According to the Ontario Education Act, a candidate has the same responsibilities to learners as a certified teacher.  All Teacher Candidates are expected to develop and demonstrate the attributes and behaviours of a professional teacher. During the course of their Experiences in Schools, as well as at other times, candidates are accountable for their actions in relation to: pupils; pupils’ parents or guardians; teachers; school and school system officials (including ministry officials); teachers professional organizations; faculty, staff and fellow candidates of the Faculty of Education in particular and faculty, staff and students of Queen's University in general; and the general public. These attributes and behaviours are expressed in the following documents:

• Standards of Practice for the Teaching Profession (Ontario College of Teachers, 1999);
• Ethical Standards for the Teaching Profession (Ontario College of Teachers, 2000);
• Education Act (Revised Statutes of Ontario, as amended);
• Regulation 298 Operation of Schools General (Revised Regulations of Ontario, as amended);
• Regulation Under the Teaching Profession Act, sections 13 through 18.

Teacher Candidates will:

• Be punctual and reliable;
• Speak and act towards students with respect and dignity, and deal judiciously with them acknowledging their rights and sensibilities;
• Acknowledge that the culture of teaching demands professional courtesy, self-reflection, and a compassionate and nurturing nature;
• Hold the safety and security of students in higher regard than his or her own rights and privileges; and
• Treat colleagues, students and parent with professional courtesy and consideration.

Teacher Candidates who fail to maintain a professional standard may be awarded a failing grade in the practicum regardless of other factors to be considered in the evaluation of their performance, and/or may be required to withdraw from the program. The Associate Dean (or delegate) makes such decisions after consultation with appropriate persons involved in the case, and after a hearing with the candidate. Candidates may appeal such decisions to the Dean.