Toolkit for schools on suspected cases of domestic violence

The Scholierenacademie at the University of Groningen is launching a toolkit on domestic violence, developed specifically for schools. The Scholierenacademie makes up-to-date scientific research accessible to teachers and pupils in primary and secondary education. They support researchers who wish to apply their knowledge in an impactful way within the education sector. The launch will take place on 10 November.

They support researchers who wish to apply their knowledge in an impactful way within the education sector. Through transdisciplinary and co-creative collaborations with local teachers, researchers, students and community partners, we are developing innovative teaching materials. This toolkit is the result of a unique collaboration between internal counsellors, teachers, school leaders, researchers and educational developers, who have pooled their knowledge and experience to support schools in addressing one of the most complex and sensitive issues in the school environment.

Why this toolkit?

Domestic violence is an under-reported problem that has a profound impact on pupils, their development and the school environment. With this toolkit, they aim to ensure that warning signs are recognised in good time, to make the subject open for discussion in the classroom and at school, and hope to provide schools with practical tools to strengthen safety and trust.

What does the toolkit offer?

· The toolkit contains practical, scientifically underpinned materials, developed and tested in real-world settings:

· An infographic providing an at-a-glance overview of the reporting code for domestic violence and child abuse.

· Case study cards featuring realistic scenarios, to stimulate understanding and discussion.

· Guidance for discussions with pupils, parents and colleagues.

· An overview of existing teaching materials.

· A recording of a lecture by Veroni and Carlijn on their research.

All materials are based on the most recent research by Veroni Eichelsheim and Carlijn van Baak, carried out at the Netherlands Institute for Crime Research and Law Enforcement (NSCR). In addition, Eichelsheim is a professor by special appointment at the University of Groningen, which has fostered this link between research and practice.

The research was funded by the Victim Support Fund (Fonds Slachtofferhulp).

Launch programme:

1 p.m. opening and presentation by Children’s Ombudsman Margrite Kalverboer.

1.45 p.m presentation by Veroni Eichelsheim and Carlijn van Baak.

2.15 p.m. break with coffee and tea

2.45 p.m. domestic violence and education across different generations, presented by Sient ‘t Mannetje and Marijke Schreurs-Dijkstra.

3.15 p.m. Philip Huff, author of books such as Een goed nest and Wat je van bloed weet, will speak about his own experiences of growing up in an unsafe environment. There will be an opportunity to purchase his books during the drinks reception.

3.45 p.m. Distribution of the toolkit to all attendees, with the chance to get started with it during the drinks reception.

4.45 p.m. Closing remarks by Veroni Eichelsheim, Carlijn van Baak and the Scholierenacademie.

_{This text was translated with Deepl}