Trustee Code of Behaviour

Outcome statement

The board will act in an ethical and respectful manner an uphold the special character of the school which states:

The Special Character of the School is determined by the faith system made up of the Christian beliefs, values and lifestyle of the Seventh- day Adventist Church as determined from time to time by the General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Schools Association Limited.

Scoping

Every member of the board will have access to the code of behaviour and opportunities to discuss its expectations of their conduct. Board business will be conducted in an ethical and respectful manner, in accordance with legislation and board policy.

Expectations and limitations

As members of an effective governance team, each member of the board of trustees shall:

• ensure the needs of all students and their achievement is paramount

• be loyal to the school and its vision, maintaining and understanding the values and goals of the school:

The Southland Adventist Christian School places an importance on children becoming independent learners displaying the following values in keeping with our vision:

• maintain and understand the values and goals of the school

• protect the special character of the Southland Adventist Christian School as outlined above

• publicly represent the school in a positive manner

• respect the integrity of the principal and staff

• observe the confidentiality of non-public information acquired in their role as a trustee and not disclose to any other persons such information that might be harmful to the school, this includes any information discussed ‘in committee’.  The presiding member and principal are to be made aware of any information that is being shared with the public

• be diligent and attend board meetings prepared for full and appropriate participation in decision making

• ensure that individual trustees do not act independently of the board’s decisions

• speak with one voice through board policies and ensure that any disagreements with the board’s stance are resolved within the board

• in the course of board meetings, disclose any interests in a transaction or decision where they, their family and/or partner, employer or close associate will receive a benefit or gain and leave the meeting for the duration of discussion and/or voting in relation to the matter

• recognise the lack of authority in any individual trustee or committee/working party of the board in any interaction with the principal or staff

• recognise that only the presiding member (working within the board’s agreed presiding member role description or delegation) or a delegate working under written delegation can speak for the board

• be available to undertake appropriate professional development.

Procedures/supporting documentation

See the following:

• SACS Staff trustee role description policy

• SACS Trustee induction process

• SACS Trustee remuneration and expenses policy

Legislative compliance

Education and Training Act 2020