Safeguarding Policy
Protecting every student in our care
Phoenix Karate School is committed to the safety, welfare and wellbeing of all children and young people who participate in our classes. This policy applies to all instructors, assistants, volunteers and parents/guardians associated with the school.
Our Commitment
Phoenix Karate School believes that every child has the right to enjoy martial arts training in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment. The welfare of the child is paramount and takes precedence over all other considerations.
We are committed to ensuring that all children and young people are protected from harm, abuse and exploitation, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, religion or sexual orientation.
Designated Safeguarding Lead
The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for Phoenix Karate School is Shihan Kingsley Johnson. The DSL is responsible for receiving and acting on any safeguarding concerns raised by students, parents, instructors or third parties.
If you have a safeguarding concern, please contact us directly at [email protected] or call 07950 647 993. In an emergency, always contact the police (999) or children's social care immediately.
DBS Checks
All instructors and regular volunteers who work with children at Phoenix Karate School hold a valid Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. DBS certificates are renewed in line with current guidance.
No individual who has been barred from working with children will be permitted to instruct, assist or volunteer at any Phoenix Karate School session.
Code of Conduct
All instructors and assistants are expected to: treat every student with dignity and respect; maintain appropriate physical boundaries at all times; never be alone with a child in a closed or unsupervised space; avoid unnecessary physical contact beyond what is required for safe technique instruction; and report any concerns promptly to the DSL.
Students and parents are expected to: treat fellow students, instructors and parents with respect; report any concerns about behaviour or welfare to the DSL; and adhere to the school's code of conduct at all times.
Photography & Social Media
Phoenix Karate School may take photographs or video footage of students for use on our website, social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube) and promotional materials. We will always seek written consent from parents or guardians before publishing images of children under 18.
Parents and spectators are asked not to photograph or film other people's children without the explicit consent of their parent or guardian. Images of children must not be posted publicly on social media without consent.
Reporting a Concern
If you are concerned about the welfare of a child — whether at a Phoenix Karate School session or elsewhere — please speak to the DSL immediately. You do not need proof before raising a concern; it is always better to report and be wrong than to stay silent.
Concerns will be treated confidentially and with sensitivity. Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis and in line with our obligations under the Children Act 1989 and Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023.
External Guidance & Governing Body
Phoenix Karate School follows safeguarding guidance issued by England Karate, the NSPCC and the Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU). We review this policy annually and update it in line with any changes to legislation or best practice.
For independent advice on child protection, contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or visit nspcc.org.uk. To report a concern about a child to the local authority, contact Brent Children's Services (Kingsbury) or Camden Children's Services (Kilburn).
Last reviewed: August 2026
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