This service is managed by Education
Pupil care and welfare
The health, safety and welfare of every child and young person in our schools matters to us. This page covers a range of topics related to pupil care and welfare. If you have a question not covered here, please get in touch.
Education and Leisure
Attendance
Parents and carers are responsible for making sure their children attend school regularly. Pupils may be absent if they are ill or have a medical appointment. Other absences will be recorded as unauthorised unless an explanation is provided and accepted by the school.
If you have concerns about your child's attendance, speak to your school in the first instance.
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Bullying
We take bullying extremely seriously. All schools in Orkney have anti-bullying measures in place, developed with advice and support from the Council. If you have a concern about bullying, your first point of contact should be your school's Head Teacher.
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Anti Bullying Policy for Our Children and Young People
This document contains Orkney Islands Council’s 2024 anti-bullying policy for schools, clubs and other services supporting children and young people. It defines bullying, including online and prejudice-based behaviour, and sets out ways to prevent it through respectful relationships, inclusion and learning. It explains how children, families, staff and services should report, investigate, support and record incidents, including when behaviour may be criminal. It also includes guidance, useful links, recording forms and the complaints process.
Please be aware that this summary has been generated using AI.
Child protection
The safety and wellbeing of children in our schools is our highest priority. Our staff follow clear practice guidelines for child protection, and work closely with other agencies through Orkney's inter-agency child protection arrangements.
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Disclosure checks
Anyone working with children in a school setting - including volunteers and parent helpers - must complete a criminal records check through Disclosure Scotland before starting. Results are treated confidentially.
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Medicines in school
Where a pupil needs to take medication during the school day, we work with parents and carers to make sure this happens safely. Please contact your school directly to discuss your child's individual needs.
Drug misuse
We have a clear policy for schools to follow if an incident involving drug misuse is reported. Head Teachers are trained to respond appropriately and in line with our procedures.
Looked after children
We have a duty to make sure that children who are looked after away from home receive high-quality care and support. Where a child is looked after, their educational needs are carefully considered alongside their other needs, and appropriate plans are put in place to support them.
LGBTQ+ support
We are an inclusive organisation. Every young person who identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning has the right to be treated with respect, without judgement, in our schools. School staff are available to talk to any young person who has questions about sexual orientation or gender identity.
For further information and support, LGBT Youth Scotland provides a range of resources for young people, parents, carers and professionals.
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General health advice
For general advice on children's health, visit the NHS website.