The 2017 Guide has increased in length from its predecessor (it is now 80 pages) and includes detailed guidance on how to comply with the revised Standards.
All non-government schools (including Catholic system schools), not just those due for renewal of registration next year, need to be compliant with the requirements of the 2017 Guide by 1 January 2017.
The 2017 Standards include a requirement for non-government schools to substantially upgrade their child protection policies and procedures (new Standard 12 – Child Abuse Prevention). This new Standard requires schools to develop and show evidence of a culture of child safety and awareness, as well as ensure child-safe practices and procedures are communicated to the school community and all members of the school’s governing body.
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