Helen Tucker quoted in Schools Week

Helen Tucker, Head of Independent Schools Team at Stone King, was interviewed by Schools Week for an article on sexual abuse in schools.

The article examined allegations against a number of schools by former pupils, many of whom submitted testimonies to the Everyone’s Invited website.

“With most of the testimonies, there is insufficient evidence on which you could investigate the incident/s in question, and they may not in fact have implications for the school,” said Helen.

“What schools can do is consider: do pupils/alumni know where to go if they want to report a concern?

“Do pupils feel safe, know how to raise concerns, and know they dealt with appropriately/seriously? How do leaders know this, and how do they monitor it?

“Generally, schools may want to reflect on what is taught in the curriculum to educate on issues such as healthy relationships and consent (e.g. through PHSE, and the RSE curriculum), and consider if there are any further steps they could take to enhance this education. 

“Of course, it is always important to ensure staff are well trained on their safeguarding procedures and are familiar with the relevant guidance. 

“Where there are statements on the website which suggest something specific to the school, it is likely that the school leaders will be actively considering that and deciding what steps, if any, are appropriate in terms of investigation.”

The Schools Week article can be read here.