Safeguarding Seminar at St. Ignatius Preparatory and Primary School January 2026
By Kavishe Waweru, SJ
The seminars were organized as part of the school’s ongoing commitment to child safeguarding, the protection of vulnerable persons, and the promotion of a safe, responsible, and caring school environment in line with Provincial safeguarding policies.
A total of three safeguarding seminar sessions were conducted at Ignatius Preparatory and Primary School. All three sessions were facilitated by Mr. Robert Kasele, a teacher at the school who had previously undergone formal safeguarding training in Nairobi. His training enabled him to competently guide staff through the key principles, policies, and practical responsibilities related to safeguarding children and vulnerable persons.
The seminars were attended by all members of staff at Ignatius Preparatory and Primary School, totaling ninety-one participants. This inclusive participation ensured that both teaching and non-teaching staff were adequately sensitized and equipped with a shared understanding of safeguarding responsibilities within the school and in the wider society.
The primary focus of the seminars was to equip staff with a clear understanding of child safeguarding policies and the protection of vulnerable persons. Particular emphasis was placed on helping staff appreciate their individual and collective responsibility in creating a safe environment, preventing harm, and responding appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
Throughout the three sessions, staff were guided through the core child safeguarding policies applicable to the school. The seminars emphasized the need for constant vigilance and encouraged staff to remain alert to any signs, behaviors, or situations that may indicate abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Participants were reminded to take seriously anything that appears unusual or concerning and to act responsibly when things seem off.
Clear guidance was also provided on reporting procedures. Staff were instructed to report any safeguarding concerns whether witnessed directly or disclosed by a child or another person to the designated Safeguarding Officer without delay. The importance of following established reporting channels was strongly emphasized to ensure timely and appropriate action.
Additionally, the seminars highlighted the critical importance of confidentiality in all safeguarding matters. Staff were reminded that safeguarding information must be handled with utmost discretion, shared only with authorized persons, and managed in a way that protects the dignity, safety, and rights of the child or vulnerable person involved.
Overall, the three safeguarding seminars were instrumental in ensuring that all 91 staff members are now better informed and more confident in matters relating to child safeguarding and the protection of vulnerable persons. The sessions strengthened a culture of vigilance, accountability, and ethical responsibility within the school. Ignatius Preparatory and Primary School remains committed to upholding Provincial safeguarding standards and to continuing efforts that ensure a safe and protective environment for all children and vulnerable persons under its care.