My answer: 1) Take student concerns seriously 2) Do not promise confidentality 3) Respect dignity of student/need for discretion, but make sure above all that everything you do is above board and beyond reproach 4) Ask student if they would be willing to make written statement, but do not ask any leading questions 5) As soon as possible, reach out to Designated Safeguarding Lead or Designated Deputy Safeguarding Lead 6) That's almost it. (remembering that one will very shortly matter has been referred upwards). 7) If appropriate, student can then go back to classroom. Otherwise, remain with student and liaise accordingly with other staff in school. Seek immediate intervention of SLT if necessary. PS: My answer was well-received by the Vice-Principal. The Vice-Principal made clear beforehand that it was the most important question and indicated that I had to give an good answer. As I have significant safeguarding experience, this was not a problem.