Promoting Safety, Respect and Wellbeing at Parade College

At the beginning of the school year, Parade College delivered a whole‑school presentation to all year levels focused on student safety, respectful relationships, and positive behaviour. The purpose of this session was to ensure that every student understands their rights, feels supported and knows how to seek help whenever something does not feel right.

Every Child Has the Right to Feel Safe

Students were reminded that the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child states that every person under 18 has the right to be safe, protected from harm and supported in their wellbeing. The presentation emphasised that every young person deserves to feel secure at school, online, at home and in the community.

Our Commitment to a Respectful and Supportive Environment

Parade College reinforced its commitment to creating a learning environment where all students feel valued and respected. Students were reminded that they have the right to:

• Learn in a safe and supportive environment
• Be treated with respect, courtesy and kindness
• Feel safe at all times
• Be treated fairly and justly
• Have their human and legal rights upheld

The message shared with students was clear: everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and kindness.

Respectful Behaviour is Supported by Australian Law

Students were informed that Australian law protects all people from behaviour that undermines their safety or wellbeing. Key legislation referenced included:

• Age Discrimination Act 2004
• Disability Discrimination Act 1992
• Racial Discrimination Act 1975
• Sex Discrimination Act 1984

These laws reinforce the importance of treating others fairly and respectfully.

Encouraging Students to Seek Support

A major focus of the session was empowering students to speak up early if something does not feel right. They were encouraged to:

• Talk to a trusted adult at school or at home
• Reach out to police if they ever feel unsafe in the community
• Report online concerns to the eSafety Commissioner
• Access support services such as Headspace, Bullying No Way, Youth Law Australia, and Kids Helpline

Students were reminded that they always have the right to feel safe and supported.

How Parents Can Reinforce These Messages

Parents play a vital role in supporting a culture of safety and respect. You can help by:

• Encouraging open conversations about friendships, online behaviour, and school life
• Reassuring your child that seeking help is always the right thing to do
• Contacting the school if you have concerns about your child’s wellbeing
• Modelling respectful behaviour at home
• Familiarising yourself with the school’s child safety policies

Together, families and the school can ensure that every student feels protected, respected, and supported throughout the year.