IMPROVED TEACHING QUALITY


IMPROVED TEACHING QUALITY


“Education must be elevated from being a departmental issue, or even a govern- ment issue, to a societal issue – one that occupies the attention and energy for all our people”. A commitment should be made to a ”Code for Quality Education”, which describes the responsibilities and discipline required of them – the “non- negotiables”. (Mr Jacob Zuma, ANC President, January 8th Statement 2008).


The achievement of quality education for all depends on the actions of departmental of- ficials, school principals, teachers, students, parents and community members. Each of these are called upon to make a commit- ment to a ‘Code for Quality Education’, which describes the responsibilities and dis- cipline required of them.


If all sections of society work together – gov- ernment, communities, health care workers, civil society, business, media and other sec- tors – we can ensure that all learners benefit from quality education.


CODE OF QUALITY EDUCATION


The power to improve education lies with all of us. And we must make a commitment to a ‘Code for Quality Education’.


The Department of Education, together with teacher unions, today announced their united commitment to do everything within their power to endorse the pledges made in Kliptown, and to strive for quality learn- ing and teaching for all. The launch date coincides with the celebration of World Teachers’ Day on 5 October each year.


AS A DEPARTMENTAL OFFICIAL, I PROMISE TO:


n ensure all schools receive the necessary resources in time for teaching to com- mence;


n ensure all schools have their full staff al- location, and that any vacancies are filled without delay;


n improve my own knowledge and skills base to be more effective;


n always be available to assist schools, principals and teachers;


n respond to requests or concerns of ed- ucation stakeholders;


n visit all schools within the district on a regular basis;


n monitor teacher and student atten- dance, and ensure no child school;


is out of


n assist all schools to improve their per- formance, ensuring regular tests are conducted, and results are reported to parents.


AS A TEACHER, IN LINE WITH THE SACE CODE OF PROFESSIONAL ETHICS, I PROMISE TO:


n teach, to advance the education and the development of learners as individuals;


n respect the dignity and rights of all per- sons without prejudice;


n develop loyalty and respect for the pro- fession;


n be punctual, enthusiastic, well prepared for lessons, and of sober mind and body;


n improve my own knowledge and skills base to be more effective;


n maintain good communication between teachers and students, among teachers themselves; and between teachers and parents;


n provide regular information to parents on their children’s progress;


n eliminate unprofessional behaviour such as teacher-pupil relationships, drunken- ness, drug use, assault, sexual harass- ment and others;


n make myself available to provide extra- mural activities.


AS A LEARNER, I PROMISE TO:


n accept that the main reason for being in school is to learn and develop academi- cally, socially and culturally;


n adhere to school rules;


n respect the legitimacy and authority of teachers;


n participate in Learner Representative Councils (LCR’s) to safeguard my inter- ests;


n show respect to other learners and not to discriminate;


n avoid anti-social behaviour like theft, vandalism, assault, sexual harassment, al- cohol and drug use, and other activities that disrupt the learning process.


104 CHAPTER 5 | TOWARDS QUALITY BASIC EDUCATION


www.ed.org.za


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