Company number: 12497951
6 Sutton Park Road, Sutton, SM1 2GD

Student Disciplinary Policy

Policy Statement

The School is committed to upholding a respectful and responsible environment for all students, staff, and visitors. Students must adhere to the Student Charter, School regulations, and their contractual obligations. Breaches of conduct may lead to disciplinary action, including consideration of criminal conduct by the Police or fitness to study procedures. Students are also responsible for their guests' behaviour.

Principles

Fairness: Ensuring all disciplinary procedures are conducted fairly and impartially.
Transparency: Making the disciplinary process and consequences clear to all students.
Consistency: Applying the policy consistently across all cases of misconduct.
Respect: Treating all parties involved in disciplinary matters with respect and consideration.
Accountability: Holding students accountable for their actions in upholding School standards.
Proportionality: Ensuring that disciplinary actions are proportionate to the nature of the misconduct.
Support: Offering appropriate support to students going through the disciplinary process.
Rehabilitation: Aiming for the positive rehabilitation of students following misconduct.
Natural Justice: Upholding principles of natural justice, such as the right to be heard.
Privacy: Maintaining confidentiality throughout the disciplinary process.
Education: Highlighting the educational purpose of any disciplinary action taken.
Review: Offering a right to appeal and review disciplinary decisions where appropriate.

Regulatory Context

This Policy has been developed in line with the applicable laws, regulations, regulatory advice, and sector best practices, including the following:

Authority	Name	Url
Office for Students (OfS)	Regulatory framework for higher education in England This framework outlines OfS' primary aim to ensure positive outcomes for students, including access, success, and progress in higher education. It covers quality academic experience, progress into employment, and value for money.
Office for Students (OfS)	Regulatory Notices and Advice Regulatory notices are additional information about OfS' regulatory requirements and are part of the regulatory framework. Regulatory advice helps providers understand and meet OfS requirements.
Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)	The Quality Code This code represents a shared understanding of quality practice across the UK higher education sector, protecting public and student interests and championing the UK's reputation for quality.
Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)	Advice - Academic Misconduct Guidance on handling academic misconduct for higher education providers.
Universities UK	Guidance - Handling criminal misconduct allegations Guidance on handling alleged student misconduct which may also be a criminal offence.
Universities UK	Guidance on online harassment A comprehensive guidance on tackling online harassment and promoting online welfare in the higher education sector.

Authority

Name

Url

Office for Students (OfS)

Regulatory framework for higher education in England
This framework outlines OfS' primary aim to ensure positive outcomes for students, including access, success, and progress in higher education. It covers quality academic experience, progress into employment, and value for money.

Office for Students (OfS)

Regulatory Notices and Advice
Regulatory notices are additional information about OfS' regulatory requirements and are part of the regulatory framework. Regulatory advice helps providers understand and meet OfS requirements.

Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)

The Quality Code
This code represents a shared understanding of quality practice across the UK higher education sector, protecting public and student interests and championing the UK's reputation for quality.

Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)

Advice - Academic Misconduct
Guidance on handling academic misconduct for higher education providers.

Universities UK

Guidance - Handling criminal misconduct allegations
Guidance on handling alleged student misconduct which may also be a criminal offence.

Universities UK

Guidance on online harassment
A comprehensive guidance on tackling online harassment and promoting online welfare in the higher education sector.

Definition of Misconduct

Title
Definition Definition and Scope of Misconduct Misconduct is defined as behaviour that disrupts School activities, negatively impacts individuals working or studying at the School, or damages the School’s reputation. Disciplinary action may be taken for misconduct occurring in any context, including field trips, placements, online platforms, or on social media. This rule ensures that all forms of misconduct, regardless of where or how they occur, are addressed consistently and fairly. By covering all relevant contexts, it reinforces the School’s commitment to maintaining a positive and respectful environment for its community.

Title

Definition
Definition and Scope of Misconduct

Misconduct is defined as behaviour that disrupts School activities, negatively impacts individuals working or studying at the School, or damages the School’s reputation. Disciplinary action may be taken for misconduct occurring in any context, including field trips, placements, online platforms, or on social media.

This rule ensures that all forms of misconduct, regardless of where or how they occur, are addressed consistently and fairly. By covering all relevant contexts, it reinforces the School’s commitment to maintaining a positive and respectful environment for its community.

Procedure for Lodging Complaints

Title
Rule Reporting and Handling Misconduct All reports of potential misconduct, whether occurring on or off School premises, must be directed to the Director of Student Services. This includes instances involving individual students or groups of students; in the case of groups, their cases may be addressed collectively in a single process or panel hearing. Reports should be submitted either in person or in writing to the Director of Student Services or any School staff member, who will ensure the report is forwarded appropriately. An acknowledgement of receipt will be sent via email within 5 days. The Director of Student Services will initially handle the matter. The School is dedicated to maintaining fairness and ensures that all students receive a thorough and impartial review of disciplinary reports. This includes providing access to relevant information and the opportunity for students to respond to the allegations. This process guarantees that all reports of misconduct are managed efficiently and transparently. By outlining clear reporting and handling procedures, the School promotes fairness and accountability, ensuring that every student’s case is considered with due diligence and in line with School policies.

Title

Rule
Reporting and Handling Misconduct

All reports of potential misconduct, whether occurring on or off School premises, must be directed to the Director of Student Services. This includes instances involving individual students or groups of students; in the case of groups, their cases may be addressed collectively in a single process or panel hearing. Reports should be submitted either in person or in writing to the Director of Student Services or any School staff member, who will ensure the report is forwarded appropriately. An acknowledgement of receipt will be sent via email within 5 days. The Director of Student Services will initially handle the matter.

The School is dedicated to maintaining fairness and ensures that all students receive a thorough and impartial review of disciplinary reports. This includes providing access to relevant information and the opportunity for students to respond to the allegations.

This process guarantees that all reports of misconduct are managed efficiently and transparently. By outlining clear reporting and handling procedures, the School promotes fairness and accountability, ensuring that every student’s case is considered with due diligence and in line with School policies.

Administration and Oversight of Misconduct Reports

Title
Rule Management and Record-Keeping of Student Misconduct Reports The Director of Student Services is responsible for coordinating all reports of student misconduct. Based on the severity of each case, they will either manage it directly or delegate it as appropriate. Per below, major misconduct cases will then be referred to the Student Disciplinary Panel for further consideration. If a report involves behaviour that may constitute a criminal offence, the Director of Student Services will also notify the police. The Director of Student Services will maintain a register of all student misconduct reports and the outcomes of Disciplinary Panels. This record will be kept for the duration of the student’s enrolment and deleted twelve months after their departure or graduation. Full access to this register is restricted to the Director of Student Service sand the Executive Committee. Other senior staff may be granted limited access on a case-by-case basis. Centralising the coordination of misconduct reports ensures that all cases are handled efficiently and appropriately by a designated individual. Referring serious cases to the Student Disciplinary Panel and reporting potential criminal activities to the police ensures that serious issues are managed correctly and legally. Maintaining a detailed register of all reports and outcomes provides accountability and facilitates proper record-keeping. Limiting access to disciplinary records protects student privacy while allowing relevant staff members to review records when necessary.

Title

Rule
Management and Record-Keeping of Student Misconduct Reports

The Director of Student Services is responsible for coordinating all reports of student misconduct. Based on the severity of each case, they will either manage it directly or delegate it as appropriate.

Per below, major misconduct cases will then be referred to the Student Disciplinary Panel for further consideration. If a report involves behaviour that may constitute a criminal offence, the Director of Student Services will also notify the police.

The Director of Student Services will maintain a register of all student misconduct reports and the outcomes of Disciplinary Panels. This record will be kept for the duration of the student’s enrolment and deleted twelve months after their departure or graduation. Full access to this register is restricted to the Director of Student Service sand the Executive Committee. Other senior staff may be granted limited access on a case-by-case basis.

Centralising the coordination of misconduct reports ensures that all cases are handled efficiently and appropriately by a designated individual. Referring serious cases to the Student Disciplinary Panel and reporting potential criminal activities to the police ensures that serious issues are managed correctly and legally. Maintaining a detailed register of all reports and outcomes provides accountability and facilitates proper record-keeping. Limiting access to disciplinary records protects student privacy while allowing relevant staff members to review records when necessary.

Preliminary Inquiry and Authority of the Investigating Officer

Title
Rule Investigative Process for Student Misconduct Upon receiving a complaint, the Director of Student Services will assess its severity. Depending on this assessment, they will either act as the Investigating Officer or delegate this role to another School staff member. The designated Investigating Officer will meet separately with the reporting party and the student involved, typically within 14 days, to establish key facts. Additional meetings with other witnesses or relevant School members may be arranged as necessary. The Investigating Officer will be accompanied by a note-taker during each meeting, ensuring accurate records are kept. These notes will be sent to the interviewees for review and confirmation. The student involved in the complaint is generally expected to attend meetings in person and may be accompanied by a School member or a Students' representative. In exceptional circumstances, attendance via video call may be arranged. If other evidence is available, such as CCTV footage, photographs, emails, or social media posts, it will be included in the investigation. The Investigating Officer will then compile an investigation report, clearly outlining the facts of the case. This report, along with any outcomes, will usually be completed within 21 days of the initial complaint. If the outcomes and sanctions fall within the Investigating Officer’s jurisdiction as outlined in Appendix B, they will immediately impose the sanctions and inform the student both verbally and in writing. However, if the misconduct is considered 'major' or if the outcomes exceed the Investigating Officer’s authority, the case will be referred to the Student Disciplinary Panel. This process ensures that complaints of misconduct are handled promptly, fairly, and thoroughly, maintaining the integrity of the School’s disciplinary procedures and providing a clear, structured approach to resolving issues.

Title

Rule
Investigative Process for Student Misconduct

Upon receiving a complaint, the Director of Student Services will assess its severity. Depending on this assessment, they will either act as the Investigating Officer or delegate this role to another School staff member. The designated Investigating Officer will meet separately with the reporting party and the student involved, typically within 14 days, to establish key facts. Additional meetings with other witnesses or relevant School members may be arranged as necessary.

The Investigating Officer will be accompanied by a note-taker during each meeting, ensuring accurate records are kept. These notes will be sent to the interviewees for review and confirmation. The student involved in the complaint is generally expected to attend meetings in person and may be accompanied by a School member or a Students' representative. In exceptional circumstances, attendance via video call may be arranged.

If other evidence is available, such as CCTV footage, photographs, emails, or social media posts, it will be included in the investigation. The Investigating Officer will then compile an investigation report, clearly outlining the facts of the case. This report, along with any outcomes, will usually be completed within 21 days of the initial complaint.

If the outcomes and sanctions fall within the Investigating Officer’s jurisdiction as outlined in Appendix B, they will immediately impose the sanctions and inform the student both verbally and in writing. However, if the misconduct is considered 'major' or if the outcomes exceed the Investigating Officer’s authority, the case will be referred to the Student Disciplinary Panel.

This process ensures that complaints of misconduct are handled promptly, fairly, and thoroughly, maintaining the integrity of the School’s disciplinary procedures and providing a clear, structured approach to resolving issues.

Disciplinary Panel Composition and Formal Proceedings

Title
Rule Student Disciplinary Panel Procedures for Major Misconduct If an allegation of misconduct is considered a major offence or falls outside the Investigating Officer's authority as outlined in Appendix B, a School Disciplinary Panel will be convened. The following steps will be followed: Panel Convening: The Director of Student Services will schedule the Disciplinary Panel to meet within 30 days of receiving the misconduct report. The Director will also assign another member of staff to take minutes during the meeting. Document Distribution: At least seven days before the meeting, the Director of Student Services will ensure that all relevant documents, including the investigation report and evidence, are provided to the Panel and the student involved. Panel Composition: The Panel will consist of the following members, approved by the Director of Student Services: A programme leader acting as Chair. Member of Student Success Team acting as Secretary. One academic staff member who has not taught the student. One student member nominated by the student facing the allegation. Student Attendance: The student will typically be required to attend the meeting in person and may be accompanied by a companion or adviser from the Students' Representative. In exceptional circumstances, attendance via video call may be permitted. Companion Role: The student’s companion may ask questions and address the Panel but cannot respond to questions on behalf of the student. Proceeding in Absence: If the student fails to attend the meeting, the Panel may proceed in their absence, provided that notice of the hearing was properly given. Witness Testimony: The student may call witnesses, but must provide seven days' notice and arrange for their attendance. Witnesses will only be permitted to join via video call in exceptional cases. Review of Evidence: The Panel will review all evidence, including presentations from the Investigating Officer and the student. Witnesses may be called to support either the allegation or the student’s defence. Decision Making: The Panel will consider the circumstances and evidence presented. The student’s previous disciplinary history will not be considered until the Panel needs to decide on an appropriate penalty. Communication of Outcome: The Panel's decision, including any sanctions, will be communicated to the student in writing within seven days of the meeting. The reasons for the selected penalty, including any mitigating factors, will also be provided. Confidentiality: While the Reporting Party may be informed that disciplinary action has been taken, the specifics of any sanctions will remain confidential. Implementation and Recording: The Director of Student Services will ensure that the sanctions are implemented and that the case is recorded in the School's misconduct database. Executive Committee Notification: A summary of the hearing's outcome will be sent to the Executive Committee, which may arrange a further meeting with the student to discuss any support needed and the impact on the student’s course of study. This structured process ensures that major misconduct cases are handled with fairness, transparency, and due process. Each step is designed to protect the rights of all parties involved, maintain confidentiality, and uphold the integrity of the School's disciplinary procedures. By clearly defining the roles, timelines, and responsibilities, the School ensures that decisions are made objectively, and appropriate actions are taken in a timely manner.

Title

Rule
Student Disciplinary Panel Procedures for Major Misconduct

If an allegation of misconduct is considered a major offence or falls outside the Investigating Officer's authority as outlined in Appendix B, a School Disciplinary Panel will be convened. The following steps will be followed:

Panel Convening: The Director of Student Services will schedule the Disciplinary Panel to meet within 30 days of receiving the misconduct report. The Director will also assign another member of staff to take minutes during the meeting.
Document Distribution: At least seven days before the meeting, the Director of Student Services will ensure that all relevant documents, including the investigation report and evidence, are provided to the Panel and the student involved.
Panel Composition: The Panel will consist of the following members, approved by the Director of Student Services:
- A programme leader acting as Chair.
- Member of Student Success Team acting as Secretary.
- One academic staff member who has not taught the student.
- One student member nominated by the student facing the allegation.
Student Attendance: The student will typically be required to attend the meeting in person and may be accompanied by a companion or adviser from the Students' Representative. In exceptional circumstances, attendance via video call may be permitted.
Companion Role: The student’s companion may ask questions and address the Panel but cannot respond to questions on behalf of the student.
Proceeding in Absence: If the student fails to attend the meeting, the Panel may proceed in their absence, provided that notice of the hearing was properly given.
Witness Testimony: The student may call witnesses, but must provide seven days' notice and arrange for their attendance. Witnesses will only be permitted to join via video call in exceptional cases.
Review of Evidence: The Panel will review all evidence, including presentations from the Investigating Officer and the student. Witnesses may be called to support either the allegation or the student’s defence.
Decision Making: The Panel will consider the circumstances and evidence presented. The student’s previous disciplinary history will not be considered until the Panel needs to decide on an appropriate penalty.
Communication of Outcome: The Panel's decision, including any sanctions, will be communicated to the student in writing within seven days of the meeting. The reasons for the selected penalty, including any mitigating factors, will also be provided.
Confidentiality: While the Reporting Party may be informed that disciplinary action has been taken, the specifics of any sanctions will remain confidential.
Implementation and Recording: The Director of Student Services will ensure that the sanctions are implemented and that the case is recorded in the School's misconduct database.
Executive Committee Notification: A summary of the hearing's outcome will be sent to the Executive Committee, which may arrange a further meeting with the student to discuss any support needed and the impact on the student’s course of study.

This structured process ensures that major misconduct cases are handled with fairness, transparency, and due process. Each step is designed to protect the rights of all parties involved, maintain confidentiality, and uphold the integrity of the School's disciplinary procedures. By clearly defining the roles, timelines, and responsibilities, the School ensures that decisions are made objectively, and appropriate actions are taken in a timely manner.

Appeal Process and Student Rights

Title
Rule Appeals Process for Disciplinary Decisions In all cases, appeals may be submitted under the following circumstances: A significant procedural error or failure occurred during the original investigation or hearing. Evidence of bias or prejudice was present during the investigation or hearing. New material evidence has emerged since the original decision by the Investigating Officer or Disciplinary Panel. The penalty imposed is deemed excessive or unreasonable. A. Appeals Against Investigating Officer's Decision: Students wishing to appeal a decision made by an Investigating Officer must submit a written appeal to the Chair of the Executive Committee within 14 days, clearly stating the grounds for the appeal. The Chair will review the evidence and assess whether the decision or sanction is appropriate. If the sanction is deemed appropriate, the Chair will inform the student by email within 14 days that the original outcome stands and that the appeal is unsuccessful. If the sanction is found to be excessive or inappropriate, the Chair will amend it and notify the student and Investigating Officer accordingly via email within 14 days. B. Appeals Against Disciplinary Panel's Decision: Students wishing to appeal a decision made by a Disciplinary Panel must email the Chair of the Executive Committee within 14 days of the decision, specifying the grounds for appeal. The Chair will evaluate whether the appeal is based on valid grounds. If no valid grounds are found, the appeal will be dismissed. If valid grounds are identified, the appeal will be referred to another member of the Executive Committee (excluding the Director of Student Services) for further review. This member will decide whether the appeal is upheld and, if so, whether the disciplinary charges should be dismissed or reconsidered by another Disciplinary Panel or relevant officer. The student will receive the decision by email within 14 days, with a copy sent to the Director of Student Services. Final Appeal to Independent Adjudicator: Once the School's internal appeals process is exhausted, the student will be informed of their right and the procedure to bring a complaint to the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education (OIA). This appeals process ensures fairness and transparency in reviewing disciplinary decisions, allowing students to challenge decisions they believe were made in error or were overly harsh. By outlining clear steps and timelines, the School guarantees that appeals are handled efficiently, maintaining the integrity of the disciplinary system while protecting students' rights.

Title

Rule
Appeals Process for Disciplinary Decisions

In all cases, appeals may be submitted under the following circumstances:

A significant procedural error or failure occurred during the original investigation or hearing.
Evidence of bias or prejudice was present during the investigation or hearing.
New material evidence has emerged since the original decision by the Investigating Officer or Disciplinary Panel.
The penalty imposed is deemed excessive or unreasonable.

A. Appeals Against Investigating Officer's Decision:
Students wishing to appeal a decision made by an Investigating Officer must submit a written appeal to the Chair of the Executive Committee within 14 days, clearly stating the grounds for the appeal. The Chair will review the evidence and assess whether the decision or sanction is appropriate. If the sanction is deemed appropriate, the Chair will inform the student by email within 14 days that the original outcome stands and that the appeal is unsuccessful. If the sanction is found to be excessive or inappropriate, the Chair will amend it and notify the student and Investigating Officer accordingly via email within 14 days.

B. Appeals Against Disciplinary Panel's Decision:
Students wishing to appeal a decision made by a Disciplinary Panel must email the Chair of the Executive Committee within 14 days of the decision, specifying the grounds for appeal. The Chair will evaluate whether the appeal is based on valid grounds. If no valid grounds are found, the appeal will be dismissed. If valid grounds are identified, the appeal will be referred to another member of the Executive Committee (excluding the Director of Student Services) for further review. This member will decide whether the appeal is upheld and, if so, whether the disciplinary charges should be dismissed or reconsidered by another Disciplinary Panel or relevant officer. The student will receive the decision by email within 14 days, with a copy sent to the Director of Student Services.

Final Appeal to Independent Adjudicator:
Once the School's internal appeals process is exhausted, the student will be informed of their right and the procedure to bring a complaint to the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education (OIA).

This appeals process ensures fairness and transparency in reviewing disciplinary decisions, allowing students to challenge decisions they believe were made in error or were overly harsh. By outlining clear steps and timelines, the School guarantees that appeals are handled efficiently, maintaining the integrity of the disciplinary system while protecting students' rights.

Privacy and Information Disclosure Guidelines

Title
Rule Confidentiality and Record-Keeping in Disciplinary Proceedings Confidentiality will be maintained for information disclosed during or resulting from disciplinary proceedings. Students on professional programmes should be aware that investigation findings may be communicated to their professional body and may be subject to local Fitness to Study procedures. Staff and students are encouraged to raise concerns in good faith without fear of recrimination. The Director of Student Services will securely retain records of all disciplinary cases according to the School’s policies. The School will collect aggregated data on student disciplinary cases and report to the Academic Board and Board of Governors regularly to ensure policy effectiveness. Maintaining confidentiality protects individuals’ privacy and ensures trust in the disciplinary process. Communication with professional bodies is necessary for students in professional programmes. Allowing staff and students to raise concerns without fear promotes a transparent environment. Secure record-keeping aligns with policy compliance and proper documentation. Regular reporting assists in evaluating and assuring the effectiveness of the Student Disciplinary Policy.

Title

Rule
Confidentiality and Record-Keeping in Disciplinary Proceedings

Confidentiality will be maintained for information disclosed during or resulting from disciplinary proceedings. Students on professional programmes should be aware that investigation findings may be communicated to their professional body and may be subject to local Fitness to Study procedures. Staff and students are encouraged to raise concerns in good faith without fear of recrimination. The Director of Student Services will securely retain records of all disciplinary cases according to the School’s policies. The School will collect aggregated data on student disciplinary cases and report to the Academic Board and Board of Governors regularly to ensure policy effectiveness.

Maintaining confidentiality protects individuals’ privacy and ensures trust in the disciplinary process. Communication with professional bodies is necessary for students in professional programmes. Allowing staff and students to raise concerns without fear promotes a transparent environment. Secure record-keeping aligns with policy compliance and proper documentation. Regular reporting assists in evaluating and assuring the effectiveness of the Student Disciplinary Policy.

Appendix A: Illustrative Misconduct Behaviours

Title
Advice Examples of Misconduct Examples of misconduct include: Disrupting or improperly interfering with academic, administrative, sporting, social, or other School activities, whether on School premises or elsewhere. Obstructing or improperly interfering with the functions or duties of students, staff, other employees, or authorised visitors. Physical misconduct such as violent, indecent, disorderly, threatening, or offensive behaviour or language (oral, written, or electronic) on School premises or during School activities. Sexual misconduct, including rape, sexual assault, and unwanted sexual advances or touching. Making unauthorised recordings of academic activities, including lectures. Distributing or publishing offensive, intimidating, threatening, indecent, or illegal information that causes fear, anxiety, or apprehension. Fraud, deceit, or dishonesty related to the School, its staff, holding any office, or being a student. Actions likely to cause injury or impair safety on School premises. Possession of firearms or replicas, or items that could be used as offensive weapons on School premises, including residence halls, regardless of licensing status. Personal use, dealing, or supplying of drugs. Breaching or failing to comply with School Regulations, Procedures, or Policies, including Health & Safety and Equality & Diversity Policies. Harassment or discrimination based on sex, race, or disability towards any member of the School community or visitors. Breaching the School's Freedom of Speech Policies or other School rules. Intentionally or recklessly damaging or defacing School property or the property of the School community, or misappropriating such property. Misusing or unauthorised use of School premises or property, including computer misuse. Conduct that constitutes a criminal offence if it: Occurs on School premises, Affects or concerns other members of the School community, or May harm the School’s reputation. Behaviour that brings the School into disrepute. Failure to cooperate in a disciplinary investigation, including not disclosing relevant information when reasonably required. Non-compliance with a previously imposed penalty under these regulations. Behaviour inconsistent with being a member of the School community and/or the School’s values. The list outlines various behaviours considered misconduct to ensure clear understanding of what constitutes unacceptable conduct. Each example addresses specific actions that could negatively impact the School environment, its community, or its reputation, ensuring that all members are aware of the standards expected.

Title

Advice
Examples of Misconduct

Examples of misconduct include:

Disrupting or improperly interfering with academic, administrative, sporting, social, or other School activities, whether on School premises or elsewhere.
Obstructing or improperly interfering with the functions or duties of students, staff, other employees, or authorised visitors.
Physical misconduct such as violent, indecent, disorderly, threatening, or offensive behaviour or language (oral, written, or electronic) on School premises or during School activities.
Sexual misconduct, including rape, sexual assault, and unwanted sexual advances or touching.
Making unauthorised recordings of academic activities, including lectures.
Distributing or publishing offensive, intimidating, threatening, indecent, or illegal information that causes fear, anxiety, or apprehension.
Fraud, deceit, or dishonesty related to the School, its staff, holding any office, or being a student.
Actions likely to cause injury or impair safety on School premises.
Possession of firearms or replicas, or items that could be used as offensive weapons on School premises, including residence halls, regardless of licensing status.
Personal use, dealing, or supplying of drugs.
Breaching or failing to comply with School Regulations, Procedures, or Policies, including Health & Safety and Equality & Diversity Policies.
Harassment or discrimination based on sex, race, or disability towards any member of the School community or visitors.
Breaching the School's Freedom of Speech Policies or other School rules.
Intentionally or recklessly damaging or defacing School property or the property of the School community, or misappropriating such property.
Misusing or unauthorised use of School premises or property, including computer misuse.
Conduct that constitutes a criminal offence if it:
- Occurs on School premises,
- Affects or concerns other members of the School community, or
- May harm the School’s reputation.
Behaviour that brings the School into disrepute.
Failure to cooperate in a disciplinary investigation, including not disclosing relevant information when reasonably required.
Non-compliance with a previously imposed penalty under these regulations.
Behaviour inconsistent with being a member of the School community and/or the School’s values.

The list outlines various behaviours considered misconduct to ensure clear understanding of what constitutes unacceptable conduct. Each example addresses specific actions that could negatively impact the School environment, its community, or its reputation, ensuring that all members are aware of the standards expected.

Appendix B: Disciplinary Measures and Penalties

Title
Rule Sanctions for Misconduct An Investigating Officer may impose the following sanctions summarily: Formal warning Written apology Fines of £50 to £250 Cost of repairing damage Temporary suspension from using specific School premises, facilities, or attending School events Restrictions or conditions A Student Disciplinary Panel may impose all of the above sanctions and additionally: Unlimited fines Withdrawal of facilities (e.g., computing or library access) for a specified period Compensation for injury or property damage Conditions that, if breached, will be considered misconduct Suspension or exclusion from the School or any part of its premises, either temporarily or permanently The range of sanctions ensures that responses to misconduct are appropriate and proportional to the severity of the behaviour. By allowing both Investigating Officers and Student Disciplinary Panels to impose various penalties, the system maintains flexibility to address different levels of misconduct effectively. This approach ensures that penalties are fair and tailored to the nature of the offence, helping to uphold standards and discipline within the School.

Title

Rule
Sanctions for Misconduct

An Investigating Officer may impose the following sanctions summarily:

Formal warning
Written apology
Fines of £50 to £250
Cost of repairing damage
Temporary suspension from using specific School premises, facilities, or attending School events
Restrictions or conditions

A Student Disciplinary Panel may impose all of the above sanctions and additionally:

Unlimited fines
Withdrawal of facilities (e.g., computing or library access) for a specified period
Compensation for injury or property damage
Conditions that, if breached, will be considered misconduct
Suspension or exclusion from the School or any part of its premises, either temporarily or permanently

The range of sanctions ensures that responses to misconduct are appropriate and proportional to the severity of the behaviour. By allowing both Investigating Officers and Student Disciplinary Panels to impose various penalties, the system maintains flexibility to address different levels of misconduct effectively. This approach ensures that penalties are fair and tailored to the nature of the offence, helping to uphold standards and discipline within the School.

Metrics and KPIs

The following metrics will be measured and regularly reviewed as key performance indicators for the School to ensure the effectiveness of this policy and associated operations.

Title
Appeals Process Efficiency Track the average time taken to resolve appeals, aiming for resolution within 30 days of the appeal submission, with at least 90% of appeals resolved within this timeframe. Efficient handling of appeals ensures that students have a fair opportunity to challenge decisions while maintaining procedural integrity and reducing delays.
Disciplinary Hearing Completion Rate Track the percentage of disciplinary hearings completed within 30 days of the initial misconduct report, targeting a completion rate of 90% or higher. Ensuring hearings are held promptly maintains fairness and efficiency in the disciplinary process, minimising delays and uncertainty for involved parties.
Incident Reporting Response Time Measure the average time taken from the receipt of a misconduct report to its initial review by the Investigating Officer, aiming for a response time of within 48 hours. Timely initial responses ensure prompt attention to issues, preventing escalation and demonstrating commitment to swift action in upholding standards.
Number of Misconduct Cases Reported Annually Track the total number of misconduct cases reported each year, with a goal of a 10% reduction year-over-year as a measure of improving student conduct. A decrease in reported cases can indicate successful preventive measures and effective communication of expectations, contributing to a more respectful environment.
Rate of Compliance with Recommended Sanctions Measure the percentage of students who comply with sanctions imposed, aiming for a compliance rate of 95% or higher. High compliance rates indicate that sanctions are effectively enforced and accepted, which helps in maintaining discipline and ensuring adherence to the policy.

Title

Appeals Process Efficiency
Track the average time taken to resolve appeals, aiming for resolution within 30 days of the appeal submission, with at least 90% of appeals resolved within this timeframe.
Efficient handling of appeals ensures that students have a fair opportunity to challenge decisions while maintaining procedural integrity and reducing delays.

Disciplinary Hearing Completion Rate
Track the percentage of disciplinary hearings completed within 30 days of the initial misconduct report, targeting a completion rate of 90% or higher.
Ensuring hearings are held promptly maintains fairness and efficiency in the disciplinary process, minimising delays and uncertainty for involved parties.

Incident Reporting Response Time
Measure the average time taken from the receipt of a misconduct report to its initial review by the Investigating Officer, aiming for a response time of within 48 hours.
Timely initial responses ensure prompt attention to issues, preventing escalation and demonstrating commitment to swift action in upholding standards.

Number of Misconduct Cases Reported Annually
Track the total number of misconduct cases reported each year, with a goal of a 10% reduction year-over-year as a measure of improving student conduct.
A decrease in reported cases can indicate successful preventive measures and effective communication of expectations, contributing to a more respectful environment.

Rate of Compliance with Recommended Sanctions
Measure the percentage of students who comply with sanctions imposed, aiming for a compliance rate of 95% or higher.
High compliance rates indicate that sanctions are effectively enforced and accepted, which helps in maintaining discipline and ensuring adherence to the policy.