Student Code of Conduct

1. The University aims to provide all of its students with the support and guidance they need to achieve and succeed. The Student Code of Conduct sets out the standard of conduct the University expects of its students so that everyone can undertake their studies in a supportive and non-threatening environment.

2. This Code of Conduct and the related Student Disciplinary Procedures are intended to provide fair procedures for maintaining reasonable behaviour by students while they are enrolled with the University.

3. Students are expected to behave in accordance with the University's Rules and Regulations, and in particular in respect of:

4. It is the responsibility of all students to ensure that they are aware of any such regulations or standards and to adhere to them. If there is cause for concern over a student behaving in an unacceptable way the student will be subject to the Student Disciplinary Procedure.

5. Any behaviour which infringes the University's policies, rules or regulations, causes distress to individuals, or disruption or disturbance in the learning or social environments of the University, is unacceptable, and may be subject to disciplinary procedures.

6. The Student Charter describes the University's commitment to its students and its expectations of students in return.

7. In any situation, in any part of the University or when involved in any University activities such as placements, research projects, internships, field trips, social events or sporting tours, the University expects that:

• Students behave with good sense, behave with consideration towards others and respect their differences and take care in the use of the University's facilities or services

• Students will be considerate and respectful to the needs of fellow students, staff, and visitors to the University

• Students will comply with Government and University advice relating to Health & Safety of others, including any temporary requirements put in place

• Students will comply with reasonable requests or instructions from members of University staff

• Students will produce University-issued ID cards for identification purposes when requested to do so by University staff

• Students will behave and communicate in ways that do not unreasonably offend others and will conduct themselves appropriately in all forms of communication, including social media. Examples of unreasonably offensive behaviours include using abusive or obscene language and engaging in any form of discriminatory behaviour

• Students will act within the law and not engage in activity or behaviour that is likely to bring the University into disrepute

• Student must inform the University of any criminal proceedings or convictions that they are involved in whilst a student

The University considers the forms of inappropriate conduct that are set out below to constitute misconduct that is likely to lead to disciplinary action under the Student Disciplinary procedure. The list should not be regarded as exhaustive: 

• Inappropriate, abusive, offensive, indecent, harassing, threatening or stalking behaviour against members of the University or its visitors, including via social media

• Failure to respect the rights of others; discriminatory or abusive behaviour towards others, including on the basis of age, disability, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, maternity, race, religion, belief, or sexual orientation

• Causing, attempting or threatening to cause physical harm, injury, or mental distress, including where this was caused by controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour towards members of the University or its visitors

• Any conduct which constitutes sexual violence or misconduct against members of the University or its visitors

• Any behaviour which is intended to or is likely to disrupt teaching, learning, examinations, recreational activities or any other activities undertaken by or within the University

• Any conduct which adversely affects or puts at risk the safety, welfare or well-being of members of the University or its visitors

• Damage to University property or facilities, whether caused intentionally or recklessly, or the use of property or facilities for unapproved purposes

• Possession or use of any illegal drugs, substances or offensive weapons on University premises

• Complaints against the University or its members which are vexatious in nature or here there is evidence to suggest a false claim. For example complaints motivated by malice or designed specifically to cause disruption, annoyance or to discredit an individual

• Any behaviour that interferes with the normal working of the University or any of its facilities or services

• Failure to comply with a temporary suspension or restriction or with a penalty imposed under the University’s regulations

• Any behaviour that damages, or has the potential to damage the University’s reputation or damage

8. If a student feels s/he is a victim of inappropriate or unacceptable behaviour s/he has the right to use the University's Complaints and/or Grievance Procedures.

9. There are various other University policies that apply to students and a breach of which will, where appropriate, constitute a breach of the Student Code of Conduct. These regulations and policies include (but are not limited to):

• The Student Charter

• Professional Suitability and Professional Conduct Policy

• Sexual Misconduct Policy

• Drugs and Alcohol Policy

• Freedom of Speech Policy