To seek the views of the panel on a new Code of Conduct Policy (schools), so that the policy can be adopted by governing bodies in schools (maintained and voluntary-controlled). However, a recommendation will be made to voluntary aided and academy schools to adopt the same policy for consistency in Herefordshire’s schools.

The head of HR and organisation development and HR services manager presented the report.   It was noted that internal audit had recommended that there was a specific code of conduct for schools and that historically the schools code of conduct was based on a 2010 council policy.  

During the discussion, it was noted that:

·         there were minor typographical errors which would need to be corrected;

·         the welfare of students is paramount but the code should also encompass the welfare of staff.   The HR services manager agreed to include examples within the document;

·         under 5.6, the term “smart and professional attire” should be explicit;

·         under 5.6 the reference to male staff needed to be equitable to female staff.   The head of HR and organisation development explained that national guidance on dress code had been released recently and the statement would be removed.   The code would also be cross referenced to the guidance;

·         it would be difficult to restrict contact details.  To this end the panel suggested that the wording be re-considered to either never provide mobile numbers or only in exceptional circumstances.    The HR services manager agreed to look at revising the wording;

·         on page 31 of the agenda pack at 5.23, the HR services manager agreed to liaise with the schools to establish how much of a child’s safeguarding information is shared with teachers in order to see if the wording in the code could tie in more with schools safeguarding policies;

·         the policy is reviewed in 12 months’ time to check that it was being effective; and 

·         wording around parental responsibility would be included.   This was specifically aimed at the situation where the parent / carer of a child was a teacher at their school. 

Following a suggestion from a member of the committee, it was agreed that the members and role of the working group would be included within the document. 

Resolved

That subject to the amendments suggested above, the panel endorse the proposals to approve the code of conduct - schools.