Learning Diversity N
11 Months 11 Standards
Child safety standards- 11 standards 11 months MACS campaign this year highlights just one Child Safe Standard each month. This intentional focus on one standard will help continue to build child safety culture across our school and community.
The Victorian Child Safe Standards are a set of 11 minimum requirements that all organisations working with children must meet.
These standards are designed to:
• Prevent child abuse and harm
• Make child safety a shared responsibility
• Support the wellbeing of all children, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and children with disabilities
• Promote the participation and empowerment of children and young people These standards apply to all school staff, volunteers, contractors, and anyone working with children in schools.
Child Safe Standard 1: Organisations establish a culturally safe environment in which the diverse and unique identities and experiences of Aboriginal children and young people are respected and valued.
What might this look like in our school environment?
• Celebrating culture: We include and celebrate Aboriginal culture in our classrooms/events e.g. NAIDOC Week, researching stories to share, inviting guest speakers, attending Welcome to Country smoking ceremony
• Taking a stance: We lead by example against racism and swiftly respond if it is observed.
• Working together: We contact and engage with Aboriginal families and communities to make sure our school is welcoming and inclusive. We ask families what they need to feel supported at our school.
• Ongoing development: Our staff receive training and knowledge to better understand and support cultural safety.
Here’s how you can support:
• Familiarise yourself with the school’s child safety policies and understand how they support student wellbeing.
• Provide feedback when you notice something that may impact a child’s safety or wellbeing.
• Support your child when they express their views and that their opinions are valued and heard.
• Join in on school activities, parent committees that promote child safety and wellbeing.
Want to know more? More information on the Child Safe Standards can be found via the Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP) website.
Check out these additional resources below to learn more!
• Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation
• Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Victoria
• AIATSIS: Map of Indigenous Australia
