Code of Ethics

Yoga Teacher Training Code of Ethics, Yoga Teacher Training Student Rights and Responsibilities

  • As teachers of Inspire Yoga Teacher Training NZ we agree to uphold the highest professional standards as set forth in the following Code of Ethics.

    • We welcome all students with respect and friendliness and do not discriminate against or refuse professional help to anyone on the basis of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion or national origin.

    • We make only realistic statements regarding the benefits of Yoga, make responsible decisions to determine if and when we can assist a student, and use our yogic knowledge and skills only for their benefit.

    • We provide rehabilitative and therapeutic instruction only for those problems or issues that are within the reasonable boundaries of our competence.

    • Acknowledge the limitations of our skills and scope of practice, and refer students to more qualified medical, health, or rehabilitation professionals when necessary.

    • We do not misrepresent our professional qualifications and promote our services with accuracy and dignity.

    • Uphold the integrity of our vocation by conducting ourselves in a professional and conscientious manner in all our interactions.

    • We establish and maintain professional relationship boundaries at all times.

    • We understand that all forms of sexual behaviour or harassment with students is unethical, and use only appropriate methods of touch when assisting students.

    • We conduct our public and private affairs with honesty in all financial, material, emotional and spiritual interactions.

    • We respect the rights, dignity and privacy of all students, and treat all communications from students with professional confidence

  • We acknowledge the delicate nature of the student–teacher relationship and believe that ethical behaviour is the foundation of all good Yoga practice and teacher training. It is the teacher’s responsibility to create a safe space where students can grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

    Our Code of Ethics highlights the key principles that guide our ethical and professional conduct. It serves as the basis for Yoga ethics for both teachers and students and aligns with Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, the Yamas and Niyamas: Ahimsa (care in action), Satya (truthfulness in service to all), Asteya (non-stealing), and Brahmacharya (wisdom and care in conduct, including sexuality).

    For any clarifications, please contact: inspireyogateachertrainingnz@gmail.com

  • Students Rights

    • To pursue their training in an environment free from harassment and discrimination.

    • To be treated with respect, dignity, and fairness at all times.

    • To expect confidentiality in all personal matters.

    • To have learning needs identified and addressed by the teacher.

    • To receive training and assessment from competent and experienced teachers.

    • To appeal an assessment decision and be re-assessed if found not yet competent after the initial assessment.

    Student Responsibilities

    • To understand and adhere to all current policies and procedures at the training venue.

    • To seek clarification from the course director if a policy or procedure is not understood.

    • To attend all classes in a timely, courteous, and professional manner.

    • To respect the rights of other students, clients, and employees of the training venue.

    • To keep confidential any personal information obtained during the courses.

    • To make reasonable efforts to achieve the competencies specified in the training plan and to engage with all learning opportunities.

    • Prioritise safety and well-being

      • Look after your own safety and support others to practice safely. If you or someone else is injured or feels unsafe, please inform course staff promptly so we can help.

    • Practice honesty and integrity

      • Share information about your training, health considerations, and progress openly to support fair assessment and appropriate support.

    • Respect consent and professional boundaries

      • Honour boundaries in all interactions with peers, teachers, clients, and staff. Seek consent before any physical contact or sharing of personal information.

    • Maintain professional boundaries

      • Keep relationships respectful in person and online. Communicate appropriately outside class times and during practicum experiences.

    • Engage with feedback constructively

      • Welcome feedback as a learning opportunity. Reflect on it and apply it in ways that support your growth and teaching readiness.

    • Uphold confidentiality and trust

      • Respect privacy by keeping personal information shared during training confidential, unless there is a clear, ethical reason to share.

    • Participate in assessment with integrity

      • Engage seriously with practical, written, and teaching assessments, and approach them with honesty and a growth mindset.

    • Care for the learning environment

      • Help keep spaces tidy and respectful for everyone. Return equipment, report maintenance needs, and show consideration for colleagues.

    • Commit to ongoing practice and study

      • Nurture a regular personal practice and stay engaged with readings and tasks to support your development as a teacher.

    • Present yourself with professionalism

      • Seek to show up on time, prepared, and with respectful, clear communication during training and practicum sessions.

    • Prepare for teaching practice with students

      • Approach teaching and observation with care, inclusivity, and awareness of venue policies and student needs.

    • Respect intellectual property

      • Use course materials responsibly and acknowledge sources where appropriate.

    • Cultivate cultural sensitivity and inclusivity

      • Welcome diverse backgrounds and abilities, adapting guidance and sequencing to be inclusive and accessible.