Deputy Principals

PETER CUMMINS

Deputy Principal - Teaching & Learning

Child Safe School Update

Oakleigh Grammar has a zero-tolerance approach to child abuse. The School must comply with the minimum standard for the care, safety and welfare of students as detailed in the Child Safe Standards specified by Ministerial Order No. 870. These Child Safe Standards form part of the Victorian Government’s response to the Betrayal of Trust Inquiry.

Over the next week, teachers will be taking part in a number of professional development activities, one of which will involve re-examining how the School is addressing Child Safe Standard 7. This standard directs the School to develop strategies to promote the participation and empowerment of children.

A key feature of this standard is to encourage student voice, and active participation by our students in the life of the School. Teachers will be reviewing how we are delivering age appropriate child safe information and activities in pastoral care, and academic programs to empower students to understand, identify, discuss and report child safety matters.

During this last week four of our key child safe policies were updated. These included our Child Safe Policy, School Community Code of Conduct Policy, Staff Code of Conduct Policy and the Mandatory Reporting Policy and Procedure. The four policies are on the Oakleigh Grammar website for staff and the community to view, digest and provide feedback.

We are committed to the safety of children from all culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, including our growing number of international students, and to providing a safe environment for children with a disability.

The School believes that all community members play a valuable role in the life of the School and all students, parents, teachers, support staff and volunteers have the right to be safe and feel safe in their School Community.