Internationally trained teachers

Review cites College appeals process

A review of the appeals procedures for professional self-regulating bodies like the College has recommended the establishment of an independent appeal mechanism to provide support for foreign-trained professionals wanting to be licensed in Ontario.

Justice George Thomson was asked to conduct the review in September 2004 and submitted a report to the provincial government in November 2005. The purpose of the review was to develop proposals for a standard, independent appeal process that would enhance public confidence that the professions treat all applicants fairly and are accountable for their decisions. The College provided information about its registration and appeal practices to the Thomson review.

Thomson's report stressed the importance of effective and fair internal registration processes, which would prevent the need for a large volume of appeals. The report reviewed best practices based on what professional bodies are already doing.

The report recommends that there be a three-year implementation period for establishing the independent appeals process.

In reporting on different existing models of supporting foreign-trained professionals, Thomson cited the College's role as lead partner in Teach in Ontario, which offers information, advice and practical help to more than 2,000 foreign-trained teachers wanting to be licensed to work in Ontario.

The College of Teachers has a Registration Appeals Committee that hears appeals from unsuccessful applicants who have not been granted membership or who have had restrictions placed on their teaching licence. Unsuccessful applicants may also appeal a decision of the Registration Appeal Committee in the divisional court.

The independent mechanism being proposed by the Thomson report would be in addition to existing procedures.

“The Thomson report is a comprehensive examination of appeal processes,” says Registrar Doug Wilson. “Many of the best practices that it cites or recommends are already an integral part of the College's appeal mechanism. We support any enhancements to appeal procedures that help to maintain confidence that registration requirements are fairly and uniformly applied.”

The College's Registration Appeals Committee is reviewing the report, which can be found at www.citizenship.gov.on.ca.