Safeguarding
Harrow International School Shenzhen is unequivocally committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children entrusted to our care. Safeguarding is a shared and fundamental responsibility across the entire school community, and all staff, volunteers, parents, and visitors are expected to uphold the highest standards of child protection in line with the school’s values and expectations.
We are dedicated to providing a nurturing, inclusive, and secure environment in which every pupil feels safe, respected, and supported. Such an environment enables the social, physical, emotional, and moral development of each child and underpins their academic success and personal wellbeing.
Safeguarding at Harrow Shenzhen is informed by international best practice and robust statutory guidance. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is aligned with relevant UK legislation, including the Children Acts of 1989 and 2004, and international frameworks such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The policy is shared with all staff, who receive regular training to ensure they understand their responsibilities and the procedures for identifying, reporting, and responding to safeguarding concerns.
We actively promote a strong and transparent culture of vigilance and professional curiosity, in which all concerns—no matter how small—are reported promptly to the Designated Safeguarding Lead or members of the Designated Safeguarding Team. This approach ensures that concerns are addressed swiftly, proportionately, and in the best interests of the child.
At Harrow Shenzhen, we recognise that safeguarding and effective learning are intrinsically linked. Children who feel safe and cared for are better able to thrive academically and personally. Parents are encouraged to review the full Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy via the Parent Portal. Any safeguarding concerns may also be raised directly with the Designated Safeguarding Team at safeguarding@harrowshenzhen.cn.
Our Safeguarding Team
The Designated Safeguarding Lead is Zaynah Lyons, Director of Care, Guidance and Support. She is supported by William Mitchell, Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead and Upper School Deputy Head of Pastoral, and Natalie Dirkze, Lower School Pastoral Coordinator.
Together, the Safeguarding Team works closely with school leaders, staff, and external agencies, where appropriate, to ensure the highest standards of care, protection, and student wellbeing across the school. The safety and welfare of our pupils remain a paramount priority for the entire Harrow Shenzhen community.
Guidance for Parents and Visitors
To support our safeguarding framework and maintain a secure campus, we respectfully request that all parents and visitors adhere to the following expectations:
- Do not take photos or videos of any child without permission from the Head Master
- Avoid touching any child (other than your own) or invade their personal space
- Do not take any contact details from a child
- Only use designated adult-only toilets and do not enter the children’s toilets or changing room areas.
- When visiting the campus, all parents/guardians must wear their parents’ identification badge, making sure it is clearly visible before entering the school building. If this is forgotten parents/guardian will have to sign in at reception like a school visitor.
- For security reasons, it is vital that the appropriate staff member/s are informed of an intended visit.
