Safeguarding Statement & Scope

American International School of Johannesburg (AISJ) believes and recognises that every student has the right to live in a safe and secure environment. AISJ also recognizes that abuse and neglect fundamentally affect a child's well being and ability to learn. These rights are outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), to which the Republic of South Africa is a signatory country, as well as national laws including the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, the Children's Act. 

All staff employed at AISJ must report suspected incidences of child maltreatment (abuse and neglect)  and bullying. whenever the staff member has reasonable cause to believe that a child has suffered or is at risk of suffering abuse, neglect and bullying. Reporting and follow up of all suspected incidents of child maltreatment and bullying will proceed in accordance with administrative regulations respective to this policy , which will be reviewed annually by the School Director. Furthermore, cases of suspected child abuse and neglect may be reported to the respective consulates in South Africa, to the appropriate child protection agency in the home country, and/or to local authorities. 

As part of our overall effort to ensure this policy is effectively implemented and understood by all members of our community, AISJ will provide age appropriate lessons that address issues of personal safety, needs, and rights. We will engage with parents to support their understanding of our program, policies, and procedures. AISJ will also communicate this policy and provide annual training for our faculty and staff to recognize child abuse, neglect, bullying and harassement; and to be aware of how to respond to safeguarding concerns. Hiring practices for employees and contracted service providers will be strictly adhered to, including appropriate criminal reports and the signing of the AISJ Safeguarding Agreement

SCOPE

Safeguarding is a broad term to describe philosophies, policies, standards, guidelines and procedures to promote and protect all children from harm, harassment, bullying, abuse and neglect, regardless of ability, age, ethnicity, faith, gender, sexuality and culture.

Child protection is part of the safeguarding process that involves being ready to respond quickly and safely in the case of a disclosure or concern. The policies and procedures outlined in the handbook apply in the case of threat of harm, actual harm or misconduct (either in person or online) by the following: parent/guardian to student, employee to student, non-employee (adult or child) to student, and student to student.