South African Educators' Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct for Educators

• Educators acknowledge the noble calling of their profession to educate and train learners in South Africa.
• They acknowledge that their attitude, dedication, self-discipline, ideals, training, and conduct determine the quality of education in the country.
• Educators commit to upholding and promoting basic human rights as embodied in the Constitution of South Africa.

Conduct: Educator and Learner

• Educators respect learners' dignity, beliefs, and constitutional rights, including the right to privacy and confidentiality.
• They acknowledge learners' uniqueness, individuality, and specific needs, guiding and encouraging each to realize their potentialities.
• Educators strive to enable learners to develop values consistent with the fundamental rights contained in the Constitution of South Africa.
• They exercise authority with compassion, avoid humiliation, and refrain from abuse, physical or psychological.
• Educators promote gender equality and refrain from improper physical contact, sexual harassment, and sexual relationships with learners.

Conduct: Educator and Parent

• Educators recognize parents as partners in education and promote a harmonious relationship with them.
• They refrain from offering bribes to parents and keep them informed about learners' well-being and progress.

Conduct: Educator and Community

• Educators recognize that educational institutions serve the community and acknowledge differing customs, codes, and beliefs.
• They conduct themselves in a manner that respects the community's values, customs, and norms.

Conduct: Educator and Colleagues

• Educators refrain from undermining colleagues' status and authority and respect their responsibilities.
• They promote gender equality, refrain from sexual harassment, and use appropriate language and behavior in interactions with colleagues.
• Educators address issues of professional incompetence or misbehavior through proper procedures.

Conduct: Educator and the Profession

• Educators acknowledge that their professional duties require cooperation with and support of colleagues.
• They behave in a way that enhances the dignity and status of the teaching profession and avoids bringing it into disrepute.
• Educators keep abreast of developments in their field to maintain their professional competence.

Test your knowledge of the code that guides educators in South Africa. Understand their role in upholding human rights and promoting quality education. Reflect on the ideals and conduct expected of educators in the country.