BISSC

We are extremely proud to be supporting the launch of the newly established British International Schools Safeguarding Coalition (BISSC).

The purpose of BISSC is to establish and promote a unified strategic and coordinated approach to strengthening global safeguarding systems.

This comes following a joint commitment and passion to drive forward global safeguarding standards from:

• The Association of British Schools Overseas (AoBSO)
• British Schools in the Middle East (BSME)
• Council of British International Schools (COBIS)
• Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA)
• Latin American Heads Conference (LAHC)
• National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS)
• The Safeguarding Alliance (TSA)

Together, we are joining forces to address critical issues and work collaboratively to drive change. By engaging with policymakers and elected representatives, BISSC aims to ensure global safeguarding risks, challenges and concerns are given the utmost priority in order to protect those most vulnerable.

BISSC was officially launched at the AoBSO Conference on 21st November 2023.

Key Objectives

BISSC will lobby the UK government to provide greater and more effective safeguarding support and guidance to the British international school sector, including, but not limited to:

• The establishment of the International Teaching Regulation Agency (ITRA)
• The establishment of the Misconduct Disclosure Scheme for International Schools (MDSIS)
• The creation of a shared resource hub for British international schools
• The strengthening of safeguarding partnerships between BISSC, the Government and regulators

 

Core Principles

Our commitment to safeguarding is underpinned by the following principles:

1. Collaboration and Partnership: Collaboration is at the heart of our commitment to safeguarding. We firmly believe that by working together with like-minded organisations, regulators, governments, specialists, and communities, we can create a more powerful and effective force for change. Our commitment to collaboration extends to sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices to enhance the protection of vulnerable individuals. Together, we will grow a stronger culture in safeguarding.

2. Pioneering change: We are committed to relentlessly lobby for change in safeguarding. Our dedication to this cause is unwavering, as we tirelessly advocate for stronger protections, legal reforms, and heightened awareness. We believe that by actively engaging with policymakers and advocating for safeguarding improvements, we can make a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of vulnerable communities, ensuring a brighter, more secure future for all.

3. Sharing best practice: We believe that by openly sharing our knowledge and experiences, we can empower individuals and other organisations to create safer environments for vulnerable communities. Through this commitment, we aim to foster a collective dedication to safeguarding, ensuring that the best practices are accessible to all, and ultimately, improving the well-being of those we serve.

4. Growing a culture of safeguarding: Our commitment to safeguarding excellence is embedded at the very core of BISSC's roots. We prioritise continuous training, education, and peer support to nurture a culture of vigilance and care. Through ongoing learning and collaboration, we empower practitioners to recognise and respond effectively to safeguarding concerns. This commitment extends to our wider community, where we aim to inspire and support others in their journey towards effective safeguarding, ensuring that the protection and well-being of all remains paramount.

5. Child-Centred Approach: We pledge to always prioritise the well-being and protection of children. Their physical, emotional, and psychological safety is at the core of everything we do. We are dedicated to creating an environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive without fear or harm, abuse or neglect.

6. Impact Measurement: We maintain that safeguarding has no finish line. We will measure our impact, gather data, and evaluate our initiatives to ensure they are effective and meet the needs of the communities we serve. We will regularly review and enhance our objectives in light of evolving best practices, legal requirements, and emerging risks. We will learn from our experiences and from the broader safeguarding community.

Together we are one voice united in safeguarding.