The protective ethos of The Vine School helps to keep our pupils safe. Through our teaching and pastoral support, we focus on developing confident learners with high self- esteem and positive friendships who feel safe, both in the real and virtual world. Our pastoral support includes a ‘worry basket’ where pupils can share a concern and request help, a large team of adults that build positive relationships with our pupils and specific staff who offer mentoring and counselling. Our behaviour policy gives pupils clear boundaries and an understanding that whilst some behaviours are unacceptable, each individual is valued and supported in making the ‘right choices’. Our curriculum provides opportunities which equip pupils with skills they need to stay safe from abuse both in the real and virtual world and information of who to turn to for help. In addition, pupils are taught to assess and manage risk and to take action if they see something that makes them feel unsafe. Pupils learn about bullying and prejudice through the PSHCE curriculum and healthy relationships through our Sex and Relationship Education (SRE). Through our weekly newsletter, The Grapevine, we offer our parents/carers’ advice and information on how they can work with us to keep their child safe.