Code of Professional Conduct for Chartered Mathematics Teachers
1.Introduction
Mathematics teachers and all those involved in the advancement of mathematics teaching and learning have a major responsibility for conducting themselves in a manner which at all times reflects the highest possible levels of integrity, behaviour and professional expertise.
2. Scope of the code
This Code of Professional Conduct and Practice has been developed as a positive exemplification of the values and professional practice expected of those individuals holding the designation of Chartered Mathematics Teacher (CMathTeach) with particular reference to their work related to mathematics teaching and learning. It has been developed to complement similar codes to which such persons may be subjected. In particular all registered teachers in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are required to observe the codes of conduct and practice as determined by the relevant General Teaching Council or equivalent body.
It should be noted that none of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), the Association of Teachers of Mathematics (ATM), the Mathematical Association (MA) or the National Association for Numeracy and Mathematics in Colleges (NANAMIC) are employers with respect to the CMathTeach designation and therefore do not have a role in relation to workplace or employment disputes which are matters for trades unions and professional associations that take on such issues.
3. Code of professional conduct and practice
This code of professional conduct and practice sets out principal values, behaviour and practice that exemplify the highest standards expected of Chartered Mathematics Teachers.
Professional Values
Chartered Mathematics Teachers will:
- conduct their professional activities ethically and with integrity;
- show respect for others and oppose prejudice to safeguard equality of opportunity regardless of gender, marital status, religion, colour, race, ethnicity, class, sexual orientation, disability and age;
- act fairly and honestly in all situations and never engage in corrupt practices;
- be sensitive to the values, interests and opinions of other individuals, groups and the wider community;
Professional Behaviour
Chartered Mathematics Teachers will:
- when called upon to do so, make professional judgements and offer opinions that are based on evidence with due regard for objectivity, reliability and the limitations of their personal expertise;
- undertake and demonstrate their engagement with appropriate continuing professional development (CPD) in order to maintain and, where possible, enhance their professional expertise;
- work with and support their colleagues and others in order to provide the best possible outcomes.
- treat all information with the appropriate level of confidentially and act accordingly in relation to disclosure to others;
- endeavour to promote the interests of and maintain the dignity and welfare of the mathematics teaching profession.
Professional Practice
Chartered Mathematics Teachers will:
- use their professional skills, knowledge, understanding and judgement to the best of their ability at all times and endeavour to provide a model of good practice;
- undertake appropriate risk assessments and endeavour to ensure that all the necessary precautions are put in place so their professional activities do not adversely affect the health and safety of others or themselves, contravene any statutory regulations or result in damage to the environment;
- when working, especially with students, endeavour to set appropriate expectations in relation to achievements and behaviour;
- additionally when working with students not misrepresent or misuse their position as someone in authority.
Professional Responsibilities
The work of a Chartered Mathematics Teacher is undertaken in the context of the wider community and society which brings with it responsibilities that may extend beyond the day to day employment.
Legal requirements
Chartered Mathematics Teachers should:
- be aware of the general principles of law relating to their work including health and safety, personal negligence, discrimination and humans rights, child protection and data protection;
- maintain a broad and up to date understanding of regulations and requirements in their field of expertise;
- take responsible action in the event that they become aware of breaches of the law, regulations or requirements.
Communication with, and through, all forms of media
Chartered Mathematics Teachers should:
- act in a professional manner when dealing with the media in all its forms only commenting on matters which fall within their area of expertise and taking care to distinguish clearly between statements of fact and expressions of opinion;
- prepare teaching sessions and presentations thoroughly giving specific attention to written, digital and electronic publications and resources which should accurately and fully acknowledge all sources appropriately;
- adhere to the intellectual property laws of copyright.
Professional community
Chartered Mathematics Teachers should:
- promote their profession taking a thoughtful and positive attitude to their professional duties and those of their colleagues;
- support colleagues formally and informally in helping them to maintain their professional standing and expertise;
- engage with members of other professions, especially those which make substantial use of mathematics;
- not act in a manner which brings into disrepute, their professional organisation.
4. Other Professional activities
Chartered Mathematics Teachers are required to undertake a wide range of activities in their professional capacity either as individuals or as representatives of an organisation or institution. In addition to those areas indicated above other activities might include, acting as an expert witness, presenting evidence to a committee of enquiry or tribunal and providing advice. In all situations Chartered Mathematics Teachers, taking appropriate advice where necessary, should act in a manner which is in keeping with the high standards of the profession.