As a Christian Institution, our ethics must be above reproach. We need to model exemplary behaviour in every area of our lives. The Bible clearly states that there will be greater judgement on teachers (James 3:1) and with the responsibility to follow Christ so that others can follow (1 Cor 11:1) us, we agree to the following Code of Ethics.
1 Purpose
To educationally equip each generation through a Biblical, Christ-centred process to fulfil God’s purpose.
2 Vision
The single greatest desire of SAHCET is to bring Glory to God in all that we say and do.
3 Core Values
The core values of the Trust that will guide the operations are:
- 3.1 Faith, because without faith it is impossible to please God (Heb 11:6);
- 3.2 Unity, because we are stronger together, recognising individuality and celebrating diversity (Eph 4:13);
- 3.3 Excellence, doing everything as if we are doing it for God (Eph 6:7);
- 3.4 Focus, keeping our eyes focused on Christ, the Author and Finisher of our faith (Heb 12:2); and
- 3.5 Integrity, walking in truth and in the Light (John 3:21).
4 Foundation Principles
The foundation of everything we do is Christ (1 Cor 3:11). As such our foundation principles are:
- 4.1The Word (John 1:1): we live our lives and base our decisions on the Word;
- 4.2 Prayer (John 17:20): we drench our lives and decisions in prayer;
- 4.3 Teacher (Matt 23:10): we look to Christ as our teacher and follow His example;
- 4.4 Great Missionary (Mark 16:15): in obedience to the great commission, we share the Good News that we received with others;
- 4.5 Shepherd (John 10:14): we want to make sure that all know Jesus as their Shepherd.
5 Ethical Decision Framework
All decisions are measured against the core values and foundation principles. The core values and foundation principles are supported by the policies and procedures as set out in the Policies and Procedure.
6 Code of Conduct
Students, staff, mentoring schools and mentors:
- 6.1 Agree to abide by SAHCET’s Statement of Faith.
- 6.2 Respect themselves (Mark 12:13 and 2 Tim 2:22).
- 6.3 Walk in integrity as far as all their work and finances are concerned (Eph 6:7).
- 6.4 Walk in love towards one another and treat one another with respect (Rom 12:10).
- 6.5 Place a guard before our mouths and do not engage in gossip (whether in real life or on social media) or the use of offensive language (Prov 8:8).
- 6.6 Follow Christ so that others can follow us (this includes not using addictive substances) (1 Cor 11:1).
- 6.7 Are good stewards of finances (pay on time), time (are prepared) and property (avoid damage) (Tit 1:7-9).
- 6.8 Serve one another and our community (Gal 5:13).
- 6.9 Are involved in our community in line with the Great Commission (Mark 16:15 – 18).
7 Lifestyle statement
7.1 SAHCET is a religious, non-profit, Christian organization representing Jesus Christ with the express purpose of discipling students and at the same time providing a quality education. SAHCET requires its employees to be born-again Christians, living their lives as Christian role models (Romans 10:9-10; I Timothy 4:12; Luke 6:40).
7.2 Staff and students are expected to conduct themselves in a way that will not raise questions regarding their Christian testimonies. A Christian lifestyle should reflect the biblical perspective of integrity, appropriate personal and family relationships, business conduct and moral behaviour. Staff and students are also expected to demonstrate a teachable spirit, an ability to share love for others, a willingness to live contentedly under authority and a commitment to follow the Matthew 18 principle when an issue arises with fellow employees, students or management.
7.3 SAHCET expects employees and students to maintain a lifestyle based on biblical standards of moral conduct. Moral misconduct, which violates the bona fide occupational qualification for employees to be Christian role models, includes, but is not limited to, promiscuity, homosexual behaviour or any other violation of the unique roles of male and female (Romans 1:21-27; I Corinthians 6:9-20). SAHCET believes that Biblical marriage is limited to a covenant relationship between a man and a woman.
7.4 Failure to do so may result in a reprimand or, in some cases, dismissal from employment. It is the goal of SAHCET that each employee and student will have a lifestyle in which “He might have the pre-eminence” (Colossians 1:18, KJV);
8 Declaration
8.1 I, ______________ hereby express my full agreement with the beliefs, vision and values held by SAHCET regarding the teaching of Holy Scripture about matters of moral conduct and lifestyle as expressed in the above lifestyle statement.
8.2 I undertake to inform SAHCET immediately if my beliefs or conduct should change so as to offend against the beliefs of the SAHCET in respect on any of the following matters:
- 8.2.1 Pre-marital sex;
- 8.2.2 Adultery;
- 8.2.3 Homosexual practices or lifestyle.
8.3 Furthermore I understand and accept that should my beliefs or conduct in these matters or any of them offend against the views of SAHCET I shall be liable to dismissal at the absolute discretion of SAHCET, provided I have been given a proper opportunity to present and explain my views in accordance with the principles of natural justice.
8.4 I also understand and accept that whatever my duties or responsibilities are at SAHCET, whether or not they involve religious teaching, I am at all times required to be an exemplary role model in all matters of belief and conduct.