Pathfinder Teacher & Volunteer Behaviour and Conduct Policy

Purpose: This policy outlines the expected behaviour, professional standards, safeguarding responsibilities, and conduct required from all teachers and volunteers supporting the Pathfinder Programme. All leaders, teachers, assistants, and volunteers must read and agree to this policy before participating in any activities.

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1. Professional Conduct

• Always act as a positive role model to children, young people, and other volunteers.
• Treat everyone with respect, kindness, and fairness.
• Use appropriate and respectful language at all times.
• Avoid behaviour that may be perceived as aggressive, dismissive, discriminatory, or unprofessional.
• Follow Pathfinder rules, schedules, safety procedures, and leadership instructions.
• Dress modestly and appropriately for activities and interactions with children.

2. Safeguarding Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children is the top priority.
• Never be alone one-on-one with a child; always follow the two-adult rule.
• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the Safeguarding Coordinator.
• Never engage in physical punishment, shouting, or intimidation of any kind.
• Only take photos or videos of children if permission has been granted by parents/guardians and Pathfinder leadership.

3. Appropriate Boundaries

• Maintain clear, professional boundaries at all times.
• Do not form exclusive or inappropriate relationships with children or parents.
• Avoid any behaviour that could be misinterpreted as favouritism.
• Do not engage in rough play, tickling, intimate physical contact, or any physical contact not necessary for safety.

4. Behaviour During Activities

• Follow the programme plan provided by Pathfinder leadership.
• Ensure activities are safe, inclusive, and age-appropriate.
• Encourage teamwork, cooperation, and positive behaviour among children.
• Use calm, positive behaviour management strategies.
• Avoid embarrassing, shaming, or belittling any child or volunteer.

5. Attendance and Commitment

• Arrive on time and be prepared for duties.
• Notify leaders as early as possible if you will be late or absent.
• Complete all required training including safeguarding, health & safety, and programme orientation.
• Participate fully in briefings, debriefings, and planning meetings.

6. Health, Safety, and Emergency Procedures

• Ensure all equipment, locations, and activities are checked for safety before use.
• Follow first-aid and emergency protocols exactly as instructed.
• Never administer medication unless officially authorised and trained.
• Ensure all accidents, injuries, or concerns are recorded and reported.

7. Confidentiality

• Respect personal information about children, families, and volunteers.
• Share information only with authorised personnel.
• Never discuss sensitive matters publicly or on social media.

8. Prohibited Behaviour

The following behaviours are strictly forbidden and will result in immediate removal and further action:

• Any form of physical, emotional, or sexual misconduct.
• Bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
• Use of alcohol, drugs, or being under the influence during activities.
• Possession of weapons or dangerous items.
• Sharing inappropriate content or engaging in inappropriate conversations.
• Failure to follow safeguarding policies.

9. Digital and Social Media Conduct

• Do not add, follow, or message children on social media.
• Never post photos or videos of children without official approval.
• Use only approved communication channels for Pathfinder business.
• Do not share internal conflicts, complaints, or issues publicly.

10. Agreement and Accountability

• All teachers and volunteers must read, understand, and agree to this policy.
• Any breach may result in removal from volunteering duties.
• Serious breaches will be escalated to safeguarding authorities.

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Volunteer / Teacher Declaration

I confirm that I have read, understood, and agree to abide by the Pathfinder Teacher & Volunteer Behaviour and Conduct Policy. I understand that failure to comply may result in disciplinary action or removal from my position.