One school’s response to school stalkers in wake of reports of attempted child abductions

TEACHERS and police are urging students to be alert and walk to and from school in groups following three reports of possible child abduction attempts. Here is what one school is telling its students:

Caroline Green (Principal, Reynella East College) in front of Reynella East College. There was an attempted abduction of a school student at the College, one of three in the southern suburbs in the past fortnight. 19/02/16 Picture: Stephen Laffer

TEACHERS and police are urging students to be alert and walk to and from school in groups following three reports of possible child abduction attempts in the past fortnight.

In the latest incident, a man and women beckoned to a Seaview Downs Primary Reception student to approach their car during school recess on Monday, February 15.

The girl was stopped by three older girls playing nearby.

The man and women sped away in a white sedan.

Police have stressed no offences have taken place, but they, along with schools, are taking the reports seriously.

Police are investigating two other incidents involving students from Reynella East College and Wirreanda Secondary School.

REYNELLA East College principal Caroline Green said the school was working closely with police after a man reportedly attempted to lure a Year 6 girl away from the Malbeck Drive school on Monday, February 8.

“Our key message (to students) is never go anywhere with someone you don’t know and make a fuss if someone tries to lure you into a situation that is dangerous or doesn’t feel right,” Ms Green said.

Education Department child development director Trish Strachan said parents played an important role in reinforcing “stranger danger” messages.

“It’s important for parents also to revisit school drop-off and pick-up arrangements with their children, for example, only go home from school with mum, dad or grandparents,” Ms Strachan said.

South Coast Police Superintendent Ian Parrott said southern suburbs schools were notified of the three incidents as a precaution.

He did not believe the incidents were linked.

He said police would liaise with schools to reinforce safety messages and officers would patrol schools and surrounding areas during pick-up and drop-off times.

“All students have the right to be and feel safe,” Supt Parrott said.

“It is important, no matter what their age or circumstances, that they discuss with their parents strategies on staying safe.

“Be aware of your surroundings. If someone in a car stops and speaks to you, do not stop but continue walking.

“If possible, walk with other students.”

Reynella Primary School principal Steve Freeman wrote to parents to say staff would speak to students about keeping safe.

“We are making you aware as well so that you may take whatever preventive action you deem appropriate for your children,” Mr Freeman wrote.

Several reports have also circulated on social media about a white Toyota HiAce van acting suspiciously around schools.

Supt Parrott was aware of the social media reports, but said there was no new information to suggest a need for heightened concerns.

He encouraged the public to immediately report any suspicious behaviour around schools and record information that could help an investigation, such as people’s descriptions and car details.

NINE TIPS TO SHARE WITH YOUR KIDS

LET someone know where you are going and the time you will return

BE alert, walk confidently and keep to well-lit and populated areas

WALK against the flow of traffic and, if possible, walk with another person

DO not accept a ride with strangers

BE aware of your surroundings and know where you are at all times

ONLY use one earphone, so you can still hear your surroundings

BE wary if a car stops and asks you for directions. Keep a safe distance

IF you feel unsafe go to a well-populated area or a safe place

TRUST your instincts, if you feel unsafe move and be prepared to call for help

People can call the police assistance line on 131 444.