Broader powers strengthen State teaching regulator

The Victorian Institute of Teaching’s role in regulating the teaching profession will be strengthened under a series of reforms being introduced by the Brumby Government.

Responding to recommendations made following a review of the structure an operation of the VIT, Education Minister Bronwyn Pike will give the institute the power to investigate allegations below the level of serious misconduct and to impose a new range of sanctions.

“It is vital that the Victorian Institute of Teaching continues to meet community expectations and we maintain high standards of professional conduct and expertise across the teaching profession,” Ms Pike said.

“The Government’s response to this report will play a key role in shaping the future regulation of the teaching profession so parents and the broader community can continue to have every confidence in the Victorian school system.

“This review clearly indicated that the VIT has a vital and ongoing role to play in regulating the teaching profession and ensuring a high calibre workforce.”

The VIT is responsible for the registration of all teachers working in Victorian government, Catholic and independent schools and accrediting teacher training courses in Victoria.

Consideration will now be given to whether the VIT should also have a role in registering and regulating the early childhood sector. “We must continue to uphold high community standards and add value to benefit the entire teaching profession.”

“We must continue to uphold high community standards and add value to benefit the entire teaching profession,” Ms Pike said.

“This is great news for parents who can be confident that matters referred to the VIT will continue to be handled effectively and appropriately.”

Teachers and principals will continue to have representation on the VIT Council and teachers will continue to pay an annual registration fee and undergo police checks before commencing employment in a Victorian government, Catholic or independent school.

Other recommendations include:
•    The institute continue its role of regulating the teaching profession and maintain appropriate minimum teaching standards;
•    Offering greater protection to students who give evidence as part of teacher misconduct hearings; and
•    That there be consideration to phasing out the annual government subsidy to VIT to enable it to become self-sustaining, in line with other professional bodies.

Some of the recommendations require legislative changes and will be further examined.

Details of the review can be found at http://eduhs01.education.vic.gov.au:5009/about/publications/report/vitreview.htm