Safeguarding

At Gammaxcellence, online safety is our highest priority. Our organization adheres to rigorous safeguarding standards, developing our policies with a foundation in protecting children and youth. Our platform integrates several security features to ensure a protected learning environment for all users.

Safeguarding at Gammaxcellence isn't just a policy; it's our practice. Safety is a collective responsibility. We involve our entire community to create a culture of safety and a positive environment conducive to learning. All staff and tutors play a role in active participation and vigilance to safeguard the young minds who trust us with their educational journeys.

We ensure our tutors are connected to a learning institution or have training, education, or demonstrated skills in the area they are providing tutoring.

Tutors are trained to keep all communication and interactions between tutors and parents to our secure platform, ensuring that your contact information remains confidential and inaccessible entities outside of Gammaxcellence.

A DBS/CRB check is a background screening process to flag a person's criminal history, including convictions, cautions, reprimands, or warnings on their record. We ask our tutors to disclose their DBS/CRB status and display this information on their profiles. GammaExcellence does not verify these checks ourselves; however, we will prioritize tutors with this verification.

We take pride in the effectiveness of our services and actively collect feedback on tutors, which is then reflected in our ratings system. We want to help you make the best decision when choosing a tutor.

We are committed to internet safety and encourage you to check out the resources available through the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP). https://www.ceop.police.uk/Safety-Centre/

1.1 Gammaxcellence Online Safety and Safeguarding Policy Statement

At Gammaxcellence, we are committed to providing a safe and secure online environment for all users, especially children and young adults. Our stringent safety protocols include thorough background checks for staff and tutors, secure communication channels, and continuous activity monitoring. We foster a culture in which tutors assume responsibility of care and are dedicated to upholding the trust placed in them. Gammaxcellence continually updates our practices to meet the latest safety standards and legal requirements.

At Gammaxcellence, our priority is to create a safe and supportive online environment where every learner can succeed. This policy reflects our commitment to protect and enhance the well-being of our users—students, parents, and educators alike. Gammaxcellence ensures that tutors, acting as representatives of the company, are dedicated to upholding the highest safety standards to ensure that every interaction on our platform is secure and nurturing. By implementing this policy, we aim to foster a trusting relationship with our customers, ensuring their educational journey is conducted in a safe and respectful space.

This policy is applicable to all individuals who interact with Gammaxcellence’s platforms and services. Specifically, it encompasses all staff members, tutors, students, parents, and guardians. This broad application ensures that every participant in our online educational activities understands and adheres to our safeguarding and online safety protocols. The policy covers all forms of online interactions and educational activities conducted under the Gammaxcellence umbrella, ensuring a consistent and secure approach to online learning and engagement. By clearly defining this scope, we aim to foster an environment of trust and safety that supports our educational goals.

Online Safety: The protection of users from harm caused by digital content and interactions. Safeguarding: The process of protecting vulnerable individuals from abuse, neglect, and other forms of harm. Vulnerable Individuals: Users who are at greater risk of harm due to their age, disability, or circumstances. Abuse: Abuse refers to the mistreatment of a child, which can occur in physical, emotional, or sexual forms. It may happen in various environments, including at home, school, and online, and can be perpetrated by adults or other children. Neglect: Neglect is the failure to provide for a child's basic needs, including physical, emotional, educational, and medical. It occurs when a caregiver does not provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, supervision, or healthcare, despite being financially able to do so or offered assistance to meet those needs. Emotional Abuse: Emotional abuse involves consistently treating a child in ways that harm or impair their emotional and psychological well-being. It includes verbal assaults, threats, intimidation, isolation, and manipulation that significantly affect the child's self-esteem and development. Sexual Abuse: Sexual abuse is any act where a child is used for the sexual gratification of an adult or significantly older child. It includes both contact acts, like molestation or rape, and non-contact acts, such as exposure to pornography, voyeurism, and sexually explicit communications. Physical Abuse: Physical abuse of a child is the use of physical force that may result in bodily injury, physical pain, or impairment. It can include hitting, burning, biting, choking, and other actions that physically harm the child. Online Abuse: Online abuse involves bullying, harassment, grooming, or exploitation of children through digital technologies and the internet. This can include cyberbullying, distribution of indecent images, and manipulation through social media or gaming platforms. Radicalisation: Radicalisation refers to the process by which an individual comes to support terrorism and extremist ideologies associated with terrorist groups. It poses a risk as it can lead to harm to oneself and others. Grooming: Grooming is the process by which an offender gradually builds a relationship with a child with the intention to manipulate or exploit them, typically for sexual purposes. This can occur both in person and online, where trust is developed to facilitate abuse. Honor-Based Violence (HBV): Honor-based violence is violence committed to protect or defend the perceived reputation of the family and community, often justified by cultural, religious, or pseudo-moral beliefs. This includes practices like forced marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM). Indicators of Abuse and Neglect: Indicators of abuse and neglect are signs that professionals must be aware of to identify children who may need help or protection. This includes changes in behavior, unexplained injuries, or regression in development, among others. Safeguarding: Safeguarding is the action of protecting children from abuse and maltreatment, preventing any impairment of their health or development, and ensuring that they grow up in circumstances that provide safe and effective care. Vulnerable Children: Certain groups of children may be at greater risk of harm due to factors like absence from education, being home educated, having special educational needs or disabilities, or needing mental health support. Child Exploitation: Child exploitation is a form of abuse where children are manipulated or coerced into engaging in activities that are detrimental to their wellbeing, such as sexual exploitation or involvement in criminal activities like drug trafficking.

4.1 Commitment to Safety

Gammaxcellence is committed to ensuring a safe online environment for all users. We proactively implement the latest security technologies and best practices to safeguard all participants from potential risks. Regular audits and updates of our safety protocols ensure adherence to the highest standards. Completion and certification in a Safeguarding course is mandatory for all staff and tutors to foster a vigilant and responsive community.

We adhere strictly to all relevant UK laws and regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the UK's Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, and the Children Act 1989 and 2004, to ensure our practices meet statutory requirements. Compliance is monitored to ensure all operations within the platform remain within legal boundaries.

Gammaxcellence recognizes its duty of care to protect all users engaged in its services from harm. We take a proactive approach to prevent any form of abuse or exploitation. A clear reporting system for abuse or misconduct is maintained, with dedicated staff, including a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), to respond to any issues swiftly. Regular support and updates are provided to ensure everyone understands their role in protecting users.

5.1 Safer Recruitment

Gammaxcellence adheres to the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, which mandates rigorous vetting processes for staff and tutors working with individuals under 18. This includes enhanced DBS checks and barred list screenings, ensuring that our recruitment practices meet the specific "Safer Recruitment" standards established by Keeping Children Safe in Education Act (KCSIE) 2023.

5.2.1 Interview and Selection All tutors undergo a thorough interview process and must pass to be considered for a role on the platform. Additionally, tutors are subject to periodic lesson observations as part of ongoing assessments. 5.2.2 Identity Verification During the interview, tutors must provide two (2) forms of identification. Acceptable documents include a UK passport and a second form of ID such as a biometric residence permit, birth or adoption certificate, or a driving license (UK or international). These documents are verified for authenticity. 5.2.3 Health Declaration Tutors are required to declare their physical and mental fitness to deliver lessons as part of agreeing to the terms and conditions of their contract with Gammaxcellence. 5.2.4 Employment History Verification Tutors are required to outline their employment history since age 16, including any gaps or inconsistencies, which are thoroughly examined during the interview process. University placements and degree validations are also reviewed to confirm qualifications. 5.2.5 Reference and Overseas Checks A minimum of two (2) reference checks from reliable sources are required for all tutors. For those with an overseas address history extending beyond three months, appropriate international checks are conducted. 5.2.6 Academic Qualifications To qualify, tutors must have demonstrated skill or academic training in the subject matter that they will be offering on the platform.

5.3.1 Criminal Background Checks Enhanced DBS checks are mandatory for all tutors and must include the Children's Barred List Information. DBS checks are considered valid if they are up-to-date and relevant to the tutor's current address and place of work. 5.3.2 DBS Update and Renewal DBS checks must be renewed every three (3) years. Tutors approaching the end of this period are temporarily restricted from accepting new work until an updated DBS check is verified. 5.3.3 New Tutors New tutors must have an updated Enhanced DBS Check that includes checks against the Child Barring Service. Additional checks are required for tutors residing or teaching outside of England, such as in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland.

5.4.1 Mandatory Training All staff and tutors undergo comprehensive safeguarding training that includes online safeguarding and safety practices to protect their students. This training is required upon induction and refreshed annually to maintain high child protection standards. 5.4.2 Ongoing Professional Development Gammaxcellence provides continuous updates through bulletins and additional training to ensure all staff and tutors remain informed about the latest safeguarding practices and regulations.

By maintaining strict adherence to these safer recruitment practices, Gammaxcellence ensures a secure and trustworthy environment for all learners and staff.

6.1 Professionalism

Gammaxcellence requires all tutors and staff to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct. This includes maintaining a respectful and ethical behavior at all times, ensuring that all interactions are conducted in a professional manner. Regular training sessions on professional ethics and conduct are provided to ensure all team members understand and adhere to our expected standards. Performance reviews and feedback mechanisms are also in place to monitor and enforce these standards consistently. Tutors found in violation of these standards will face disciplinary reprimand, up to and including termination.

Clear guidelines are established to maintain professional boundaries in all communications between tutors, staff, and students. These guidelines are designed to prevent any misunderstandings or inappropriate interactions. Communication protocols outline acceptable practices, including the use of professional language, maintaining confidentiality, and appropriate channels and times for communication. Regular workshops and reminders are provided to reinforce these guidelines.

Gammaxcellence has established comprehensive protocols for reporting any safeguarding or safety concerns. This includes concerns about a child's welfare, where immediate action is necessary if there is a risk of significant harm. A clear process is communicated during induction and regular training sessions, detailing how to report concerns internally. If immediate harm is suspected, staff are instructed to contact local authority children's social care without delay.

Staff and tutors are encouraged to report any concerns about poor or unsafe practices or potential failures in the safeguarding regime. Gammaxcellence maintains a culture where whistleblowing is supported and protected.

6.5.1 Internal Channels Concerns should first be raised with immediate supervisors or the designated safeguarding lead. If the issue is not addressed satisfactorily, or if raising it with a supervisor is not feasible, it can be escalated to the leadership team. 6.5.2 NSPCC Helpline Staff can contact the NSPCC's dedicated helpline for reporting abuse at 0800 028 0285 or via email at help@nspcc.org.uk, available Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Gammaxcellence guarantees that whistleblowers are protected from retaliation. This protection is crucial to ensuring that individuals feel safe and supported in reporting any misconduct or failures in safeguarding practices.

These policies are designed to maintain a safe and professional environment, ensuring that all members of the Gammaxcellence community can perform their roles without compromise to ethics or safety.

7.1 Confidentiality

At Gammaxcellence, we prioritize the confidentiality and respect of all user student data. We are committed to ensuring that personal and sensitive information is handled with the utmost care and security. Access to personal data is strictly limited to authorized personnel who need the data to perform their job functions. All employees and contractors are trained on the importance of confidentiality and are required to sign non-disclosure agreements to further protect user information.

7.1 Confidentiality

At Gammaxcellence, we prioritize the confidentiality and respect of all user student data. We are committed to ensuring that personal and sensitive information is handled with the utmost care and security. Access to personal data is strictly limited to authorized personnel who need the data to perform their job functions. All employees and contractors are trained on the importance of confidentiality and are required to sign non-disclosure agreements to further protect user information.

Gammaxcellence implements robust security measures to protect data from unauthorized access, use, alteration, and destruction. Our comprehensive security protocols are designed to safeguard all sensitive and personal information. We employ a variety of security technologies and procedures, including encryption, firewalls, and secure server facilities. Regular security audits and penetration testing are conducted to ensure our defenses remain effective against new threats. All data breaches are required to be reported in accordance with legal standards and are thoroughly investigated.

Gammaxcellence adheres strictly to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as well as other relevant data protection laws. We ensure that all data handling practices are compliant with these regulations to protect the rights and freedoms of our users. We maintain a GDPR compliance program which includes data protection impact assessments, regular training for staff on data protection principles, and clear processes for responding to data subjects' rights requests.

This policy ensures that Gammaxcellence maintains high standards of data protection and privacy, fostering trust and confidence among our users and complying with legal obligations.

8.1 Secure Communication Channels

Gammaxcellence ensures that all communications within our platform occur through secure, encrypted channels to protect the privacy and integrity of data exchanges. All messaging, video calls, and data transmissions are encrypted using industry-standard protocols such as SSL/TLS. Regular updates and patches are applied to maintain the security of these communication channels. The organization conducts periodic reviews to ensure that our encryption methods adhere to the latest security standards.

To maintain a safe and respectful learning environment, Gammaxcellence monitors and moderates interactions on our platform to ensure they comply with our safety and behavioral standards. We actively respond to concerns or complaints related to any interactions to identify inappropriate or unusual activity. The organization will address potential issues promptly. This system helps in preventing bullying, harassment, and other forms of abuse.

Gammaxcellence provides easy-to-use mechanisms for users to report safety concerns, technical issues, or inappropriate behavior encountered on the platform. Users can access a dedicated reporting tool directly within the platform interface. We assess and respond to incidents swiftly. A clear escalation path is established for serious concerns, ensuring that they are addressed appropriately and in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements. These policies are designed to uphold a secure and supportive online environment, enabling users to engage with our educational services safely and confidently.

9.1 Training for Tutors

Gammaxcellence commits to ensuring that all tutors are well-equipped with knowledge and skills related to safeguarding and online safety through regular and mandatory training sessions. Tutors are expected to complete training modules. Records of completion are maintained for compliance and auditing purposes.

Gammaxcellence engages in ongoing efforts to educate our users, including students, parents, and guardians, about online risks and safe practices to enhance their ability to navigate the online learning environment safely. Regular awareness campaigns are conducted through various mediums such as email newsletters, informational webinars, and updates on the platform.

Gammaxcellence ensures that a comprehensive suite of resources is available to support users in managing online safety effectively. A dedicated section on the Gammaxcellence platform provides access to a range of resources including external links to reputable sources on online safety.

This policy supports Gammaxcellence’s commitment to creating a safe and informed community by empowering all users with the knowledge and resources they need to contribute positively to a secure online learning environment.

10.1 Incident Reporting

Gammaxcellence is committed to a robust and clear procedure for reporting safeguarding concerns and incidents, in compliance with UK regulations. All staff, tutors, students, and their guardians are encouraged to report any concerns about safeguarding or safety issues through requisite channels. Immediate concerns, especially those involving potential harm, should be reported directly to local authority children’s social care services or the police without delay.

Upon receiving a report of a safeguarding issue, Gammaxcellence ensures a swift and coordinated response, adhering to statutory guidelines and best practices. A preliminary assessment is conducted to determine the urgency and severity of the report. All steps and decisions are documented in detail to ensure transparency and accountability.

Gammaxcellence collaborates closely with statutory bodies, including local authorities and the police, to manage and resolve safeguarding issues. In cases where external intervention is needed, Gammaxcellence provides full cooperation to the authorities. This includes sharing information, facilitating interviews, and supporting investigations in accordance with legal obligations under UK safeguarding laws.

Post-incident reviews are conducted to assess the effectiveness of the response and to implement improvements in safeguarding practices. Recommendations for changes to policies or practices are considered and implemented to strengthen future safeguarding measures.

This section of the policy ensures that Gammaxcellence adheres to UK safeguarding regulations, providing a safe environment for all users and responding effectively to any incidents that occur.

Gammaxcellence is committed to ensuring that all policies remain relevant and effective in meeting our safety and security objectives. Our policies are therefore reviewed on an annual basis. The review process includes an assessment of the latest industry practices, legal requirements, and technological advancements. Amendments are made based on this comprehensive review to keep the policies up-to-date.

Gammaxcellence values the input of its users and encourages feedback on the implementation and effectiveness of our policies. We provide multiple channels for feedback, including online surveys, feedback forms available on the platform, and direct communication via email. All feedback is reviewed and considered during the annual policy review process.

Our commitment to safety and security is ongoing. We continually seek opportunities to enhance our safety measures and the overall effectiveness of our policies. Continuous improvement initiatives include regular training sessions for staff, updates to our monitoring and moderation tools, and enhancements to our secure communication technologies.

This section ensures that Gammaxcellence's policies not only respond to current requirements but also anticipate future challenges, maintaining a safe and secure environment for all users.

12.1 Disciplinary Measures

Gammaxcellence enforces clear and firm consequences for any breaches of policy to maintain the integrity and safety of our online platform. Specific disciplinary measures are outlined for various types of policy violations, ranging from warnings to suspension of access, depending on the severity and frequency of the breach. These measures are documented in our staff and tutor handbooks and are communicated during training sessions. All disciplinary actions are recorded and reviewed to ensure fairness and consistency.

Contracts with tutors or staff who fail to comply with our safety standards are subject to termination to protect our community and uphold our high standards. Conditions for contract termination include repeated policy violations, severe misconduct, or any action that puts other users at risk. The process for termination follows legal and contractual guidelines to ensure it is handled professionally and legally. This includes providing notice, conducting a final review meeting, and offering an opportunity for the individual to respond to the allegations before a decision is made.

Gammaxcellence is committed to ensuring that all our operations and activities are in compliance with statutory requirements, including those related to online safety, data protection, and employment. Compliance with legal standards is integrated into all training programs and operational procedures. Any updates in legislation are promptly addressed to ensure ongoing compliance.

Through these policies, Gammaxcellence ensures a disciplined and legally compliant operational environment, safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders and maintaining the trust placed in us by our users.

This policy reaffirms Gammaxcellence's steadfast commitment to the safety and well-being of all our users within our online learning environment. By implementing and adhering to this comprehensive Online Safety and Safeguarding Policy, we ensure that every participant in our community—from students and parents to tutors and staff—is fully protected and supported. Our goal is to foster a secure, inclusive, and positive educational experience that promotes learning while safeguarding the rights and safety of individuals. Through continuous monitoring, regular updates, and a commitment to adapt to evolving digital landscapes, Gammaxcellence pledges to maintain a safe space for educational growth and personal development.

• What to do if you’re worried about a Child is being Abused, 2015
Child Sexual Exploitation Guidance 2017
• Information Sharing Advice for Safeguarding Practitioners 2018
• Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018
• Children’s Code
• Guidance for Safer Working Practice for those working with children and young people in education settings
• Prevent Duty Guidance: Guidance for specified authorities in England and Wales

Gammaxellence adheres to all applicable regulations applicable to support the safeguarding and safety of our students.

• Children Act 1989
• Children Act 2004
• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
• Keeping Children Safe in Education Act (KCSIE) 2023
• UK's Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006