The Issue

The scenario that has been provided sees a young female teacher receiving a Facebook invite to a ‘local rave party’ from two of her male year 9 students. It is of interest to note that the invite to this party was advertised publicly, and as mentioned the party was local, so it is possible that being an ‘avid partygoer’ Miss Hawkins may still have seen the event invitation through her own Facebook and decided to click ‘attending’. Such a scenario would certainly bring into question a variety of issues, as to the ethical duty of teachers at public events.

This, however, is not that case that we are looking at. It happens that Miss Hawkins had two students, which were in her duty of care, send her an invite to a party, which she then accepted.

The other issue that we are looking at is Miss Hawkins actual Facebook profile; which was set to public and depicted personal images of her at ‘clubs and parties’.

In addressing these issues we will consider the conduct of Miss Hawkins through reference to professional frameworks, which are put in place to shape and guide the actions of professional educators.

We will assess whether the actions of Miss Hawkins crosses the line between professional and personal behaviour, the appropriateness of her public Facebook profile, and the possible violation of principles set out in relevant frameworks.