Questions To Ask Prior To Your Interview Lesson

1. Purpose of the Policy
This policy outlines the guidelines and expectations for the use of WhatsApp groups created for trainees within the organisation. The policy is designed to ensure professional and constructive communication in alignment with organisational values and relevant UK legislation.

2. Scope
This policy applies to all trainees and staff participating in WhatsApp groups created for training, professional development, and work-related communication.

3. General Usage Guidelines
– Purpose: WhatsApp groups are intended to share best practices, celebrate successes, pass personal milestones, and seek advice from peers. Posts should remain relevant to training and professional development.
– Moderation: The organisation cannot moderate WhatsApp chats outside of working hours. Participants are expected to self-regulate their conduct and adhere to professional standards.
– Appropriate Content: Personal posts unrelated to training or work are not suitable for this platform.

4. Conduct Expectations
– Professionalism: Maintain the same level of professionalism expected in a school or workplace environment. Adhere to the Teachers’ Standards, specifically Standard 8, Part B: “Uphold public trust in the profession and maintain high standards of ethics and behaviour.”
– Respectful Communication: Bullying, harassment, or use of inappropriate language is strictly prohibited. This includes offensive, discriminatory, or defamatory comments.
– Inclusivity: Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants.

4. Conduct Expectations

– Professionalism: Maintain the same level of professionalism expected in a school or workplace environment. Adhere to the Teachers’ Standards, specifically Standard 8, Part B: “Uphold public trust in the profession and maintain high standards of ethics and behaviour.”
– Respectful Communication: Bullying, harassment, or use of inappropriate language is strictly prohibited. This includes offensive, discriminatory, or defamatory comments.
– Inclusivity: Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants.

5. Safeguarding and Confidentiality

– Data Protection: Do not share personal, sensitive, or confidential information about students, staff, or colleagues in the group, in compliance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.
– Safeguarding: Adhere to all safeguarding policies. Any safeguarding concerns should be reported through official channels, not via WhatsApp.
6. Legal and Organisational Compliance
Participants must comply with the following UK legislation and organisational policies:
– Equality Act 2010: Ensure communication does not discriminate based on protected characteristics such as age, gender, race, or disability.
– Malicious Communications Act 1988: Avoid sending messages that may be considered threatening, abusive, or indecent.
– UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018: Protect personal data and ensure confidentiality.
– Workplace Code of Conduct: Follow all organisational policies related to professional behaviour.

7. Zero Tolerance Policy
– Any behaviour that violates this policy, including bullying, harassment, or inappropriate language, will not be tolerated. Violations may result in removal from the group and further disciplinary action as per organisational procedures.

8. Acknowledgement and Acceptance Participants
Must confirm their understanding and acceptance of these terms before joining the group.

9. Contact Information
For any queries or concerns regarding this policy, contact the HR department or your Programme Coordinator.

By clicking ‘agree’ I confirm that I have:

1. Read, understood, and agree to the terms of this policy.
2. I understand that my mobile number will be shared with other group participants and I consent to this sharing.
3. I confirm that I have requested to join the Whatsapp group.