Page 515 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 20 February 2019
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Of course, it is deeply concerning that such significant reforms were needed in the first place. Our teachers cannot work effectively with students if they do not feel safe in their work environment, and we cannot attract and retain the best teachers in our system if staff do not feel adequately supported and protected in our schools. Equally, our schools have a duty of care to protect the welfare of all students. That is a responsibility that must be treated with the utmost seriousness.
In this context, it is natural that we also consider recent media reports of violence and bullying that have occurred against students in specific ACT schools. Theodore Primary School has been the most notable example. These reports are concerning and should be responded to with real urgency.
Despite these concerns, I cannot support Ms Lee’s calls that a further independent review into violence into ACT schools is warranted. I absolutely accept that there are areas that need improvement, but I believe that the changes that are being implemented through both schools for all and the enforceable undertaking are putting in place the necessary structural and cultural changes.
My understanding is that parents are keen to see change—of course they are—not another review that will take years to come into effect, years—
Mrs Jones interjecting—
MR RATTENBURY: Mrs Jones is interjecting for reasons that are unclear to me. I am not seeking to offend her. I am simply trying to make my point—
Mrs Jones interjecting—
MR RATTENBURY: I am seeking to make my point—
Mrs Jones interjecting—
MR RATTENBURY: Instead, Mrs Jones, in her angry and aggressive way, is shouting at me. I am trying to have a serious discussion about a really important issue to the community.
The point I am trying to make is that if we put in place another review it will take at least six to 12 months. Then there are all the recommendations. The point is that there have already been reviews and those things are being implemented now. They are being rolled out as we speak. That does not mean that they are an instant fix; we have to work as hard and as fast as we can. But I do not think another inquiry is the answer.
My concern is for the children who are coming home with injuries and who are scared to go to school. For those children, we need to see immediate practical action that will start to turn this around. I understand that a number of measures are already in place, including installing a dedicated senior staff member at Theodore primary to focus on student wellbeing. This is not an issue that we fix overnight, but this action is a good start. I also think that it is important for the school to engage in regular and genuine
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