Tutor Teach Student Safety Policy
At Tutor Teach, we are committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all students. This Child Safeguarding Policy reflects our responsibility to protect children and youth from harm, promote their well-being, and ensure every member of our team upholds the highest standards of care and professionalism.
1. Purpose and Scope
This policy is intended to:
- Protect children and young people who engage with Tutor Teach services.
- Provide tutors, contractors, and staff with clear principles that guide our approach to child safeguarding.
- Promote a culture of awareness, accountability, and proactive protection across our organization.
2. Legal Framework
Tutor Teach adheres to Canadian child protection laws and provincial regulations, which prioritize the safety and best interests of the child.
In Ontario, for example, the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 (CYFSA) requires any individual who suspects a child may be in need of protection to report their concerns to a Children’s Aid Society.
We also support the guiding principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Canada ratified in 1991, affirming every child’s right to safety, education, and protection from harm.
All individuals working with children are legally and ethically obligated to act if a child’s safety or well-being is at risk.
3. Our Commitments
Tutor Teach commits to:
- Thorough Vetting Process: We conduct comprehensive background checks, including vulnerable sector screening where applicable, and verify professional references to ensure every tutor and contractor is suitable, safe, and aligned with our values. Tutor Teach is committed to rigorous screening to protect the well-being of all learners in our care.
- Training and Education: All tutors receive clear guidance and training on child safeguarding, including how to recognize potential concerns and respond appropriately.
- Clear Expectations and Conduct: We maintain a detailed Contractor Guidebook and Code of Conduct outlining professional boundaries, acceptable behaviour, and responsibilities when working with students.
- Responsive Reporting Procedures: We promote a speak-up culture and ensure that any concerns or allegations are addressed promptly, confidentially, and in alignment with our internal procedures and legal requirements.
4. Roles and Responsibilities
- Safeguarding Lead: A designated member of the Tutor Teach leadership team is responsible for overseeing safeguarding practices, offering guidance to tutors, and managing any safeguarding concerns or reports that arise.
- Tutors and Staff: All team members are expected to actively uphold our safeguarding standards, remain vigilant, and report any concerns about a student’s safety or well-being without delay.
Date Adopted: July 27, 2023