Student Conduct Policy

Policy Overview

1.1. At ACE, we uphold the belief that everyone associated with the organization, including students, staff, homestay hosts, accommodation providers, contractors, visitors, and members of the community, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. This principle extends to the conduct expected towards both private and public property, fostering a positive and inclusive environment.

1.2. The primary objective of this policy is to ensure a positive and safe community at ACE where all students can maximize their educational experience. To achieve this, the document aims to:

1.2.1. Promote positive behavior within the college and towards the broader community.

1.2.2. Establish principles, guidelines, and sanctions to maintain order, discipline, and a pleasant atmosphere.

Policy Scope

2.1. The principles, guidelines, and sanctions outlined in this document are applicable to all individuals enrolled in ACE courses, irrespective of age, gender, nationality, or other personal circumstances.

2.2. These provisions are effective at all times within the college premises and, when appropriate, extend to situations where students are away from the college during social trips or other activities.

2.3. ACE students are expected to adhere to these guidelines in their interactions with fellow students, staff, homestay hosts, accommodation providers, contractors, visitors on ACE premises, and members of the broader local community.

Key Definitions

3.1. For clarity, the following definitions apply:

3.1.1. Behavior: Actions or conduct of an individual, especially concerning interactions with others.

3.1.2. Good Behavior: Courteous conduct adhering to the guidelines provided in this document and general legal principles.

3.1.3. Misconduct/Poor Behavior: Improper or impolite behavior contrary to the guidelines outlined in this document.

3.1.4. Bullying and Harassment: Refer to the separate Anti-Bullying & Harassment Policy for a comprehensive definition.

3.1.5. Discipline: Training individuals to follow rules, using negative incentives to correct disobedience.

General Principles

4.1. ACE promotes a culture of courtesy and respect, encouraging polite communication, good manners, and responsible treatment of property.

4.2. ACE supports and fosters respect for cultural, racial, religious, or any other differences.

4.3. ACE has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, bullying, and violence.

4.4. Instances of poor behavior are not tolerated, and disciplinary actions may be taken against those who exhibit such behavior.

Guidelines for Expected Student Behavior

5.1. The following non-exhaustive list outlines the behavior expected from every ACE student:

5.1.1. Respectful behavior towards individuals, acknowledging diverse views and opinions.

5.1.2. Avoidance of offensive language, including rude or derogatory remarks and swearing.

5.1.3. No bullying or harassment of others.

5.1.4. Non-engagement in violence under any circumstances.

5.1.5. Punctual attendance and participation in all scheduled classes.

5.1.6. Limited use of mobile phones or electronic devices during lessons, except when part of an approved learning method.

5.1.7. English language use in class.

5.1.8. Completion of all assigned homework.

5.1.9. Respectful listening to teachers and fellow students.

5.1.10. Use of polite expressions such as “please” and “thank you.”

5.1.11. Smoking only in designated areas.

5.1.12. No alcohol on college premises.

5.1.13. Careful handling of classroom furniture and equipment.

5.1.14. Respectful treatment of others’ property and the environment.

5.1.15. Proper disposal of rubbish in designated bins.

Sanctions

6.1. ACE reserves the right to deny admission or dismiss any student from the college or accommodation without a refund of tuition fees for instances of misconduct or unsatisfactory attendance.

6.2. In cases of dismissal, fees will not be refunded, and the student will be responsible for any damage caused on the school premises or accommodation.

6.3. Grounds for dismissal may include abusive, violent, or threatening behavior, discrimination, theft, vandalism, use of illegal substances, or repeated breaches of rules.

6.4. Reasonable force, following DfE guidance, may be applied in situations demanding immediate action to prevent harm or maintain order and discipline.

Disciplinary Action

7.1. Steps taken in response to poor conduct include verbal warnings, written warnings, and meetings to establish improvement plans.

7.2. Continued poor behavior may result in a student being asked to leave the college, and, in severe cases, immediate expulsion may occur.

Reporting Misconduct

8.1. Students reporting poor behavior they have experienced should follow the college’s Complaints Procedure.

8.2. False accusations may result in disciplinary action against the accuser, as per this policy.