The MacKillop Institute, part of MacKillop Family Services, delivers evidence-based programs that support organisations and schools to improve the lives of children and young people — and strengthen the capacity and wellbeing of the frontline staff who care for them. MacKillop Family Services, founded in 1997, is grounded in a deep commitment to social justice and a vision to build safe, nurturing communities for all children and families. Inspired by our founders’ mission, a 170-year legacy, and more than 2,500 staff across 53 sites nationally we provide high-quality services in family support, out-of-home care, disability and education, including operating our own schools and outreach programs. We have a strong focus on preventing harm and promoting healing. Established in 2019, The MacKillop Institute draws on our over three decades of frontline experience, the expertise and practice of our staff and academic input from university partnerships. This real-world foundation from thousands of staff working across organisations, care, schools, clinical and outreach settings, combined with robust evidence-base and evaluations has led to the development of our trauma-informed professional learning programs, training and consultancy services. This includes our models ReLATE and Power to Kids, that embed sustainable, impactful approaches that foster safety, healing, and well-being.
The Power to Kids (PTK) program is a child safeguarding and sexual safety professional learning program for school staff by MacKillop. It is designed to support staff to better keep children and young people safe, especially in schools and care settings. It teaches adults (teachers, carers, and staff) how to prevent and respond to issues like harmful behaviour, exploitation, and unsafe relationships.
The program focuses on:
- building students’ understanding of respectful relationships and safety
- helping adults have open, “brave conversations” with children
- encouraging early identification of risks and quick support when problems arise
- In schools, PTK helps create safe, supportive environments where students feel confident speaking up
Program cost per day: $500
