child protection policy

Nepali Pathashala Geelong respects your privacy and is committed to handling personal information responsibly, securely, and in accordance with applicable laws. We are also dedicated to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all children participating in our programs.

Our Commitment to Child Safety

Nepali Pathashala Geelong is dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming environment for every child. We recognise our responsibility to protect children and to act in their best interests at all times.

We have zero tolerance for child abuse, neglect, discrimination, or any behaviour that may harm children.

Scope of the Policy

This policy applies t0:

  • All children attending Nepali Pathashala Geelong programs
  • Committee members, teachers, volunteers, and helpers
  • Parents, guardians, contractors, and visitors
  • All classes, cultural activities, events, excursions, and online interactions

Nepali Pathashala Geelong actively promotes a culture where children feel safe, respected, and supported.

Creating a Child-Safe Culture

We promote child safety by:

  • Encouraging children to express their views and concerns
  • Ensuring children feel safe and respected
  • Promoting positive and respectful behaviour
  • Creating clear boundaries for adults and children
Children are encouraged to speak to a trusted adult if something makes them uncomfortable.
 
Inclusion and Diversity

Nepali Pathashala Geelong welcomes children from all backgrounds regardless of:

  • Gender
  • Ability or disability
  • Language
  • Religion
  • Cultural background

We ensure that children from diverse backgrounds and those with disabilities are supported and included in all activities.

Everyone involved with Nepali Pathashala Geelong shares responsibility for maintaining a child-safe environment.

Roles and Responsibilities

Committee Members

  • Ensure child safety policies are implemented and reviewed
  • Promote compliance with Victorian Child Safe Standards
Teachers and Volunteers
  • Follow the Child Safety Code of Conduct
  • Maintain professional boundaries with children
  • Report any concerns related to child safety
Parents and Guardians
  • Support child-safe practices
  • Raise concerns if they believe a child’s safety may be at risk
Code of Conduct

All adults involved must:

  • Treat children with respect and dignity
  • Use appropriate language and behaviour
  • Avoid being alone with a child where possible
  • Ensure any physical contact is appropriate and necessary
  • Never engage in abusive or inappropriate behaviour

Nepali Pathashala Geelong takes appropriate steps to ensure the suitability of people working with children.

Recruitment, Screening and Training

We ensure child safety by:

  • Requiring a Working With Children Check (WWCC) for teachers and volunteers
  • Providing child safety awareness information
  • Ensuring volunteers understand their responsibilities before working with children
Reporting Child Safety Concerns

All concerns or suspicions of child abuse must be reported immediately.

If a child is in immediate danger, call: 000

Other concerns should be reported to the Committee or Child Safety Officer.
Nepali Pathashala Geelong will cooperate with Victoria Police, Child Protection, or other relevant authorities where required.

Nepali Pathashala Geelong takes complaints and child safety concerns seriously.

Complaints Handling

We provide a clear and confidential process for raising complaints. All complaints will be:

  • Taken seriously
  • Handled confidentially
  • Addressed promptly and fairly

No person will be disadvantaged for raising a genuine concern.

Information Sharing and Privacy

Information related to child safety will:

  • Be shared only with authorised individuals
  • Be stored securely
  • Be used only for the purpose of protecting children

We respect privacy laws when handling personal information.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains up to date with legislation and best practices. Updates will be communicated to volunteers, families, and members of the organisation.