Managing the Teaching Service
Teaching Service Commission · Papua New Guinea
Roles and Responsibilities of Teachers
Teachers play a central role in shaping PNG's future, holding positions of trust. They deliver quality education, exercise duty of care (in loco parentis), and uphold 'no work, no pay' under Section 96 of the Teaching Service Act. Responsibilities apply at all times.
Legal and Policy Framework
Teachers operate under the Constitution of PNG, the Teaching Service Act, Education Act, Criminal Code, Public Service Management Act, Public Financial Management Act, General Orders, and relevant Regulations and Circulars.
Teachers' Obligations
Teachers must discharge duties fully — curriculum and extra-curricular alike. They attend to student needs, support school leadership, deliver the national curriculum, and respect community customs and values.
Attendance and Student Supervision
Attendance records must be maintained and accessible. Late arrivals and irregular attendance must be recorded and reported to the Head Teacher. Teachers are responsible for supervision and must report unexplained absences promptly.
Protection of Students
Teachers safeguard students' welfare. Sexual abuse or harassment is a criminal offence and disciplinary breach resulting in dismissal and de-registration. Head Teachers must report such matters immediately to the Provincial Division of Education and the TSC.
Professional Conduct and Discipline
Teachers must obey lawful instructions, perform duties diligently, observe hours of duty, and avoid unapproved absences. Unauthorized absence results in loss of pay and possible disciplinary action.
Care of State Property and Records
Teachers and Head Teachers safeguard State property and official records — attendance registers, certificates, financial records, and student documentation. Misuse or loss of official records is a disciplinary offence.
Prohibited Conduct
Drugs, unlicensed weapons, sexual harassment, and disclosure of confidential information are serious offences. Such conduct may result in dismissal and criminal prosecution.
Monitoring Teacher Performance
School Boards of Management and Provincial authorities monitor teacher performance. Early intervention is encouraged where issues arise, to support improvement before escalation.
Absence Without Approval for Two Weeks
Teachers absent without approval for two consecutive weeks may be suspended from payroll via the Provincial Suspension Authority form. Return to payroll requires completing a Teacher Record of Appointment.
Special Responsibilities of Head Teachers
Head Teachers oversee policy implementation, manage staff and students, ensure legal and administrative compliance, and represent the education system within their communities.