The Protective Behaviours Training held on May 3rd and 4th, 2024, at Athlone Corps in the Western Cape Division, was a gathering of delegates comprising of Officers, Local Officers, Children’s Ministry workers and some staff members from the Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Social Centres. Under the guidance of Captain Phumla Mashaba and Major Leanne Browski, and supported by the DDWM Captain Juanita Wright, the delegates engaged in two days of comprehensive training encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relating to protective behaviours.
The primary objective of the training was to equip participants with the necessary tools to teach children in Corps, schools and the wider community crucial personal safety skills. These skills are essential for safeguarding children and also contribute to reducing the widespread occurrence of violence and abuse. The curriculum covered various aspects of protective behaviours, providing attendees with valuable insights and techniques.
Feedback from the delegates reflected a sincere appreciation for the skills acquired during the training. They expressed gratitude for the practical knowledge that would enable them to better minister to children in their communities and ECD centers. A number of participants also noted that the training had an impact beyond their professional and ministry roles, as it also challenged, encouraged and empowered them in their own parenting journey.
