The basics of school safety

All learning environments will have a safety plan and procedures manual, so familiarize yourself with it so you know what to do if a child is injured. Record keeping will be part of the plan, so be sure to give an honest and complete description of what happened. This must be a ‘no fault’ and unbiased entry, signed and dated.

It is also necessary to have a first aid certificate to know what to do in case of injury. It is quite possible that you will be the first person to contact and the person who has to describe to the ambulance paramedic, the parents or the school principal what has happened and the treatment that has already been given to the child.

Within your learning area – Having a safe learning area is paramount when you are responsible for students. Establish class rules with students at the beginning of each year and stick to them. Let each student know what the rules are by showing them and referring to them when a rule is broken. Carry out consequences and reassess the rules frequently to keep the learning area safe. Make sure all equipment is working and safe for use in your learning area.

In the playground – Children develop at different rates and their body strength and visual and auditory perception can differ greatly from each other when playing on playgrounds. Playground injuries are highest in elementary school and early childhood. Encourage students to be careful with climbing equipment and swings. Keep a close eye on these areas and help when needed without restraining the student. Have equipment that is appropriate for the age and development of the student. Do not allow skateboards and bicycles on the playground where others are playing. In an early childhood area, have a special place for ride-on toys. Please ensure children are well supervised on the playground.

before and after school – Depending on age, all children should have a routine for entering and leaving the learning area. You will find it very helpful to have written orders from the parents about what your plan is for your child. Any changes must be emailed or sent a note with the child. Have a place in the child’s homework book for parents to write a message to you. For younger children, it’s always a good idea for them not to leave the classroom until parents or caregivers come to pick them up. If you are riding the bus, the bus stop must be supervised until all children are safely on the correct buses. Children who walk home need to know the rules of the road and these need to be reinforced frequently. Stranger Danger programs are available in most areas.

In Cases of Emergency – All schools will have an emergency plan where evacuation or closure may be necessary. This should be done without scaring the students. Practicing an emergency situation is essential and should be done without applying stress to the situation. A well-prepared teacher will be able to calmly lead his students to a safe place. Go over your plan frequently with your students so they are familiar with the process. The more they feel in control of the process, the less stress they will experience.

Child Safety Programs – Programs for your students are available in the police, ambulance and fire services. Use them and make excursions or visits from these services. They will have programs for students of all ages.

Safety before, during, and after school is paramount for all children. Teachers, parents and caregivers have a responsibility to keep themselves and all children safe.