What is KCSIE 2024?
The Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2024 guidelines introduced several significant updates to enhance child protection practices in educational settings.
Here are some of the key changes:
Expanded Definition of Harm
Inclusion of exploitation: The most notable change is the expanded definition of harm to include "abuse, neglect, and exploitation." This broader scope aims to better protect children from various forms of harm.
Emphasis on Early Help
Enhanced focus on early intervention: KCSIE 2024 places a stronger emphasis on early help to address emerging concerns and prevent escalation to more serious issues.
Alignment with "Working Together to Safeguard Children"
Consistent approach: The guidelines have been aligned with the "Working Together to Safeguard Children" document to ensure a cohesive approach across different sectors involved in child protection.
Data Protection and Information Sharing
Clarified responsibilities: The guidance provides more clarity on data protection and information sharing, emphasising the importance of balancing child protection with privacy rights.
Children Missing Education
Shift in focus: The document shifts the focus from blaming children for missing education to understanding the underlying reasons and providing appropriate support.
Language and Terminology
Inclusive language: Efforts have been made to use more inclusive language, such as referring to "children who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or gender questioning."
It's important to note that these are just some of the key changes, and the full document contains additional updates and refinements.
