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"Castle School Education Trust is committed to high quality education across the primary, secondary and sixth form key stages. Our schools cover the South Gloucestershire area. We encourage independence within each school within a strong framework of values."

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Marlwood School

Staying Safe Out and about

At Marlwood School, student safety and wellbeing are our top priorities, both inside school and out in the wider community.

We encourage all students to build independence, but it is essential that they know how to stay safe when travelling to and from school, spending time with friends, or out in public spaces.

 

Key Safety Rules for Students

  • Keep Adults Informed: Always tell a parent, carer, or trusted adult where you are going, who you are with, and what time you will be home.

  • Never Go Off with Strangers: Never accept gifts, money, or lifts from anyone you do not know, and never go off with a stranger under any circumstances.

  • Choose Safe Routes: Plan your journeys carefully. Walk along well-lit, busy streets and avoid isolated shortcuts such as unlit alleyways, quiet parks, or secluded areas.

  • Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: When walking near roads or through public areas, keep phone distractions to a minimum and avoid wearing headphones over both ears so you remain alert.

  • Know Where to Find Help: If someone approaches you, makes you feel uncomfortable, or frightens you, head straight to a safe place e.g. a shop, school, garage, police station, or a busy public area, and tell someone immediately.

  • Use the Buddy System: Whenever possible, travel to and from school or go out with friends rather than walking alone.

 

Talking to Your Child About Personal Safety (Advice for Parents)

Discussing personal safety openly helps build your child's confidence without causing unnecessary anxiety. We recommend having regular conversations around:

  • Emergency Contacts: Ensuring your child has key phone numbers memorised or saved in their phone, including emergency services (999) and trusted family members.

  • Location-Sharing Apps: Consider using location-sharing and family safety apps (such as FamilyNest, Apple Find My, or Google Find My Device) so that you always know where your child is and can confirm they have arrived safely at their destination.

  • Recognising "Tricky" Situations: Helping them understand that an adult should never ask a child for help or directions, and empowering them to say "No" and walk away.

  • Having a Backup Plan: Agreeing on what they should do if they miss a bus, lose their phone, or if plans change unexpectedly.

 

External Resources & Guidance

For further tips, guides, and practical safety advice, please visit the following trusted resources:

  • NSPCC – Staying Safe Away from Home

    Expert advice for parents on teaching children how to stay safe when out alone or with friends.

    Website: NSPCC Staying Safe Away from Home

  • Childline – Out and About Safety

    Practical tips for young people on staying safe outdoors, handling peer pressure, and travelling independently.

    Website: Childline Out and About Guide

  • Safety 4 Kids – Personal Safety Advice

    Simple, clear advice for young people on stranger awareness and personal safety rules.

    Website: Safety 4 Kids Zone