In preparation for my upcoming professional experience, I had to engage in an online course through university to deepen my understanding on child-safe organisations along with the Rights, Wellbeing and Dignity of young people.

 

This experience highlighted the need for teachers to be concerned for children’s safety and reiterated the importance of relevant legislative and organizational policies (such as Child Protection Australia, OH&S, United Nation Convention on the rights of the child and legislation regarding privacy of student information) to which I must comply (7.2.1).

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The content of this learning, however, was not novel. Since the beginning of my university course we have been trained to meet the code of ethics within our profession. Most units introduced us to legislation, appropriate conduct and teacher responsibilities towards our students. During my last professional experience, I also completed online modules on how to keep children safe whilst at the same time acknowledging their right to freedom. 

 

This balance was carefully catered for in my classroom. My Year 5 learners were constantly reminded, through many means, of their value which fostered in them a positive sense of self. They felt physical and emotional security in the classroom environment intentionally constructed to fully engage them in their learning and take risks. Children’s agency and voice were also honoured, and they were given power and control whenever appropriate (the principle of subsidiarity) to act independently of adults.

 

Another aspect of my professional responsibilities which was also explained to me by my supervising teacher was mandatory reporting requirements. At this stage, I understand the relevant administrative policies and processes required (7.2.1) but I have not had to report as the need did not arise.

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Compliance to organizational policies and the code of ethics is necessary in the teaching profession, as it ensures that children's rights to emotional and physical wellbeing are respected and catered for. It also ensures professional cooperation between staff (Words: 317).