Education

“…the mum told me her child had recently been sexually abused…I was concerned, but I didn’t know what I could do to help…” “I told the school what had been happening and no one passed the information along to my child’s classroom teacher…”

“…the police interviewed me at school…. I then had to go back to class and pretend nothing was wrong…”

It may be useful to let your child’s school know what has happened. You do not need to provide details – just an overview.

Let them know what you need from them:

♥ To be aware of any disclosures your child may share with them, other school staff or students. ♥ Observe how your child is going: any changes in behaviour, interactions with friends or participation in classroom and learning. ♥ To be aware of any risks to your child’s safety: copies of any Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs), court orders or safety planning. ♥ Observe your other children: this event may have impacted all family members. ♥ Advise them to call 000 if the person that has harmed your child makes contact with them at school and then to advise you after they have contacted authorities.

Things you can do:

♥ Provide copies of any legal documentation court orders, DVO’s, parenting plans. ♥ Provide a copy of any safety planning for your child. If appropriate, ask how they can help. ♥ Check if any emergency contact details need to be updated. ♥ If your child is accessing counselling, it may be useful to provide consent for them to exchange information about your child; to understand ways they may support your child’s individual needs.

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