WELFARE IS PARAMOUNT – BASED ON AUSTRALIAN MODEL

Safety and security for children are paramount entitlements. It doesn’t always follow that these needs are being met for children. Sadly in these modern times children seem to be increasingly the victims of those who prey upon them. Sometimes evidence of this may be obvious but often that is not the case.

If teachers believe, from observation or from conversation with children, that something is untoward, it’s important for them to report their concerns. Northern Territory law obligates people to report matters of concern is a punishable offence.

Classroom teachers, particularly those new to a school can find themselves in an invidious position when it comes to reporting. Raising matters of concern with senior teachers, assistant principal or principal (depending on the way the school is structured) is wise.

In some schools matters reported to the principal are then raised to Family and Children’s Services at that level. This enables the principal to take ownership of the report on be half of the school. It also offers a shield to teachers who may be worried about parent or caregiver reaction if a report is made. In any case it is important that school principals know about matters that are reported so that follow up do not come as a surprise.

Reports made to Family and Children’s Services are treated confidentially by the Department. However surmising by parents about the report source may well take place.

Although the situation can be difficult, the law is quite clear and reporting obligations are mandatory. Children and young people have to be safeguard and protected.

It is a part of our duty of care to children that these matters be followed up and not set aside. In fact, at the start of every semester teachers are required to sign their understand about reporting matters of a sexual nature and other abuse. This is after receiving correspondence and participating in in service that deals with these issues.

Awareness is important and observation plays a distinct part in this process.