From the 1st of August 2024, a Code of Conduct for teachers (the Code) will come into operation. The Code will apply to all South Australian registered teachers and special authorisation holders (SATs).
The Code is overarching. It sets standards of the regulator, supports employer guidance and codes, and conforms with the adopted Protective Practices Guidelines.
In alignment with the operation, administration and enforcement of the Teachers Registration and Standards Act 2004, the welfare, best interests and safety of children and young people remain the paramount focus of the Code.
The Code was developed under best practice guidance, including reference to UNESCO guidelines and is informed by South Australian wide consultation that has taken place since July 2021. The Code is two years in the making and reflects the views of a broad cross-section of the South Australian community.
The Codes’ aim is to promote the high standards of the teaching profession, support teachers in their work as they navigate an increasingly complex work setting, and to support preservice teachers to understand the profession they are about to join. It equally applies to SAT holders.
The Code sets best practice professional standards for teachers and SAT holders, regardless of work setting and employer – from children taught in long day care settings through to kindergarten, primary and secondary education (birth to 18 years or older).
The Code effectively directs teacher and SAT holders’ attention to standards of professional conduct in four key relationships or pillars:
- Teachers, learners and families;
- Teachers in the community;
- Teachers and their colleagues;
- Regulatory and reporting obligations of the teacher.
The Code also highlights professional expectations when joining and working in the teaching profession. The Code aims high, which was a priority the teaching community communicated to the Board throughout consultation.
While not all state and territory teacher regulatory authorities have such a code, after an amendment to legislation in July 2021, the Teachers Registration Board of South Australia made it a priority to develop the South Australian Code in consultation with the community, noting that many other professions aspire to and comply with similar codes.
Presiding Member, Carolyn Grantskalns, herself a teacher, noted that “the Code is an important part of both supporting teachers and recognising excellence as they comply with the professional expectations clearly set out. The small minority of teachers unable to comply with the code will continue to be the focus of action by the Board recognising that a breach of the code could result in swift regulatory action, including urgent suspensions, conditions imposed, or indeed teacher registration being cancelled.”
A comprehensive Guideline to support the Code of Conduct has also been developed by the Teachers Registration Board, to promote understanding and use of the Code with examples using real-life scenarios in various education settings.
In addition, the Code of Ethics has been reviewed and refreshed in line with these new documents.
You can view the documents using the links below.
