2026 Prevent & Safeguarding Seminar

Equipping employers and training providers with the knowledge and strategies to keep young people safe

Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of students, apprentices, and staff is a shared responsibility, and one that extends beyond the college gates into every workplace.

On 18 May 2026, Hartlepool College is hosting its annual Prevent and Safeguarding Seminar, designed to equip employers and training providers with the essential knowledge and practical strategies to fulfil their statutory duties and create genuinely safe, supportive learning environments.

With increasing challenges around keeping young people safe in both physical and digital spaces, this is an invaluable opportunity to hear directly from regional experts, ask questions, and network with fellow professionals from across the Tees Valley. If there's something we don't cover on the day, come and speak to us — and we're always happy to visit your workplace directly.

Agenda

9.00	Arrival, coffee & networking
9.30 - 9.40	Welcome and introduction to the College	Gary Riches, Deputy Principal and CEO, Hartlepool College
9.40 - 9.55	Safeguarding college procedures	Helen Young, Head of Student Support, Hartlepool College
9.55 - 10.00	Short break & questions
10.00 - 10.55	Prevent update — regional threat and OFSTED themes	Christopher Sybenga, Regional Education Prevent Co-ordinator, Department for Education
10.55 - 11.00	Comfort break
11.00 - 11.15	Perspectives from policing	Cleveland Police
11.15 - 12.00	Networking, open Q&A and discussion

We would also like to take the opportunity to invite your questions and perspectives on safeguarding in 2026. When registering, please note any questions you have or areas you would like to learn more about. We are keen to support local organisations and the wider community to develop their approach to safeguarding, Prevent, and inclusion.