Code of Behaviour

Outcome statement

The board will act in an ethical and respectful manner

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 

All members, whether elected, selected, or  co-opted, are expected to serve the needs of the students and their learning. The Board will always act in an ethical and respectful manner and work towards being an effective governance team. Board business will be conducted similarly,  in accordance with legislation and our Board Policies.

In your role as a member of the Gorge Road School Board you will-

1.  Actively promote and protect the positive reputation of Gorge Road School, its staff, students and programmes. 

You must-

: Act as a good employer

: Be loyal to the school and its charter

: Respect the integrity of other trustees, the principal, staff, students and parents

: Respect and give fair consideration to diverse and opposing viewpoints

: Serve the best interests of the school and its students rather than areas of your own or community interest 

: Ensure all students receive learning opportunities that respect their dignity, rights and individuality

: Exercise your power of governance in a way that fulfils the intent of the Treaty of Waitangi-(Partnership, Participation and Protection)

2. Maintain the strict confidentiality and trust vested in you. 

In particular-

: Non-public information acquired as a trustee is not to be shared with any other persons

  (especially anything that might be harmful to the school or individuals associated with the school)

: Only the presiding member or the board delegate (with a  written delegation) can speak for the board

: Ensure that any disagreements with the Board's stance on matters raised are resolved within the Board

: Board members will respect Board decisions, speaking with one voice, and will not act independently. 

3. Regularly attend board meetings, and be prepared for full and appropriate decision making. 

You must-

: Be available to undertake regular, appropriate professional development 

: Place an apology if you are unavailable to attend meetings

: Seek prior leave if you know you will be unable to attend (Missing  more than 20% or three consecutive meetings is an immediate stand-down)

: Disclose any interests in a matter where you, your family &/or partner, employer or close associate could receive a benefit or gain, and leave the meeting for the discussion and/or voting in relation to that matter

: Self-monitor your own performance as a board member against this code of behaviour, our agreed policies, roles and responsibilities, and monitor the overall performance of the board against school purpose and direction. 

Legislative compliance

Education Act 1989

Reviewed Annually