The Territory Labor Government’s school-based police program – reinstated in 2018 after it was dumped by the chaotic CLP – has been resoundingly endorsed by schools, students and stakeholders.

The reinvigorated school-based policing model was introduced in 10 Northern Territory Government schools at the beginning of Term 4, 2018.

A review of the program was undertaken at the conclusion of Term 1, 2019 and released this week.

Among the findings, principals acknowledged the importance of proactive and preventative policing, and noted the positive relationships that had grown between the school-based officers, students, staff and parents.

Students reported positive impacts from the visibility of officers in the school yard.

Officers wearing their full accoutrements, as required by Northern Territory police protocol, has not been identified as an issue by any staff or students.

The report made four key recommendations around clarifying both the program and the school-based police officer’s role, updating a resource kit, and the provision of program-specific learning, which the Department of Education and NT Police will work to implement by the end of 2019.

The new school based policing model was designed in collaboration with the Department of Education and Council of Government School Organisations (COGSO) and the Northern Territory Police Force.

There were 10 central locations selected as regional hubs for the program. They are:

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Selena Uibo.

“The previous CLP Government not only scrapped this program, they slashed $135 million from the education budget and sacked teachers and support staff, showing how out of touch they are with the community.

“We heard that Territorians wanted this program reinstated. We listened and we acted.

“In the time it has been operating, students, staff, police, parents and caregivers have provided positive feedback about the program.

“This proactive model of policing in schools enables us to better identify at-risk kids, to re-engage them and set them on the right track to a bright future.”

Quotes attributable to Police, Fire and Emergency Services Minister, Nicole Manison.

“We want to ensure that the early encounters Territory children have with police officers are positive experiences.

“Unlike the CLP, who massively cut youth and education services, we are putting children at the centre of Government.

“School-based policing adds to the range of health, education, and child and family services this government is delivering to ensure our children have the best start in life.”

Quotes attributable to Dripstone Middle School Principal, Robyn Thorpe.

“We are thrilled to have our police officer back in school as a strong partner to help our students engage, grow and achieve.

“Our police officer has established positive relationships with our students, staff and community, so they can play a supportive and proactive role.

“Being on site means that they can provide intervention, education and support at the right time, with the right people, in the right context.”

Media contact: Kim Stephens 0417 683 144