Maple Leaf Education Group has developed this policy handbook with guidance and materials from international safeguarding frameworks, including those from the Council of International Schools (CIS), Amnesty International, the Japan Council of International Schools (JCIS), and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). We are grateful for the contributions of global educators and child protection specialists, who have helped us establish a robust child protection framework to ensure the safety and well-being of all students at Maple Leaf Education Group.

Introduction

All schools today face increasing concern over child abuse and neglect, which violate children’s fundamental human rights and severely hinder their development. Schools play a vital role in providing a safe environment for children to learn, grow, and thrive. In international schools, this responsibility is amplified due to the unique vulnerabilities faced by globally mobile families and expatriate communities.

At Maple Leaf Education Group, every staff member—regardless of role—has a professional, ethical, and legal responsibility to report all suspected cases of child abuse or neglect. Our policies and practices reflect our commitment to proactive, timely, and appropriate responses to such concerns.

Cases of suspected abuse will be addressed following our outlined procedures. The Child Protection Leader/Head of School may report cases to relevant local authorities, child protection services, embassies, or international child welfare organizations, depending on the situation.

Maple Leaf Education Group is committed to embedding child protection into all aspects of school life. This includes:

• Annual distribution of the policy to all staff and parents
• Clear communication of key messages to students in an age-appropriate manner
• Annual training for all faculty, administrative, and support staff
• Careful attention to student well-being across all areas of the school

Safer Hiring Practices

Staff involved in the recruitment of new teachers and employees have all undertaken child protection training as well as training in the recruitment process. This ensures that every individual who joins our school community shares our dedication to creating a safe and secure environment for every child.

As part of our commitment to safeguarding, Maple Leaf Education Group implements rigorous recruitment procedures, including:

• Requiring multiple reference checks
• Reviewing employment history for gaps
• Requiring signed agreements to uphold the school’s safeguarding principles
• Interview questions designed to assess attitudes and experience related to child safety

Definitions of Abuse

Psychological/Emotional Abuse

Involves manipulation or emotional harm through verbal, non-verbal, or behavioral actions. May stem from parents, staff, or peers.

Physical Abuse

Non-accidental harm (e.g., bruises, burns, hitting). Includes excessive discipline, forced exercise, or physical intimidation.

Indicators of Physical Abuse:

• Unexplained injuries or inconsistent explanations
• Burns or patterned marks
• Fear of certain individuals or places

Neglect

Failure to meet basic needs: food, shelter, medical care, supervision, and emotional support.

Indicators of Neglect:

• Inappropriate clothing or hygiene
• Chronic hunger or fatigue
• Parents are unresponsive to school communication
• Frequent absences or reluctance to go home

Sexual Abuse

Involves engaging a child in sexual activity, including exploitation and manipulation. Perpetrators are often known to the child.

Indicators of Sexual Abuse:

• Knowledge of or interest in sexual behaviors inappropriate for age
• Avoidance of certain adults or settings
• Sudden changes in behavior or academic performance

Reporting Procedures

All suspected cases of abuse must be reported immediately to the Child Protection Leader or, if unavailable, the Head of School. Staff must document concerns clearly, objectively, and confidentially using the school's internal reporting form.

All staff are trained annually in recognizing and reporting concerns using our internal safeguarding protocol.

A response team—led by the Child Protection Leader and Head of School—will:

• Conduct preliminary fact-finding
• Consult with the appropriate internal staff
• Seek professional legal/safeguarding advice if needed
• Organize meetings with students and/or families
• Make referrals to relevant external agencies (e.g., Child Guidance Center or local authorities)

Mandatory Reporting Policy

All school employees are mandated reporters. If a staff member suspects abuse, they must report it within 24 hours to the Child Protection Leader. Confidentiality is maintained at all stages. Reporting to external authorities is handled by the Head of School or a designated senior leader.

Ongoing Support

• Continued monitoring of affected students
• Regular updates to relevant staff
• Coordination with outside counsellors, therapists, and agencies
• Securing records in confidential student files

Final Notes

This policy is reviewed annually in light of updates from international safeguarding organizations, changes in Japanese law, and school community needs.

One principle remains constant: all school employees must report suspected abuse or neglect within 24 hours.

Maple Leaf Education Group remains firmly committed to ensuring the physical, emotional, and psychological safety of every student under our care.