In 2019, Durban High School partnered with The Guardian to host the inaugural South African Schools Safeguarding Seminar, addressing the critical issue of sexual predators targeting children. Titled Breaking the Code of Silence, the seminar highlighted how predators exploit silence to evade justice, underscoring the need for schools to be equipped to challenge this secrecy. Winston Owen, Chairman of the Seminar Steering Committee, emphasised that breaking this code was essential for effective safeguarding.

The seminar proved highly successful, prompting requests for a follow-up event. However, plans were disrupted by the severe impact of COVID-19, civil unrest, and two major floods in KwaZulu-Natal.

Now, on 22 and 23 August 2024, the second seminar is set to take place. Titled Creating a Culture of Safeguarding, this event aims to equip and educate school management on addressing challenges ranging from harassment to abuse.

Dr. Marc Hardwick, CEO of The Guardian, noted that since the first seminar, significant advancements have been made internationally in safeguarding processes and protocols. These improvements, driven by international sporting bodies and local sports clubs, have been closely followed by The Guardian. “Our organisation has been deeply involved in these developments,” Dr. Hardwick explained, “allowing us to adapt these processes and protocols for the school environment.” Founded in 2009 by Dr. Hardwick, a former Detective Sergeant in the SAPS Child Protection Unit, The Guardian is a leading provider of proactive and reactive safeguarding services to schools and sports clubs.

The 2019 seminar aimed to encourage open discussions on safeguarding issues and to establish reporting measures within schools. As Owen noted, Breaking the Code of Silence marked a crucial step forward. “Without proper training, responses to safeguarding issues tend to be reactive, often involving denial or cover-ups. Being well-prepared enables schools to address issues openly, follow legal procedures, and ensure victims receive appropriate care and support.”

The upcoming Creating a Culture of Safeguarding in Your School Seminar will focus on the principle that “Prevention is better than cure.” Emphasising proactive safeguarding strategies, the seminar will support schools in building a robust culture of safety.