TEACHERS AND THE LAW
Pupil Welfare

Presentation and Case Studies

Appropriate Physical Contact with Pupils

Essential guidance on the issue of physical contact with pupils is contained in DfEE Circular 10/95, and was drawn up after consultation with the teacher organisations. It is as follows:

‘It is unnecessary and unrealistic to suggest that teachers should touch pupils only in emergencies. Particularly with younger pupils, touching them is inevitable, and can give welcome reassurance to the child. However, teachers must bear in mind that even perfectly innocent actions can sometimes be misconstrued. Children may find being touched uncomfortable or distressing for a variety of reasons. It is important for teachers to be sensitive to a child’s reaction to physical contact and to act appropriately. It is also important not to touch pupils, however casually, in ways or on parts of the body that might be considered indecent.'

Employers and senior staff have a responsibility to ensure that professional behaviour applies to relationships between staff and pupils, that all staff are clear about what constitutes appropriate behaviour and professional boundaries and that those boundaries are maintained with the sensitive support and supervision required. Individuals in circumstances where there is one to one contact with pupils, e.g. in the teaching of music or extra curricular activities, need to be particularly mindful of this responsibility.

Many LEAs issue model policies on a staff code of conduct, which most schools adopt as their policy. Schools are also recommended to bring this code to the attention of parents, to help avoid misunderstandings.

 
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