Page 15 - Staff Code of Conduct 2020 12.28 a.m. 17th January 2021

This means that RBIS Bangkok:
• has in place an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP);
• continually self-reviews e-safety policies in the light of new and emerging technologies and

• has a communication policy which specifies acceptable and permissible modes of communication.

Physical Contact with Students: There are occasions when it is entirely appropriate and proper for staff
to have physical contact with students, but it is crucial that they only do so in ways appropriate to their
professional role. A ‘no touch’ approach is impractical for most staff and will in some circumstances be
inappropriate. When physical contact is made with students this should be in response to their needs at
the time, of limited duration and appropriate to their age, stage of development, gender, ethnicity and

background. Physical contact should never be secretive, or for the gratification of the adult, or represent
a misuse of authority. If a member of staff believes that an action could be misinterpreted, the incident
and circumstances should be recorded as soon as possible in the School’s incident book and, if
appropriate, a copy placed on the child’s file.

Staff should listen, observe and take note of the child’s reaction or feelings and – so far as is possible -
use a level of contact and/or form of communication which is acceptable to the child for the minimum
time necessary. The general culture of ‘limited touch’ should be adapted, where appropriate, to the

individual requirements of each student. Students with special needs may require more physical contact
to assist their everyday learning. The arrangements should be understood and agreed by all concerned,
justified in terms of the child’s needs, consistently applied and open to scrutiny.

It is recognized that some students may seek inappropriate physical contact. It is the responsibility of
the staff member to sensitively deter the student and help them understand the importance of personal
boundaries. Such circumstances must always be reported and discussed with a senior manager and the

parent/ carer.

Some staff working in certain settings, for example sports, drama or outdoor activities, or who teach
specific subjects such as PE or music, will have to initiate some physical contact with students, for
example to demonstrate technique in the use of a particular piece of equipment, adjust posture, or
perhaps to support a student so they can perform an activity safely or prevent injury. Such activities
should be carried out in accordance with existing codes of conduct, regulations and best practice.

Physical contact should take place only when it is necessary in relation to a particular activity. It should
take place in a safe and open environment, i.e. one easily observed by others and last for the minimum
time necessary.

This means that staff should:
• treat children with dignity and respect and avoid contact with intimate parts of the body;
• always explain to a child the reason why contact is necessary and what form that contact will take;

• consider alternatives, where it is anticipated that a student might misinterpret any such contact;
• be familiar with and follow recommended guidance and protocols;
• conduct activities where they can be seen by others; and
• be aware of gender, cultural or religious issues that may need to be considered prior to initiating
physical contact.

This means that RBIS Bangkok will:
• have up to date guidance and protocols on appropriate physical contact in place that promote safe

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Rasami British International School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students
and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. It is our aim that all students fulfil their potential.