Professional code of ethics
Professional groups are guided in their work by a code of ethics which is a set of statements that outline the standards of professional behaviours.
These are designed to guide us in our actions and behaviours in the way that we carry out our work.
Being a children's services professional means:
- having personal attitudes, values and beliefs that show a good awareness of 'social justice' and an obligation to being an advocate for children
- acting in accordance with the professional standards and code of ethics for the profession
- working in a way that recognises the professional's role as being in a partnership with parents
- working in a way that role models appropriate social values such as respect, tolerance and acceptance
- showing a strong commitment to ongoing professional development and improvement of professional knowledge, skills and practice.
You may like to find out more about parenting orders, or about other legal and ethical issues that affect the child care industry by researching the topics below:
- duty of care
- negligence
- managing a complaint or concern.
Job duties and responsibilities
The child care industry is highly regulated. That means that child care workers must always:
- comply with any lawful instructions and regulations
- follow legislative requirements at all times.
It is the duty of the director of Cybertots to ensure that all staff work within the duties specified for their level of responsibility.
The situation with Owen's mum is a perfect example. Salwa has a Certificate III in Children's Services and therefore it is not appropriate for her to try to handle this situation by herself.
What should Salwa do?
It is her responsibility to seek assistance from the qualified child care worker or the director.
Have a look at the Job Description Forms (JDF) for the staff at Cybertots. You can find them on the Cybertots Intranet under Staff Records.
What is the difference in responsibility levels between a child care worker and a child care assistant or a team leader? Write down what you find out in your notebook.
If you are currently working, have a look at your own JDF. How closely does it match what you actually do at work?
