Safeguarding children

One of the most important things we can do as an educational institution is teach our students strategies that are effective in preventing child sexual abuse and responding to harm.

Director of the Institute of Child Protection Studies Professor Daryl Higgins says, “With our students being trained to go into education, health services and allied health, it stands to reason that we prepare them for engaging with children.

“When they go out into the workforce in their chosen fields – early childhood centres, schools, hospitals, community services, sport and other youth-serving organisations – their skills in safeguarding children are paramount. Our students will become agents of change in our society’s ability to protect children, prevent harm and respond appropriately.”

In a short video, Professor Higgins gives some tips on what students can do to safeguard children:

• Know the policies in place that are designed to prevent harm.
• Observe children and ensure that they are always supervised.
• Listen to what children say when you ask if they are feeling safe because their views matter.

Watch the full recording of Professor Higgins to learn more.

Safeguarding Children Action Plan

Did you know that ACU has an action plan on safeguarding children as part of the Respect. Now. Always Advisory Committee?

The Safeguarding Action Plan is ACU’s commitment to the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations and the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards.

Explore more from the Institute Child Protection Studies.