STANDARD 1: POLICY

1.1 Commitment to Child Protection

E-SCHOOL EDUCATIONAL GROUP recognizes that the protection of children is of the utmost importance and constitutes a non-negotiable priority in every activity, project, or service involving individuals under the age of 18. The organization is committed to developing and implementing policies and mechanisms that prevent, detect, and address any form of threat to the physical, mental, or moral integrity of children. This commitment extends to digital and online environments, ensuring that minors participate in safe, protected, and supervised activities, with full respect for their privacy and digital safety.

1.2 Scope of Application

This policy applies to all individuals affiliated with the organization, whether through employment, collaboration, volunteering, or the provision of external services. It also includes any third parties involved in the organization’s activities that include children, either in person or virtually.

1.3 Definitions

For the purposes of this policy, a “child” is defined as any person under the age of 18. “Abuse” refers to acts or omissions that may harm a child’s physical health, mental well-being, emotional stability, or safety. The main forms of abuse include physical, sexual, emotional abuse, and the neglect of a child’s basic needs.

1.4 Fundamental Principles

This policy is founded on fundamental principles that define the organization’s operational framework:

• The best interest of the child is the primary consideration in every decision or action.
• All children have the right to safety, respect, and equal treatment without discrimination.
• A zero-tolerance approach is adopted toward any form of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
• Any information related to child protection is managed with strict confidentiality and in accordance with data protection regulations.

 

STANDARD 2: PEOPLE

2.1 Recruitment and Screening of Personnel

The organization applies strict recruitment and partnership procedures to ensure that only suitable individuals interact with children. This includes:

• Mandatory submission of a criminal record certificate for candidates working or collaborating in activities involving children.
• Conducting interviews and reference checks to assess the candidate’s suitability.
• Requiring a signed declaration of acceptance of the child protection policy before commencing duties.

2.2 Training and Awareness

The organization provides systematic and continuous training to staff, collaborators, and volunteers on:

• Child protection principles and mechanisms
• Recognition of signs of abuse or neglect
• Reporting procedures and preventive responsibilities Additionally, a culture of awareness is fostered where children themselves, using age-appropriate methods, are informed about their rights and how to seek help.

2.3 Code of Conduct

Anyone interacting with children must adhere to specific ethical and professional standards. Specifically:

• A respectful, safe environment that fosters children’s self-esteem must be created.
• All forms of physical or verbal punishment, threats, or degrading behavior are strictly prohibited.
• All interactions with children must be transparent, involve another adult where possible, and avoid personal/private communication (e.g., social media, private messages).
• Physical contact must always be appropriate and respectful of personal boundaries.

 

STANDARD 3: PROCEDURES

3.1 Managing Reports

The organization has a clearly defined and accessible process for reporting and managing incidents related to possible abuse or violations of children’s rights. Key principles include:

• Immediate reporting of any incident or suspicion to the Child Protection Officer.
• Accurate, objective, and confidential documentation of the incident.
• Assessment of the severity and, where necessary, referral to the competent authorities (prosecutor, police, social services).

3.2 Child Protection Officer

A specially trained individual is appointed to oversee policy implementation, receive and handle reports, and support or train staff

3.3 Collaboration with Parents and Authorities

The organization maintains open and transparent communication with parents or guardians, providing information about the child protection policy. It also develops cooperative relationships with the relevant authorities to ensure timely and effective incident management.

3.4 Digital Safety of Children

The organization recognizes the risks children may face when participating in digital or online activities and commits to implementing digital safeguarding measures. Key actions include:

• Use of safe, supervised digital platforms for any activity involving minors.
• Obtaining explicit written consent from parents/guardians before children’s participation in online activities, data collection, or use of images/videos.
• Restricting access to platforms to authorized educators with defined roles and controlled communication.
• No direct personal communication between educators and children via private email or social media.
• Enhancing children’s digital literacy through simple, age-appropriate guidance on safe internet use and reporting abusive behavior. The organization collaborates with parents, staff, and, where possible, children themselves to foster a digital environment that respects their privacy and rights.

3.5 Use of Children’s Images and Videos

The organization recognizes that the use of photographs, videos, or other audiovisual material involving minors must be managed with utmost respect for their privacy, dignity, and rights. Therefore:

• Explicit written consent from the parent or guardian is required before any recording or use of a child’s image/video.
• Material is used exclusively for the purposes outlined in the consent form (e.g., educational use, project reporting, organizational website).
• Children must not be identified (e.g., full name) alongside their image/video unless explicit permission has been given.
• Content is stored securely and deleted responsibly when no longer needed.
• Parents/guardians may withdraw their consent at any time, and the material will be promptly removed. Staff are trained on the responsible use of images and videos in accordance with child protection standards and personal data legislation.

 

STANDARD 4: ACCOUNTABILITY

4.1 Monitoring and Review

The implementation of this policy is regularly monitored to ensure its effectiveness. The policy is reviewed at least every two years or earlier if legal requirements change or a need arises. All updates are communicated to staff and published publicly for transparency.

4.2 Accountability Mechanisms The organization maintains mechanisms to uphold the integrity of the policy:

• Maintaining records of complaints and actions taken
• Consulting periodic internal audits
• Providing a mechanism for submitting complaints by anyone, including children, regarding breaches of the policy