Child Protection Statement
Definitions of Child Abuse and Neglect
NOVA International School Skopje has a diverse community with a variety of cultures and beliefs. Having this in mind, we follow the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) definition of abuse and neglect.
Aligned with the recommendations of the International Taskforce on Child Protection, we hold ourselves to a high standard of effective recruiting practices with specific attention to child protection.
The WHO states:
“Child abuse and maltreatment constitute all forms of physical and/or emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect or negligent treatment, resulting in actual or potential harm to the child’s health, survival, development or dignity in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or power.”
NOVA International School aims to provide an educational setting for all students that is safe, positive, and stimulating and promotes their academic, social, physical, and moral development.
To help achieve this, our Child Protection procedures aim to:
-
Raise awareness of all staff for the need to safeguard children and their responsibility in identifying and reporting possible abuse.
-
Maintain structured procedures followed by all members of the school community in all cases of suspected abuse.
-
Develop good working relationships with external agencies responsible for the social welfare of children.
-
Ensure that all staff and volunteer members that who have form of contact with children have been checked for suitability.
-
Oblige all staff employed at NOVA International Schools to report suspected incidences of child abuse or neglect whenever the staff member has reasonable cause to believe that a child has suffered or is at risk of suffering abuse or neglect. Reporting and follow-up of all suspected abuse will proceed in accordance with the steps outlined in this policy.
-
During school closure, NOVA International Schools follows adapted guidelines that help keep students safe and protected during distance/virtual learning environments