Sixth form students at Shireland Biomedical UTC completed a safeguarding awareness course delivered by Racheal Baker, Designated Safeguarding Lead at the Academy, in collaboration with Sandwell Children’s Trust.
Around 50 students took part in the introductory level 1 safeguarding course, which covered essential topics and responsibilities in relation to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults. The session enabled students to identify key signs of abuse and neglect, understand how to respond appropriately and report concerns, and explore how historic safeguarding cases have influenced changes in legislation and practice.
The training was designed to support students as they prepared for future progression into relevant higher education courses, apprenticeships and employment where a knowledge and awareness of safeguarding practices would be beneficial.
On completion, students received certificates recognising their participation and completion of the programme.
Gulfam Shahzad, Principal at Shireland Biomedical UTC, commented: “This safeguarding course gave our students something practical to add to their wider sixth form studies. It helped them understand the responsibilities they may encounter in their future careers, as well as supporting them in their progression to courses and apprenticeships.
“We are always looking for opportunities to give students an edge when they move on from the Academy. This includes additional qualifications that help them stand out in further education or the workplace, or through experiences that connect them directly with employers. It was fantastic to see them engage so positively and approach the session with maturity and professionalism, and we are grateful to Sandwell Children’s Trust for their support in delivering it.”
Sandwell Children’s Trust provides children’s social care services across Sandwell. Its work incudes fostering and adoption services, occupational therapy assessments for children with disabilities, family support services and wider safeguarding provision for children and young people. The Trust operates under the guidance of Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council and works to safeguard and promote the welfare of children across the borough.
Applications for year 12 entry in September 2026 are now open via Applicaa, the Academy’s online admissions system. Further details about Shireland Sixth Form and how to apply are available on the Academy website.
