Catholic schools in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle are committed to providing safe environments for students. Whilst we have a legal obligation to protect children, this commitment is central to our Catholic beliefs. All schools in NSW are required to meet the statutory obligations of legislation relating to child protection and schools in this diocese are required to uphold the policies and guidelines set out by the Catholic Schools Office.
At St Mary’s, we believe that all children have a right to a safe environment which is free from any form of abuse or harm. We believe that relationships between adults and children are governed by trust and Gospel values.
On 15 June 2013, The Child Protection (Working with Children) Regulation 2013 made under The Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012 came into force. The Regulation applies to any person working in child related employment including both paid and volunteer work.
The Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle has an absolute and abiding commitment to promote the safety, welfare and wellbeing of all children. The agency known as Office of Safeguarding provides child protection services for all of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.
All volunteers are required to complete a working with children check with Roads and Martine Services and return this number and the Prohibited Employment Declaration prior to commencing as a volunteer. Information and the Prohibited Employment Declaration forms can be collected from the school administration office.
It is very important for volunteers to read the Declaration before signing, as it is an offence for a prohibited person to apply for, undertake, or remain in child-related employment.
- Volunteers not willing to provide a Prohibited Employment Declaration are not permitted to undertake any duties in the school.
- A volunteer who has any doubts about his/her status should seek independent legal advice.
