Safety policies and protocol for instructors engaged by Government schools and agencies.

Response to parliamentary question on the impact of Singapore Sports School’s review of their safety policies and protocol, on instructors engaged by Government schools and agencies.

Written PQ 5209. Ms See Jinli Jean: To ask the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) whether instructors engaged by Government schools and agencies will be held to the Sports School’s updated safety policies and protocols; and (b) if so, what steps will the Ministry take to (i) ensure such instructors know the expectations and obligations (ii) guide a fair division of responsibilities and liabilities between main and sub-vendors (iii) assist freelance instructors to address the cost of liability coverage and (iv) ensure organisers take ownership and accountability for safety protocols when engaging contractors.

1. MOE has safety policies and processes in place to guide schools to conduct Co-Curricular Activities safely. The Singapore Sports School (SSP) is a Specialised Independent School that focuses on developing aspiring national athletes in pursuit of their sporting and academic aspirations. Its safety policies and procedures are therefore tailored to the specific context and needs of the student-athletes in SSP.

2. As detailed in my reply to Parliamentary Question 5309 on 6 November 2023, SSP is working with MCCY on a thorough review of the school’s safety policies and protocols, to identify areas for further improvement. SSP aims to complete the review by the end of the year but will also progressively implement any improvements when ready. Any changes in SSP’s safety policies and processes will be communicated to SSP’s internal and external stakeholders, including its employed coaches, staff and vendors.