Child Safety and Code of Conduct
Policy Version: 1.0
Effective Date: 1 April 2026
Prepared by: Walk No More Driving School - (Glenn Provest)
Review Date: 31 March 2027
1. Purpose
This policy outlines Walk No More Driving School’s commitment to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all learners, particularly children and young people under 18 years of age.
Our goal is to ensure all instructors, staff, and contractors uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and child safety during all driving instruction and related activities.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all instructors, contractors, employees, and volunteers engaged by Walk No More Driving School who interact with learners, parents/guardians, or members of the public as part of their professional role.
3. Commitment to Child Safety
Walk No More Driving School is committed to:
• Promoting the safety and wellbeing of all learners.
• Ensuring children and young people feel safe, supported, and respected.
• Preventing abuse and harm through proactive policies, training, and awareness.
• Responding promptly and appropriately to any child safety concerns.
All instructors and staff must hold a current Blue Card (Working with Children Check) and comply with Queensland’s child protection laws and the Transport and Main Roads (TMR) accreditation requirements.
4. Code of Conduct
All staff and instructors agree to:
Respect and Professionalism
• Treat all learners with dignity, respect, and courtesy.
• Communicate clearly, calmly, and appropriately at all times.
• Avoid any behaviour that could be perceived as bullying, harassment, or intimidation.
Boundaries and Behaviour
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries — no unnecessary physical contact or personal relationships with learners.
• Avoid one-on-one situations that may create risk (e.g., where practical, meet in open or visible environments).
• Use professional language and avoid jokes or comments that may offend or distress.
Record Keeping, Confidentiality and Privacy
• Keep accurate, factual records of lessons, incidents, concerns, or disclosures related to learner safety or wellbeing.
• Store all records (digital or hard copy) securely so that only authorised persons can access them.
• Retain records for an appropriate period in line with legal, regulatory, or insurance requirements.
• Do not share learner information with third parties unless required by law, necessary for safety, or with appropriate consent from the learner and/or parent/guardian.
• Ensure any electronic systems used (e.g. booking platforms, CRMs, emails) are password protected and used in a way that safeguards personal information.
• Protect the privacy of learners and families — do not disclose personal or identifying information without consent, except where required by law.
Digital Communication
• Use only approved business communication channels for contact with learners or parents (e.g., official phone, email, or scheduling app).
• Do not connect with learners via personal social media accounts.
Reporting
• Report any concerns, suspicions, or disclosures of harm immediately to the relevant authority and school management.
• Cooperate fully with investigations or audits related to child safety.
5. Responding to Concerns or Incidents
If an instructor or staff member suspects that a learner under 18 is at risk of harm or abuse, they must:
1. Ensure the learner is safe (remove them from immediate danger if necessary).
2. Report the concern immediately to the Child Safety Officer (or business owner/manager).
3. Where appropriate, report directly to:
o Queensland Police Service: 000 (emergency) or 131 444 (non-urgent)
o Department of Child Safety, Seniors and Disability Services: 1800 177 135
4. Document the concern and any action taken.
6. Training and Awareness
All instructors and staff will receive annual training or a briefing on:
• Child protection responsibilities and indicators of harm.
• Communication and behavioural standards.
• The contents and updates of this policy.
7. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or following any legislative or regulatory changes to ensure it remains current and compliant.