Prohibiting Corporal Punishment in Schools

Summary: Corporal punishment violates children’s right to respect for their human dignity and physical integrity, and their right to health, development and education, and research shows that its use in schools can impede learning and contribute to school drop-out. A safe, respectful school environment benefits students, teachers and the wider community. Transforming school culture to ensure children are protected from corporal punishment starts with law reform. This booklet answers common questions about prohibiting corporal punishment in schools and clarifies some of the key issues involved. It forms part of a series of booklets, which also includes a booklet answering common questions about prohibiting corporal punishment in the home, and a booklet aimed at children and young people.