Safeguarding refers to the actions, structures and cultural practices that protect children from abuse or neglect, prevent harm to their health or development, and ensure they grow up with safe, effective care and the best possible life outcomes.

In the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, safeguarding is grounded in a zero-tolerance approach to abuse and a commitment to uphold the dignity, rights and safety of every child.

The Diocese’s safeguarding practices are guided by the Diocesan Safeguarding Framework Policy, which outlines the mandatory requirements for all diocesan ministries, including Catholic schools, to create safe, accountable and child-centred environments.

Our commitment to student safety and wellbeing Catholic Schools Maitland-Newcastle adopts a whole school approach to wellbeing, recognising that students learn best when they feel safe, connected and supported.

This commitment is reinforced by diocesan safeguarding principles that emphasise care, respect, children’s rights and the importance of early identification and response to safeguarding concerns. Accordingly, all staff working in Catholic schools must complete safeguarding training relevant to their role and follow strict procedures for responding to disclosures, reporting obligations, recordkeeping, and e-safety.

• Promoting safe environments – schools must establish conditions that reduce the likelihood of harm, increase the likelihood of identifying and reporting concerns, and ensure appropriate responses to disclosures.
• Following clear policies and procedures – these include processes for reporting concerns, managing complaints, and maintaining safe practices for all people involved in school life.
• Upholding children’s rights – the Diocese supports the Convention on the Rights of the Child, reinforcing every child’s right to safety, participation and protection.

Our schools actively help students understand safety, respectful relationships and their right to be heard by:

• using wellbeing and behavioural frameworks such as Positive Behaviour for Learning
• reinforcing student voice, connection and inclusion as core elements of wellbeing
• teaching students using the National Respectful Relationship Education Framework, which includes advice on how to seek help if they feel unsafe.

These practices align with diocesan expectations that children be empowered to have their say and be listened to.

Students are encouraged and supported to speak up through:

• safe, trusted adult relationships within the school
• access to qualified school counsellors skilled in mental health and child development
• opportunities for participation and feedback within school communities, consistent with diocesan
• expectations for inclusion and student voice
• teaching students using the curriculum and National Respectful Relationship Education Framework, which includes advice on how to seek help if they feel unsafe.

The Safeguarding Framework emphasises that disclosures must be handled supportively, respectfully and in a way that protects student wellbeing.

If a student or parent has a concern, they can contact:

• their child’s classroom teacher (primary school) or Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement (secondary school)
• wellbeing staff or school counsellors
• school leadership.

The Safeguarding Framework requires that staff discuss concerns only with authorised leaders, statutory agencies and the Office of Safeguarding to protect confidentiality.

When a safeguarding concern arises, schools follow diocesan processes that ensure:

• prompt communication with parents or carers where appropriate
• accurate documentation and reporting
• escalation to the Office of Safeguarding when required.

Schools must respond to concerns with transparency and in accordance with legislative and diocesan obligations.

How parents and carers can contribute to safeguarding

Parents and carers play an essential role in school safety by:

• sharing concerns early with school staff
• modelling respectful behaviour and positive communication
• participating in school activities and engagement opportunities
• reinforcing help-seeking behaviours at home
• partnering with the school on wellbeing or safety plans as needed.

The Diocese emphasises the importance of open communication with families and informed communities in decisions relating to children’s safety.