As instructors and teachers we have a duty of care to our students. While they are at our schools or dojo, we have a legal responsibility, and it is called; “Duty of Care”. It is associated with physical welfare as well as moral, intellectual, and the social wellbeing of students.
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There are several aspects of care. There should be protection from harassment, discrimination, improper conduct of a sexual nature, bullying and much more. In any activity there is an element of risk, whether it’s from physical or emotional harm, or to health. The instructor should take into account the risks, and the actions needed to minimize those risks.
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The instructor, or anyone of a senior position within the dojo, should ensure they are qualified to teach. Not only with high enough rank, but with experience to ensure they understand the fundamentals themselves. Teachers should have a good knowledge of what they are teaching, and the ability to share that knowledge. Knowing is not the same as communicating knowledge effectively.
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I also believe they must also be of a good moral character.
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A teacher needs to set a good example for their students. Teachers need to maintain respectability in their lifestyle beyond the school or dojo. As an example teachers should not be seen to be under the influence of drink or drugs, behaving inappropriately, spouting foul language, or racial remarks, making suggestive comments, or perform any kind of exposure.
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It is essential that all teachers safeguard the well-being of their students from dangers inside, and where possible, outside of the dojo. Teachers must not only zealously guard against putting their needs before their students, but must also work to ensure that their colleagues conform to the appropriate standard of ethical practice as well. The repercussions of instructors who engage in sexual misconduct or inappropriate relationships with students are grave. Teachers who ignore their responsibilities will trigger some form of discipline which in all likelihood will include prosecution. Betraying the trust of students, parents, colleagues, and the community, is never acceptable.
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“There are more than just physical techniques to learn in karate. There is also a core of moral values to be learned.”
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The best instructors are motivating, patient, knowledgeable, and interesting, with exceptional moral standards. Above all else, they have to be able to set a good example to others….. Do you? 
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