Protection is everyone’s responsibility

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School protection is a shared responsibility. Everyone has a different role, but no role operates alone.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

What is your Role?
A protected school depends on people understanding their responsibilities, communicating clearly and acting together. Leadership, governance, classroom practice, learner support, family partnership and district support all contribute to stronger protection systems.
Principal

Leads the school’s protection systems and ensures that responsibilities, resources, implementation and accountability are clear.

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School Management Team

Coordinates implementation, supports staff and monitors protection practices across the school.

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Teachers

Create safe and supportive classrooms, identify concerns early, record action and follow the correct procedures.

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School-Based Support Team

Coordinates learner support, referrals, case review and follow-up, and connects the school with additional support.

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School Governing Body

Provides governance oversight, approves policy, supports resourcing and monitors whether school protection responsibilities are being fulfilled.

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Parents and Caregivers

Share relevant information, reinforce safe practices and work with the school to support learner wellbeing, participation and protection.

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District and DBST

Provide guidance, specialist support, monitoring and assistance with complex, referred or escalated matters.

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Protection works when responsibilities connect

No person or structure can create a protected school alone. Effective protection depends on clear responsibilities, timely communication, coordinated action and shared accountability across the school community.
Community organisations, health services, social services, SAPS and implementation partners provide additional expertise and support. Their work should strengthen, not replace, the responsibilities of the school and education system.
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Understand

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Know your role and your responsibilities.

Implement

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Carry out the actions required of your role.

Different roles carry different responsibilities

Evidence

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Keep records that show what has been done.

Improve

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Review your contribution and strengthen practice.
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Developed and managed by Pinnock Consulting, in collaboration with the Department of Basic Education and the Psychosocial Support Directorate.
© 2026 Pinnock Consulting. All rights reserved.
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