Child Safety for Teaching Assistants
Frontline safeguarding for teaching assistants. Spotting changes, supporting disclosures, and following the Working Together 2023 pathway without overstepping.
As a teaching assistant, you often see things the classroom teacher does not. You sit close to pupils, you support them through small frustrations, and you are sometimes the first adult a child turns to when something is wrong. That trust is a safeguarding asset. Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023 makes clear that every adult who works with children has a role in identifying concerns and acting on them. This guide explains, in plain terms, what to do — and what not to do — when a child shows you they are not okay.
Why this matters
Many serious case reviews note that signs were missed not because no one saw them, but because the person who saw them did not feel it was their place to say. TAs who feel confident to log a concern, no matter how small, give the DSL the pattern data they need. A child who knows there is always one adult in the room they can talk to is a safer child.
Quick wins
Re-read your school's safeguarding policy and confirm you know the DSL and deputy DSL by name
Time: 15 minutes
Save the NSPCC helpline (0808 800 5000) and Childline (0800 1111) in your phone
Time: 5 minutes
Practise the phrase 'I can't promise to keep this a secret, but I will help you' before you ever need it
Time: 5 minutes
Common challenges
Hearing a disclosure from a child while supporting them in class
Listen, do not interrupt, do not promise to keep a secret, and use the child's own words when you record it afterwards. End by saying you are pleased they told you and you will need to share it with the safeguarding lead so the right help can be put in place. Tell the DSL on the same day.
Spotting a change in a child without 'enough' to report
Log it anyway. A child who suddenly becomes withdrawn, who is hungry, who flinches at sudden noises, or who has unexplained marks may have one isolated incident — or may be one of several similar concerns the DSL is already tracking. Patterns make pictures.
Working with a child whose behaviour is challenging without it becoming a safeguarding issue for you
Follow your school's positive handling policy and stay within your training. Never restrain a child unless you are trained and it is necessary. Debrief with your class teacher after a difficult incident and write up your version while it is fresh. Look after your own wellbeing too — Education Support runs a free helpline on 08000 562 561.