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In August 2015 Educators at Bangkok International Preparatory and Secondary School (Bangkok Prep) participated in Child Protection Training as part of their Induction Programme for the commencement of this academic year. The 2-day training, delivered by trainer Robin Watts, offered basic training in safeguarding children and Child Protection.
During the training Robin Watts, who worked as an investigator from 1976-2008 at the Metropolitan Police London, explained his pathway to the Child Protection arena. He has subsequently taught child friendly techniques and raised awareness through his Child Protection workshops in 70 international schools and 61 countries. Robin is a specialist in dealing with child abuse investigations in the context of international schools all over the world.
“I am continually inspired by the delegates on my courses. It is really fulfilling to see delegates grow in confidence in dealing with all aspects of Child Protection. I also enjoy hearing about their unique perspectives and experiences,” said Robin Watts.
The Head of School, Valerie Thomas-Peter said: “Child safety is the number one priority at Bangkok Prep and enabling teachers and carers to recognise if and when child abuse is taking place is paramount. All children deserve the opportunity to achieve their full potential. As educators, it is our duty to ensure that children are well looked after in all aspects of their education.”
Participants worked in groups to discuss the four categories of abuse – neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse – and what possible signs, both physical and behavioural can show in children. One of the many lessons learnt through this course was that 97% of crimes towards children are committed by someone the child already knows. Robin went on to stress that teachers are a child’s first line of defence and how crucial their role is in students’ lives. Educators have an important part to play in supporting children to grow-up confident, healthy and happy adults.
Robin Watts warned the participants that no religions, cultures nor socio-demographic environments are spared from child abuse and for that reason we should all be vigilant of behaviour indicators at all times.
Advanced training was delivered to educators holding key areas of responsibilities within the school. This advanced session enabled participants to become familiar with the role and responsibilities of the designated safeguarding children’s officer and develop competence and confidence in carrying out this role.
About Bangkok Prep
Bangkok International Preparatory and Secondary School (Bangkok Prep) is a private co-educational mid-size school located adjacent to the Thonglor BTS station, making it the most accessible and conveniently located international school in Bangkok.
The programme of study is based on the National Curriculum of England providing quality education to students from Nursery to Year 13. The school offers a rigorous ‘IGCSE’ programme to Year 10 and 11 students as a precursor to the Cambridge-approved ‘A’ Levels studied in Years 12 and 13, thereby PREParing students for acceptance to leading universities throughout the world.
Bangkok Prep is proud of its holistic international approach to education and with more than 42 nationalities represented the school celebrates its cultural diversity. Students develop their own sense of identity whilst recognising and empathising with other cultures, traditions and beliefs.
Bangkok Prep: PREParing students for life in an international community.
For further details, visit www.bkkprep.ac.th
