Trafford and Stockport College Group is proud to have achieved the prestigious Leaders in Safeguarding Quality Mark for the second time.
This award, which is not a mandatory standard for colleges, demonstrates the group’s commitment to prioritising safeguarding and accountability and ensures ongoing actions are in place to protect students.
The accreditation provides independent validation of the college’s approach to safeguarding, celebrating its proactive stance and continuous improvements.
Leaders in Safeguarding is a registered Quality Mark awarded following a rigorous external audit of safeguarding arrangements against 16 key standards.
The accreditation underscores the college’s dedication to maintaining the highest safeguarding standards in education.
Commitment to excellence in safeguarding
Over the last academic year, the college saw a significant 63% increase in safeguarding referrals, reflecting both the growing needs of students as well as the team’s proactive engagement with students.
Of these referrals, 60% were made during the first term, a direct result of the college’s efforts to make safeguarding visible from the start of the academic year. This early intervention approach allowed the college to implement necessary support measures promptly.
Shaun Deakin, Head of Learner Services at Trafford and Stockport College Group, commented: “Achieving the Leaders in Safeguarding accreditation is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication”.
“It validates our approach to safeguarding and celebrates our commitment to keeping students safe”.
“We have seen a remarkable rise in the number of students seeking support, which shows our efforts to be present and accessible are making a difference. Our team adopt a relational approach, which allows students to feel more comfortable sharing their concerns.”
Proactive and visible safeguarding efforts
Throughout the year, the college hosts termly safety roadshows with trusted community partners to engage with students on important topics such as mental health and sexual health. These interactive events are held in the heart of the college to normalise discussions around these issues and make safeguarding support easily accessible.
The college’s innovative approach also includes adding a QR code to student ID cards, allowing easy access to support services when needed.
90% of safeguarding cases raised in the 22/23 academic year were resolved before the end of term 3, while the outstanding 10% are more complex, multi-agency cases requiring further intervention.
Shaun Deakin added: “Safeguarding is not just a policy — it’s a culture. Our aim is to ensure that students know we are here to support them from the moment they walk through our doors”.
“This accreditation reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a safe, supportive environment for every learner and I am proud of the team for their hard work and dedication to looking after the health and wellbeing of our young people.”
