Child Safety

Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) acknowledges the moral, legal and mission-driven responsibility of Catholic educators to create inclusive and nurturing school environments. This includes identifying strategies and resources that empower school leaders and staff to nurture their own wellbeing, and flourish in their roles to support and protect students. When consistent expectations are communicated and enacted through policies, practices and pedagogy, the health, safety and wellbeing of all members of the school community are enhanced (Catholic Education Melbourne, 2018).

Child Safe Standard 8 (Ministerial Order No. 1359 clause 12) emphasises the importance of training to build the child safety knowledge, skills and awareness of staff, volunteers and school governing authorities appropriate to the nature of their roles. Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (Vic.), employers have responsibility for the health, safety and wellbeing of employees and other persons on site, including students. This standard makes explicit the minimum requirements for ongoing training and education to support individuals to play their role in creating a safe environment for children.

Child Safe Standard 6 provides more information about child safe recruitment and support for staff and volunteers.