In this case study, we look at an example of where a registrant was reprimanded following a proven case of unacceptable professional conduct, in relation to their use of social media.

Summary of the case

The EWC received a referral from an employer following the dismissal of a registered member of staff. The registrant was dismissed because they had been sharing personal messages, via Facebook messenger, with a former learner.

During this hearing, the Fitness to Practise Committee was asked to consider whether the following allegations were proven:

• the individual engaged in inappropriate and unprofessional use of social media with a former learner who was still a child
• as a result of their conduct, the individual did not comply with safeguarding training

The registrant did not attend the hearing, nor were they represented.

Having considered the  Fitness to Practise Disciplinary Procedures and Rules  and advice from an independent legal advisor, the Committee were satisfied that the hearing could proceed in their absence.

The Committee’s findings

The Committee (supported by an independent legal advisor throughout) considered the evidence provided to them and whether the public would find that the allegations amounted to misconduct, given the vulnerability of the learner involved.

They found all allegations proven and imposed a Reprimand on the individual’s registration for a period of two years. This meant they would be able to continue working as a registered person for the period of the Reprimand, but that the Reprimand would be publicly visible to anyone searching the Register of Education Practitioners.

Code of Professional Conduct and Practice

In this case, the individual was in breach of several principles from the Code, including:

1.1 recognise their personal responsibility as a role model and public figure, to uphold public trust and confidence in the education professions, both in and out of the workplace

1.2 conduct relationships with learners and young people professionally by:

• communicating with learners and young people respectfully, in a way which is appropriate for them
• using all forms of communication appropriately and responsibly, particularly social media
• maintaining professional boundaries

2.1 are accountable for their conduct and professional competence

2.4 adhere to lawful standards of behaviour, in a manner in keeping with their position as a member of the education profession

4.2 know, understand and comply with current policies, procedures and guidelines which are relevant to their practice

4.3 know, understand, and comply with current safeguarding policies, procedures, and guidelines which are relevant to their practice

Lessons learnt

Social media is a powerful tool with many of us using it daily to build and maintain personal and professional relationships, share news, and support professional development. But for educators, it comes with certain responsibilities and risks.

The Code clearly sets out the expectations on you as an education practitioner and is there to help guide your judgements and decisions.

Here’s are some important points to remember when using social media.

• Check your organisation’s policies and procedures – only use official and agreed channels of communication.
• Respect confidentiality – don’t discuss learners, young people, parents, colleagues, or your place of work. And never share personal or confidential information online, be it yours, or other peoples.
• Maintain boundaries – the informal nature of social media can sometimes blur our professional and personal lives. Make sure you maintain the same boundaries you would when interacting offline.
• Be respectful and kind – what you say online reflects upon you, your employer, and your profession. Treat others with the same courtesy you would if engaging face-to-face.
• Avoid inappropriate content – remember, your behaviour online can have serious consequences, including criminal or civil action.

The standards expected of you do not change online. Always acting professionally can help ensure your registration is not questioned.

Further reading and guidance

• Code of Professional Conduct and Practise
• Good practice guide: Using social media responsibly
• Social media and the Code webinar
• Code in practice: social media and the Code animation

More information on our fitness to practise work.