Code of Conduct

  1. Purpose

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to establish clear expectations for behaviour and interactions between tutors and students whilst conducting tutoring as part of Tutoring4All. This policy is designed to ensure that all tutoring sessions are safe, respectful, and focused on the academic and personal growth of students. The guidelines are designed to meet or exceed the standards and best practices outlined by the New South Wales (NSW) Department of Education and other relevant bodies.

  1. Scope

This policy applies to all tutors, students, and other individuals associated with the tutoring service, including parents or guardians when applicable. It covers both in-person and online tutoring interactions, including any communication outside of the tutoring sessions such as emails, phone calls, or messaging.

  1. General Principles

Tutors and students are expected to:

  • Treat each other with respect and dignity.
  • Foster an inclusive environment that is free from discrimination, harassment, and bullying.
  • Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
  • Prioritise academic integrity and the best interests of the students in all activities related to the tutoring process.
  1. Tutor Responsibilities

Tutors must:

  • Professional Conduct: Be punctual, prepared, and organised for each tutoring session. Ensure the content of the tutoring aligns with the relevant curriculum and meets the needs of the student.
  • Appropriate Dress: Must ensure that appropriate clothing and garments are worn to maintain a neat appearance including facial hair and any other hair styles. Casual clothing is acceptable, to be worn in a clean manner. Please confirm with clients when entering their home if they have specific requirements about footwear being worn or left at the door.
  • Confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality regarding any personal information shared by students, their families, or any other party unless there is a risk of harm to the student or others. Tutors are required to comply with privacy legislation, including the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the NSW Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998.
  • Respect and Fairness: Provide equitable and non-discriminatory tutoring services to all students, regardless of their race, gender, disability, or socio-economic background.
  • Professional Boundaries: Maintain appropriate boundaries in all interactions with students. Tutors must avoid any form of inappropriate or intimate communication.
  • Academic Integrity: Tutors should promote a culture of academic honesty, guiding students to complete their own work without engaging in plagiarism or cheating.
  1. Student Responsibilities

Students must:

  • Respectful Behavior: Behave respectfully and courteously toward tutors, other students, and anyone involved in the tutoring process. Disruptive or disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated.
  • Punctuality and Preparation: Arrive on time for tutoring sessions and come prepared with materials or questions that need attention. If unable to attend, notify the tutor in advance and please note the terms of the Cancellation Policy.
  • Academic Integrity: Complete assignments and assessments honestly. Do not request tutors to do assignments or exams for them. Engage in independent learning and practice.
  • Open Communication: Actively participate in the tutoring process and inform the tutor if there are any difficulties understanding the material or if there is something that is affecting learning (e.g., personal issues, learning challenges).
  1. Prohibited Behaviours

The following behaviours are prohibited:

  • Harassment and Bullying: Any form of bullying, harassment, discrimination, or intimidation based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected characteristic is unacceptable.
  • Inappropriate Physical Contact or Behaviour: Tutors and students must avoid any form of inappropriate physical contact, including physical punishment or aggressive behaviour.
  • Substance Use: The use of alcohol, drugs, or any other illicit substances is strictly prohibited in the tutoring environment.
  • Sharing Personal Information: Tutors and students must not share personal information that could compromise their privacy or security.
  1. Conflict Resolution

In case of conflicts or disputes:

  • Step 1: The tutor should raise the issue with Tutoring4All management ([email protected] or 0490 423 713).
  • Step 2: Tutoring4All management will liaise with the tutor and the student/family to resolve the issue
  • Step 3: If the conflict involves serious allegations, a formal investigation may be conducted, and the appropriate action may be taken as per NSW regulations.
  1. Reporting Violations

Any breaches of this Code of Conduct should be reported to Tutoring4All management.  Reports may be made by students, parents, or tutors and will be treated seriously and confidentially.

  • Reporting Mechanism: A clear, confidential mechanism will be provided to students and tutors for reporting any concerns related to conduct or safety. This may include anonymous reporting options.
  1. Consequences for Breaching the Code

Violation of the Code of Conduct may result in the following consequences, depending on the severity of the breach:

  • Verbal or written warnings
  • Suspension or termination of tutoring services
  • Legal action in cases of serious misconduct
  1. Review and Evaluation

This Code of Conduct will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant and compliant with NSW legislation and educational standards. Feedback from tutors, students, and parents will be considered during the review process.

  1. Compliance with Relevant Laws and Standards

This Code of Conduct aligns with relevant legislation and standards in New South Wales, including:

  • NSW Anti-Discrimination Act 1977
  • Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012
  • Privacy Act 1988 (Cth)
  • NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) Guidelines
  1. Acknowledgment

All tutors will be required to sign an acknowledgment form indicating that they have read, understood, and agreed to abide by the Code of Conduct.

End of Policy

This Code of Conduct ensures that all tutoring sessions are conducted with professionalism and respect, promoting a safe and effective learning environment for students in compliance with the NSW standards.

Effective Date

12th Jan 2025

Review Date

12th Jan 2026