Child Protection Policy

Part of the school’s duty of care is the protection of children from abuse. The procedures followed must also be in accordance with all relevant legislation, and will take into account other appropriate practices and guidelines aimed at the protection of children. The school’s policy and detailed procedures will be amended from time to time to take into account amendments to legislation and regulations.

This document sets out the school’s policy in broad and general terms.
Further information and advice can be gained from the Principal.

The school places a very high priority on its efforts:
- To protect children in its care from abuse; and
- To protect staff from mischievous and false allegations.

EXPECTATIONS OF STAFF

1. As a member of staff of this school, you are required to report to the Principal or to the Principal’s nominee any situation where:

a. You are aware that there has been an allegation of child abuse;
b. You have formed a belief on reasonable grounds that a child is in danger of being abused;
c. You believe the child is in need of care; or,
d. You believe there is current or anticipated risk of harm

It is important to realize that failure to report allegations of child sexual abuse, or a suspicion of sexual abuse of a child who is
under 16 years of age, based on reasonable grounds, is an offence under Section 316 of the NSW Crimes Act.

2. You are not to investigate allegations or suspicions of abuse. Investigations must only be carried out by investigators specifically appointed for the purpose.

3. The Principal, or the Principal’s nominee, will report any matter that has been notified as required by the relevant legislation.
You will be advised of the action taken a student discloses abuse to you, you are obliged to report the disclosure as stated
above but you must not investigate the matter.

Your compliance with the requirements of this policy will assist in the school’s efforts to achieve these important objectives.

Due for revision: 2009