Child Protection Information
At Castleknock Educate Together NS, the wellbeing and safety of our pupils are central to all that we do. We are committed to ensuring that every child feels safe, valued and supported as they learn and develop. Our approach to child protection is grounded in turning this commitment into everyday practice.
We follow the updated Child Protection Procedures for Schools 2025, issued by the Irish Department of Education and Youth. These guidelines build on earlier frameworks and reflect current legal requirements and best practice in identifying, reporting and responding to concerns about a child’s welfare or safety. All schools in Ireland are expected to have these procedures in place by the end of 2026, and we are already in the process of implementing them at Castleknock Educate Together NS.
Child protection at our school is guided by Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children — the national standard that explains what constitutes harm and how concerns should be handled — and the Children First Act 2015, which places a statutory duty on education and other professionals to report concerns about child welfare. Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, plays a central role in assessing reports and working with families to keep children safe.
Here’s what this means for your family:
- Our staff are trained to recognise signs that a child might be at risk and to respond appropriately and confidentially.
- We have a Designated Liaison Person (DLP) and a Deputy DLP who manage child protection concerns with care and professionalism.
- Designated Liaison Person (DLP) – Aedín Ní Thuathail
- Deputy Designated Liaison Person (DDLP) – JP Kelly
- When a concern meets the criteria under Children First guidance, we pass information promptly to Tusla so that expert social workers can assess and support the child and family.
- We have a Child Safeguarding Statement and risk assessment in place that reflects local needs and national expectations.
- All documents required are attached below and are available in the office in hard copy.
For more information or support, you can visit:
If you ever have a concern about a child’s safety, please reach out to us or contact Tusla directly.
Together, we can ensure our school remains a safe, positive and caring place for every learner.