Parent Briefing: The Safeguarding Questions Every Parent Should Ask Their School
Most parents don't know what to ask their child's school about safeguarding — and schools don't always volunteer the information. This plain-English guide gives parents the 8 questions that matter most, what good answers look like, and what to do if you're not satisfied.
Photo: The Safeguard Hub — parent safeguarding guide
Every school in England is legally required to have robust safeguarding arrangements under KCSIE 2025. But as a parent, you have the right to know how those arrangements work — and to raise concerns if something doesn't feel right. You don't need to be a safeguarding expert. You just need to know the right questions.
The 8 Questions That Matter
1. "Who is the Designated Safeguarding Lead?"
Why it matters: Every school must have a named DSL. If staff can't tell you who it is — or there isn't one — that's a serious concern. The DSL's name should also be on the school website. A good school will tell you immediately and explain what the DSL does.
2. "What is the school's safeguarding policy, and can I see it?"
Why it matters: Schools must make their safeguarding and child protection policy publicly available. You can ask to see it at any time. A good policy will reference KCSIE 2025, Working Together 2023, and your local authority procedures.
3. "How do I raise a concern about my child's safety or wellbeing?"
Why it matters: There should be a clear, accessible process. You should never feel that concerns are being dismissed or managed away from proper recording systems.
4. "What online safety measures are in place?"
Why it matters: Under KCSIE 2025, schools must have appropriate filtering and monitoring on all school-managed devices and networks. They must also teach pupils about online safety. Ask what filtering is in place and how children are taught to stay safe online.
5. "How does the school handle concerns about staff conduct?"
Why it matters: Schools must have a low-level concerns policy that allows staff, parents, and pupils to raise worries about adult behaviour. This is a KCSIE 2025 requirement. A good school will explain this process clearly without defensiveness.
If You're Not Satisfied With the Answers
If you raise concerns about safeguarding and feel they are not being taken seriously: put your concerns in writing to the headteacher; if still unresolved, contact the designated safeguarding governor; escalate to your local authority's education department; or contact Ofsted if you believe children are at risk. The NSPCC helpline (0808 800 5000) can also advise parents on next steps.
Citations
[1] DfE (2025). Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025. DfE.
[2] HM Government (2023). Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023. DfE.
[3] Ofsted (2024). Inspecting Safeguarding in Early Years, Education and Skills Settings. Ofsted.