Staff Conduct

Our staff members must adhere to the Staff Behaviour Policy, a guiding document that outlines the expected conduct for both staff and volunteers. This policy aims to foster the highest standards of behaviour among our team. Our staff hold a position of trust and influence as role models for the children in their care. As such, staff are required to exhibit behaviour that serves as a positive example to all individuals using our setting. This responsibility for staff to uphold their reputation and the reputation of the setting extends beyond working hours.

 

Behaviour Guidelines:

• Our staff act as ambassadors for the setting and are expected to maintain a professional demeanour consistently.

• Staff should treat everyone attending the setting, including children, parents/carers, and visitors, with courtesy and respect.

• The use of offensive language and abusive behaviour is strictly prohibited within the setting. Instances of such behaviour will result in disciplinary actions as outlined in our policies and procedures.

 

Interactions with Colleagues:

• Foster collaborative relationships founded on trust, respect, and honesty.

• Encourage colleagues to uphold this code and take action in the presence of unethical behaviour.

• Recognise the unique strengths, professional backgrounds, and diversity that each colleague contributes to the workplace.

• Share knowledge, experiences, and resources to support a cohesive team.

 

Interactions with Parents:

• Approach parents in a friendly and approachable manner.

• Provide respectful advice and support to parents, including addressing challenging topics and referring to relevant services when necessary.

• Focus on the individual child's needs, avoid making comparisons, and uphold confidentiality.

• Intervene when witnessing discrimination or disempowerment of a child or parent by another professional.

• Ensure that discussions concerning children and parents remain confidential and are not held in their presence unless it's an open discussion where they can also contribute.

• Handle differences of opinion discreetly and away from children.

 

Use of Mobile Phones and Cameras:

• Personal mobile phones must be stored securely in the office during working hours.

• Urgent personal calls can be made using the Preschool phone or personal mobile in designated areas.

• Taking pictures of children on personal mobile phones and cameras is strictly prohibited.

 

Smoking, Alcohol, and Drugs:

• As per our smoking policy, smoking, including e-cigarettes, is prohibited on premises.

• Working under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs is strictly forbidden and will result in disciplinary action.

• Staff must inform the Manager if any medication might affect their performance, and prescribed medication should be kept safely out of children's reach.

 

Gross Misconduct:

• Gross misconduct, including child abuse, health and safety violations, violence, insubordination, harassment, substance use, theft, and fraud, will result in immediate dismissal.

• Allegations will be thoroughly investigated before any dismissal decision is made.

• For complete details, refer to the Staff Disciplinary Policy.

 

Staff members are required to review and sign the Staff Code of Conduct annually as a reminder of behaviour expectations. Above all, staff must prioritise the welfare of children and take appropriate steps when a child may be at risk.

 

CREATED: AUGUST 2023   NEXT REVIEW: AUGUST 2024