In Aotearoa New Zealand, child protection training for teachers is still not mandatory, despite the high rates of child abuse. Advocates, including Willow Duffy from Safeguarding Children, and Dr. Claire Achmad, Children’s Commissioner, are calling for legislative change to ensure educators are properly trained to identify and respond to abuse.
Teachers are in a unique position to spot signs of abuse, but without proper training, they may not know how to act. Dr. Kate Taylor from MEDSAC emphasizes that all those working with children should be trained to identify abuse and neglect.
With New Zealand ranking 35th out of 41 countries for child wellbeing, it’s time to act. Compulsory child protection training can help safeguard children and support teachers in providing the best care for our tamariki.
Read more about Safeguarding Children’s comments in the RNZ news article ‘Call for mandatory child protection training for teachers‘.