Child protection training in initial teacher training: a survey of provision in institutions of higher education

Summary

This paper reports a survey of child protection training offered to students on institution‐based initial teacher training courses for primary and secondary schools. The very high return rate from a postal questionnaire reflected provider interest and concern. The methodology is explained and results are described and analysed. Child protection training was provided on most courses but coverage was found to be varied in terms of length, timing, content and pedagogy. Respondents reported positively, in the main, on the likely effects of new requirements for teacher training but the more open‐ended reflective comments gave cause for concern about the possible effectiveness of such coverage as was provided.

Keywords:

• teacher
• training
• schools
• child
• protection
• abuse