The sentencing this week of both Cardinal Pell and a former teacher at a Brisbane college have ensured that the media retain a high level of interest in student protection in Catholic schools. I spoke on ABC Radio Brisbane last week to address some of the concerns voiced by listeners who had been asked to call in to talk about what actions Catholic schools were taking in light of the developments in the court. 

This type of coverage is likely to continue for some time yet and local media are likely to try to make the story relevant to their audiences by attempting to make links to Catholic schools in their readership areas. 

Some of the key messages QCEC has conveyed as these stories have unfolded are:

• The safety and wellbeing of all students is the paramount concern of every Catholic school.
• Staff in Catholic schools undertake regular professional development in child protection issues.
• Our focus is on providing high-quality, affordable education for our students in a safe and supportive learning environment.

It is important that we are able to offer students, families, staff and the broader community reassurance that these issues are ones we take extremely seriously.