The NASUWT's Ten Key Points on the Draft GTCE Code of Conduct and Practice

Print this page

In the NASUWT Consultation Response to the GTCE Draft Code of Conduct and Practice (MS Word 106KB), the Union:

1. stated that the draft Code of Conduct and Practice is a confused collection of values, opinions and exhortations. It is littered with pious statements and unrealistic expectations;
2. questioned the assertions made by the GTCE about claims of wide consultation with teachers, and questioned the nature of the propositions put before teachers in conducting that consultation and pointed out that all the responses to the consultation made by NASUWT members which the Union has had sight of were against the Code of Conduct and Practice;
3. criticised the minimalist reference to conduct within the Code of Conduct and Practice and the potential for the Code of Conduct and Practice to impinge on the private lives of teachers;
4. criticised yet another example of the GTCE for extending its activity beyond its remit and point out that there is little support for the GTCE to do so;
5. pointed out that the GTCE had failed to provide clear evidence about the use to which the existing Code of Conduct has been put or provide evidence of the need to revise, rather than scrap it;
6. called into question the perception that the GTCE has of its position and purpose and pointed out that it is not a body to provide representation for teachers, but rather as a teaching council it should recognise the limit of its role;
7. pointed out the ridiculous and disproportionate nature of the 9 core values and 64 conduct descriptors of 8 principles set out in the Code of Conduct and Practice for teachers to adhere to;
8. pointed out the already excessive accountability framework in place with which teachers must contend;
9. called for a withdrawal of the draft Code of Conduct and Practice, the production of evidence that revision or continuation of the existing Code of Conduct is necessary and consultation with teacher trades unions on the purpose and nature of the Code of Conduct and Practice;
10. called for a cost benefit analysis and impact assessment of the effect of the revision on disciplinary and capability casework conducted by the GTCE.
    

The NASUWT Position Statement - The GTCE Code of Conduct and Practice outlines the Union's policy position in full.

Have your say! Sign the Petition to the GTCE (new window) and join the NASUWT Members’ Forum Discussion on the GTCE Code of Conduct and Practice (new window).