Sidmouth International School is an English Language school that welcomes students of all ages including students under the age of 18 years. We have three separate departments for this age group: the Young Adult Department for 16 to 18 years, the Teenage Department for 14- 17 years and the Young Learner Department for 8-13 years. The majority of our students stay in homestay accommodation organised by the school. We also arrange transfers to and from our school within the UK.

What is safeguarding? 

Safeguarding is looking after and protecting all young students aged under 18 years.
Students – we aim to provide a place where all young students feel happy, comfortable and safe.

All students under the age of 18 years have an induction on their first day in the school.

This includes:
• how to stay safe
• how to care for each other
• how to be safe on the internet
• who to speak to if they have any problems or worries
• who to speak to if they have a complaint about an adult or another student.

They are given a welcome pack which contains copies of all this information, an ID card and the 24 hour Emergency phone number.

Adults 18+ and homestay families - we ensure that all adults working with young students understand their role in helping the school be a safe place for young students to study and enjoy their time in UK. This is done through induction and training.

Adults who will be teaching, caring or supervising students aged under 18 years are carefully assessed to make sure they are suitable to work with children. This assessment includes a Police check.

Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) Level 3
There are two managers who are trained to deal with safeguarding matters and who can make any important decisions.

Simon Blyth – Safeguarding & Compliance Officer + Head of Transport
Wendy Moores – Academic Manager + Young Learner course director

 

Designated Safeguarding persons (DSPs) (Level 2)
There are also several other members of staff who have been trained and will be available to listen and answer any questions or concerns students may have.
Brendan White – Social Activities Organiser
Oli Painter – Teenager Co-ordinator
Christine Grahame – Junior/Tween Co-ordinator

We work hard to ensure that our students are happy and safe. We are a small school in a small town and communication is good between staff, homestay families, students and local residents and any concerns or feedback are noted and dealt with quickly.

For more information you can download our full Safeguarding Policy here or contact the school.

Simon Blyth. 11/03/2025