Non-Academic Disciplinary Procedure

Being part of the Central Film School community means contributing to a fair, safe, and positive environment for everyone. To ensure our community remains respectful and inclusive, CFS maintains clear guidelines regarding non-academic conduct.

Here is a straightforward guide to how the Non-Academic Disciplinary Procedures work, what your rights are, and where you can find support.

What Does "Non-Academic Misconduct" Cover?

While academic misconduct deals with issues like plagiarism or exam cheating, non-academic misconduct focuses on behaviour. The procedures apply to all enrolled students at all times, whether on or off premises, during term time, placements, or field trips.

Examples of non-academic misconduct include:

• Harassment, bullying, or discrimination (including racism, sexism, or homophobia) in physical or virtual environments.
• Sexual misconduct or unwanted conduct of a sexual nature.
• Violent, threatening, or disorderly behaviour.
• Damage to or theft of property.
• Misuse of illegal drugs or intoxicating substances on school premises.
• Actions that bring the school into disrepute, put health and safety at risk, or go against our published Code of Conduct.

Note: CFS does not handle general interpersonal disputes (such as household disagreements or friendship fallouts) or private accommodation contracts.

Your Right to Support and Representation

If you are involved in a disciplinary matter as either a reporting student or a responding student, you do not have to go through it alone. You have the right to be accompanied, supported, and advised by a third party at any stage.

You can seek independent advice and support from:

• Your Student Representative
• The Student Council
• Citizens Advice

Please keep in mind that the school communicates directly with you as the student. If you require a representative (such as a parent or guardian) to correspond on your behalf due to a valid reason, such as a disability adjustment, you will need to complete a Third-Party Consent Form.

The Early Resolution Stage

Before diving into a formal process, the School will attempt to resolve the situation under our Early Resolution principles. Many worries or misunderstandings can be sorted out quickly and informally directly with the people involved.

If any party isn't happy with the outcome of this stage, or if early resolution isn't possible, the procedure will move forward onto the formal stages as described in the policy and procedure here.

Need Help or Have Questions?

If you ever need advice, support, or guidance regarding student conduct and wellbeing, please reach out to the Student Services Team by emailing studentservices@centralfilmschool.com.