Professionalism towards Colleagues and Parents

As a registered teacher:

4.1 You should work in a collegiate and co-operative manner with colleagues and members of other relevant professions

4.2 You must treat all colleagues fairly and with respect, without unlawful discrimination.

4.3 You should not make malicious or unfounded criticisms of or accusations about colleagues that may undermine them professionally or in the professional judgements they make

4.4 You should promote good relationships between home and school, respecting the role of parents and guardians in the education of their children.

Commentary

Colleagues

Everyone in the workplace should be able to work in an environment which is free from discrimination and harassment.

A teacher should work in a collegiate way, treating all colleagues professionally.

As a teacher you should:

• Not allow professional relationships with colleagues to be prejudiced by views about their lifestyle, culture, disability, beliefs, colour, gender, language, sexuality or age
• Avoid undermining a colleague by remarks which are or could be perceived as being malicious, unfounded or unprofessional. This is of particular importance when in contact with parents or pupils
• Guard against inappropriate workplace banter or practical jokes, which are or could be perceived as being behaviour of an unprofessional, discriminatory or harassing nature
• Be aware of and comply with your employer's dignity at work policies and guidelines

Parents and Guardians

Success in the education of a child or young people relies to some extent upon the involvement of their parents or key adults in their lives.

Parents should be seen as vital partners in a child's learning and therefore as a teacher you should:

• Engage and work positively with parents in an open and respectful way, not prejudiced by views about their lifestyle, culture, disability, beliefs, colour, gender, language, sexuality or age
• Be professional in dealings with parents and avoid making comments, being drawn into inappropriate discussions or divulging confidential information about other pupils, colleagues or the school
• Appreciate that a parental meeting is a two-way process and as such you should listen to and take into account the views expressed
  

Back to the Draft Code of Professionalism and Conduct.