Breaches of our code of ethics and conduct
The ETF Code of Ethics and Conduct sets out the professional behaviour and conduct expected of all members.
If you believe that a member has acted in breach of the Code, you can find out more about what to do by reading our Investigations and Disciplinary Policy.
As a member, you have a duty to notify us if your suitability for continued membership is called in question, (for example, if you have been the subject of a disciplinary issue at your place of employment or are being investigated by the Teaching Regulation Authority). You can make a notification by emailing investigations@etfoundation.co.uk. Please be aware that this can lead to suspension from membership whilst we investigate, as per our Membership Terms and Conditions.
All members who are undertaking professional formation or development activities leading to a professional status are bound by this Code and should be aware that most types of academic misconduct, including but not limited to, falsifying or misrepresenting qualifications or work experience, plagiarism or using AI-generated content without attribution, and collusion, are likely to be considered behaviour in breach of the Code.
Example breaches and sanctions
Membership year: 2025
Case overview: Members were found to have misrepresented teaching practice in order to gain Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status.
Section(s) of the code breached: Professional Responsibility - to uphold the reputation of the profession and Professional Behaviour - to act ethically, honestly and with integrity in the educational setting, without compromising or abusing your position.
Sanction: QTLS status was withdrawn and ETF Membership was suspended for six months.
Membership year: 2024
Case overview: Member accepted they had submitted work in their self-assessment without thorough and correct referencing.
Section(s) of the code breached: Professional Behaviour - to act ethically, honestly and with integrity in the educational setting, without compromising or abusing your position.
Sanction: As the member accepted the allegation, no formal hearing was necessary, however QTLS re-submission was required.
Case overview: Member found to have supplied false information about a mentor and within their QTLS portfolio.
Section(s) of the code breached: Professional Responsibility - to uphold the reputation of the profession and Professional Behaviour - to act ethically, honestly and with integrity in the educational setting, without compromising or abusing your position.
Sanction: QTLS status was withdrawn and the member was suspended from membership for 18 months. An appeal was heard but the original decision and sanction were upheld.