On Friday 3rd July, Fashion Technology Academy (FTA) tutors took part in an online Prevent refresher training session delivered by Becky Hayward, a Prevent Officer from Islington Council. The session formed part of the Academy’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding and ensuring that all staff are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to support learners in a safe, inclusive and respectful environment.
The training focused on the UK’s Prevent duty, which is one of the four key strands of the Government’s counter-terrorism strategy, CONTEST. Prevent is designed to safeguard people who may be vulnerable to radicalisation by encouraging early identification, appropriate support and intervention before concerns escalate.
As educators who work closely with students from a wide range of backgrounds, FTA tutors play an important role in recognising potential safeguarding concerns and understanding how to respond appropriately. The refresher session provided an opportunity to revisit key principles, discuss current issues and reinforce best practice when supporting learners.
Topics covered during the training included:
- Understanding the purpose and objectives of the Prevent duty.
- Exploring the factors that may make someone vulnerable to radicalisation or extremist influence.
- Recognising the early signs and indicators that an individual may require additional support.
- Understanding the support available, including referral pathways and safeguarding procedures.
- Reinforcing the importance of creating an inclusive, respectful learning environment where students feel safe, heard and supported.
The session also highlighted that Prevent is fundamentally a safeguarding duty. Rather than focusing solely on counter-terrorism, it emphasises protecting vulnerable individuals, encouraging critical thinking, promoting resilience to harmful influences and ensuring concerns are addressed sensitively and appropriately.
Reflecting on the training, FTA Pattern Tutor Manuela Taveras said: “I found it informative and relevant to my role as an educator. The training has strengthened my understanding of the Prevent duty, the signs that may indicate vulnerability to radicalisation, and the importance of responding appropriately to safeguarding concerns. It has reinforced my responsibility to remain vigilant, promote an inclusive learning environment, and follow the correct reporting procedures to help keep learners safe.”
Regular safeguarding training, including Prevent, forms an important part of FTA’s commitment to providing a positive learning experience for every student. By ensuring tutors remain informed about current guidance and best practice, the FTA continues to foster a culture where wellbeing, inclusion and student safety are at the heart of everything it does.