Virtual reality software helps schools tackle safeguarding concerns

Developed by 360 Skills for Life, a not-for-profit digital organisation and backed by bodies such as NHS England, the package aims to address gaps in pupils’ life skills development.

The technology allows children and young people to enter Skill City, a virtual world where they can learn about how to deal with age-appropriate problems and issues.

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It helps to facilitate teacher-led discussions about how to avoid, and if necessary, react to problematic situations.

The organisation, which also worked in partnership with Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group, says its safeguarding package has direct links to PSHE learning outcomes and is designed to enhance schools’ existing curriculum offer.

Its first module, aimed at 10- to 14-year-olds, has already been rolled-out to more than 200 schools as part of a pilot programme.

Fully funded places will be offered to as many as 270 schools in Dorset and the south west with plans to expand provision to more primary and secondary schools across the UK, the organisation said.

Rob Hattersley, founder and managing director of 360 Skills for Life, said developing a VR environment, related lesson plans and resources had been a “complex” project.

“Ensuring the relevance of our safeguarding module was critical. Input from the NHS, police, teachers and MyConcern, the safeguarding software developers, have enabled us to create a stimulating, engaging and effective teaching resource for schools,” he said.

The launch of 360 Skills for Life’s safeguarding module comes as the chair of the Care Review issued a call for schools and early years setting to become more involved in safeguarding partnerships.

Josh MacAlister told the NSPCC’s child protection conference last week that the “contribution and voice of education” was too often missing from multi-agency safeguarding conversations.