Duty of care for non-teaching staff

The Duty of Care of school staff in relation to pupils is at the forefront of best practice. Duty of Care in schools extends beyond the teaching staff to include all non-teaching staff, who play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, well-being, and effective operation of the school environment.

This includes administrative personnel, maintenance workers, catering staff, and support staff such as teaching assistants and those providing pastoral care.

Consequences of Breach

Failure to meet the Duty of Care for non-teaching staff in schools can have serious repercussions, including legal, professional, and personal consequences. Both non-teaching staff and the school may face litigation and regulatory penalties, and the school's reputation can be severely damaged, leading to a loss of trust and decreased enrolment. Individuals responsible may find it difficult to secure future employment and may experience emotional stress and financial burdens due to legal fees and fines.

A failure to meet duty of care requirements can lead to strained relationships between staff, parents and pupils, so here are my top tips to help guide everyone working within a non-teaching role:

Key Responsibilities of Non-Teaching Staff

Health and Safety Compliance:

• Awareness and Training: Non-teaching staff must be aware of and adhere to health and safety regulations. They should undergo regular training to stay updated on best practices and legal requirements.
• Risk Management: Identifying and reporting potential hazards promptly to ensure a safe environment for students, staff, and visitors. Everyone working in school should understand the principles of proactively assessing risk.

Emergency Preparedness:

• Emergency Procedures: Knowing and following the school's emergency procedures, including evacuation plans and lockdown protocols.
• First Aid: Some non-teaching staff, such as school nurses or designated first aiders, must be trained to provide first aid and respond effectively to medical emergencies.

Safeguarding and Child Protection:

• Recognising Signs: Being trained to recognise signs of abuse, neglect, or bullying and knowing the correct procedures for reporting concerns.
• Confidentiality: Maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information with care.

Supporting a Positive Environment:

• Inclusive Culture: Contributing to an inclusive, respectful, and supportive school culture. This includes treating all students and colleagues with respect and fairness.
• Behaviour Management: Assisting in the implementation of behaviour management policies and supporting teachers in maintaining discipline.

Administrative and Logistical Support:

• Efficient Operations: Ensuring that administrative and logistical operations run smoothly, supporting the overall functioning of the school.
• Record Keeping: Accurately maintaining records related to health and safety, student welfare, and other relevant areas.

Maintaining Facilities and Equipment:

• Safe Environment: Ensuring that the school’s facilities and equipment are safe, well-maintained, and suitable for their intended use.
• Regular Inspections: Conducting regular inspections and promptly addressing any maintenance issues.

Legal and Ethical Accountability

In addition to the above practical steps, it is important to recognise the. legal and ethical dimensions our duty of care brings. It is important to consider:

Legal Compliance:

Non-teaching staff must comply with all relevant health and safety legislation, safeguarding laws, and school policies.

• Duty to Report: Understanding their duty to report any concerns or breaches of safety and safeguarding policies.
• Ethical Conduct: Acting with integrity, professionalism, and accountability in all interactions and responsibilities.
• Respect and Fairness: Treating all students and colleagues with respect, ensuring fair treatment and non-discrimination.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Just like any area of practice, it is essential to monitor and evaluate duty of care practice. This should include:

• Regular Training and Updates: Participating in ongoing professional development to stay informed about new policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Feedback Mechanisms: Engaging in feedback mechanisms to continuously improve safety and operational practices.
• Incident Reporting and Review: Documenting and reporting any incidents or concerns related to health and safety or safeguarding.
• Follow-Up Actions: Ensuring that reported issues are addressed promptly and effectively.

Non-teaching staff in schools play a vital part in maintaining a safe, efficient, and supportive environment for pupils and staff. Their responsibilities encompass health and safety compliance, emergency preparedness, safeguarding, supporting a positive school culture, and ensuring the smooth operation of the school’s facilities and administrative functions. By fulfilling these duties, non-teaching staff contribute significantly to the overall well-being and success of the school community, so it is essential they uphold their Duty of Care with professionalism and integrity.

Sara Spinks

SSS Author & Former Headteacher