Values

Through our curriculum and daily school life, we actively promote:

Democracy

Pupils learn how they can influence decision-making and have their voices heard through class discussions, pupil leadership opportunities and school council activities.

The Rule of Law

Children learn about rules, responsibilities and the importance of laws in keeping people safe.

Individual Liberty

We encourage pupils to make choices, express their views respectfully and develop confidence in managing risks safely.

Mutual Respect

Respect for others is a core value of our school community.

Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs

Children learn about different cultures, religions, traditions and ways of life, helping them understand and celebrate diversity.

Online Safety and Prevent

Many extremist organisations use the internet and social media to spread their messages. As part of our Online Safety curriculum, pupils are taught:

• How to identify trustworthy information.
• How to report concerning online content.
• The importance of critical thinking when using online platforms.
• How to stay safe when communicating online.

Parents are encouraged to monitor children's online activity and discuss internet safety regularly at home.

What to Do If You Have Concerns

If you are worried that a child may be vulnerable to radicalisation or extremist influences, please contact the school immediately.

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Mr Cassem
Headteacher

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads
Please contact the school office for current safeguarding team details.

All concerns will be treated seriously and managed in line with our safeguarding procedures.

The Channel Programme

The Channel Programme is a voluntary, confidential support programme that provides early intervention for individuals who may be vulnerable to radicalisation.

The programme works alongside education, health, social care and safeguarding professionals to provide appropriate support before concerns escalate.

Further Information

For more information about the Prevent Duty and online safety:

• GOV.UK Prevent Duty Guidance
• Educate Against Hate
• NSPCC Online Safety Resources
• Kent Safeguarding Children Multi-Agency Partnership (KSCMP)