Safeguarding Policy

At Timber Tots Forest school the safety and wellbeing of all children and vulnerable adults are of the highest importance. This policy outlines how we protect children and others in our care, in accordance with UK safeguarding legislation and guidance including the Children Act 1989 & 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018, and Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023.

2. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

We have a trained Designated Safeguarding Lead responsible for ensuring this policy is followed. Their contact details are available on request and displayed at all sessions.

3. Managing Concerns

All safeguarding concerns will be taken seriously and acted upon immediately. Any disclosure or suspicion will be recorded and reported to the appropriate authority in line with local safeguarding procedures.

4. Environment and Risk Assessments

We ensure that all outdoor sessions are risk assessed daily. All tools and equipment are used safely under supervision.

5. Confidentiality

Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis with relevant authorities to protect the individual concerned.

At Timber Tots, we understand that plans can change. While we do not offer refunds, we aim to be as flexible and supportive where possible.

1. Participant Cancellations

If you need to change your booking, we require you to rebook online with 7 days notice before the scheduled session.   Rebooking is subject to availability.

No-Shows: Failure to attend without notice will not qualify for a rebooking.

2. Forest School Cancellations

If we cancel a session due to extreme weather, staff illness, or any other unforeseen circumstance, you will be given the choice of a rebooking to another available session or a credit note.

Disclaimer

1. General Information
All content provided by Timber Tots Forest School is for educational and recreational purposes only. Participation in outdoor activities involves some inherent risk, which we mitigate through trained staff, risk assessments, and appropriate safety procedures.

2. Health & Safety
While we take every reasonable precaution, we cannot accept liability for injuries sustained due to unforeseen natural hazards or failure to follow safety instructions.

3. Allergies & Medical Needs
Parents/carers must inform us of any allergies or medical conditions prior to the session. We cannot be held responsible for adverse outcomes if full and accurate information is not provided.

4. Parental Responsibility
Parents or guardians remain fully responsible for their children the entirety of the session. 

Timber Tots Forest School is committed to protecting your privacy. This policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your personal data, in line with the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

2. Data We Collect

We collect personal information including:

Name, address, email, and phone number.

Emergency contact details.

Child’s name, age, and medical/allergy information.

Payment details (processed securely via third-party platforms).

3. How We Use Your Data

We use your data to:

Manage bookings and communicate session information.

Ensure child safety and health requirements.

Send you relevant updates, if opted in.

4. Data Sharing

We do not share your data with third parties unless legally required or in a safeguarding/emergency situation.

5. Data Storage & Security

We store data securely and only for as long as necessary. You may request access to, correction of, or deletion of your data at any time.

6. Your Rights

Under UK data protection law, you have the right to access, rectify, or erase your data, and to lodge a complaint with the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office).

All other policies can be found in th Timber Tots Forest School hand book. Please ask a member of staff if you would like to read them.