Volunteers

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Volunteer Onboarding Policy and Process

St Columban's College​​

Introduction

St Columban's College values the contributions of volunteers and is committed to ensuring a safe and welcoming environment in alignment with Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) policies. This onboarding process outlines the necessary steps for volunteers to engage with the College community while adhering to BCE guidelines.

Eligibility and Requirements

To be eligible to volunteer, individuals must:

  • Hold a valid Blue Card (for non-parent volunteers) or provide an Exemption Card where applicable.
  • Complete and to adhere to BCE's Student Protection Policy, Code of Conduct, and Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) requirements.

Data Collection and Privacy

The College collects your personal information before and during your engagement at the school.  Please take the time to read the Volunteer Collection Notice to understand this process

Application Process

Step 1: Expression of Interest

  • Prospective volunteers' express interest via the College's HR support officer by completing Volunteer Expression of interest form:  FORM. This form can be found on the College website under Community tab. This form needs to be completed to start the onboarding process.
  • Staff members will direct prospective Volunteers to the website to start onboarding process.
  • HR support officer will contact prospective volunteer with information regarding onboarding process and requirements as listed in this policy.

Step 2: Documentation requirements

  • Valid Blue Card – Volunteer/Paid Work/Exemption Card.
  • Volunteer site induction – details will be provided in onboarding process

Step 3: Screening and Approval

  • The College verifies documentation and ensures compliance with BCE requirement
  • Approval is granted by a St Columban's Leadership Team.

4. Training

Online Compliance Modules

Volunteers must attend a remote site induction annually to maintain volunteer status that will cover:

    • Child safety and student protection obligations.
    • Emergency and WHS procedures.
    • Expectations and responsibilities.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

Volunteers may engage in activities such as:

  • Assisting in classrooms, libraries, tuckshop, or extracurricular programs.
  • Supporting sports teams and school events.
  • Helping with administration or fundraising initiatives.
  • Practicum – educational placements

6. Conduct and Compliance

  • Volunteers must follow all BCE policies and procedures.
  • Any concerns regarding student safety must be reported immediately to the College's Student Protection Officers. These can be found in the HSW induction slides.
  • Volunteers should always respect confidentiality and professional boundaries.

7. Ongoing Engagement and Feedback

  • Please refer to the Volunteer Statement of Responsibility
  • Feedback and performance discussions will be conducted periodically to ensure alignment with College values and BCE standards.

8. Conclusion

Volunteers play a crucial role in fostering a supportive and enriching educational environment at St Columban's College. By following this onboarding process, volunteers contribute to the safety, well-being, and success of our students in accordance with BCE policies.​

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