Child abuse allegations against teacher aide being investigated

A learning support assistant from a Tuggeranong school is under investigation over allegations of child abuse or misconduct towards children.

In response to questions based on information provided to The Canberra Times, a spokesman from the ACT Education Directorate confirmed it had received an allegation of reportable conduct regarding a casual learning support assistant.

"The allegation has been reported to external bodies such as the Ombudsman and will be fully investigated," the spokesman said.

"The staff member will not be rostered at any ACT public school until the outcome of the investigation is known.

"As this matter is currently under investigation, the directorate cannot provide any further information."

The ACT government's Professional Standards Unit has also been notified.

Under the Reportable Conduct Scheme organisations, including all schools, childcare services and religious bodies, are required to report allegations of child abuse or misconduct to the ACT Ombudsman.

Reportable conduct can include ill-treatment of a child such as emotional abuse or use of force, neglect, psychological harm, sexual misconduct or sexual offences, inappropriate discipline or not protecting children from harm.

Organisations must report allegations against any employee or volunteer to the Ombudsman within 30 days of becoming aware of the allegation or conviction.

A spokesperson for the ACT Ombudsman confirmed the office had recently received notification from the ACT Education Directorate as per the requirements of the scheme.

Learning support assistants are employed to facilitate learning programs for students with disabilities, however they are not required to be qualified teachers.

"Learning support assistants are required to hold Working With Vulnerable People checks, but are not required to have any mandatory qualifications," the Education Directorate spokesman said.

The directorate is required to submit a report to the Ombudsman at the conclusion of the investigation.

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The ACT Education Directorate is investigating allegations raised against a learning support assistant. Picture: Shutterstock