Child Safe Standards Newsletter Series

John Paul College is committed to ensuring every student feels safe, valued, and supported. The College upholds the Victorian Child Safe Standards, designed to prevent abuse, promote wellbeing, and create safe environments for young people.

In 2026, the College will share MACS (Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools) CARE newsletter updates to help families understand how these standards are embedded in our policies, practices, and culture. Following our first edition highlighting Child Safe Standard 1, this edition focuses on Child Safe Standard 2, which emphasises embedding child safety into leadership, governance, and school culture.

Our Child Safety Committee meets regularly to review practices, discuss areas of concern, and implement improvements. Senior students are actively involved, supporting student voice and agency. Every formal meeting across the College includes child safety as a core agenda item, with matters referred to the committee for review and action.

The College demonstrates its commitment to child safety by:

• Leadership and culture: College leaders actively champion child safety in all areas of school life.
• Governance and policies: Child safety policies are regularly reviewed, updated, and publicly available.
• Code of Conduct and staff modelling: All staff, volunteers, and contractors demonstrate respectful, inclusive, and protective behaviours.
• Ongoing training: Staff engage in professional development to strengthen child safety knowledge and skills.
• Risk management: Systems are in place to identify, prevent, and mitigate risks to children.
• Recruitment and supervision: All adults working with students undergo thorough checks and ongoing supervision.
• Family involvement: Parents and carers are encouraged to understand policies, provide feedback, and support children in sharing their experiences.

Should you have any concerns regarding child safety, your first point of contact is your child’s pastoral care teacher or coordinator. By working together, we continue to nurture a safe, respectful, and welcoming community for all students.

Child Safe Standard 2 - MACS Care Parent/Carer Newsletter