This policy ensures that employees are aware of their obligations under the Working With Children Check (Criminal Record Checking) Act 2004 (the Act) and ensures that the Department maintains compliance with the Act.

The Department of Education (the Department) supports high quality, ethical research where the findings have the potential to inform decision making and contribute to improvements in school education policy, staff competency, operational practices, student and staff wellbeing or student achievement and progress.

These procedures apply to all Department site managers and to Department employees in public schools who have been nominated to take charge of a recreation and/or outdoor education activity.

This policy provides procedures and advice for the enrolment of students in public schools.

The Complaints and Notifications policy and framework sets out the requirements for management and resolution of complaints and notifications.

The School Education Act 1999 requires all enrolled student to attend school or participate in an educational program of the school. Principals are required to record and monitor student attendance and develop appropriate strategies to restore attendance for students with persistent absence.

Animals can enrich students’ learning experiences, however schools must adhere to consistent and high quality practices for the care and use of animals. Staff are to adhere to the processes of the Schools Animal Ethics Committee for the use of animals for any scientific teaching activity and/or adhere to the processes of Agricultural Education for the use of animals on school farms.

This policy assists staff to respond appropriately where there is a concern for a child’s wellbeing or a disclosure of abuse.