Principles of Child Protection

CLEAR Education’s approach to child protection is based on:

• A primary concern for the welfare of children.

• A commitment to uniform national child protection laws.

• A precautionary approach in cases of uncertainty.

When in doubt, CLEAR Education will always prioritise child safety. If there is uncertainty regarding an applicant’s eligibility for membership (e.g., during the re-registration of a teacher), we will take a precautionary approach. Unless there are compelling reasons otherwise, the Board will not accept the applicant. In all cases, the Board will err on the side of child protection, placing the interests of children above those of the applicant.

Preferred Legislative Position

CLEAR Education advocates for a nationally cohesive child protection system. We support:

• A requirement for all tutors across all States and Territories to hold a current Working With Children Check (WWCC).

• A consistent national standard for WWCC screenings, ensuring they are valid and applicable across all Australian jurisdictions.

• The elimination of inconsistencies and the establishment of robust child protection laws in every State and Territory.

Child Protection in Tutoring

Child protection is a fundamental aspect of tutor training, awareness, and practice. CLEAR Education requires all tutors to adhere to the following standards:

Tutoring in Centres

• Tutoring should take place in rooms with windows, allowing visibility from the outside, or with the door open so sessions can be seen and heard.

• A tutor must never discipline a child in a closed-door environment.

• A tutor and student are not permitted to tutor in the centre alone unless written consent is provided from the parent and tutor. 

Tutoring Online

CLEAR Education members providing online tutoring services must clearly outline their child protection policies.

• Text-based online tutoring: A record of all communications must be maintained and made available to parents regularly or upon request.

• Video/Audio-based online tutoring & live-streamed sessions:

  • Tutors must ensure parents/guardians are aware of the nature of the interaction.

  • Safeguards, either through software or supervision, must be in place to ensure all interactions are appropriate, safe, and secure.

  • A parent or responsible adult should be within hearing range or able to observe each session.

Final Notes

CLEAR Education is committed to upholding the highest standards of child protection and ensuring a safe, transparent, and professional tutoring environment.