The Regent’s School, Bangkok CHILD PROTECTION PROTOCOL
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Contents
Page Number
Content
3
Child Protection Policy Statement
5
Recruitment
8
Code of Conduct
11
Training Staff
12
Training Students
15
Reporting, Intervention & Mitigation
22
Access of Visitors to Children & Information
25
Designated Child Protection Officer Chart
Appendices 26
Appendix 1 : Indicators of Abuse & Neglect
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Appendix 2 : Documentation for reporting of Suspected Child Abuse
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Appendix 3 : List of Services available for Support
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Child Protection Protocol The Regent’s School, Bangkok Guiding Statements Vision A journey of excellence in international education: at The Regent’s School, Bangkok, the Home of Wellrounded Leaders of the Future, we believe that all students can learn to their fullest potential because of the School’s commitment to holistic education. Student learning will be enhanced by national, international, and intercultural perspectives. Graduates will develop the academic knowledge and the technological skills, to enable them to communicate effectively, think critically and solve problems. They will become responsible and accountable citizens, lifelong learners and will be prepared for the challenges of university and their life beyond. Mission The Regent’s School aims to provide a secure and caring co-educational day and boarding environment in which students develop the skills and values necessary to realise their potential and make a positive contribution to society. The School actively fosters academic excellence, respect for others’ opinions, international awareness, understanding of environmental issues, enjoyment of challenge, experience of leadership and commitment to the service of others. Learning Objectives The outcomes which our students will experience on their learning journey are: o
a rich learning environment with outstanding holistic teaching
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positive, enjoyable, stimulating, rigorous and differentiated learning
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an enriching curriculum which has strong cross-curricular links and a sustained cocurricular programme
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thorough assessment and tracking of overall progress in order to achieve true potential
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an appropriate transition from one Key Stage to the next in order to support emotional and academic needs
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a positive and rewarding English Speaking Environment
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the opportunity to become effective communicators, critical and innovative thinkers, good problem solvers and lifelong learners
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strong intercultural, international and national understanding
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a confidence in effectively using information technology skills at school and in future life
Our students will:
achieve the external examination results and university offers of which they are capable
develop the appropriate morals and values, through the Round Square IDEALS, to become well rounded leaders for the future
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Statement of Intent The health, safety and well-being of all our students are of paramount importance to all the adults who work at The Regent’s School, Bangkok. Our children have the right to protection, regardless of age, gender, race, culture, sexual orientation, or disability. They have a right to be safe in our school. Members of staff in the school have a legal and moral obligation to safeguard and promote the welfare of the pupils, taking all reasonable steps to protect them from harm whether from physical injury, abuse or neglect, emotional harm or neglect, or from anything that interferes with their general development. Commitment to Child Protection As part of our commitment to safeguarding the welfare of all our students, we will:
Implement our Recruitment Policy for appointing staff, volunteers and helpers to ensure that reasonable steps are taken not to appoint a person who is unsuitable to work with children or who is disqualified from working with children Ensure that all staff, volunteers and helpers in our school are aware of their responsibility to protect children and young people and are appropriately trained in Child Protection matters Ensure that our students and parents are appropriately trained in Child Protection matters Ensure that staff, volunteers and helpers are aware of and adhere to our Code of Conduct; Reporting, Mitigation and Intervention Policy and our Access of Visitors Policy Ensure that all staff, volunteers and helpers understand the need to report child protection concerns about a child or a worker’s conduct towards a child. Promote the rights of a child to be listened to and to be taken seriously so that the child is able to express their views, thoughts and concerns.
Staff Protection All witnessed, suspected or alleged violations of the Child Protection Protocol will be immediately reported to the Designated Child Protection Officer, who will record and act on these in a confidential manner in accordance with the Child Protection Protocol and the best interests of the child. The Regent’s School, Bangkok will take appropriate action to protect the child/children in question from further harm and others in the organisation during and following an incident or allegation. The Regent’s School, Bangkok shall not hold responsible or fault any school employee making a report of a violation of the Child Protection Protocol that is later judged to be false, unless it can be demonstrated that the person willfully and intentionally falsified a report. Article 29, The Thailand Child Protection Act of 2003 “Persons notifying or reporting in good faith under this Article shall receive appropriate protection and shall not be held liable for any civil, criminal or administrative action arising there from.” LEGAL MANDATE The Regent’s School, Bangkok’s Child Protection Protocol sets out to outline the actions that will be taken to ensure that all students are protected from all forms of abuse. Information contained herein relates to both national (Thai Child Protection Act 2003; and, the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand, 2007), and international, (Convention on the Rights of the Child) legislation relating to the Rights of the Child. Name (Print) Signature
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RECRUITMENT Introduction The safe recruitment of staff in schools is the first step to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children in education. The Regent’s School, Bangkok, is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all pupils in its care. As an employer, the school expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Aims and Objectives The aim of this policy is to help deter, reject or identify people who might abuse pupils or are otherwise unsuited to working with them by having appropriate procedures for appointing staff. This policy’s objectives are to operate this procedure consistently and thoroughly while obtaining, collating, analysing and evaluating information from and about applicants applying for job vacancies at The Regent’s School, Bangkok. Roles and Responsibilities It is the responsibility of the governing body to: •
Ensure the school has effective policies and procedures in place for recruitment of all staff and volunteers. • Monitor the school’s compliance with them. It is the responsibility of the Principal, General Manager, and other Managers involved in recruitment to: •
Ensure that the school operates safe recruitment procedures and makes sure all appropriate checks are carried out on all staff and volunteers who work at the school. • To monitor contractors’ and agencies’ compliance with this document. • Promote welfare of children and young people at every stage of the procedure. In accordance with the School Staffing Regulations, the governing body has delegated responsibility to the Principal (teaching staff) and General Manager (support staff) to lead in all appointments. Advertising All advertisements for all posts will clearly stipulate the stance adopted by the school by the inclusion of the following statement: “The Regent’s School, Bangkok, is committed to safeguarding children and young people. All postholders are subject to a thorough scrutiny including a Criminal Records check”. Prospective applicants will be supplied, as a minimum, with the following:
Job description and/or person specification the school’s Child Protection Protocol Statement
Scrutinising and Short listing 5
All applications will be scrutinised to ensure that they are fully and properly completed; that the information provided is consistent and does not contain any discrepancies, and to identify and clarify any gaps in employment. Any anomalies or discrepancies or gaps in employment identified by the scrutiny should be noted so that they can be taken up as part of the consideration of whether to short-list the applicant. As well as reasons for obvious gaps in employment, the reasons for a history of repeated changes of employment without any clear career or salary progression, or a mid career move from a permanent post to supply teaching or temporary work, also need to be explored and verified. References Three professional/character references must be provided. These will always be sought and obtained directly from the referee and their purpose is to provide objective and factual information to support appointment decisions. Any discrepancies or anomalies will be followed up. Direct contact, either by telephone or face-to-face, will be made with each referee to verify the reference. References or testimonials provided by the candidate will not be relied upon, nor will open references (i.e. “To Whom It May Concern”). All requests for references will seek objective verifiable information and not subjective opinion. A job description and/or Personal Specification should be included in the reference request. Every request must ask:
About the referee’s relationship with the candidate Whether the referee is satisfied that the person has the ability and is suitable to undertake the job in question Whether the referee is completely satisfied that the candidate is suitable to work with children, and, if not, for specific details of the referee’s concerns In addition, requests will be addressed to the candidate’s current employer, or a previous employer in work with children, to seek:
confirmation of details of the applicant’s current post and their sick record; specific verifiable comments about the applicant’s performance history and conduct; details of any disciplinary procedures details of any allegations or concerns that have been raised about the applicant that relate to the safety and welfare of children; or behaviour towards children; and, the outcome of those concerns.
If an applicant is not currently employed with children, we will endeavour to check with the school/establishment they were last employed with, for their reasons for leaving.
Interview Process 6
A Designated Child Protection Officer will always be on the Interview Panel. During the interview, candidates will be asked specific questions relating to Child Protection. These could include: 1. What attracted you to teaching / this post / this school? 2. How do you think your own childhood may have influenced your practice with students/pupils? 3. Tell us about a teacher that made an impact on you and why do you think that was? 4. What motivates you to work with young people? 5. Tell us about your interests outside work? 6. What do you think are the professional challenges facing teachers today? 7. Give an e.g. of where you had to deal with bullying behaviour between pupils. What did you do? What made it successful/ What could you have done better? 8. Young people develop crushes / like physical contact how would/do you deal with this? 9. What would you do if you were concerned about a colleague’s behaviour towards children? 10. When do you think it is appropriate to physically intervene in a situation involving young people? 11. What makes a school “safe and caring”? 12. What policies are important to support a safe school environment? 13. What are staff’s responsibilities in protecting children? 14. Have you ever dealt with or been involved in a child protection issue The Selection Process Selection techniques will be determined by the nature and duties of the vacant post, but all vacancies will require an interview of short-listed candidates Interviews will always be face-to-face. Telephone interviews may be used at the short-listing stage, but will not be a substitute for a face-to-face interview (which may be via visual electronic link). Vetting All successful candidates will be required:
to provide proof of identity and notify of other names known by. to complete a CRB disclosure (or equivalent from home country and country of residence) and receive satisfactory clearance to complete a Thailand police clearance if employed in Thailand to provide actual certificates of qualifications to complete a confidential health questionnaire complete a declaration and disclosure form declare any criminal record and inform the school if this changes at any time
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CODES OF CONDUCT Introduction The Regent’s School, Bangkok, is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all pupils in its care. As an employer, the school expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Below are the Codes of Conduct designed to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of all members of the school community. Aims and Objectives The aim of this policy is to provide clear guidelines for staff and student conduct and interaction. We seek to provide clear guidance for avoiding actions which are considered, or could be considered inappropriate. General Staff should always maintain professional boundaries when interacting with pupils, or their parents. Their behaviour with students and parents should reflect their position of trust. It is particularly important that the actions or words of a teacher do not lead to misunderstandings. Ambiguous comments or conduct should be avoided. The purpose of this code of conduct is to protect teachers as much as to protect students. If you feel that anything you have said or done has been misunderstood by a student you should report this to your line manager. 1. Professional Boundaries 1.1 Staff should avoid aggressive language, body posture or physical contact which is intended to intimidate a student. 1.2 Staff should avoid excessive familiarity with students. This includes excessive touching, familiar language or expressions of affection. 1.3 Staff must avoid the use of inappropriate language. This includes racist, homophobic, ageist, or sexist expressions. Staff should avoid comments of a personal nature about the physical characteristics of those they interact with. 2. Physical Contact: 2.1 Do not make unnecessary physical contact with pupils. As any physical contact with a pupil may be misunderstood by the pupil or an observer. 2.2 There may be cases where a distressed student needs comforting. Teachers should use their discretion in these cases. 2.3 Unavoidable contact. There are cases where teachers need to make physical contact with students. This would happen most in PE, Music, Drama. In these cases the contact should be a brief as possible, never be secretive and teachers should act in a way that cannot be misunderstood. 2.4 Administering First Aid. In the presence of a life threatening or serious condition physical contact is necessary and should be used without hesitation. If the situation is less serious other children, or another adult, should be present when administering first aid. 2.5 Corporal or demeaning punishment. Any form of punishment that involves physical contact with a child is prohibited. This includes any sort of physical response to misbehaviour such as grabbing, pushing, hitting etc. 8
Corporal Punishment defined: Intentional infliction of physical pain as a method of changing behaviour. Any form of punishment that may be seen as demeaning is also prohibited. This includes humiliating a student in front of their peers; making a student feel inferior, feel anguish or fear. 2.6 If you think any physical contact with a student has been misconstrued it should be reported immediately to a Designated Child Protection Officer, who will record the incident. 3.
One to One Situations:
Meeting a student one to one creates a situation where teachers are vulnerable to allegations of misconduct. Teachers need to recognise this possibility and plan meetings accordingly. 3.1 Under no circumstances should private meetings be arranged off of the school site without prior approval of the Head of School. 3.2 Teachers should avoid meeting students individually in remote areas of the school. 3.3 If an individual meeting cannot be avoided plan accordingly. Leave the door open, sit with a barrier between you and the student, avoid physical contact and inform your line manager if you feel there were any misunderstandings. 4. Comments and discussions with/about students: 4.1 Comments with sexual overtones must be avoided when speaking with students, or students.
about
4.2 It is unacceptable to encourage the use of sexual comments, or comments with sexual overtones, amongst students. 4.3 It is recognized that within a teachers professional pastoral responsibilities it may be necessary to discuss sensitive topics with students. Staff should be judicious when approaching such topics with students. 4.4 The persistent, hurtful use of sarcastic, demeaning or insensitive comments towards, or about, pupils is unacceptable. 5. Infatuations and crushes Occasionally a student will become infatuated with a member of staff. These situations should be handled with professionalism and sensitivity. Staff should avoid encouraging the infatuation and making jokes about it. The advice of a senior colleague may be sought. 6.
Out of School/ After School Activities
Particular care should be taken when supervising students in less formal situations. The standards of professional conduct are no different out of school or after school and may need to be emphasised to everyone involved, (including staff, students and parents) to avoid misunderstandings. 1 If you are found alone with a student outside of school you should let a line manager know immediately. If you are unable to find the child a safe means home and are forced to take them somewhere safe by yourself protect yourself by making others aware of the situation.
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7.
Teaching Materials
The use of books or films of an explicit or sensitive nature, particularly with language or sexual behaviour, should be carefully considered. If there is any doubt seek the advice of a senior colleague. 8. Personal Letters and Online Communication 8.1 When communicating directly with a student staff should use professional email accounts. All communications should be school related. It is not appropriate to send email for personal reasons directly to students. Personal messages could easily be misunderstood by students. 8.2 It is advisable to avoid using, or recommending the use of, unregulated chat rooms or similar online forums. Staff should use due diligence when choosing to use any form of online interaction.
Visitors Code of Conduct 1. Appreciate that teachers have a special duty of care responsibility that cannot be transferred to others or delegated. Visitors must be respectful of teacher's responsibilities. 2. Treat all students and staff with respect and dignity. 3. Observe confidentiality. All information gained through being a visitor at this should be handled with care. For example, visitors should not discuss nor disclose personal information about students, staff or students’ parents/guardians to others. 4. Report any problems to school management immediately. Student Code of Conduct Students should be respectful of all members of the school community. Every student, teacher and member of staff has the right to feel safe and comfortable at school. 1. Physical contact. Students should never engage in any intentional physical contact which may hurt another student or member of the school community. This includes pushing, hitting, grabbing etc. 2. Teasing/ bullying. Students should ever engage in behaviour which emotionally hurts another, or makes them feel bad. This includes teasing, name calling, exclusion, and any racial or sexual comments. This also includes comments or communications that are written or done via the internet.
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TRAINING STAFF Purpose To ensure the health, safety and well-being of our students; all those employed (both paid and voluntary) will have appropriate Child Protection Training. Practice The Regent’s School Bangkok intends to carry out regular training in the following manner: 1. New Teaching Staff (local hire and overseas)
To be carried out during staff Induction Week. Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: - Definition of Child Protection - Definitions of Abuse - How to spot signs of abuse - What to do in the event of a disclosure - Introduction to Child Protection Protocol and all related documents including Health and Safety Policies - Thai Law and Child Protection 2. Current Teaching Staff (local hire and overseas)
To be carried out during Term 1. Inset Training content to include: - Updates on new Child Protection information - Reminder of what to do in the event of a disclosure - Reminder of Child Protection Protocol - Attendance will be documented 3. Non-teaching staff and volunteers - All staff to be given ‘The Regent’s School Bangkok Guide to Child Protection booklet’ (Thai language) - All staff asked to sign a document stating that they have read and understood the information contained in the leaflet. - Booklet Contents: What is Abuse? Why it is important to stop abuse Definitions of Abuse How to spot signs of abuse Legal/moral duty to report signs of abuse How to report signs of abuse/what to do with information Staff protection Case study examples 4. Designated Child Protection Officers - Designated Child Protection Officers shall be required to undertake appropriate training to ensure that they are up-to-date and knowledgeable on all areas relating to Child Protection. - Designated Child Protection Officers shall undertake any PD relating to matters of Child Protection that is available. - Designated Child Protection Officers are responsible for disseminating all new information and initiatives amongst staff team and student body. 11
TRAINING STUDENTS Purpose To assist students in developing skills in recognizing and responding to unsafe situations, seeking assistance effectively and establishing and maintaining relationships and strengthening attitudes and values related to equality, respect and responsibility. The Regent’s School, is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all pupils in its care. Aims and Objectives To ensure the health, safety and well-being of all students. General The Regent’s School Bangkok intends to carry out regular training in the following manner: 1. Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Giving children chances to report any abuse they have encountered. Child’s right - To be safe - To be listened to and believe - To be respected - To privacy - To be protected from abuse - To ask for help Teach Children to be able to recognize abuse and potentially dangerous situation Encourage children how to report abuse, to be assertive Teach children how to respond if they are faced with abuse a. Say no b. Run away c. Tell an adult 2. Trainee 3.1 Children in year 1 a. To be carried out at least once a year b. Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Recognizing abuse - Protection - Body parts - Comfortable and uncomfortable - Feelings Power in relationships - Relationships - Right and responsibilities - Caring for others Privacy Protective Strategies - Safety rules - Networks - Saying NO - Assertiveness
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3.2 Children in year 2 - To be carried out at least once a year - Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Recognizing abuse - Warning signals - Safe and unsafe - Situation - Kind of touch Power in relationships - Wanted and unwanted tough permission - Unwanted tough saying NO Protective Strategies - Happy and unhappy secrets - Telling persistence - My strategies 3.3 Children in year 3 - To be carried out at least once a year - Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Recognizing abuse : Protection / Body parts Power in relationships : Relationships Protective Strategies 3.4 Children in year 4 - To be carried out at least once a year - Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Recognizing abuse : Feelings and warning signals Power in relationships : Bullying Protective Strategies 3.5 Children in year 5 - To be carried out at least once a year - Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Recognizing abuse : Identifying unsafe situations Physical abuse Power in relationships : Trust / Rights and responsibilities Protective Strategies : Secret / Skills for telling 3.6 Children in year 6 - To be carried out at least once a year - Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Recognizing abuse : Sexual abuse Effects of abuse Power in relationships : Abuse of power Bribes and threats Protective Strategies : Seeking help My strategies 3.7 Children in year 7 - To be carried out at least once a year - Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Who am I? Emotional Ups and Downs 13
Internet and technology!
3.8 Children in year 8 - To be carried out at least once a year - Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Is Your Body Changing Too? Friends and Relationships 3.9 Children in year 9 - To be carried out at least once a year - Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Boys and Girls, Men and Women Fight for your Rights 3.10 Children in year 10 - To be carried out at least once a year - Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Sexuality and Love Pregnancy: 4 Girls and 4 Boys Internet and technology 3.11 Children in year 11 - To be carried out at least once a year - Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Protect Yourself: STIs and HIV/AIDS Drug Awareness 3.12 Children in year 12 - To be carried out at least once a year - Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: Love shouldn't Hurt How to handle your stress1? 3.13 Children in year 13 - To be carried out at least once a year - Detailed training on all areas of Child Protection including: How to handle your stress11? Your Future, Dreams and Plans
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INTERVENTION, REPORTING AND MITIGATOIN Introduction It is important that all Child Protection concerns, big or small are responded to appropriately. It is paramount that staff be aware that no action or inaction of any person causes harm to another. The Regent’s School, Bangkok will ensure that all staff working with students receive training about how to prevent, recognise and respond to student abuse. All new staff will be required to be familiar with policies about child protection and abuse and be encouraged to read resource material that is available. Aims and Objectives This section of the Child Protection Protocol aims to promote prevention and intervention strategies to ensure a safe, supportive environment in The Regent’s School, Bangkok. This section specifically covers accidents, suspected abuse of students, including abuse from staff, awareness of self harm and how it is to be reported at The Regent’s School, Bangkok. It also covers the requirements by Thailand’s Child Protection Act 2003. General Complaints Any complaint related to The Regent’s School, Bangkok should be directed to the Principal or the Designated Child Protection Officer. The complaint will be dealt with in a prompt and appropriate manner. The complainant should be informed as soon as possible of the decision and the action, if any, that will be taken. Accident Register The Regent’s School, Bangkok will maintain a record book of Accident/Incident to record details of accidents/incidents and the action taken. A weekly audit of this register will be made by the nurse and given to the Designated Child Protection Officer as per the Healthy and Safety Policy. In the event of suspected abuse the incident will not be recorded in the accident register and but on the reporting form specific for suspected abuse. See Document for Disclosure of Suspected Abuse (Appendix 2). Dealing with a Disclosure Disclosure made to member of staff
Counsellor informed
Report immediately to Designated Child Protection Officer
Assess immediate safety Meet with Parents/Carers Assess whether to involve outside agencies
Written report, forwarded to Designated Child Protection Officer. No record kept. All records kept in Child Protection Cabinet, located in DHP office and Head of Primary Office
Inform outside agencies if appropriate
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The teacher’s role is not to investigate or verify the situation, but rather to make the report and set in motion the process of getting help for the child. A child may tell you directly and specifically what is going on, or s/he may hint indirectly at a situation. Sometimes, the child will use “strings attached,” such as asking the teacher to promise not to tell anyone (a promise the teacher cannot keep) or, a child may claim the problem belongs to someone else, that s/he is only there about a friend. Judgment should be used in deciding how much to discuss about the situation with the child. Often a child is willing to reveal the details of an incident only once. As far as possible, the child should be encouraged to speak to a school counsellor who is trained to deal with these situations. If a young person discloses that they are thinking about suicide or has been abused in some way always take this seriously. It is important to take the time to listen and take action outlined in the procedure. The member of staff should:
Listen to what is being said without displaying shock or disbelief
Accept what is being said
Allow the child to talk freely
Reassure the child, but not make promises which it might not be possible to keep
Not promise confidentiality – it might be necessary to refer on.
Reassure him or her that what has happened is not his or her fault
Stress that it was the right thing to tell and that help is available
Listen, rather than ask direct questions
Not criticise the alleged perpetrator in the case of abuse
Explain what has to be done next and who has to be told
Pass information to the Designated Child Protection Officer without delay
Make a full and succinct record of the disclosure and forward to the Designated Child Protection Officer.
Respect the child’s privacy by not discussing the situation out of school.
After reporting, it is important to maintain a supportive presence for the child.
Designated Child Protection Officer will:
Inform School Counsellor
Recording procedure for the teacher:
Within your notes, be specific about the context in which the child disclosed.
Record notes using the child’s own words – try not to add your own interpretation and judgments (or make separate notes about these).
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Describe any injuries you see. Take the child to the school nurse who should take photos of the injuries, bruises, cuts and or bleeding, and write a report.
Sign all notes with the date and time as well as name of the signatory.
Make sure that notes are given to a school counsellor and that they are stored under lock and key (NOT in the child’s regular school files).
Self Harm Self-harm is a coping mechanism. Although self harm is non suicidal behaviour and relied on as an attempt to cope and manage, it must be recognised that the emotional distress that leads to self harm can also lead to suicidal thoughts and actions. Therefore all incidents of self harm must be taken seriously. The underlying issues and emotional distress must be thoroughly investigated and necessary emotional support given, in order to minimise any greater risk. Suspected Abuse
The Regent’s School, Bangkok will respond to suspected child abuse by maintaining records observations, impressions and communications in the Confidential Child Protection File. No staff member will act alone, but will consult with senior staff (please see Designated Child Protection Officer Flow Chart contained within the Child Protection Protocol) who are committed to taking action. The recording must be a clear, precise, factual account of the observations. The Designated Child Protection Officer will decide whether the concerns should be referred to Thai Authorities, including:
Childline Thailand (tel 1387) – 24 Hours Office of Child Protection (tel 02-214-6030 / 081-930-3419) – 24 Hours
The member of staff must record information regarding the concerns on the same day, where possible or no less than 24 hours. For supporting literature please see Appendix1 - Indicators of abuse and Neglect, which can be used as a guideline for reporting. Parents/legal guardian will be informed prior to consultation or reporting unless there is a risk to the child in doing so. Parental/legal guardian permission to consult or refer is not required.
Children, families and staff involved in the investigation of allegations of child/young person abuse will have support and will be informed and/or referred to appropriate services and agencies. See Appendix 4 – List of services for support.
Where a vulnerable young person is moving to other education, consideration should be given to the pupil’s wishes and feelings on their child protection information being passed on in order that the new education facility can provide appropriate support.
Where concerns are held for the safety of a child in their living environment the school will advocate for the child to be housed safely.
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Allegations Involving Staff Where, The Regent’s School staff individually or collectively suspects that abuse or neglect has been perpetrated by a staff employee or other person helping in our organisation, this information will promptly be reported to The Designated Child Protection Officer. The Regent’s School, Bangkok will not collude with or protect that person or the organization, but promptly report the matter to the statutory authorities in an appropriate time and initiate any proceedings as necessary to ensure the safety of the persons involved in accordance with Section 19 Child Protection Act. (see Child Protection Protocol Statement)
The Designated Child Protection Officer will respond to abuse with due sensitivity to the culture, beliefs and religion of victims and their families. This is likely to require involvement of appropriate cultural support persons, including interpreters where necessary, from the earliest opportunity after abuse has been identified. The Designated Child Protection Officer will notify the Principal that a notification is being made ensuring the student’s privacy is maintained.
The Designated Child Protection Officer will not investigate the allegation itself, or take written or detailed statements, but they will assess whether it is necessary to refer on.
If the issue is referred on and the statutory agencies decide to have no investigation or involvement, The Regent’s School, Bangkok at their own discretion may initiate an investigation.
During any investigation, the staff member may be prevented from having any further access to students/clients and may be suspended from all duties with pay.
The staff member will be informed of his/her rights and will be given information on how to access specific support and legal resources until such time as a thorough and complete investigation has been conducted. The professional body to whom the staff member belongs may be notified if the allegations are found to be accurate and the matter will be pursued by the Board of Trustees.
All person(s) involved will be informed of the outcome of the investigation. If at any time the management ascertains that the information was supplied in bad faith, disciplinary action will be taken against those involved.
Procedures for handling disclosures of teacher/employee offenders 1.
The counsellor reports the suspected abuse to the Key Stage Co-ordinator, appropriate Head/Deputy Head, Bursar, Principal and Head of School,
2.
The child’s parents are informed immediately.
3.
Restrictions are placed on the teacher’s/employee’s access to the child, and possibly to all children.
Dealing with the accused 1. The Principal sees the teacher/employee concerned, with a witness. 2. The teacher/employee is isolated from the school, with no access allowed to the school, pending investigation. 3. The Principal meets with the teacher/employee, outside the school, if necessary, for further discussion. 18
4. In light of evidence, the Principal decides the appropriate course of action. This could include a Governors’ Hearing. 5. The Principal takes appropriate action. This could include a verbal warning/a formal warning/ dismissal/re-instatement.
Schools responsibility post investigation Should the offender be deemed guilty by the Board’s Disciplinary Sub – Committee:1. The Principal reports the suspected abuse to the police for investigation. 2. The alleged offender is reported to the Ministry of Education for possible administrative action. Where a case has been concluded, a report should be sent to the offender’s embassy and the Ministry of Education.
Counsellor’s Role Staff Support Dealing with a disclosure from a child, and a child protection case in general, is likely to be a stressful experience. The member of staff/volunteer could, therefore, consider seeking support and discuss this with the Designated Child Protection Officer. Any person affected by an incident at The Regent’s School, Bangkok can seek support from the school counsellor. Counsellor’s procedure for reporting suspected abuse
The child is referred by a member of staff or self-refers to a school counsellor.
The counsellor meets with the child, and completes the Document for reporting of Suspected Child Abuse (Appendix 2) and notifies the Designated Child Protection Officer in person or by email, if personal means is not possible, within the same school day.
The school nurse examines the child, documents and takes photographic evidence, where applicable, if it has not already been done.
The counsellor completes the documentation and collects the evidence (photographs by nurse, etc).
The Designated Child Protection Officer personally receives a written hard copy and an electronic copy of the report (labelled CONFIDENTIAL and URGENT) from the counsellor within 24 hours.
A decision, based on the counsellor’s recommendation and school procedure, will be made by the Designated Child Protection Officer within 24 hours of the receipt of the counseling report.
The procedure to be followed for child abuse cases:o
Ensure the physical and emotional safety of the child – if the child faces danger by returning to the family, (family abuse) an alternative living arrangement must be made.
o
Assess and provide appropriate medical care.
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o
Arrange a meeting with parents, including the Principal, Head of School, if appropriate, and counsellor, as soon as possible but no later than 24 hours of the abuse being disclosed to the counsellor.
o
If appropriate, at the time of the meeting, the School will arrange counselling and support, via a school-approved psychologist for family therapy.
o
If this recommendation is not followed to the satisfaction of the psychologist, the school and the family, the case will be reviewed to see whether the child is fit to return to an academic environment and whether governmental authorities should be notified.
o
If the above recommendations are still not followed, the case will be reviewed a final time and referred by the Principal to:
Childline Thailand (tel 1387) Office of Child Protection (tel 02-214-6030)
The Counsellor will meet with the child and continue to provide support, as deemed appropriate, by the psychologist/psychiatrist.
Record Keeping When a child has made a disclosure, the member of staff/volunteer should: • Make brief notes as soon as possible after the conversation • Not destroy the original notes in case they are needed by a court, the School Counsellor should hold these on record for a minimum of 13 years. • Record the date, time, place and any noticeable non-verbal behaviour and the words used by the child • Draw a diagram to indicate the position of any bruising or other injury • Record statements and observations rather than interpretations or assumptions
All records need to be given to the Designated Child Protection Officer promptly. No copies should be retained by the member of staff or volunteer.
Particular attention will be paid to the attendance and development of any child about whom the school has concerns and a written record will be kept.
If a pupil who is/or has been the subject of a child protection concern changes school, the Designated Child Protection Officer will consider contacting the Designated Child Protection Officer at the receiving school.
Child Protection records will be stored securely in a separate lockable cabinet in the Counsellor’s Office. They should be kept for at least the period during which the child is attending the school, and beyond that in line with current data legislation, (13 years).
Confidentiality
Child Protection raises issues of confidentiality that must be clearly understood by all staff/volunteers in schools.
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All staff in schools, both teaching and non-teaching staff, have a responsibility to share relevant information about the protection of children with other professionals, including the investigative agencies.
If a child confides in a member of staff/volunteer and requests that the information is kept secret, it is important that the member of staff/volunteer tell the child in a manner appropriate to the child’s age/stage of development that they cannot promise complete confidentiality – instead they must explain that they may need to pass information to other professionals to help keep the child or other children safe. Emphasising it will only be passed on to those professionals who are required to know.
Staff/volunteers who receive information about children and their families in the course of their work should share that information only within appropriate professional contexts
The Child Protection Committee The responsibility for ensuring that there are sufficient measures in place to keep students safe at The Regent’s School, Bangkok. The Child Protection Committee must ensure:
Child protection policy and procedures are adhered to and under constant development
Safe recruitment procedures
Relevant child protection training for school staff/volunteers is attended
Safe management of allegations
Deficiencies or weaknesses in child protection arrangements are remedied without delay
A member of Child Protection Committee (usually the Chair) is nominated to be responsible in the event of an allegation of abuse being made against the Designated Child Protection Officer.
Committee Members are:
Principal (Chair)
Head of Secondary
Deputy Head of Secondary Pastoral
Head of Primary
Deputy Head of Primary
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ACCESS OF VISITORS TO CHILDREN & CHILDREN'S INFORMATION Introduction Good communication is essential in any school. Hence, every effort will be made to assure that, should individuals have concerns, they will be listened to and taken seriously. The Regent’s School aims to create a welcoming atmosphere and open communication to its visitors by providing clean surroundings, pleasant and efficient staff, clear and attainable policies, visible up-to-date school activities, together with a provision for appropriate attention to essential concerns of anyone. It is the responsibility of the management to ensure that information is available to, and exchanged between all those involved in this school and its activities. Some information is confidential and should only be shared on a strictly needto-know basis.
Aims and Objectives
To ensure the safety of pupils, staff and other adults and young people while on the premises. To ensure that the images of students within the school are only used with the permission of parents/carers along with the consent of the pupils. To ensure that all information** held about students is treated with respect and with appropriate confidentiality. ** Information means any record the school holds in any form. This includes documents, plans, and all other types of recorded information and personal information.
Supervision of visitors and visits The school will monitor visitors who come to visit the school, for any reason. There should be a log book, situated at the entrance of the school wherein the visitor will be required to present valid IDs, log in their name, phone number purpose of visit, time-in and time out. Once they have done so, a VISITOR ID will be asked to be worn within school premises.
Visitors’ code of conduct Visitors (such as parents, grandparents, nannies – those who regularly come to school) should be required to read the Visitors Code of Conduct and are obliged to sign in agreement. Random visitors may just present valid ID and put on the VISITOR ID while they are within the school premises. It would be helpful if visitors could be categorized so that the appropriate supervision may be rendered. (i.e. parents, guest speakers, messengers etc.)
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Access to children’s information Photo Policy Some of the best and most memorable photos we take are those of children. However, we recognize that in today’s media driven world, where technology has broken down many barriers of data security, we must exercise a sufficient degree of care and diligence to ensure the safety of the children we photograph, without destroying the joy and wonderment that photos of children create.
Permission and compliance need to be requested from the parents along with the consent of the pupils if photographs are to be used for advertisements or publications. The consent needs to be updated yearly. Pictures will only be taken where children are appropriately dressed for their activity. No pictures will be taken of children in distress or pain. If requested by a carer/parent or child not to take their picture, this is fully complied with and all pictures are deleted from the camera immediately.
School Website:
If carer/parent/child request any images removed from our website this is complied with immediately All images should be right click disabled to prevent unauthorized copying and image manipulation. No personal details i.e.: full name, address or email will be accredited to any image whatsoever. Discretion in putting personal information or pupils’ work from portfolio must be done as there is a high risk in sharing these. Therefore, pupil and parent’s consent is required.
Record keeping
Records of children’s information should be updated every year to ensure that the reflected information is up to date. All records, information and confidential notes should be kept in separate files in a locked drawer or filing cabinet. Only the authorized persons will have access to these files. (i.e. Administration, homeroom teachers and teacher assistants, school nurse, counsellor) Health Records, especially those that are pertinent for the children’s well-being at school, should be made accessible to designated persons. It will be helpful that these designated persons be aware of these records at the start of every school year so that proper attention may be rendered to the children who need assistance (i.e. need to take medication, allergies) It would be helpful if important information regarding health be provided and ready to be disseminated when needed. Moreover, for emergency purposes, a list of hospitals with its corresponding contact information/hotline be visible and readily handed out if needed. A summary of health issues, especially allergy should be provided for designated persons for nonresidential and residential trips and in case of going to hospital during those trips. Also designated persons should carry first aid kits during the trips. Curriculum Information should be kept in separate files and only the authorized persons will have access to these files. Counsellor Information will file up to 15 years and only the authorized persons will have access to these files.
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Confidentiality regarding discipline
It is crucial that the whole school body, most especially teachers, teacher assistants and the school nurse uphold confidentiality regarding discipline of students with the cooperation of the carers/parents. These matters need to be dealt with sensitivity, especially in the context of Thailand’s culture. Utmost regard for the children’s best interest should always be put in mind and appropriate measures should be executed with careful judgment.
Note: The Child Protection Policy will be used to train the guards and outsource employees in understanding this policy and how to implement this in school.
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Designated Child Protection Officers and Child Protection Responsibilities
Principle and Bursar
Counsellor / Nurse
Head of Primary and/or Head of Secondary and/or Deputy Head Primary and/or Deputy Head Pastoral
Counsellor / Nurse
Key Stage Coordinators
Class teacher / Form Tutor
TA/ Specialist Teacher /All Other Employees
Designated Child Protection Officer
Child Protection Responsibilities, as outlined in Job Description / Contract
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Appendix 1 Indicators of Abused and Neglect These indicators can be used as a guideline for reporting, however it is important to note that behavioral indicators in and of themselves do not constitute abuse. Together with other indicators they may warrant a referral. You do not need to know the details of the possible abuse or to be certain whether or not an indicator means abuse has taken place in order to report. The reporting law specifies reporting when you have “reasonable cause to believe that a child has suffered abuse or neglect.” Reasonable cause/suspicion exists when it is objectively reasonable for a person to entertain, based upon facts, that could cause a reasonable person in a like position, drawing, when appropriate, on his or her training and experience, to suspect child abuse. The severity of an indicator or statements by the child as to the non-accidental nature of the injury may indicate possible abuse. Indicators of Physical Abuse:
Unexplained bruises and welts on any part of the body. Bruises of different ages (various colors) and unusual shape. Injuries that regularly appear after absence or holidays. Unexplained burns and/or burns with a pattern from an electric burner, iron or cigarette. Rope burns on arms, legs, neck or torso. Injuries inconsistent with information offered by the child. Unexplained laceration, abrasions or fractures. Extreme fluctuations in weight. Indicators of Sexual Abuse:
Difficulty in walking or sitting. Refusing to change into gym clothes. Child running away from home and not giving any specific complaint. Sexual knowledge, behavior, or use of language not appropriate to age level. Indicators of Neglect:
Child is left unattended at home for long periods of time. Child consistently comes to school dirty and wearing clothes that have not been cleaned. No one accounts for the child before or after school. Demonstrating disregard of a child’s pain and/or mental suffering. Lack of necessary dental or medical care. Untreated illness or injury. Child abandoned or left with inadequate supervision. Weight fluctuations (loss/gain).
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Indicators of Emotional Maltreatment:
Lack of attachment between child and parent. Lack of responsiveness to the environment. Failure to thrive. Parent is highly critical and negative towards the child. Parent has a highly unrealistic expectation of the child.
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Appendix 2 DOCUMENTATION FOR REPORTING OF SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE Child’s Name:
Parent(s) Name:
D.O. B.
Contact Number:
Passport/Country:
Interpreter required Yes No
Tutor Group:
Boarding:
Yes:
No:
Person who registers concern:
Contact Details:
Statement of concern/suspicion:
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How concern came about (e.g. child verbal report, physical observation, diary writing):
Additional information (state if on separate page):
Child’s current whereabouts:
Do you consider the child to be in immediate danger:
Yes:
No:
If Yes – why?
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Report submitted by:
Date and time:
Received by:
Date and time:
Response given:
Date:
Number of pages submitted in this report including additional pages:
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Appendix 3 LIST OF SERVICES AVAILABLE FOR SUPPORT Childline Thailand Tel: 1387 – 24 hour Email: info@childlinethailand.org Childline Thailand Foundation runs a nationwide 24-hour telephone helpline (Thai Language), providing services for any child under the age of 18. Services it can offer include: Linking concerned adults/children to important information and services; Filing complaints with the police and courts on behalf of child victims; Connecting callers with the services they need by making referrals to the appropriate public sector agencies, non-profit organizations and private service providers or providing direct assistance when no agency can be found. Office of Child Protection Tel: 02-214-6030 / 081-930-3419 – 24 Hour Email: cct.ero.advisor@gmail.com Private Therapists working in Bangkok Name Merak Clinic
About
Merak Clinic is a mental health centre for children and adolescents. It is to provide a one stop service in mental health and developmental issues of children, adolescents, and their families. They have a multi-disciplinary team, led by a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist or a Developmental and Behaviour Paediatrician depending on the demand of the particular case. Ann Confidential Marriage and Family Counseling Services for O’White Individuals, Couples and Families. Specializing in: Relationship Issues; Culture Shock; Life Transitions; Personal Growth; Parenting; Communication Skills; Grief and Loss. Ben Dr. Weinstein is a Clinical Psychologist who provides Weinstein psychotherapy for adults and can help with a broad range of anxiety and mood disorders and specializes in psychotherapy for trauma/PTSD, addictions, veterans'/men's issues, and life goal planning. Piyachat Is a practicing family therapist Thai clinician who also sees Finney expats.
Contact Details Tel: 084-733-0444 Email: merakclinic@hotmail.com www.merakclinic.com
Tel: (0)81 904 7562 Email: ann@annowhite.com www.annowhite.com Tel: 02-259-1467 / 084-024-0689. Email: drbweinsein@yahoo.com www.psiadmin.com Tel: 02-2587562 press 0-Office Email: creative_healing@yahoo.com
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