Schools 

Incorporating self-protection training into your school's curriculum strongly conveys that your school prioritises students' safety and holistic development. It equips them with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves, make informed choices, and build respectful and healthy relationships. 

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There are compelling reasons why it is a school's responsibility to work towards implementing self-protection training in our schools. By doing so, we can help our students become confident, resilient, and empowered individuals better equipped to thrive in an increasingly complex world. 

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Identifying Red Flags:  Self-protection training equips students with the skills to recognise red flags in relationships and situations. This knowledge is essential for their safety, helping them make informed choices to avoid potentially harmful situations.

 

Preventing Interpersonal Abuse: Teaching students about personal boundaries, consent, and recognising abusive behaviour empowers them to prevent and report interpersonal abuse. By addressing these issues early, we can contribute to the safety and well-being of our students. 

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Setting Boundaries: Self-protection training emphasises the importance of setting and respecting personal boundaries. This fundamental life skill helps students build healthy relationships and assert themselves effectively in various contexts. 

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Verbal and Physical Skills: Besides recognising abusive behaviour, students need practical skills to protect themselves when necessary. Self-protection training provides students with the tools to de-escalate conflicts, communicate assertively, and, if needed, physically defend themselves from harm. 

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Confidence in Assertiveness: Learning to be assertive, not aggressive, is a valuable skill that fosters healthy communication. Self-protection training instils confidence in students, enabling them to express their needs, stand up for themselves, and navigate social interactions effectively. 

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Encouraging Open Dialogue: Integrating self-protection training into our curriculum encourages open discussions about these critical topics. It creates a safe space for students to ask questions, seek guidance, and share their concerns, reducing the stigma surrounding interpersonal abuse and self-protection. 

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Parental Support: As mentioned earlier, feedback from parents has been unanimous in their support for self-protection training. They understand these skills are essential for their children's safety and well-being, both within and outside school. 

 

Real-World Relevance: Self-protection training imparts skills applicable throughout a student's life. They provide invaluable tools for navigating challenges in adulthood, from safe dating to workplace dynamics and personal relationships. 

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Schools who have participated: St Aidan's Girls Grammer, St Joseph's OSCH, Belmont State High School, and Miriam Girls College (Philippines).