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Guidelines on Teachers’ Professional Conduct

Chapter 1: Foreword

Teaching is widely recognized as a noble and respected profession dedicated to imparting knowledge and nurturing the holistic development of students. Teachers not only educate but also act as role models, significantly influencing students' character, values, and attitudes through their conduct and knowledge. The mission of education involves not just the transmission of information but also the cultivation of values and nurturing of individuals to thrive in society.

High moral standards, along with professional competencies, are crucial for gaining trust and respect from society, which is essential for effective education. Recognizing this critical responsibility, the Education Bureau (EDB) formulated the Guidelines to establish robust professional conduct standards for teachers. These Guidelines emphasize the essential importance of self-discipline, ethical awareness, and a commitment to professionalism in order to foster an environment conducive to learning and growth.

These professional guidelines are informed by a variety of frameworks and established standards, ensuring that the rights and well-being of students are upheld while also maintaining the reputation and integrity of educators.

Chapter 2: Professional Conduct and Behaviour of Teachers: The Codes

This chapter highlights eight key codes of conduct for teachers that are vital in shaping their professional identity and guiding behaviour:

1. Uphold Professional Belief - Focus on cultivating both the moral and intellectual development of students.

2. Honour the Rule of Law - Be law-abiding, respecting national security, public interest, and the legal framework within which education operates.

3. Be a Role Model - Uphold high moral standards and demonstrate integrity, serving as an exemplar for students.

4. Uphold Probity and Integrity - Discharge duties impartially and truthfully, always acting in the best interest of students and the educational community.

5. Be Committed and Responsible - Take professional responsibilities seriously, constantly striving to provide high-quality education and support to students.

6. Care for Students - Respect the diversity of students and ensure the creation of a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.

7. Respect Privacy - Abide by confidentiality agreements and respect the personal data of students and colleagues alike.

8. Safeguard Professionalism - Engage in continuous professional development and uphold the established standards of teaching practice.

Chapter 3: Professional Conduct and Behaviour of Teachers: Codes Explained

This section expands on the dos and don’ts of the identified codes to ensure clarity in expected behaviours:

• Uphold Professional Belief

  • Dos: Encourage balanced development across cognitive and emotional domains while maintaining high educational aspirations for students.

  • Don’ts: Inculcate harmful notions or attitudes that undermine the integrity of the educational process.

• Honour the Rule of Law

  • Dos: Observe laws diligently and develop a thorough understanding of national symbols, responsibilities, and civic duties.

  • Don’ts: Participate in unlawful acts or promote messages that disrupt public order and education.

• Be a Role Model

  • Dos: Exhibit self-discipline, punctuality, and responsibility, setting exemplary standards for conduct and professionalism.

  • Don’ts: Engage in behaviours that could detract from a positive professional image and educational ethos.

Chapter 4: Professional Conduct and Behaviour of Teachers: Codes in Practice

Schools and educational institutions should reference these Guidelines for effective staff management and the structuring of professional development programs. Personal development must be closely tied to a thorough understanding of these Guidelines and their expectations for educators. The EDB will actively monitor misconduct complaints, implementing appropriate actions such as issuing warnings or rescinding teacher registrations when necessary. Conforming to the Guidelines is essential not only for individual teachers but also for the integrity and reputation of the school system as a whole.

Appendix 1: Teacher Competencies Framework

This appendix describes the necessary competencies required for effective teaching across several critical domains, including pedagogy, student development, and fostering professional relationships. Core values are identified as fundamental beliefs that predominantly focus on the commitment to and care for the well-being of students.

Appendix 2: T-standard+

Highlights the three professional roles of teachers:

• Caring Cultivators: Nurturing students’ emotional and intellectual capacities.

• Inspirational Co-Constructors: Collaborating with students to foster an engaging learning experience.

• Committed Role Models: Demonstrating ethical standards and professional conduct in all educational settings, showcasing their contributions to society.

Appendix 3: Education Ordinance

Details the legal foundations that allow for the regulation of teacher registrations, ensuring educators meet necessary qualifications and standards to practice effectively.

Appendix 4: Mechanism of Handling Suspected Professional Misconduct of Teachers

Outlines the procedural steps for investigating and addressing suspected misconduct among teachers, ensuring that educational standards are upheld and that a fair and transparent process is followed.

Appendix 5: Case Examples of Teachers’ Professional Misconduct

Presents real-life scenarios demonstrating breaches of conduct and outlines the EDB’s subsequent actions and penalties. This emphasizes the gravity of maintaining professionalism and integrity within educational environments, highlighting that breaches can lead to serious consequences for both educators and their institutions.