Purpose of the Code of Conduct

The National Society for Education, Mentoring and Media (NSEMM) is dedicated to providing exceptional educational services in a safe, supportive environment. This comprehensive Code of Conduct is a cornerstone of our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and safeguarding in education.

Scope and Application

This Code applies to all tutors engaged with NSEMM, regardless of their employment status, duration of service, or the specific educational program they are involved in. It covers all interactions with students, in-person or online, and extends to professional conduct outside direct tutoring sessions.

Core Principles

The following principles underpin this Code:

• The paramount importance of student safety and welfare
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting student well-being
• Professional integrity and accountability
• Transparency and openness in all professional activities
• A proactive approach to identifying and addressing concerns

Alignment with Regulatory Frameworks

This Code aligns with and incorporates guidance from:

• Guidance for Safer Working Practice (2022) by the Safer Recruitment Consortium
• Keeping Children Safe in Education (latest version) by the Department for Education
• Relevant sections of the Sexual Offences Act 2003
• Skills & Post-16 Education Act 2022
• Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR requirements

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Breaches of this Code may result in:

• Formal warnings
• Suspension of tutoring privileges
• Termination of engagement with NSEMM
• Referral to relevant professional bodies or authorities
• Legal action, where applicable

Responsibilities

Safeguarding Duties

Tutors must:

• Thoroughly familiarise themselves with NSEMM’s Safeguarding Policy
• Complete mandatory safeguarding training annually
• Be vigilant for signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Report all safeguarding concerns immediately, following NSEMM’s reporting procedures
• Understand the concept of ‘position of trust’ and never abuse this position

Recognising Signs of Harm:

Tutors should be alert to indicators including, but not limited to:

• Unexplained injuries or inconsistent explanations
• Changes in behaviour or emotional state
• Poor hygiene or inappropriate clothing
• Frequent absences or lateness
• Reluctance to go home or be with specific individuals

Professional Conduct

Tutors are expected to:

• Maintain high standards of personal and professional conduct at all times
• Act as positive role models for students
• Treat all students with respect, dignity, and fairness
• Avoid any form of discriminatory behaviour or language
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries with students and their families

Professional Development:

• Engage in ongoing professional development activities.
• Keep abreast of developments in their subject area and educational practices
• Reflect on and improve their tutoring practices regularly

Ethical Practices

Tutors must:

• Provide honest and accurate information about their qualifications and experience
• Maintain integrity in assessment and reporting of student progress
• Avoid conflicts of interest that could compromise their professional judgment
• Respect intellectual property rights and avoid plagiarism in teaching materials

Legal Compliance

Tutors are required to:

• Adhere to all relevant laws and regulations
• Understand and comply with the Skills & Post-16 Education Act 2022, particularly regarding prohibiting “cheating services”, including essay mills and generative text engines like Chat GPT or Google Gemini.
• Maintain appropriate records in compliance with data protection laws

Malpractice and Maladministration

Defining Malpractice

Malpractice refers to any deliberate action or practice that undermines the integrity of educational services. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Breaching assessment regulations
• Falsifying records or certificates
• Plagiarism or assisting student plagiarism
• Impersonation in assessments
• Discriminatory behaviour towards students or colleagues

Defining Maladministration

Maladministration encompasses unintentional practices that result in non-compliance with regulations or poor administration. Examples include:

• Persistent mistakes in handling assessments
• Failure to maintain appropriate records
• Breaches of confidentiality
• Insufficient support or guidance provided to students

Reporting and Investigation Procedures

All suspected cases of malpractice or maladministration must be reported to the NSEMM Compliance Manager immediately.

The Compliance Manager will:

• Acknowledge receipt of the report within two working days
• Initiate an investigation within five working days
• Ensure all relevant evidence is collected and preserved
• Conduct interviews with relevant parties as necessary
• Prepare a detailed report of findings and recommendations

Sanctions for confirmed cases may include:

• Written warnings
• Mandatory additional training
• Suspension from tutoring duties
• Termination of engagement with NSEMM
• Referral to relevant authorities or professional bodies

Making Professional Judgments

Decision-Making Framework

When faced with situations not explicitly covered by this Code, tutors should:

• Consider the best interests of the student as the primary concern
• Assess whether actions are warranted, proportionate, and equitable
• Consult with the DSL when in doubt
• Document the rationale for decisions made

Conflict Resolution

In cases of disagreement or conflict:

• Attempt to resolve issues through open and respectful dialogue
• Follow NSEMM’s formal grievance procedures if necessary
• Maintain professionalism and avoid discussing conflicts with students

Power Dynamics and Authority

Tutors must recognise and responsibly manage the inherent power imbalance between themselves and students by:

• Never exploiting their position for personal gain or gratification
• Avoiding favouritism or unfair treatment of students
• Always maintaining clear professional boundaries

Specific prohibitions:

• Engaging in any form of sexual relationship with students, regardless of age
• Using position to access confidential information unnecessarily
• Intimidating or coercing students in any way

It is not uncommon for students to develop strong attractions, “crushes”, or infatuations towards their tutors. Tutors must ensure their behaviour remains beyond reproach and does not encourage such feelings, being mindful of the potential for misinterpretation of their actions or words.

If a tutor notices, hears about or receives any indication, no matter how minor, that a student may be infatuated with them, they should promptly report this to our DSL. Early reporting allows for appropriate intervention, preventing escalation and avoiding potential hurt, embarrassment, or distress for those involved.

Confidentiality

Handling of Sensitive Information

Tutors must:

• Treat all student information as confidential
• Store and transmit confidential information securely
• Only access student records necessary for their role
• Never discuss student information in public spaces or with unauthorised individuals

Exceptions to confidentiality:

• When required by law
• When there is a risk of harm to the student or others
• With explicit consent from the student or parent/guardian

Data Protection Compliance

Tutors must adhere to the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR by:

• Understanding the principles of data protection
• Only collecting necessary personal data
• Ensuring data accuracy and keeping it up to date
• Retaining data only for as long as necessary
• Securely disposing of data when no longer needed

Reporting data breaches:
Any actual or suspected data breaches must be reported immediately to NSEMM’s Data Protection Officer.

Safeguarding Disclosures

If a student discloses information related to abuse or neglect:

• Listen without promising absolute confidentiality
• Record the disclosure accurately and promptly
• Report the information to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) immediately
• Do not investigate the matter independently

Working with Vulnerable Children

Definition and Recognition

• Understand the definition of ‘vulnerable children’ per the Children Act 2004 and subsequent legislation.
• Recognise that vulnerability can arise from various factors, including disability, special educational needs, mental health issues, family circumstances, and social aspects.

Special Considerations

• Adapt communication and teaching styles to meet the needs of vulnerable students.
• Be aware of and sensitive to individual education plans (IEPs) or education, health and care (EHC) plans
• Maintain heightened awareness of safeguarding responsibilities when working with vulnerable children.
• Understand the increased risk of exploitation or abuse that vulnerable children may face.

Collaboration with Schools and Other Agencies

• Work closely with school staff to ensure continuity of support for vulnerable students.
• Participate in multi-agency meetings when requested and appropriate
• Share relevant information with authorised personnel to support the well-being of vulnerable students

In-Person Tutoring in Schools

School Policies and Procedures

• Familiarise yourself with and adhere to the specific policies and procedures of each school you work in
• Sign in and out of school premises according to school protocols
• Wear any required identification badges while on school grounds

Physical Contact and Proximity

• Always maintain appropriate physical boundaries with students
• Avoid one-to-one situations in isolated areas; conduct tutoring in visible, open spaces
• Be aware of and follow school-specific guidelines on physical contact with students

Integration with School Staff

• Establish professional working relationships with school teachers and support staff.
• Align tutoring goals and methods with the school’s curriculum and teaching approaches.
• Regularly communicate student progress to designated school contacts

Online Safety for Vulnerable Students

Enhanced Online Safeguarding

• Implement additional monitoring and safeguards for online sessions with vulnerable students.
• Be vigilant for signs of online grooming, exploitation, or abuse
• Understand how specific vulnerabilities may manifest in online behaviour

Accessibility and Inclusion

• Ensure online platforms and materials are accessible to students with various needs.
• Provide alternative formats of learning materials when necessary
• Be prepared to adapt teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles and needs

Parental/Carer Involvement

• Encourage appropriate involvement of parents/carers in online sessions for vulnerable students.
• Provide clear guidelines to parents/carers about their role in supporting online learning.
• Maintain open communication with parents/carers while respecting student confidentiality.

Reporting and Documentation

Enhanced Reporting Requirements

• Maintain detailed records of all interactions with vulnerable students
• Document any concerns, however minor, and report them promptly
• Be familiar with school-specific reporting procedures for safeguarding concerns

Confidentiality and Information Sharing

• Understand the balance between confidentiality and the need to share information to protect vulnerable children.
• Follow NSEMM and school guidelines on information sharing with other professionals.

Training and Support

Specialised Training

• Undertake additional training specific to working with vulnerable children
• Participate in regular updates on safeguarding practices for vulnerable students
• Engage in training on specific vulnerabilities (e.g., autism awareness, mental health first aid)

Support for Tutors

• Access supervision and support when working with particularly challenging cases
• Utilise NSEMM’s resources for managing personal well-being and avoiding burnout
• Seek guidance when unsure about how to handle situations involving vulnerable students

Standards of Behaviour

Professional Appearance and Conduct

Dress Code:

• Maintain a clean, neat, and professional appearance
• Avoid clothing with offensive or inappropriate messages
• Dress modestly and appropriately for the educational setting
• Adhere to any specific dress requirements for practical subjects

Personal Conduct:

• Always use appropriate language, avoiding profanity or offensive terms
• Maintain composure and professionalism, even in challenging situations
• Demonstrate respect for diverse cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles
• Avoid public criticism of NSEMM, colleagues, or students

Relationships with Students

Maintaining Boundaries:

• Keep relationships with students strictly professional
• Avoid physical contact with students unless necessary for safety or instruction
• Do not meet with students outside of approved tutoring sessions
• Refrain from sharing personal problems or intimate details with students

Social Media and Online Interactions:

• Do not connect with students on personal social media accounts
• Use only NSEMM-approved platforms for online communication with students
• Maintain professional language and content in all online interactions
• Be aware that online actions can have real-world consequences

Gifts and Favors

Accepting Gifts:

• Small tokens of appreciation may be accepted if infrequent and of nominal value
• Decline any gift that could be perceived as a bribe or could create an obligation
• Report all gifts to NSEMM management, regardless of value

Giving Gifts:

• Do not give personal gifts to students
• Any rewards or incentives should be part of an approved educational program
• Ensure equal treatment of all students in reward systems

Substance Use and Impairment

Tutors must:

• Never be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs while tutoring
• Inform NSEMM if taking medication that could affect job performance
• Report any concerns about colleague substance use to management

Communication with Students

Appropriate Communication Channels

Tutors should:

• Use only NSEMM-approved communication platforms
• Maintain records of all significant communications with students
• Include parents/guardians in communications when appropriate
• Avoid using personal phone numbers or email addresses for student contact

Content of Communications:

• Keep all communications professional and related to educational matters
• Avoid personal topics or overly familiar language
• Be aware of tone and how messages might be interpreted
• Use clear, unambiguous language to minimise misunderstandings

Digital Communication Etiquette

When using digital platforms, tutors should:

• Respond to messages within a reasonable timeframe
• Use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation
• Be mindful of the permanence of digital communications
• Avoid using all capital letters, which can be perceived as shouting

Handling Inappropriate Communications

If a student sends inappropriate messages, tutors must:

• Not responding to inappropriate content
• Inform the student that the communication is inappropriate
• Report the incident to NSEMM management
• Keep a record of the communication and actions taken

Use of Technology for Online/Virtual Tutoring

Technical Requirements

Tutors must:

• Use devices that meet NSEMM’s minimum technical specifications
• Ensure a stable internet connection for online sessions
• Be proficient in using the required software and platforms
• Regularly update software and security measures

Online Session Environment

During online tutoring sessions:

• Conduct sessions from a quiet, professional-looking space
• Ensure the background is neutral and free from personal items
• Have adequate lighting to be visible
• Wear appropriate attire as if teaching in person

Privacy and Security:

• Use a private, secure location for tutoring sessions
• Ensure no other individuals can overhear or view the session
• Do not conduct sessions in public spaces or while travelling

Online Safety and Etiquette

Tutors are responsible for:

• Monitoring and managing student behaviour in online spaces
• Reporting any concerning online behaviour or content
• Teaching and modelling good digital citizenship
• Being aware of and following online safety guidelines

Specific prohibitions:

• Recording sessions without explicit permission from NSEMM and the student/parent
• Sharing session links or access information with unauthorised individuals
• Using personal social media during tutoring sessions

Handling Technical Issues

In case of technical difficulties:

• Have a backup plan for continuing the session (e.g., a phone call)
• Know how to access NSEMM’s technical support
• Document and report persistent technical issues
• Be prepared to reschedule if matters cannot be resolved promptly

Quality Assurance and Reviews

Lesson Observations

Tutors should expect:

• Regular observations of their tutoring sessions
• Constructive feedback on their performance
• Opportunities to discuss observations and set improvement goals
• Additional support or training if areas for development are identified

Observation process:

• Tutors will be notified in advance of scheduled observations
• Observations may be conducted live or through recorded sessions
• Multiple aspects of tutoring will be assessed, including content knowledge, teaching strategies, and student engagement
• Tutors have the right to provide context or explanations for observed sessions

Student Feedback and Surveys

NSEMM will regularly collect feedback from students, which may include:

• End-of-session satisfaction surveys
• Periodic comprehensive evaluations
• Informal feedback mechanisms

Tutors should:

• Encourage honest feedback from students
• Be open to constructive criticism
• Use feedback to inform and improve their practice

Performance Reviews

Formal performance reviews will be conducted:

• At least annually for all tutors
• More frequently for new tutors or those on improvement plans

Reviews will consider the following:

• Observation results
• Student feedback and progress
• Compliance with this Code of Conduct and other NSEMM policies
• Professional development activities undertaken

Continuous Improvement

Tutors are expected to:

• Reflect on their practice regularly
• Seek opportunities for professional growth
• Stay informed about developments in their subject area and education generally
• Contribute to the improvement of NSEMM’s services through feedback and suggestions

Legal Framework and Compliance

Relevant Legislation

Tutors must be aware of and comply with all relevant legislation, including but not limited to:

• Education Act 2011
• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
• Equality Act 2010
• Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR
• Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988
• Skills and Post-16 Education Act 2022

Mandatory Reporting

Tutors are required to report:

• Any suspicion or disclosure of abuse or neglect
• Concerns about radicalisation or extremism (Prevent duty)
• Instances of female genital mutilation (FGM)

Reporting procedures:

• Familiarise yourself with NSEMM’s reporting mechanisms
• Report concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead
• Follow up verbal reports with written documentation within 24 hours

Intellectual Property and Copyright

Tutors must:

• Respect copyright laws when using or creating educational materials
• Understand that NSEMM may own materials created as part of their work for NSEMM
• Seek permission before using copyrighted materials in tutoring sessions
• Properly attribute sources of information and materials used

Professional Indemnity

NSEMM provides professional indemnity insurance for tutors, which:

• Covers tutors for claims arising from their professional activities for NSEMM
• It does not cover wilful misconduct or criminal acts
• Requires tutors to report any potential claims promptly

Compliance Monitoring

NSEMM will:

• Regularly audit compliance with this Code and relevant legislation
• Provide updates and training on compliance matters
• Take appropriate action in cases of non-compliance

By adhering to this Code of Conduct, tutors create a safe, professional, and effective learning environment for all students engaged with NSEMM. Each tutor is responsible for familiarising themselves with this Code and upholding its principles in all aspects of their work.