The Union of Professional Educators (UPE) has secured a critical win after flagging unauthorised physical restraint techniques being taught during de-escalation training at Guardian Angel Resource Centre. Contrary to initial plans, trainers included methods to physically restrain nonverbal students during tantrums—a practice the union swiftly challenged as “legally and ethically unacceptable.”

The UPE alerted the Director-General of the Ministry of Education after members reported concerning training sessions, attended by ministry policy officials drafting potential school SOPs. The Director-General clarified that the Ministry had not approved restraint techniques and confirmed they “will not be permitted” in schools.

Guardian Angel Resource Centres and similar facilities cater to vulnerable students, including those with sensory needs. The UPE emphasised that physical restraint risks legal and ethical repercussions if implemented. 

Therefore, the union is instructing its members to refrain from such techniques entirely. 

We remain vigilant to protect both educators and students.