College Community
At St Brigid’s, keeping children safe, supported, and confident is at the heart of everything we do. Creating a protective and nurturing environment is truly a shared responsibility, one that thrives when schools and families work together. By helping children understand their rights, their feelings, and where to turn when something doesn’t feel right, we strengthen their wellbeing today and into the future. At the College, we expect staff and students to follow the Foundations for Inflaming Hearts & Minds in Christ, to live out the College values.
View the Foundations for Inflaming Hearts & Minds in Christ here.
For parents and caregivers, this article highlights key messages we encourage all families to reflect on. At the end of this article, you’ll find a Parent Self‑Reflection Worksheet to help guide meaningful conversations at home.
This information is based on resources created by NAPCAN, Australia’s leading organisation dedicated to preventing child abuse and promoting child safety and wellbeing.
- Staying Connected With Your Child
One of the most powerful ways you can support your child’s safety is by staying actively engaged in their world. Knowing who they spend time with, where they go, and the activities they are involved in builds trust and keeps communication open. These everyday checkins show your child that you are present, interested, and someone they can rely on.
- Keeping Conversations Open
Children feel safest when they know they can talk openly with the adults they trust. Make space for conversations, big or small. Encourage your child to share their thoughts, worries, and experiences. When we pause, listen, and show genuine interest, we send a clear message that their feelings matter and that they will be heard.
- Teaching Personal Boundaries
Understanding personal boundaries is a key part of growing up safely. Children benefit from learning about body autonomy and their right to feel safe in every situation. Reinforcing these ideas helps them recognise when something feels uncomfortable or wrong, and gives them the confidence to speak up.
- Helping Children Build Confidence in Speaking Up
Just as we teach children practical skills like road safety or navigating the online world, we also help them learn to trust their instincts. Let them know that if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay, and important to talk to a trusted adult. These conversations build resilience and empower children to advocate for themselves.
- Knowing Who Your Child Can Turn To
Children feel more secure when they know who they can go to for help. Take time to talk about the trusted people in their lives, both at home and at school.
At St Brigid’s, this may include their Mentor Teacher, Leader of Wellbeing, or another staff member they feel comfortable with. Knowing these support networks helps children feel confident and cared for.
- If Your Child Shares a Concern
If your child comes to you with a worry, the most important thing you can do is remain calm, listen closely, and reassure them that they’ve done the right thing by speaking up. Seek support when needed and keep routines steady. These small steps help children feel safe, grounded, and understood.
Take a moment to reflect on how these ideas fit into your family life. The Parent SelfReflection Worksheet may help guide your thinking.
Where to Learn More
Families looking for further guidance can explore additional parent friendly resources from NAPCAN.