Monday, 31 January 2005

Finally A Code Of Ethics – To Do What?

The first task of the Teachers’ Council is finally complete – a code of ethics to which all teachers must comply has been introduced - but Bernie Ogilvy, United Future’s education spokesperson, questions what will it achieve.

“At long, long last, the Code of Ethics has been introduced to the teaching community. But despite the delay and spending over $100,000 on it, all it provides is a series of aspirational goals,” he said today.

“This is a wasted opportunity. It is a piece of meaningless mumbo-jumbo.”

Mr Ogilvy said teachers have spoken to him, questioning whether the Code of Ethics will make one iota of difference to teachers in their classrooms.

“Our teachers already know this stuff,” agreed Mr Ogilvy.

“The Teachers’ Council could have been the pre-eminent body for on-going teacher education and peer support.

“What we need is a credible watchdog for teaching standards. Beginning teachers are especially vulnerable.

“Currently there is no assessment of a beginning teacher’s competence and after they begin, only limited support is available.”

United Future will ensure that all beginning teachers are closely supervised and supported for a minimum of three years. This is what the Teachers’ Council should be doing,” said Mr Ogilvy.

ENDS

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