Help for non-English speakers
If you need help to understand this policy, please contact Donald Eddington, Principal. Non-English speakers can also access Google translate at the bottom of this web page.
As valuable partners in your child's wellbeing, learning and engagement at William Ruthven Primary School, we welcome and encourage your feedback. If you have any suggestions, comments or questions in relation to our policies and practices, please contact the Principal, Donald Eddington via email, donald.eddington@education.vic.gov.au.
The Department of Education and Training and William Ruthven Primary School do not have insurance for accidental injuries or accidental property damage. However, in some circumstances, medical or other expenses will be paid by the Department where it is assessed that it is likely, in all the circumstances, that the Department is liable for negligent acts or omissions of its staff or volunteers.
For more information about the Department’s public liability claims process, please see: Negligence Claims Process.
William Ruthven Primary School encourages parents and carers to consider obtaining their own accident insurance for students and property of value that may be brought to school.
Please also note our school’s Personal Property Policy.
Student medical expenses
Parents/carers are liable for all medical expenses incurred as a result of a student’s injury or medical need, including transport costs such as ambulance costs (this may include an air ambulance should that be considered necessary).
This applies unless the injury occurs as a result of a negligent act or omission on the part of the Department, its employees, servants or agents, in which case the Department will consider whether it is liable to reimburse the parents for expenses reasonably incurred.
William Ruthven Primary School advises parents/carers that they are responsible for any medical expenses (including ambulance costs) incurred if their child is injured or requires medical treatment or an ambulance while at school, or participating in a school activity. Parents/carers that they may not be called if an ambulance is required, until after an ambulance is called, depending on the situation. Principals must use their judgment as to what action to take in cases of a student’s accident or sudden illness.
Parents/carers are encouraged to have up-to-date ambulance cover and medical insurance.
For more information about the Department’s claims process for student medical expenses, please see: Claims for Property Damage and Medical Expenses.