What is the Student Code of Conduct?

Roehampton University’s approach to higher education is based on a clear set of values. Among these are the following:

• we challenge, inspire and support our students as individuals, to grow intellectually, personally and spiritually
• we prepare our students to be responsible citizens and leaders in a fast-changing and complex world
• we encourage learning, creativity and the arts as ways of nurturing the human spirit and improving the quality of life
• we promote equality, diversity, mutual respect and understanding

As members of Roehampton University’s diverse community, all students are expected to be familiar with this Code and to conduct themselves with due regard to the University’s objectives; its good name and reputation; and the rights of others. We are all fortunate that anti-social behaviour is not common at Roehampton. However, it is important for everyone to be confident that there is a clear resolve to deal with any instances that do occur.

The Student Code of Conduct [the “Code”] provides a framework, underpinned by and linked to the University’s Disciplinary Regulations, through which members of the University community can work together to create a positive environment in which these important values can be realised. We hope that by following the Code and understanding the reasons behind it, students will be able to make the most of the University experience.

The Code does not, however, deal with issues related to academic misconduct or behaviour which are addressed in the Student Disciplinary Regulations. Similarly, the Code does not address conduct by staff towards students as this is addressed elsewhere.

The Code is in two parts. The overarching principles of the Code are set out in the Code itself, which is a document approved by Senate and Council. The Guidance that accompanies the Code helps to interpret its provisions and can be modified by Senate alone.

The Student Code of Conduct provides the primary definition of what constitutes appropriate and inappropriate conduct or behaviour for students registered at Roehampton University.

The Code applies to behaviour:

• while on Roehampton University or College campuses
• while representing Roehampton University or one of the

Guidance in the interpretation of the Guiding Principles, set out below, can be found in the Annex to the Code.

Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct constitutes non-academic misconduct and may result in students being referred to the University’s disciplinary procedures.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES REGARDING GOOD CONDUCT

Students should

• behave in a responsible manner designed to foster mutual respect and understanding between all members of the University community;
• not behave in any way which may be considered threatening or disruptive, or being likely to lead to injury or physical or emotional harm to any of its students or staff;
• not intentionally damage or deface any University, College or Student Union building or other property;
• act within the law and not engage in any activity or behaviour likely to bring the University into

GUIDING PRINCIPLES REGARDING MISCONDUCT

The University considers the following inappropriate conduct to constitute misconduct that is likely to lead to disciplinary proceedings. The list should not be considered to be exhaustive.

• Failure to respect the rights of others to freedom of belief, orientation or practices, or freedom of speech;
• Violent, disorderly, threatening, bullying, or offensive behaviour or language whilst on University or College premises, engaged in University or College activity or using University or College computers or email accounts;
• Serious acts of fraud, deceit, deception or dishonesty in relation to the University or a College or their staff or students;
• Any action likely to cause significant injury or impairment of safety on University or College premises;
• Any action likely to bring the University into disrepute;
• Serious disruption of, or improper interference with, the academic, administrative, sporting, social or other activities of the University or a College;
• Harassment of any kind towards a student, member of staff or authorised visitor to the University or a College by any means including cyber-bullying or cyber- harassment;
• Any interference with fire detectors, fire alarms or fire extinguishing equipment
• Serious damage to, or defacement of, University or College property;
• Serious damage to the property of other members of the University caused intentionally or recklessly, or misappropriation of such property;
• Serious misuse or unauthorised use of University or a College premises and property, including computer misuse;
• Failure to disclose details of identity to a member of staff of the University or a College in circumstances in which it is reasonable to require that such information be given.
• Minor misconduct, if repeated, may be regarded and therefore punished as if more serious.

In addition to the Code of Conduct, a number of other university policies and codes set out appropriate norms of behaviour. These include:

• Drugs Policy
• Accommodation contract (where applicable)
• Alcohol Policy
• Non- Smoking Policy
• Guidelines for Conduct for Formal Written Examinations
• Parking Policy
• Learning Compacts
• Conditions of Use of Communications and IT Facilities
• CHEST Code of Conduct for the Use of Computer Software or Datasets
• JANET Acceptable Use Policy
• Students' Union Constitution
• Student Terms and Conditions (or Student Contract)

The failure to comply with these policies may result in proceedings being brought under the Student Disciplinary Regulations.

The University will normally refer to the Police any incident that involves illegal activity.