Safeguarding, Child Protection and Well-being
What this domain tests
This domain tests the non-negotiable safeguarding responsibilities of international schools and the wider concept of student well-being.
Core rules
- Safeguarding is broader and preventative; child protection is the specific response to abuse and harm.
- Every school must have a child protection policy, a designated safeguarding lead, safe recruitment procedures, and regular training for all staff and volunteers.
- Staff must report concerns immediately to the designated lead; they must not investigate or promise confidentiality.
- Well-being includes physical, emotional, social, and mental health. A whole-school approach includes curriculum, support services, and a positive climate.
- CIS International Accreditation expects evidence of safeguarding and well-being in practice, not just policy documents.
Worked example
A teacher notices a student has unexplained injuries and is withdrawn. The teacher records what was observed factually, reports to the designated safeguarding lead the same day, and does not question the child beyond listening. The lead decides on next steps, including external referral if required. The teacher’s role is to report, not to diagnose.
Traps
Thinking safeguarding only concerns strangers, ignoring peer-on-peer abuse, failing to report because “it might be nothing,” confusing well-being with academic support, or letting training lapse are common errors.