Safeguarding at St. Mary's
At St Mary’s Catholic Academy, the safety and happiness of every child is at the heart of our mission. Guided by Gospel values, we are committed to creating a community where children feel loved, protected, and able to flourish as unique individuals made in the image of God.
We believe safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Every adult in our school family – staff, volunteers, and visitors – plays an important role in keeping our children safe from harm. The welfare of each child is always our highest priority.
Our academy provides a caring, positive, and secure environment where pupils can grow in faith and develop socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
To support this, we have a dedicated team of Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) who work closely with families and staff:
- Lead DSL: Mrs S Rathbone (Principal)
- Supported by two Deputy DSLs, along with our SENCo.
If you have any concerns about a child’s safety or wellbeing, please contact Mrs Rathbone or a member of our safeguarding team. Together, we strive to ensure that every child feels safe, valued, and loved.
The designated person responsible for Child Protection at St. Mary’s is:
Mrs Rathbone - srathbone@stmarysnewman.co.uk
In her absence any concerns should be reported directly to
Mrs Statham (Head of School) - dstatham@stmarysnewman.co.uk
Mrs Scarlett (Safeguarding Officer) - cscarlett3@stmarysnewman.co.uk
At St. Mary’s we are all responsible for Safeguarding Children.
For information regarding safeguarding in Stoke-on-Trent please visit
Keeping Children Safe In Education 2025
The school is committed in, ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ the document ensures it follows this statutory guidance.