Safeguarding

Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

At Pacific American School (PAS), we are deeply committed to the safety and well-being of every child in our care. Our safeguarding policy ensures that all staff, volunteers, and members of our community share the responsibility to protect children and young people from harm, ensuring they thrive in a safe and supportive environment.

Our Commitment to Safeguarding

Child-Centered Approach

We prioritize the best interests of children, ensuring their voices are heard and respected.

Shared Responsibility

Every member of the school community, including staff, volunteers, and administrators, plays a critical role in safeguarding and protecting children from harm.

Comprehensive Policy

Our safeguarding policy complies with the legal requirements of Taiwanโ€™s Protection of Children and Youth Welfare and Rights Act and the Gender Equity Education Act.

Key Principles

  • Prevention: Creating a safe environment where children can learn and thrive.
  • Protection: Identifying and responding to any risks of harm or abuse.
  • Support: Providing appropriate care and assistance to children in need.

Types of Abuse We Address

Our staff is trained to identify and respond to various types of abuse, including:

  • Physical Abuse: Actions causing physical harm.
  • Sexual Abuse: Forcing or enticing a child into sexual activities.
  • Emotional Abuse: Persistent maltreatment affecting emotional well-being.
  • Neglect: Failure to meet a child’s basic physical or emotional needs.

We also address safeguarding concerns such as cyberbullying, domestic violence, child trafficking, sexual harassment, and more.

Roles and Responsibilities

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

The Guidance Counselor serves as the primary point of contact for all safeguarding concerns, supported by the School Nurse as the Deputy Safeguarding Lead.

Head of School:

The Head of School ensures policies are effectively implemented, reports incidents to the relevant authorities, and provides support to staff in handling concerns.

If you suspect abuse or neglect, all PAS staff members must immediately report to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). If unavailable, staff should inform the Academic Team or Student Life Officer, who will escalate the concern to the Head of School.

The Head of School or designated agent will contact the Department of Social Affairs or appropriate authorities within 24 hours, as required by Taiwan law.

  • Annual Training: All staff receive child protection training annually, and new staff are trained during their onboarding.
  • Confidentiality: Information about child protection cases is strictly shared on a need-to-know basis with relevant staff and authorities.
  • PAS collaborates with Taiwan’s Department of Social Affairs to ensure all cases of suspected abuse are handled appropriately.

    • Contact Information for Reporting:
      • Hsinchu County Department of Social Affairs: 03-5518101 ext. 3150
      • Women and Children Welfare Section

    For further information, please refer to Taiwan’s Protection of Children and Youth Welfare and Rights Act:
    Protection of Children and Youth Welfare and Rights Act