NERPSA values your help! To keep our children safe and comply with the Victorian Child Safe Standards, all parent volunteers must provide a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) and agree to the following rules before assisting at our service.

Required Information:

• Parent/Guardian Full Legal Name
• Contact Phone Number
• Enrolled Child's Name
• Upload: Photo of valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) Card.

NERPSA Child Safety Brief & Code of Conduct Agreement

Please read and agree to the following 5 critical rules:

1. THE RULE OF TWO: You must remain within the direct sight and hearing of a qualified NERPSA educator at all times. You must never be alone with a child, and you must never take a child into an enclosed or isolated space (such as a bathroom or storeroom).
2. PERSONAL CARE & BEHAVIOUR: You must not assist any child with intimate care, including toileting or changing clothes. If a child's behaviour needs guiding or correcting, you must step back and let the qualified educator intervene.
3. TECHNOLOGY BAN: Your personal mobile phone and smartwatch must be stored in your bag. You are strictly prohibited from taking photos or videos of any children at the service.
4. CONFIDENTIALITY: You will observe children learning and playing. You must respect the privacy of all families. You are strictly forbidden from discussing the children, their behaviours, or their medical needs with anyone outside the service.
5. REPORTING HARM: If a child discloses something concerning to you, or if you witness inappropriate behaviour by any adult, you must report it to the Lead Educator immediately.

Declaration: By submitting this form, I acknowledge I have read these rules and agree to be legally bound by the NERPSA Child Safety Code of Conduct.

Welcome to NERPSA

Welcome to NERPSA! This is an exciting opportunity to gain practical experience and learn more about working in this rewarding field.

You will have the opportunity to be engaged in work experience, studies, and/or volunteering in a well-established and respected early childhood service, where you can make a lasting impact on the lives of young children and their families.

NERPSA is a small not-for-profit Early Years Management organisation, focused on providing high quality education and care in the North East of Victoria.

NERPSA is a child safe organisation and is committed to providing and actively promoting the safety and wellbeing of all children in our services.

We take pride in being an equal opportunity employer with an inclusive and diverse work environment. Our belief is that NERPSA employees from various cultures, backgrounds, and experiences, contribute significantly to the growth and strength of our teams. We work continuously to foster and create an environment where everyone, including First Nations people, feel a profound sense of belonging and connection.

Please see our website at www.nerpsa.com.au for further information about NERPSA and our individual services.

Pre-Attendance Checklist

Before engaging in work experience, studies, and/or volunteering, make sure you:

• Download the NERPSA Students & Volunteers App
• (Everyone) Complete all necessary paperwork on the app, including providing your valid Working with Children Check (WWCC). Note: All students and volunteers must be 16 years of age or older.
• (Work Experience Students) Complete all necessary paperwork through your school.
• (Work Experience Students) Complete the safe@work or A Job Well Done modules and self-assessment.
• Made contact with the service to introduce yourself.
• Research the service and its philosophy and values.
• Plan your commute to ensure you arrive on time.
• Prepare appropriate clothing.
• Notify staff if you have any medical conditions, allergies or anaphylaxis.
• Pack essentials – lunch, snack, water bottle, coat, hat, notepad and pen, medication if needed. Ask if there is anything in particular that you may need to take – especially for services that are going on excursions or run a bush kinder program.
• Prepare for your role - understand what tasks you may be expected to perform during your placement.
• Prepare a list of questions you might have about your role or the service.
• Be ready to show initiative and offer help when you can.

Your First Day

Arrive early with everything you will need for the day – including lunch and snacks, water bottle, a hat, coat, any medications you require, personal sunscreen if you require a specific brand, and anything else the service has suggested you bring.

You will take part in an orientation (Appendix A), where you will be shown around the service, including evacuation procedure, location of first aid and emergency exits, kitchen, toilets, staff room, desk area, storerooms.

Attendance Details

Attendance depends on the assigned service and the session times available. Please confirm your start and finish times prior to your placement/volunteer work. To see session times please visit www.nerpsa.com.au.

Please ensure you log your attendance on the Time Sheet found on the Student & Volunteer App under Forms.

To maintain professional boundaries, community volunteer sessions are typically 1–2 hours or the duration of a specific activity. Regular volunteers should not exceed 1–2 sessions per week without prior approval. (This limit does not apply to formal practicum students).

Medical Conditions

Provide NERPSA with any relevant medical information. Do you have a medical condition (e.g., asthma or epilepsy) that could require treatment? Are you taking any medication? Will you be bringing this medication to the service? (This information will be kept confidential and will only be disclosed to another party if treatment is required for a known medical condition or in the case of a medical emergency).

Strict Rule: You must identify children with medical conditions and know the location of their Medical Management Plans (red folders) and emergency medication (EpiPens/Ventolin). Volunteers and students are never to administer medication.

Dress Requirements

Dress appropriately for an early childhood education and care setting. Neat casual, comfortable, practical clothing and closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Avoid wearing jewellery that children could pull on or swallow. Pack a hat! Pack a coat for the cooler months.

Payment

In regards to Work Experience placements, NERPSA is “an organisation that is engaged wholly or mainly in an educational, charitable or community welfare service not conducted for profit” (Victorian Department of Education and Training, 2023, p. 12) and is thus unable to pay Work Experience Students the suggested payment per day.

Workplace Bullying, Harassment, and Discrimination

Report any concern directly to your supervisor where you are doing your work experience, to NERPSA (hr@nerpsa.com.au or 03 5721 2755), or to your school. Please refer to Appendix B for examples of Acceptable and Unacceptable Workplace Behaviour.

Privacy and Confidentiality (Code of Conduct Alignment)

NERPSA is committed to protecting the privacy of all students and volunteers at our services. The information we collect about you during your placement will be handled in accordance with the NERPSA Privacy Policy. To learn more about how your personal information is protected, you can access the NERPSA Privacy Policy on our website at www.nerpsa.com.au.

Protecting Children's Privacy: At NERPSA, we take the privacy of our children and their families very seriously. As a student or volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to interact with these children and may learn some personal information about them. It's important that you understand your responsibility to maintain the confidentiality of this information.

Keep information confidential. Don't share any personal information about the children or their families with anyone outside of NERPSA. This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, photos, or any other details that could be used to identify them. If you have any questions regarding your privacy during your work experience placement, or your responsibilities regarding children's privacy, please don't hesitate to speak to your supervisor.

Mobile Phones & Technology

Mobile phones must stay stored in a bag in the staff room or the space allocated at the service. If a smart watch is being worn it must be disconnected from your phone and also have notifications and sounds off. No photos or videos are to be taken at the service.

Typical Duties at the Kinder & Boundaries

During your placement or volunteer work, you may be involved in:

• Assisting with learning experiences
• Reading stories
• Singing Songs
• Helping with meal and snack times
• Assisting with rest times
• Supporting outdoor play activities
• Helping to maintain a clean and safe environment

Professional Boundaries (The "Rule of Two"): Volunteers and students must always be within sight and hearing of a qualified NERPSA educator. You are never to be alone with a child in an enclosed or private space. You do not replace educators, supervise children independently, manage discipline, or assist with toileting or changing clothes.

Skills You May Learn

This placement will help you develop valuable skills such as:

• An understanding of the connection between play and learning and development.
• An understanding of health and safety in early childhood education settings.
• An understanding the importance of showing initiative.
• Confidence in reading a story, singing to children.
• An understanding of child safe practices.
• Practice taking direction from an employer.
• Communication and interpersonal skills.
• Patience and understanding.
• Creativity and problem-solving.
• Time management and organisation.
• Basic understanding of child development and learning strategies

Most importantly, we hope you will walk away with a passion for early childhood education!

Emergency Procedures

In the event of an emergency, it's important to stay calm and follow the service's emergency procedures. Follow the instructions of the staff members. Ensure the children are safe and calm. If a child is injured or becomes ill, notify a staff member immediately. Do not attempt to administer first aid. Remember, always follow the instructions of the trained staff and never put yourself or the children at risk.

Absence and Illness

If you are unable to attend due to illness or for any other reason, it's important to let the service know as soon as possible. If you are unwell, it's important not to attend to avoid spreading any illness to the children or staff. Only return when you are fully recovered. Remember, regular attendance is important, but so is the health and wellbeing of everyone at the service.

Incident, Injury and Near Misses

Incidents and accidents must be reported to your supervisor without delay. Incidents include near misses/hazards, even if no one was injured. Accidents – including even minor cuts and scrapes requiring only a Band-Aid – must be reported and recorded. Your supervisor will explain to you how this is done.

Duty of Care

In practice, this means NERPSA must take all reasonable steps to prevent you from getting hurt or becoming unwell. We will achieve this by providing a safe work environment that's appropriate for your age and experience. This includes following all relevant health and safety regulations. We will also provide adequate supervision to ensure you're properly guided and supported.

Occupational Health and Safety

Always follow the service's health and safety guidelines. This includes washing hands regularly, maintaining a clean environment, and following procedures for dealing with accidents or illnesses.

Work Experience Students (Secondary 16+):

• Have you completed the safe@work General Module? https://www.vic.gov.au/safework/safework-general-module
• Have you completed the safe@work Health and Community Services Module? https://www.vic.gov.au/safework/safework-industry-modules/health-community-servicesmodule
• Have you done the self-assessments and uploaded the Award of Attainment?
• OR: A Job Well Done for Work experience safety resources for students with a disability https://arc.educationapps.vic.gov.au/learning/sites/a-job-well-done

Students/Volunteers with disability and additional needs

At NERPSA, we're committed to providing a positive and inclusive work experience for all, regardless of ability. Here's what you can expect:

Reasonable Adjustments: We understand that some students/volunteers may require adjustments to thrive in the workplace. These adjustments will be made to ensure you have the same opportunities for participation and learning as your peers.

Collaboration with Schools: To tailor the experience to each student's needs, we will work closely with your school. Your school's Student Support Group (SSG) or Program Support Group (PSG) will provide us with valuable information on the adjustments that will best support you. This might include:

• Equipment: If needed, your school will advise us on any specific equipment you require for successful participation in your work experience tasks.
• Communication Methods: We'll adapt how we provide instructions and information to ensure clear understanding. This could involve using visual aids, verbal explanations, or practical demonstrations.
• Task Management: Complex tasks may be broken down into smaller, more manageable steps. This may help you learn and complete tasks successfully.
• Schedules and Routines: To promote a sense of security and predictability, we'll provide you with a detailed timetable in advance. This will outline daily routines and notify you of any upcoming changes.

Additional Support: In some cases, you may have other support professionals, such as visiting teachers or allied health professionals. These professionals can share valuable insights and offer further support strategies to ensure you have a successful work experience at NERPSA. By working together with schools and support professionals, we're confident that we can offer a positive and rewarding experience for all students, regardless of their abilities. If you have any questions or require further information please don't hesitate to reach out.

References and Resources

• The National law sets a national standard for children’s education and care across Australia. The National Regulations support the National Law by providing detail on a range of operational requirements for an education and care service. https://www.acecqa.gov.au/nqf/national-lawregulations
• The Child Safe Standards - Early childhood services. Advice for implementing the Child Safe Standards in early childhood services. https://www.vic.gov.au/early-childhood-services-childsafe-standards
• Guidelines issued by the Department of Education and Training Victoria for Registered Training Organisations and Employers in relation to Post-Secondary Students undertaking Practical Placements (Updated Practical Placement Guidelines) as at 7 October 2022. https://www.education.vic.gov.au/Documents/training/providers/rto/practicalplacementguidelines.pdf
• PROTECT - The Victorian Government is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. https://www.vic.gov.au/protect
• School operations - Child Safe Standards. https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/child-safestandards/policy
• Victorian Department of Education and Training. (2023, October 19). Work experience manual. https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/work-experience/resources
• Work Safe: Students undertaking work experience. https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/studentsundertaking-work-experience

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Appendix A: Work Experience Student/Volunteer Orientation Checklist

(To be completed digitally via the App upon arrival)

• Introduction of individual staff members
• Show the student/volunteer around the service — evacuation procedure, including location of first aid and emergency exits, kitchen, toilets, staff room, desk area, storerooms.
• Discuss and confirm understanding of the philosophy/aims of the service.
• Discuss and provide a copy of roster and breaks (if applicable).
• Discuss Child Safe Practices.
• Provide access to or location of NERPSA policies and procedures.
• Service Information Book / Student Handbook (Student App).
• Student attendance book/sign-in process.
• Leave/sick leave procedures specific to the service.
• Locker and/or pigeonhole (if applicable).
• Noticeboards for Staff/Parents.
• Program planning.
• Discussion of student’s/volunteer's responsibilities.
• Occupational health and safety induction (safe@work or Job Well Done through school).

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Appendix B: Examples of Behaviours Which are Acceptable and Unacceptable in the Workplace

Acceptable Behaviours

• Treating everyone in the workplace, including students with respect
• Promoting the cultural safety, participation and empowerment of Aboriginal students, students with culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, students with a disability, international students, students who are unable to live at home and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LQBTIQ+) students
• Listening and responding to the views and concerns of students, particularly if they are telling you that they have been harmed or abused, or that they are worried about their safety
• Reporting any allegations of child abuse or other child safety concerns to the school principal and, if needed, the police

Unacceptable Behaviours

• Ignore or disregard any concerns, suspicions or disclosures of child abuse or harm
• Display behaviours or engage with students in ways which may be construed as inappropriate or are not justified by the workplace learning context
• Discuss intimate topics or use sexualised language with students
• Use inappropriate language in the presence of students
• Treat a student unfavourably because of their disability, age, gender, race, culture, vulnerability, sexuality or ethnicity
• Turn a blind eye to behaviours by other adults towards students that appear to be overly familiar or inappropriate
• Communicate directly with a student through personal or private contact channels (including by social media, email, instant messaging, texting etc.) except where that communication is reasonable and related to the student’s work activities or where there is a safety concern or other urgent matter
• Work with students whilst under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs
• Consume alcohol or drugs at the workplace in the presence of students

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Appendix C: Summary of Ministerial Order 1413 Directed at the Employer (Work Experience Students)

Ministerial Order 1413 outlines the requirements and responsibilities of various parties involved in work experience arrangements for Victorian school students. These parties include employers, students, schools, and the Work Experience Coordinator. This summary focuses on the responsibilities of employers.

Employer Responsibilities

• Duty of Care: Employers must take all reasonably practicable steps to ensure the safety, health and wellbeing of the student while on placement. This includes providing a safe working environment and ensuring that the work experience program is appropriate for the student's age, experience and maturity.
• WHS (Occupational Health and Safety) Requirements: Employers must comply with all relevant Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) legislation. This includes having a risk management plan and ensuring that the workplace is safe for students. Employers must also provide students with appropriate OHS training and information.
• Supervision: Employers must provide adequate supervision for students throughout the placement. The level of supervision required will vary depending on the nature of the work and the student's experience.
• Student Induction: Employers must provide students with an induction to the workplace, which should include information about the work they will be doing, the WHS risks associated with the work, and the emergency procedures.
• Training: Employers must provide students with any necessary training to complete the work experience tasks safely. This may include training on specific equipment or procedures.
• Tasks and Activities: The work experience tasks and activities must be appropriate for the student's age, experience, and maturity. They should also provide the student with an opportunity to learn about the industry or occupation. Employers cannot use the work experience placement as a substitute for employing someone. The student's primary function is to learn, not to be a productive worker.
• Student Wellbeing: Employers should provide students with a positive and supportive work experience. This includes providing opportunities for students to ask questions and get feedback on their work. Employers must not discriminate against students on the basis of their race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.
• Work Hours: The work experience program must comply with the working hour restrictions for school students as outlined in the Fair Work Act 2008.
• Incident Reporting: Employers must have a system for reporting work experience related incidents, injuries, or near misses.
• Payment: Employers are not required to pay students for work experience placements. However, they may choose to do so.
• Confidentiality: Employers must keep confidential any student information they obtain during the placement.
• Student Records: Employers may be required to keep records of the student's work experience placement. These records may include the student's name, contact details, the dates of the placement, and the nature of the work undertaken.

Additional Responsibilities

The Ministerial Order also outlines some additional responsibilities for employers, such as:

• Providing students with access to toilets and drinking water
• Allowing students to take breaks
• Not requiring students to work unreasonable hours

By following these guidelines, employers can help to ensure that work experience is a safe and positive learning experience for Victorian school students. Employers have a significant responsibility to ensure the safety, health and wellbeing of students on work experience placement. This includes complying with all relevant OHS legislation, providing adequate supervision, and providing students with the opportunity to learn and develop new skills.

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Appendix D: Summary of Ministerial Order 1413 Directed at the Student - Work Experience: Your Rights and Responsibilities

Welcome to Work Experience! This is a great opportunity to learn about different careers and gain valuable skills. This summary outlines some key points from Ministerial Order 1413 to help you have a safe and positive work experience.

Your Wellbeing Matters

Your employer must take all reasonable steps to keep you safe and healthy while you're on placement. This includes providing a safe work environment and ensuring the tasks you do are suitable for your age and experience.

Your employer must follow all relevant Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) rules. This means the workplace should be safe, and you'll receive training on any potential risks and emergency procedures.

Supervision and Support

You'll have a supervisor to guide you throughout your placement. The level of supervision will depend on the work you're doing and your experience.

Your employer should provide you with a proper induction to the workplace. This will explain your tasks, any safety concerns, and what to do in an emergency.

Learning is Key

Your work experience tasks should be designed to help you learn about the industry or job you're interested in. They shouldn't be a replacement for paid work – your main focus is learning, not productivity.

Your employer might provide you with additional training relevant to the tasks you'll be doing. This could involve learning how to use specific equipment or following specific procedures.

Respectful Environment

You have the right to a positive and supportive work experience. This means your employer should create a welcoming environment where you can ask questions and get feedback.

It's important to remember that discrimination of any kind (based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability) is not acceptable.

Working Hours and Breaks

The work experience program must follow the working hour restrictions for school students outlined in the Fair Work Act 2008. This ensures you don't work unreasonable hours. You should have access to toilets and drinking water throughout your placement. You'll also be entitled to take breaks as needed.

Reporting Issues

If you experience any incidents, injuries, or near misses during your work experience, there should be a system in place for reporting them to your employer or school.

Getting Paid (Optional)

Your employer isn't obligated to pay you for your work experience placement. However, some employers might choose to offer payment.

Confidentiality

Any personal information you share with your employer during your placement needs to be kept confidential.

Records of Your Experience

Your employer may be required to keep a record of your work experience. This might include details like your name, contact information, placement dates, and the tasks you undertook.

Remember, you also have responsibilities!

Be sure to:

• Follow your employer's instructions and complete your tasks to the best of your ability.
• Be respectful and professional towards your employer and colleagues.
• Dress appropriately for the workplace.
• Arrive on time and be reliable.
• Ask questions if you're unsure about anything.

By following these guidelines and understanding your rights and responsibilities, you can make the most of your work experience opportunity and gain valuable skills and knowledge for your future career path.