Safeguarding | Excell Supply

The Welfare of the Child is Paramount

We are committed to safer recruitment and ensuring that every placement prioritises the safety and well-being of children and young people.

Our Commitment to Safety

At Excell Supply, we take our responsibility to protect children seriously. Whether it’s rigorous background checks or clear reporting procedures, safety is embedded in our ethos. We strictly adhere to statutory guidance, including Keeping Children Safe in Education and the Children Act 2004.

Safer Recruitment Prevent Duty Enhanced DBS Checks

For Schools

We understand that you need absolute confidence in the staff entering your school. We act as your first line of defence in safer recruitment.

  • Vetted Staff: Enhanced DBS certificates (including barred list) and prohibition from teaching checks for all candidates.
  • Compliance: Full adherence to “Keeping Children Safe in Education” (2025 update).
  • Rapid Response: Immediate action on any allegations or concerns raised.

Need to review our full policy?

Download our comprehensive PDF detailing our ethos, safer recruitment steps, and reporting procedures.

Download Safeguarding Policy

For Candidates

As an Excell Supply candidate, you are an agent of referral. It is vital you know how to spot signs of abuse and how to report them effectively.

  • Know the DSL/DSP: Always identify the Designated Safeguarding Lead/Person at your school on day one.
  • Listen & Record: If a child discloses to you, listen calmly. Do not promise secrecy. Record facts immediately.
  • Report: Share concerns with the School’s DSL/DSP and inform your Excell Account Manager.

Reporting a Concern?

If you have a concern, please use our official reporting procedure immediately.

Report a safeguarding concern

Our Safeguarding Video Series

Take a few minutes to watch our essential safeguarding series. Available in both English and Welsh (Cymraeg) to support all our candidates across North Wales, Cheshire, and the Wirral.

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Behaviour Management & Safe Working Practice

Advice for candidates: Regardless of your experience in schools, please read this advice carefully before starting your first work placement with Excell. A small minority of pupils may not behave in a respectful manner towards unfamiliar cover staff. It takes time for a mutually respectful relationship to develop. Candidates should be mindful of the potential risk of false allegations and take steps to protect themselves.

View the Safer Working Practice Document

Managing Situations

  • Remain calm and in control. Always adopt a professional approach.
  • Never engage in an argument with a pupil.
  • Do not attempt to block a pupil’s exit (always report a pupil leaving immediately).
  • Try to separate the child from the behaviour.
  • Do not make personal comments about the pupil or refer to their family.
  • Avoid using sarcasm and raising your voice.
  • Do not attempt to take an item from a pupil who refuses. Call for assistance.
  • No physical contact unless agreed with the school (e.g. Care Plan).
  • Ensure interviews outside lesson time can be seen/heard by other staff.

Calling for Assistance

It is not a sign of weakness if support is required. Schools would much prefer supply staff to send for assistance than have a situation escalate. Send a responsible child to ask for support if:

  • A child continues to disrupt the learning of others, despite intervention.
  • A child leaves the classroom without permission.
  • A child is openly defiant and verbally abusive.
  • There is a situation you are unable to control (e.g., serious altercation).
  • You have any serious concerns.

What to Avoid

  • Do not direct negative comments to the whole class (they won’t all be off task).
  • Do not issue a whole class sanction such as a detention.
  • Never threaten sanctions you cannot carry out.
  • Do not berate a whole class in front of another teacher or leader. (If you have serious concerns, have the conversation in private).
  • Do not leave your group of pupils unsupervised.

And Finally…

Agency staff play an extremely important role in successful schools and their work is valued. Working in schools can be incredibly rewarding, with the majority of pupils being respectful and hard working.

Excell’s Education Advisors are always available to offer advice and support. They can tailor training to meet an individual’s needs. Keep an eye out for the notifications of the free training courses offered by Excell throughout the school year.

Any questions, please contact us.

Safeguarding (January 2026)

Contact Our Safeguarding Team

Our Designated Safeguarding Leads/Persons are available to support both schools and candidates with any queries or concerns.

LL

Lynn Lloyd

Safeguarding Lead/Person

safeguarding@excell-supply.com

Emergency Guidance

If you believe a child is in immediate danger, you should contact the police on 999 or your local children’s social care team immediately. Do not wait to contact us first in an emergency.