One of the hallmarks of a profession is adherence to publicly affirmed ethical standards. Over a period of four years the Victorian Institute of Teaching worked with teachers to fulfil one of its major legislative functions - 'to develop, maintain and promote a Code of Conduct for the teaching profession'.

The process involved the development of two codes - a Code of Ethics and a Code of Conduct.

The Code of Ethics

Following extensive consultation with the profession, the launch of the Victorian Teaching Profession Code of Ethics (PDF - 499 KB)  took place in September 2005. This is a short aspirational document, based on three values identified by teachers as underpinning their profession: integrity (personal and professional), respect and responsibility. It recognises the unique position of trust and influence that teachers hold, and how this shapes their relationships with students, parents/guardians/caregivers, colleagues and the community.

The Code of Conduct

Considerable further work took place with teachers, subsequent to the launch of the Code of Ethics, to develop a Code of Conduct.
A working party with representation from teachers, principals, employers, parents, unions and other education stakeholders was formed to steer the development of the Code.

Through numerous regional and metropolitan focus groups and school-based forums, teachers provided direct, detailed and valuable feedback. Consultations were also held with key organisational stakeholders.
All this informed the development of a Draft Code of Conduct which was released for further community consultation on 17 April 2007.

This statement, shaped by the values articulated in the Code of Ethics, codified what is already common practice within the teaching profession. It set out the standards of professional and personal conduct and professional competence the profession expects of its members.

Teachers and community members were invited to respond to the Draft Code through an online feedback form. Submissions closed on 8 June 2007 and the feedback was then collated by the working party. Schools were also encouraged to arrange for a member of the Institute's Professional Practice and Conduct Committee to discuss the Draft Code at a staff meeting. Many took advantage of this opportunity.

The publication of The Victorian Teaching Profession Code of Conduct is the culmination of this work.

Look at the annotated copy of Victorian Teaching Profession Code of Conduct .

Since the dissemination of the Code the Victorian Institute of Teaching has made a strong commitment to raising awareness of the Code amongst the profession and the community. Schools, pre-service institutions and parent bodies are encouraged to contact the Institute to arrange a briefing or a workshop provided by Institute staff.