Safeguarding Policies
How we keep children safe at The Code Zone: what happens in a session, who to tell if something worries you, and every policy behind it.
How safeguarding works in practice
Policies are only worth the behaviour behind them, so here is what actually happens. Every mentor holds an enhanced DBS check and is STEM-certified before running a session, and we have a designated safeguarding lead. Children work in groups of no more than six, which means a mentor is present for everything that happens in an hour rather than supervising from the front of a room.
Sharing and chat between members happens on our own platform and is moderated by mentors. Live club sessions are not recorded. There is no requirement for a child to have their camera on or to speak, and children can use chat instead, which matters given that more than a third of our members are autistic or have ADHD based on what parents tell us when they join.
If something concerns you
Tell the mentor during the session, or email dsl@thecodezone.co.uk afterwards. You can also call 0333 090 5697 and ask for the designated safeguarding lead. Anything raised goes to the safeguarding lead, and we will come back to you rather than leaving you wondering what happened.
Read the policies in full
Our policies
Photography and filming policy
Codes of conduct
Behaviour code for adults working with children
Behaviour code for children and young people
Online safety agreement for young people
Alternative provision
For children placed with us by a local authority, school or trust.
FAQ
From the blog
What are the children building this month?
One email a month: the games our members have made, what is coming up, and the odd thing worth trying at home. No pressure, and you can leave whenever you like.