Children often find it hard to talk about things that worry them, fearing that they will not be taken seriously

Mary Marsh, NSPCC

Ms Marsh, a former head teacher, says that pupils should be reassured and told that staff will listen to any concerns about safety.

Teachers are also advised to tell pupils never to go with strangers and to tell an adult if they feel that someone is behaving in a way that is threatening or suspicious.

"Children often find it hard to talk about things that worry them, fearing that they will not be taken seriously," said Ms Marsh.

"This school year, the NSPCC will be working closely with teachers, parents and local authorities to help develop listening schools where children have someone they can turn to for advice and help."

Ms Marsh, who was head teacher of Holland Park comprehensive school in west London, says that the NSPCC will provide a network of counselling teams which can support school staff.

There will also be greater efforts to improve the training of teachers in identifying and responding to children at risk.

"Schools are increasingly at the frontline of child protection and the NSPCC is expanding its role in education as part of its campaign to end child cruelty.

"Research has shown that schools do not call on support services until a child reaches crisis point. This is often because teachers feel inadequately prepared to tackle potential child abuse."