However, the current ban in place in Samoa is not being fully implemented, thereby increasing the risk and prevalence of family violence. Whilst not strictly falling within the ToR of the Inquiry, corporal punishment in schools nonetheless has the potential to impact on the prevalence of family violence more generally. The inter-connected nature of violence, and the critical role teachers play in the development of the young, means that allowing corporal punishment in schools substantially increases the risk of a variety of negative societal outcomes ranging from increased family violence, to increased murder rates, decreased health, increased prison population and more. It is tempting to revert to corporal punishment when faced with seemingly growing misbehavior among children but that is to misunderstand the impact of such actions. Rather than preventing further bad behaviour it increases prevalence of that type of behaviour along with other negative consequences, including increased family violence. It is therefore essential that Samoa does not regress in this area as it would be a substantial step backwards in addressing the prevalence of family violence. Furthermore, it appears there is still work to do in ensuring the current prohibition is fully implemented. The appropriate curriculum content is half of the battle in educating children to enable them to live peaceful, non-violent lives. The other half of the battle is having the right teachers to deliver it. “A concern for the introduction of an appropriate school curriculum on family safety is the skills of the teacher to deliver it.” Samoa Family Safety Study, 2017, Inquiry document 46 The Inquiry has found that despite the ban on corporal punishment, there have been cases in the media of teachers reverting to physical and verbal abuse in the name of discipline.30 Regardless of how good a school curriculum on family safety is, it will not be effective in achieving its goals if students are being taught by example that violence is okay by their teachers. There is no doubt that the use of corporal punishment in schools is detrimental to the development of the child, teaches violence as an answer and increases risk behaviours that lead to family violence or being the victim of such acts. The Inquiry wholeheartedly agrees with the sentiments expressed during the process that ‘reintroduction of corporal punishment in schools is a step backwards’ 31 and ‘internationally it would make us look bad’.32 Therefore, extensive work needs to be undertaken to enable teachers to undertake their role in a manner which does not resort to physical or verbal violence towards children. Without teachers who can teach in 30 Samoa Observer. “Judge Alalatoa warns teachers.” (10 November 2017). Retrieved from http://www.samoaobserver.ws/en/10_11_2017/local/26516/Judge-Alalatoa-warns-teachers.htm. See also, Radio NZ. “Teacher in Samoa beaten on response to alleged corporal punishment.” (1 August 2006). Retrieved from https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/309889/teacher-in-samoa-beaten-in-response-to-alleged-corporalpunishment. 31 Young Women’s Christian Association, Inquiry Submission. Document 27 Inquiry anthology. 32 Justice Vui Clarence Nelson, testimony delivered during Inquiry public hearings.