Safeguarding Children Microcredential Suite

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Microcredentials Overview:

The microcredentials are guided by international legal frameworks such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), as well as Australia's National Principles for Child Safe Organisations.

UNMC511:Ethics, Values, and Practices introduces the ethical foundations of safeguarding. Participants examine international treaties and explore the responsibilities of institutions in upholding children’s rights. The focus is on ethical leadership and empowering children, with an emphasis on developing policies that align with a rights-based approach.

UNMC512: Strengthening Institutional Responses for Abuse Prevention addresses institutional accountability. Drawing on insights from Australia’s Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, this microcredential explores how institutions have historically failed or succeeded in safeguarding. Participants learn how to implement trauma-informed, legally compliant, and preventative strategies that ensure child safety.

UNMC513: Professional Ethics in Working with Children examines the ethical dilemmas professionals face in child safeguarding. Issues such as balancing autonomy with mandatory reporting are explored. Participants engage with real-world ethical challenges, including confidentiality and decision-making in the context of adolescents' rights and safety.

UNMC514: Wellbeing and Social Support Practices focuses on welfare systems supporting vulnerable children, particularly those affected by family violence or mental health challenges. This microcredential emphasizes collaboration with external agencies such as healthcare providers, welfare services, and law enforcement to create comprehensive safeguarding strategies that promote children’s holistic wellbeing.

Legal and Policy Frameworks provides a detailed analysis of national and international child protection laws. Participants learn how to develop institutional policies that ensure legal compliance while promoting ethical standards for safeguarding children. This microcredential equips participants to navigate complex legal frameworks in their institutions.

Risk Management and Digital Environments focuses on managing risks in both physical and online environments. Participants learn to conduct risk assessments and develop management strategies for threats such as cyberbullying, grooming, and physical safety hazards in educational

and institutional settings. Special emphasis is placed on protecting vulnerable children, including those with disabilities, by implementing effective safeguarding practices.