Examples of inappropriate behaviour

Misconduct may occur in person or through electronic means, such as online platforms, messaging apps, or image-based abuse.

It may involve actions that disrupt the University's operations, harm individuals or groups, or damage the University's reputation.

Lack of intent or not knowing it is an act of misconduct is not a defence.

The following examples illustrate forms of misconduct but are not exhaustive.

Disruptive, violent, or harmful behaviour

• Violent, threatening, or disorderly conduct.
• Use of language that is abusive, threatening or lawfully discriminatory towards individuals or groups with protected characteristics.
• Behaviour intended to cause fear, distress, or harm to others, including bullying, stalking, or coercion.
• Carrying weapons, including replicas.
• Criminal offences that are serious and/or relevant to the student's conduct as a member of the University community. Examples include, but are not limited to, theft, drug related offences involving supply or intent to supply, violent offences, and offences that raise safeguarding, safety or reputational concerns for the University. Please note an amnesty clause is in place to encourage students to report incidents of misconduct against them. An amnesty clause allows reporting students to report serious misconduct (such as harassment or assault) without being investigated for breaches like using alcohol or drugs at time of the reported incident. This is to encourage reporting by removing fear of disciplinary consequences for drug and alcohol breaches.

Harassment, discrimination, and sexual misconduct

• Harassment or discrimination against any member of the University community
• Harassment or discrimination related to age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, or disability, such as:
  • Inappropriate or offensive jokes, comments, or language.
  • Unwanted physical contact or advances, staring, or sexual comments.
  • Circulation or display of offensive material (for example - online posts, emails, graffiti).
  • Bullying, excluding, or isolating individuals.
  • Deliberately 'outing' someone regarding their gender identity or sexual orientation.
  • Sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, or pressuring for sexual favours.

Breach of University policies or rules

• Breaching health and safety guidelines.
• Failure to comply with mandatory training.
• Failure to follow a reasonable instruction from a University staff member or a member of the University security team.
• Damaging or stealing property belonging to the University or others.
• Academic or administrative dishonesty (for example - fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation).
• Violations of public health restrictions or policies.
• Breach of the Acceptable use of IT policy.

Misuse of technology or communication

• Publishing abusive or threatening material online or via social media.
• Accessing inappropriate websites.
• Sharing harmful digital content, for example, sharing or creating harmful or humiliating images of others.
• Spreading computer viruses.
• Engaging in unauthorised IT activities.

Actions bringing the University into disrepute

• Anti-social behaviour, including harassment or violence in University or community spaces.
• Engaging in terrorism, extremism, or activity linked to such networks.
• Behaviour that undermines the University’s values or harms its reputation.
• Not declaring any serious, unspent or pending convictions as per the Admission of Students with Criminal Convictions Policy.

Failure to comply with previous sanctions

• Ignoring previously imposed disciplinary actions or sanctions.

Malicious reports

• Filing false accusations against staff or students.