Child Safety

Child Safe Standard 8: Listening to Children's Voices

At Resurrection, we are committed to creating a school where every child feels safe, valued and heard. One of the Victorian Child Safe Standards, Standard 8 – Child Participation and Empowerment, reminds us that children have the right to express their views, be listened to and be involved in decisions that affect them. 

When children know that their opinions matter, they develop confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging. More importantly, children who feel heard are more likely to speak up if something doesn't feel right.

As adults, it can be easy to assume we know what is best for children. While our experience helps guide them, children also need opportunities to share their thoughts, ask questions and contribute to decisions in age-appropriate ways.

How do we empower children at school?

At Resurrection, we encourage student voice by:

• Teaching children about their rights, responsibilities and personal safety.
• Encouraging students to ask questions and respectfully express their opinions.
• Providing opportunities for student leadership and decision-making.
• Listening to student feedback and using it to improve our school.

• Creating trusted relationships so every child knows there are adults they can turn to if they feel worried or unsafe.

   

We regularly remind students of the importance of speaking to a trusted adult if they have concerns about their own safety or the safety of someone else. We also teach that it is always okay to keep asking for help until someone listens.

How can families support this at home?

Parents play an essential role in helping children find and use their voice. You can support Child Safe Standard 8 by:

• Taking time each day to listen without interrupting or immediately solving the problem.
• Encouraging your child to express their feelings and opinions.
• Asking open-ended questions such as, "What was the best part of your day?" or "Was there anything that made you feel uncomfortable today?"
• Helping your child identify several trusted adults they can talk to both at school and outside of school.
• Reassuring your child that they will always be believed, supported and loved if they come to you with a concern.

Every Voice Matters

Creating a child-safe culture is everyone's responsibility. When children know their voices are respected, they develop the confidence to advocate for themselves and others. Together, families and schools can create environments where every child feels safe, included and empowered to speak up.

Thank you for partnering with us as we continue to nurture a community where every child knows they are valued, respected and heard.