Report Published July 2021
The South Australian Commissioner for Children and Young People is a new independent position, established under the Children and Young People (Oversight and Advocacy Bodies) Act 2016 (“the Act”). This legislation was introduced by the South Australian Parliament in response to Recommendation 245 of the Child Protection Systems Royal Commission. The purpose was to create a statutory officer with powers and functions to advocate at a systemic level, to improve the wellbeing of children and young people in SA.
The Act sets out the Commissioners role including her responsibility to promote and advocate for the rights and interests of all children and young people in SA, and to promote the participation of children and young people in the making of decisions that affect their lives. The Act specifically requires the Commissioner to engage those groups of children and young people whose ability to make their views known is limited for any reason. This direct engagement with children and young people in seeking their views on policy process and practice is at the core of a child rights based approach. When their voices and views are amplified and supported by adults who value their participation then we can ensure that the development and wellbeing of SA children is a community priority.
The Commissioner for Children and Young people has released a report titled Supporting Student Voice, Agency and Wellbeing in Schools. The content of this significant report aligns with our commitment to our community that every student at Woodville High School are:
- known
- valued
- have a voice, and
- see the value in what they are learning (on P.3 of the Report)
The development of a Wellbeing Hub and Wellbeing Handbook, establishment of a Student Engagement and Community Wellbeing Committee, commitment to Restorative Justice, the review of the Student Leadership Structure, Review and innovation of our Curriculum all are our commitment to creating an inclusive community where every child thrives.
A copy of this PDF report is available by clicking on the pdf below