Lesson 3 of 7 · 6 min · 8-card deck

Recognising the signs

Physical, behavioural and online indicators that something might be wrong.

Most safeguarding concerns are not raised by a disclosure — they are raised by an alert teacher noticing a change. The single most important indicator is change: a pupil who suddenly becomes withdrawn, aggressive, exhausted, or who starts wearing inappropriate clothing for the weather (potentially hiding bruises), is communicating that something has shifted.

Physical signs include unexplained bruises, burns or marks (especially on hidden areas like upper arms, back, thighs), repeated injuries with vague explanations, frequent visits to the school nurse, or signs of poor hygiene and persistent hunger.

Active recall flashcards

Work through every card. Try to answer in your head before flipping — the act of retrieving is what builds durable memory.

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Practice scenario

A previously punctual, engaged Year 8 pupil becomes withdrawn over four weeks, starts wearing long sleeves in summer, and is suddenly carrying an expensive new phone. None of these on their own is conclusive, but together they form a pattern that warrants logging with the DSL.

Try this in your classroom

Watch for change, not just dramatic incidents.
Record observations factually — describe, don't interpret.
Don't dismiss small concerns as 'not enough' — that's the DSL's call.
Treat online concerns with the same seriousness as offline ones.