Principal's Message

As part of our ongoing commitment to the safety and dignity of every child entrusted to our care, I would like to highlight the importance of the NSW Child Safeguarding Standards. Rooted in our Catholic values, these standards guide us to ensure that all children, including secondary students, are protected from harm and their rights are respected.

In alignment with our faith, we see child safeguarding not just as a duty, but as a moral imperative that reflects our mission to uphold the dignity of every child, created in the image and likeness of God.

What Are the NSW Child Safeguarding Standards?

The NSW Child Safeguarding Standards have been introduced to foster safe and nurturing environments for children and young people in schools and organizations. These standards provide a framework for creating a culture of safety, care, and respect within our communities, emphasizing the prevention of harm and the active engagement of children in their own protection.

As a Catholic school, we are guided by the teachings of the Church, which uphold the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. These standards are not only aligned with government policy but resonate deeply with our faith’s commitment to protect and promote the well-being of all God’s children.

Key Areas of Focus

1. Leadership, Governance, and Culture: In keeping with Catholic teaching on stewardship and responsibility, we ensure that child safeguarding is integrated into all levels of school leadership, fostering an environment of care that reflects Christ’s love for all His children.
2. Child Participation: Reflecting our belief in the inherent value of each child, we encourage students to speak up and actively participate in matters that affect them. We believe that children’s voices, as part of God’s creation, should be heard and respected.
3. Child Protection: Following the example of Jesus, who welcomed and protected the vulnerable, we have clear and transparent processes in place to identify and respond to any concerns about a child’s safety, both at school and in the wider community.
4. Risk Management: In accordance with the principles of justice and responsibility, we regularly assess and mitigate risks, ensuring that both physical and online environments are safe places where our students can grow and thrive.
5. Training and Education: As a school committed to faith, we ensure that our staff, students, and parents are equipped with the knowledge and skills to protect children, just as we are called to educate them not only in academics but also in living the values of the Gospel.
6. Collaboration with Families and Communities: Rooted in the Catholic understanding of community, we recognize that safeguarding children is a shared responsibility. We encourage strong partnerships between the school, parents, and the broader faith community to ensure the safety and well-being of every child.

What Does This Mean for Your Child?

For parents and caregivers, the NSW Child Safeguarding Standards reaffirm our collective responsibility to ensure that our children are safe, nurtured, and supported in all areas of life. The safety and dignity of each student is central to our Catholic ethos, and we are committed to fostering an environment where all students are respected, valued, and given the opportunity to grow in faith and knowledge.

As we continue to implement these standards, we invite you to join us in supporting your child’s journey towards becoming a responsible, compassionate, and faith-filled young person. Together, we can help ensure that our school remains a place where every child is treated with love, respect, and the dignity that comes with being a child of God.

How Can You Get Involved?

As active members of our school community, your role in safeguarding is invaluable. Here are a few ways you can support the implementation of these standards:

• Stay informed: Take time to familiarize yourself with the standards and how they are being integrated into the life of the school.
• Encourage open communication: Talk with your child about their experiences at school, and encourage them to always share their feelings. Remind them that they are loved by God and by us.
• Know your rights and responsibilities: Understand the policies and procedures in place for safeguarding, and be an advocate for your child’s well-being.

Our Commitment to Safety

At SJPC we are committed to fostering a safe, faith-filled environment where all children are protected from harm and nurtured in their growth. The NSW Child Safeguarding Standards guide us as we strive to live out the values of our Catholic faith. Together, with your support and collaboration, we will continue to work to ensure that every child can experience the fullness of life that God desires for them.

Should you have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in safeguarding our children’s well-being.