Integrity in Practice
Code of Conduct and Standard of Practice: There are four principals covered by the code, they are Integrity and impartiality, Promoting the public good, commitment to the system of government and accountability and transparency. It is my responsibility as a teacher to understand the code and abide by it in all aspects.
Professional Boundaries: Having professional boundaries means being professional and ethical, keeping my personal life separate from my professional duties, both in person and on social media. Ensuring that all dealings with students and other staff is always of a professional nature.
Appropriate communications (social media/electronic communication): Never have students as friends on social media, never interact with students on social media. Never post material that is not in good keeping as a Professional teacher in-line with department guidelines. Keep personal and private life separate from Professional life. All electronic communication should be done so with Principal approval for educational purposes only.
Conflict of Interest: A conflict of interest may arise, however the way it is managed is the important aspect. All aspects or dealings should be transparent and always in the best interests of the public. If in doubt that there is a conflict, declare it.
Information management and security: Management of Information must be in-line with department policies. Always log out of computers when not in attendance. Always ensure that any correspondence is appropriate and sent to the correct person. Never disclose any personal information, regarding students or other staff. Only look at personal information for educational purposes only, not out of curiosity.
Gifts and benefits: If a gift or benefit is received, these should be declared to the school Principal. If a gift is offered or given, understanding the intention for the gift giving, before deciding to accept it, and also what would be the public perception of receiving the gift. If in doubt consult the principal.
Ethical decision making: When making decisions, ensure that I have the authority to make the decision in an appropriate timeframe. Is there a procedure for the decision making, if so then follow it. How will my actions stand up to public scrutiny? Ensure that all decisions are made with these questions in mind.
Mandatory reporting: If a suspected breach of code of conduct is witnessed, it should be reported. If not reported, obligations of mandatory reporting has not been met, it is always best to report any such incidences.
The Benefits and uses of OneSchool
OneSchool allows me to use class dashboard to have on hand information relating to students currently in the class. This allows me to see specific students information, such as ICP’s, absences, behaviour, etc. having this information on hand will allow me to ensure that my planning includes differentiation for those students who require it
The use of academic data that is held within OneSchool will allow me to make diagnostic decisions on the class and individual students, to enable effective planning and teaching. OneSchool will allow me to create reports that can be used to identify information relating to Naplan, previous years assessments and behavioural information, which can all be used to make appropriate decisions relating to strategies to allow for optimal teaching and learning.
Professional Engagement – Department of Education
Working for the department of education offers a variety of roles throughout the state, including roles in regional and remote areas. There are many benefits to teacher in these areas such as financial incentives, relocation costs and additional entitlements. The department also offers a wide range of support, wellbeing and mentoring for beginning teachers. These are available as online learning or can be delivered in a face to face environment.
Applications to teach in Queensland require applications to both the Queensland College of Teachers, as well as the Queensland Education Department via teach QLD. Regional HR will advocate for beginning teachers and assist with finding suitable locations for employment. Additionally to working in a static school there is the opportunity to work as a relief teacher through TRACER, an application is also required.
Teaching in Queensland offers many and varied opportunities for beginning teachers across a wide variety of areas, which includes regional and remote areas, correctional centres etc.
Career Readiness – Queensland College of Teachers
The College of Queensland Teachers has three main functions, being teacher registration, upholding of standards and conduct of teachers and ongoing professional development of teachers. As a beginning teacher knowing where to go for registration is vital, as I need to be registered before being able to apply for any roles within Queensland Education system. Also knowing what is required of me to move from a provisional registration to full registration is important.
The second function of QCT, Standards and Conduct is something that I take very seriously, it is important to know what is required as a Professional teacher, ensuring that I am always conducting myself at the utmost of highest standards. This aligns with ongoing professional development, where the QCT monitors the requirements for teachers, and ensures that these levels of met. Knowing what the QCT does and how I fit into this, is very important, as being a registered teacher is the first step to working in the Profession.
