Safeguarding

The SHARP (School Help and Advice Reporting Page) System

The SHARP system ensures that our students feel confident about coming forward to report problems and incidents.

The SHARP system contains the following benefits:

  • It is an online reporting tool for students to use that alerts the Safeguarding Team to problems and issues that individuals are facing.
  • It is an educational tool as it contains lots of advice videos on issues such as alcohol, drugs, bullying, health and internet safety.

The SHARP system may be accessed through the link below:

Click here to use the SHARP System

What is Safeguarding?

At Leigh Academy Wilmington your health, safety and welfare are really important. We respect each other and know that it is important to be happy and safe in school.

Our Safeguarding personnel (as of September 2026) are as follows:

  • DSL Designated Safeguarding Lead: Pete Devlin
  • Senior Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead:  Maxine McLean (Senior DDSL)
  • Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads: Mike Gore, Daniel Polden, David O’Leary, Sharron Duff, Roberta Keenan, Sarah West, Belinda Raji, Gina Pepper-Newlan, Steve Staunton
  • Child Looked After Coordinator: Pete Devlin
  • E-Safety Coordinator: Pete Devlin
  • Person responsible for children with medical conditions: Sue Quinn
student child protection information sheet Working Together to Safeguard Children

Report a Safeguarding Concern Out of Academy Hours

If you are concerned about a safeguarding matter which is outside of academy hours, then please contact the Police on 101 or Social Services on 03000 419191. If it is an emergency, then please contact 999.

Safeguarding at Leigh Academy Wilmington

  • We know what our roles and responsibilities are to keep you safe.
  • We take all allegations, suspicions and concerns seriously and report them properly.
  • We talk to other people about any concerns to develop the best way to help you.
  • We complete risk assessments to ensure that all potential dangers in activities have been identified.
  • We have themed assemblies, lessons and action days where we learn about Safeguarding such as e-safety and anti-bullying.
  • We treat everyone fairly with dignity and respect.
  • All adults will listen to what you have to say with an open mind.
  • Adults will not ask leading questions so that you have to reveal more details.
  • If they are worried about your safety, they might invite another professional to talk to you.
  • Adults never stop us from freely talking or sharing about significant events
  • Adults will make accurate and specific notes of discussions to make sure that all concerns are recorded.
  • Adults will not promise to keep secrets.
  • They will explain that they have a responsibility to report what has been said to someone else if they are worried about your safety.
  • All adults will immediately tell the Safeguarding team if they are worried about your safety.
  • Speak to an adult at school if you are worried about something, it could be a teacher, your form tutor, your SSM or one of the Safeguarding team.
  • Be aware that you are not alone and that people will always help you
  • Be aware that there are lots of support services available

Sexual Violence and Harassment

Peer-on-Peer Abuse

Healthy and Respectful Relationships

Safeguarding Websites and Links

Other Useful Safeguarding Websites that are available to staff and parents of Leigh Academy Wilmington.