At Tamborine Mountain College, child safety is not a one-off conversation. It is an ongoing commitment that is embedded throughout the school year in the way we listen to students, involve them in decisions that affect their wellbeing, and reinforce how they can seek help if something does not feel right.
Throughout the year, students engage in age-appropriate learning about personal safety, respectful relationships and help-seeking through classroom activities, wellbeing programs, pastoral care and assemblies. These opportunities are designed to help students build confidence in recognising concerns and knowing that it is always okay to speak to a trusted adult.
Students are regularly reminded of the range of people they can talk to at the College, including classroom teachers, Heads of School, wellbeing staff and the Principal. We reinforce that students can choose the adult they feel most comfortable with, and that their concerns will be taken seriously and handled appropriately.
Importantly, we also work to ensure students understand what happens when they speak up. Staff explain, in developmentally appropriate ways, that some concerns need to be shared to keep people safe, and that this process is about support, not punishment. This transparency helps students feel reassured and reduces fear about asking for help.
Student voice continues to play an important role in shaping our wellbeing and safety practices. Through class discussions, student leadership opportunities and feedback processes, students are encouraged to share their perspectives and contribute to a culture where safety, respect and kindness are valued.
We encourage families to continue these conversations at home by checking in with children about how they are feeling, who they would talk to if they were worried, and reassuring them that seeking help is always the right thing to do.
Child safety information, including the College’s Child Protection Policy and reporting pathways, remains available on our website and from the school office. By maintaining regular communication and shared responsibility, we continue to support every student to feel safe, heard and supported at Tamborine Mountain College.
Mrs Fiona Stevens - Principal