The Catholic Education Service for England and Wales (CESEW) has welcomed the improvements to the General Teaching Council for England (GTCE) Code of Conduct and Practice for registered teachers, which will come into force in October 2009.  This followed a period of consultation on an earlier draft, about which CESEW raised concerns fearing that teachers could be required to act against their religious beliefs.

Oona Stannard, Chief Executive and Director of CESEW, noted that the GTCE had listened to and acted upon the recommendations made by the CESEW and other groups during the consultation process. “I welcome the fact that the Code reflects many of the values and good practices already lived out in our schools.  The revised Code combines a deep commitment to fair treatment and respect for all, coupled with recognition of the importance of religion for the many people of faith in this country.”

CESEW welcomes the revisions to Principle 4 of the Code, which relate to the teacher’s obligation to “Demonstrate respect for diversity and promote equality”.  We are pleased to see that teachers have a “responsibility for understanding and complying with school policies”.  This should help to ensure that teachers can feel confident in upholding the distinctive Catholic ethos and identity of our schools.

We have the greatest respect for the teaching profession and know that the requirement to act appropriately towards all children and young people, parents, carers and colleagues, whatever their background is one that is very widely observed but this re-emphasising of the dignity of the human person is timely and encouraging.

Oona Stannard