1. Identify and discuss the key requirements of the service/centre policies and legislations that relate to the performance of your work role and where/how to access same.
The key requirements of “Wakefield Early Learning Centre” policies are to provide a safe and healthy environment for our children, and to support them through their learning processes. As “Wakefield” is an early learning centre as well as a day care, helping them to learn basic early life lessons is needed.
In order to meet these key requirements there are certain things staff should know or be in the process of learning. A few of my personal requirements include: * Creating an environment where children are protected from harm, injury, illness or abuse. * Being aware of proper OH&S procedures. * Knowing all facts about the children’s diets and personal needs. This relates to giving feedback to parents/guardians as well as providing specific care for the child. * Being capable of identifying if a child looks unwell and the proper steps of taking care of the child till the parent/guardian arrives. * Knowing that all children are to be treated equally with a level of mutual respect.
The policies and procedures are located in a folder in the office at “Wakefield”. There are also policies written and placed on the walls of the centre, in areas where staff are able to read them whilst concentrating on the children.
2. What does “duty of care” mean? Give an example of how you fulfil your duty of care responsibilities.
“Duty of care” means being aware of the tasks and responsibilities you have as a child care worker. Being able to identify common risks to children’s health and safety and being able to control those risks. All carers have a “duty of care” to provide a safe environment for children in their care, and in doing so follow the guidelines of the centres policies and procedures.
I fulfil my duty of care