Preventing child abuse is our collective responsibility; it must be embedded into our thinking, attitudes and practices. Cranbourne West Secondary College continues in its development towards an organisational culture that protects children from abuse and reflects its commitment to child safety.
We have a zero-tolerance to child abuse. Our College Community recognises the importance of, and responsibility for, ensuring our College is a safe, supportive and enriching environment which respects and fosters the dignity and self-esteem of children and young people, and enables them to thrive in their learning and development. Our school strives to create a culture of child safety into our everyday thinking and practice.
All staff, volunteers, contractors and members of CWSC community are required to comply with child-safe principles and expectations for appropriate behaviour towards, and in the company of, children as mandated by our Child Safety Policy in accordance with Ministerial Order 870. The code of conduct and policy applies in all school situations, including school camps and in the use of digital technology and social media, embedding and underpinning Risk Management Approach, Human Resources Practice and Promoting participation and empowerment of children.
Our Statement of Commitment to Child Safety can be found on the Policies page, as can our Child Safe Code of Conduct.
Legislation
On 26 November 2015, the Victorian Parliament passed the Child Wellbeing and Safety Amendment (Child Safe Standards) Bill 2015 to introduce seven child safe standards (the Standards) into law. The Standards apply to all organisations involved in child-related work in Victoria.
Ministerial Order No. 870 provides the framework for how schools will be required to comply with the Standards. Overall responsibility for ensuring compliance rests with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA).
Important Resources
Support is available at the College but the following services can also provide you with support and further information. See details below for external supports;
- Department of Education Victoria Child Safe Resources
- Call on 1800 991 099
- Provides access to expert advice from trained counsellors and an opportunity to speak up about child abuse.
Commission For Children & Young People
- Resources and support
- Call on 1800 551 800
- For any time and for any reason – free, private and confidential phone and online counselling, 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week.
- Call on 1800 650 890
- National Youth Mental Health Foundation
- Headspace can assist if you are aged 12 or over and you are experiencing a tough time. You can talk to someone at Headspace on the phone, online or in person.
- Call on (03) 9705 3939
- Child FIRST is an easily accessible, community-based point of entry for children, young people and families needing support.
If you have any questions in relation to the Child Safe Standards, or would like an appointment with our Wellbeing Team, please do not hesitate to contact the College on (03) 9770 7200.