The teaching profession has an expectation of high standards of ethical behaviour from its members. This Code of Conduct provides a formal framework of ideals designed to guide and encourage all teachers to achieve these high standards of ethical behaviour and professionalism acceptable to their students, families, colleagues and the broader community.
Members of the Council of Irish Sign Language Teachers are committed to the following values which underpin the profession:
The professional educator has a primary obligation to treat students with dignity and respect and all members must act with honesty and integrity.
We acknowledge that relationships with students and their families must be based on mutual respect, trust and, at all times acknowledging the contribution these qualities make to students’ wellbeing and learning.
We demonstrate honesty and trust by committing to student’s wellbeing, while having empathy for and developing rapport with students and their families. We are committed to giving priority to the education and welfare of all students in our care through the practice of positive influence and professional judgment.
We are committed to giving priority to the education and welfare of all students in our care.
The professional educator acknowledges the importance of knowing and upholding the procedures, policies, laws and regulations relevant to professional practice regardless of personal views.
Members have a duty to take responsibility and credit only for work actually performed or produced, and acknowledging the work and contributions made by others. It is recognised that proactive steps may need to be taken when having reason to believe that another educator may be approaching or involved in an ethically compromising situation.
The professional educator is committed to the highest levels of professional and ethical practice, including demonstration of the knowledge, skills and dispositions required for professional competence. It is expected that all teachers reflect upon and assess one’s professional skills, content knowledge, and competency on an ongoing basis; and committ to ongoing professional development, improving teaching and learning strategies.
The professional educator must assume responsibility and accountability for his or her performance and continually strive to demonstrate competence.
Members must be open to, and respond positively and constructively
to feedback regarding their practice and seek support, advice and guidance where necessary.
Professional educators shall exhibit consistent and equitable treatment of students, fellow educators and parents. They shall respect the civil rights of all and not discriminate on the basis of race, national or ethnic origin, culture, religion, sex or sexual orientation, marital status, age, political beliefs, socioeconomic status, membership of the Traveller Community, socio-economic status, disabling condition or vocational interest.
As a member of the Council of Irish Sign Language Teachers, any information obtained of a confidential and sensitive nature, the members are required to: –
(a) not divulge such information to any third party without the appropriate consent or unless you are compelled to do so by law;
(b) keep such information secure at all times;
(c) not make or retain copies of such information other than as required to carry out your duties as a member or appointee; and
(d) immediately notify the Board of the Council of Irish Sign Language if you become aware of any breach in confidentiality.
The professional educator promotes the health, safety and well being of students by establishing and maintaining appropriate verbal, physical, emotional and social boundaries.
Members of the Council of Irish Sing Language Teachers must work in a collaborative manner with colleagues and other professionals, and develop and maintain positive relationships with parents, guardians and carers.
All members must conduct their relationships with students professionally
and appropriately both in and out of the workplace.
Professional relationships with students, parents, and colleagues shall not be used to private advantage.
References
https://www.teachingcouncil.ie/en/
http://www.gtcs.org.uk/web/FILES/the-council/code-conduct-membership-scheme.pdf
http://www.qct.edu.au
https://educationcouncil.org.nz
https://wp.stolaf.edu/education/model-code-of-ethics-for-educators
https://rm.coe.int/vol-4-codes-of-conduct-for-teachers-in-europe-a-background-study/168074cc72
https://www.ewc.wales/site/index.php/en/fitness-to-practise/code-of-professional-conduct-and-practice-pdf/file.html