Policy category: Falmouth Policies

Policy 043: Critical Incident

1. Purpose and Scope

1.1 This policy sets out ACM’s approach for handling an emergency situation that affects the ACM community that may occur in or out of teaching hours, weekends and during holidays.

1.2 A critical incident may involve both internal and external factors that may include hazards and events that pose direct or imminent threat to the safety, security and wellbeing of ACM students and staff.

1.3 This policy outlines the management plan for critical incidents as they may occur while students are undertaking their study during nominal teaching hours, and ensures that ACM is equipped to provide meaningful support to all students and staff affected by an incident.

1.4 The policy provides guidance to actions which should be considered by Executive Management, the Senior Management Team, and the Critical Incident Management Team (CIMT) in case of an emergency within ACM or the local community, or on an educational visit.

1.5 This policy gives clear guidance regarding the circumstances under which the policy would be enacted. The Designated Safeguarding Lead, on assessment of all factors, and individuals directly or indirectly involved, would exercise judgment over the policy’s activation and implementations.

2. Policy Statement

Critical Incidents

2.1 ACM  is committed to emergency planning to ensure the safety of its members and the smooth running of its business.

2.2 It is important to the success of emergency planning at the institution that its community is aware both of the central responsibilities and commitments in the case of a critical incident on campus, but also of local responsibilities and information outlets.

2.3 A critical incident is a sudden event or situation which may put staff and students under stress both physically and emotionally. In assessing a critical incident, consideration must be given to the existing factors and the impact on staff and students. It must also be considered with regard to the scope, and the wider public impact.

2.4 In general terms, a critical incident is defined as a traumatic event which causes or is likely to cause extreme physical and/or emotional distress to staff and/or students and may be regarded as outside the normal range of experience of the people affected. This may include, but is not limited to events involving ACM students and staff, where there has been:

• Extremist acts of aggression
• Serious injury or death
• Physical or sexual assault
• Violence or threats of violence
• Hold up, attempted robbery
• Sudden or unexpected death or suicide of a member of the ACM community
• Natural disasters
• Fire, explosion, bomb threats
• High publicity violent crimes
• Any incident that is charged with extreme emotion.
• Any fatality, near fatality or incident likely to affect seriously a number of staff and/or students
• Serious traffic accidents
• Major theft or vandalism
• A student reported as a missing person.

2.5 Every critical incident is unique and will need to be dealt with differently, according to the needs of the people affected.

Critical Incident Management Team (CIMT)

2.7 The CIMT is responsible for:

• The initial and ongoing assessment of the scale, duration and impact of the critical incident;
• Establishing ACM’s operational and business critical priorities in responding to the incident;
• The allocation of staff and resources;
• The management of, and support, of any ACM representatives who are responsible for the planning, management, and response taken by ACM;
• Liaison with external agencies as needed.
• Note: any suspected extremist based acts of terrorism, including threats physical spaces and the community, or cyber based threats must be reported to the ACM Police immediately. The Prevent Lead will contact the Police to discuss arrangements for the handling of these matters which may or may not involve the CIMT.

2.8 In the longer term, the CIMT will support the Senior Management Team to ensure adequate implementation of:

• Institutional reputation management;
• Long-term business recovery;
• Financial control;
• Corporate priorities;
• Community engagement;
• Decisions relating to long-term staffing needs, which may result from an emergency or sustained disruption to area’s of ACM’s business needs.

2.9 The CIMT with normally comprise of 3-5 members, including:

• A member of Executive Management
• Two Members of Senior Management Team

And may include:

• ACM Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
• ACM PREVENT Duty Lead
• A member of student support services
• A member of the education team
• A member of the marketing team
• Student Representatives

2.10 Depending on the nature of the incident, the CIMT may be expanded to include Heads of department (or their nominees) with specific responsibilities within the impacted areas.

Activation of the Policy

2.10 Information about an incident may come from a staff member, student, parent, the emergency services or the local authority.

2.11 The staff member who receives the notification should be mindful to request and make a record of as much information provided as possible:

• The name of the person who has reported the incident
• The specific incident details
• Who, if anyone, has also been informed (for example, any emergency services)
• The exact location of the incident
• Details of any casualties
• What, if any, action has been taken so far
• A name of a contact at the scene, and their contact details
• What further assistance, if any, is needed

Staff and Student Welfare

2.12 ACM takes the responsibility towards staff and students seriously, with student and staff welfare considered a priority.

2.13 Where there is an occurrence of a critical incident, welfare and well being of all affected individuals should be considered, with individuals who have been particularly adversely affected identified for additional support, should they wish to engage with it.

2.14. The diversity of staff and students should be taken into account when considering additional support, including considering contact with leaders within local faith communities.

2.15 Support which is accessed and made available after an incident may be referred to as Post-Incident Care. This is aimed at helping individuals to understand their feelings following an emergency and to identify sources of future support. The overall aim of the support is to help people in a way that will reduce the possibility of developing long-term effects and difficulties as a result of a critical incident.

Communication

2.16 Effective communication is integral to the successful management of any critical incident. It should include effective information exchange within the response team, engagement with staff, students and others immediately affected by the incident, and liaison with the wider public via the media where necessary. Crisis messaging must be managed with the utmost care and sensitivity after the initial incident.

2.17 Communication surrounding any incident should  focus on mitigating the effects of the incident on those who are directly involved. Relevant information will be shared with those who are impacted by the incident. It is vital to ensure that all communication is conducted in a manner that protects the interests and privacy of those involved.

2.18 Post-incident communication will focus on encouraging an orderly return to normal operations in a manner that protects the interests and privacy of those who were involved. Its scope includes, but is not restricted to, providing reminders to the community on how individuals can access support, including Medical Services and Counselling Services, and how members of the community can become involved in any post incident analysis.

2.19 By necessity, communication will be influenced by the nature of the critical incident. A communications plan will be developed by the CIMT to ensure that a clear communication protocol that outlines the responsibilities for the development and implementation of both internal and external communications.

2.20 Following an incident, the Senior Management Team should ensure that all ACM staff are fully briefed on facts and are aware of what information can be disclosed to the wider community, including media representatives.

2.21 Staff should be made aware of confirmed facts relating to incidents, and what information is authorised to be released. They should also be made aware of the potential problems caused by the spread of misinformation through word of mouth, media and social media platforms.

2.22 Designated staff, approved by Executive Management in consultation with the CIMT will are given responsibility to speak to external stakeholders, organisations, and media in relation to the incident. In some cases this may also be informed by the Police and other Government agencies. This does not preclude ACM student’s or employee’s right to freedom of speech, but does ensure that official communication is consistent and equitable.

3. Responsible Parties

3.1 The policy lead is responsible for the cyclical monitoring and review of the policy in liaison with the Quality Assurance and Enhancement Manager. The Critical Incident Policy lead is:

• ACM Designated Safeguarding Lead

3.2 The Senior Management Team are responsible for ensuring staff awareness and effective implementation of the Critical Incident Policy.

3.3 Implementation and compliance with the Policy, and corresponding Procedure will be overseen by the following staff:

• Executive Management
• Senior Management
• Education Management
• Designated Safeguarding Lead
• PREVENT Duty Lead
• Human Resources Department

4. Reference Points

4.1 Internal:

• Emergency Closure Policy
• Safeguarding Policy
• Health and Safety Policy
• Content Approval Policy
• ACM Prevent Policy

4.2. External:

• Civil Contingencies Act 2004
• Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015
• Revised Prevent Duty Guidance: for England and Wales
• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• Human Rights Act 1998
• Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007

5. Date of Approval and Next Review

Version:                        1.1

Approved on:               03 September 2024

Approved by:               Academic Board

Next Review:                August 2025

Download POL_043_Critical Incident Policy_170728

Policy 027: Published Information

1. Purpose and Scope

1.1 This Policy aims to explain in an open, transparent and accessible way how ACM approaches the design, development and approval of content for its external and internal publication channels.

1.2 This Policy supports ACM staff in communicating to the public the purposes and value of the education we provide, to help prospective students make informed decisions about where, what, when and how they will study, and to enable current students to make the most of their higher education learning opportunities.

1.3 This policy states the ways in which ACM uses published content appropriately to safeguard academic standards, promote current learning opportunities available at ACM, and to assure and enhance academic quality.

1.4 ACM will ensure that its published content clearly and accurately describes the institution’s mission, values and overall strategy.

2. Policy Statement

Published Information

2.1 It is important to maintain public confidence in the value of the learning opportunities that ACM provides. One of the ways in which such confidence can be promoted is by producing appropriate information, focused on ACM’s intended audiences, about the learning opportunities that ACM offers. In addition to students and prospective students, some of this information is of direct interest to the public and should be accessible by anyone. The information should be timely, current, transparent, and focused on the needs of the intended audiences.

2.2 ACM has a duty to ensure that the information it publishes to its students, prospective students and other stakeholders is clear, accurate and complete.

2.3 To achieve this, ACM has adopted the following approval, control and review policy. This policy covers all material that is published on ACM websites or available publicly in hard copy format.

2.4 In relation to official ACM social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, ACM follows the principles set out below for official material and postings. In relation to postings by those who are not acting on behalf ACM, ACM staff have procedures in place to review such postings and to remove or address any inaccurate or offensive material.

Quality of Published Information

2.5 This policy is primarily focused on ensuring the quality of information that ACM publishes to:

• Communicate the purposes and value of ACM courses to the public;
• Assist prospective students in making informed decisions about where, what, when and how they will study;
• Enable current students to make the most of their learning opportunities

Major Changes

2.6 This policy applies when making any material change to ACM’s published information, including its online presence, which:

(a) details ACM’s mission, values and overall strategy;

(b) describes the process for application and admission to our programmes of study;

(c) helps prospective students select their programme with an understanding of ACM’s academic environment and the provision that will be made to enable their development and achievement;

(d) informs current students about their course or programme of study at any point in their studies;

(e) sets out what ACM expects its current students and what students can expect of ACM;

(f)  sets out ACM’s arrangements for managing academic standards, quality assurance and enhancement, and describes the information used to support its implementation.

Minor Changes

2.7 This policy does not extend to all minor amendments to existing content, including social media sites actively controlled and managed by ACM, and information about enrichment activities, which can be carried out by designated members of ACM staff.

2.8 Staff updating social media sites on behalf of ACM should refer to the Social Media Policy.

Corporate Brand Identity

2.9. ACM is a professional, connected, high quality institution and we seek to reflect this in our visual corporate identity. This extends to our online brand. ACM requires a consistency of design across all of its methods of publication, including web pages, applications and social media sites, since the impression stakeholders gain of ACM is influenced by their use of any and all of these media. All methods of publication should conform to ACM design so that our brand is reinforced.

2.10. Standards for written material, including its style the type of information published, is of equal significance as the look and feel of the ACM brand. For this reason, all major content to be published should be subject to the same careful management. Members of ACM staff who wish to publish information, including to ACM web pages, are therefore required to follow the associated Content Approval Procedure.

2.11 Some content will change infrequently, but most has an effective lifespan so it should be reviewed on a regular basis and amended or deleted as appropriate. Any out-of-date or inaccurate content will lead users to question the validity of other published ACM content, so regular review is an essential part of ACM’s content management. Each update should also therefore follow the supporting procedure.

3. Responsible Parties

3.1 The policy lead is responsible for the cyclical monitoring and review of the policy in liaison with the Quality Assurance and Enhancement Manager. The Content Approval Policy lead is:

• Marketing Manager

3.2 Decisions and appropriate actions in support of the implementation of the Policy will be authorised by the following designated staff:

• Education Strategist
• Marketing Manager
• Quality Assurance and Enhancement Manager
• Head of Education
• Academic Registrar

4. Reference Points

4.1 Internal:

• Equality and Diversity Policy
• Quality Assurance and Enhancement Policy
• Data Protection Policy
• Acceptable Use of IT Policy

4.2 External:

• OfS Conditions B1 – B6
• QAA Quality Code Chapter C: Published Information
• Competition Act 1998
• UK Higher Education – consumer law advice for providers
• QAA Good practice guide to providing information to prospective students

5. Date of Approval and Next Review

Version:                         2.1

Approved on:               03 Sep 2024

Approved by:               Academic Board

Next Review:                August  2025

Download POL_027_Published lnformation_170728

Policy 026: PREVENT Duty

Policy Opening Statement 

When operating this policy, ACM uses the following accepted UK Government definition of extremism, which is: 

‘Vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs; and/or calls for the death of members of our armed forces, whether in this country or overseas’. 

The KCSIE 2022 document offers the updated definitions of the following: 

Extremism is the vocal or active opposition to our fundamental values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and the mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. This also includes calling for the death of members of the armed forces. 

Radicalisation refers to the process by which a person comes to support terrorism and extremist ideologies associated with terrorist groups. 

Terrorism is an action that endangers or causes serious violence to a person/people; causes serious damage to property; or seriously interferes or disrupts an electronic system. The use or threat must be designed to influence the government or to intimidate the public and is made for the purpose of advancing a political, religious or ideological cause. 

The Prevent duty should be seen as part of schools’ and colleges’ wider safeguarding obligations. Designated safeguarding leads and other senior leaders should familiarise themselves with the revised Prevent duty guidance: for England and Wales, especially paragraphs 57-76, which are specifically concerned with schools (and also covers childcare). The guidance is set out in terms of four general themes: risk assessment, working in partnership, staff training, and IT policies. There is additional guidance: Prevent duty guidance: for further education institutions in England and Wales that applies to colleges. 

All extremists aim to develop destructive relationships between different communities by promoting division, fear and mistrust of others based on ignorance or prejudice and thereby limiting the life chances of young people. Education is a powerful weapon against this; equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and critical thinking, to challenge and debate in an informed way. 

ACM does not tolerate extremist views of any kind whether from internal sources; learners, staff or governors, or external sources; college community, external agencies or individuals. Students see ACM as a safe place, free from harm or risk of harm and where necessary we will action referrals or processes to ensure ACM remains a safe place for all. 

At ACM we recognise that extremism and exposure to extremist materials and influences can lead to poor outcomes for students and so should be addressed as a safeguarding concern as set out in this policy. We also recognise that if we fail to challenge extremist views, we are failing to protect our students. 

Therefore, at ACM we will provide a broad and balanced pastoral education programme, delivered by skilled professionals, so that our students understand and become tolerant of difference and diversity. We will ensure that they feel valued and not marginalised. By delivering a broad and balanced pastoral education programme, augmented by the use of external sources where appropriate, we will strive to ensure our students recognise risk and build resilience to manage any such risk themselves where appropriate to their age and ability but also to help them develop the critical thinking skills needed to engage in informed debate. 

Any prejudice, discrimination or extremist views, including derogatory language, displayed by students or staff will always be challenged and where appropriate dealt with in accordance with our student behaviour management policy or through our fitness to study policy. 

As part of wider safeguarding responsibilities, ACM staff will be alert to: 

• The importance of promoting British Values through both the curriculum and as part of the pastoral development education programme.. 
• Disclosures by students, of their exposure to the extremist actions, views or materials of others outside, such as in their homes or community groups, especially where students have not actively sought these out. 
• Graffiti symbols, writing or art work promoting extremist messages or images 
• Students accessing extremist material online, including through social networking sites 
• Parental reports of changes in behaviour, friendship or actions and requests for assistance Partner colleges, local authority services, and police reports of issues affecting students in other colleges or settings 
• Students voicing opinions drawn from extremist ideologies and narratives

• Use of extremist or ‘hate’ terms to exclude others or incite violence 
• Intolerance of difference, whether secular or religious or, in line with our Equalities Policy, views based on, but not exclusive to, gender, disability, homophobia, race, colour or culture 
• Attempts to impose extremist views or practices on others 
• Anti-Western or Anti-British views 
• Emerging groups such as INCELS or MUUR 

ACM will closely follow any locally agreed procedure as set out by the Local Authority and/or Safeguarding Children’s Board’s agreed processes and criteria for safeguarding individuals vulnerable to extremism and radicalisation. We will actively engage with the police, and regional DfE area Prevent Co-coordinators. 

At ACM we reserve the right to initiate our own internal policies in light of a safeguarding concern that may put the student, other students, or staff at risk of harm. 

We will help support students who may be vulnerable to such influences as part of our wider safeguarding responsibilities and where we believe a student is being directly affected by extremist materials or influences. We will ensure that we follow procedure as directed by local authority, Prevent coordinator, police, social care and any other agency necessary to safeguard and support that student and others. Additionally, in such instances our internal policies may be actioned to prevent risk of harm. 

By delivering a broad and balanced pastoral education programme, augmented by the use of external sources where appropriate, we will strive to ensure our students recognise risk and build resilience to manage any such risk themselves where appropriate to their age and ability but also to help them develop the critical thinking skills needed to engage in informed debate. 

1. Purpose and Scope

1.1 This policy outlines ACM’s approach towards to meeting expectations with regard to the PREVENT Duty.

1.2 The Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015 places a duty on all RHEBs (Relevant Higher Education Bodies) to have due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism. This legislation is given specific statutory force through the Prevent duty guidance for higher education institutions in England and Wales, referred to as the ‘Prevent Duty’.

1.3 The Prevent duty guidance for England and Wales (2023), issued on September 7, 2023, under Section 29 of the Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015, serves as statutory guidance for specified authorities in England and Wales. Subject to Parliamentary approval, this guidance is set to become effective on December 31, 2023.

1.4 Its primary purpose is to offer a framework for preventing individuals from engaging in terrorism or supporting such activities, while also addressing the rehabilitation and disengagement of those already involved in terrorism.

Until the new guidance comes into effect, specified authorities in England and Wales must continue to adhere to the Prevent duty guidance for England and Wales (2015). This 2015 guidance provides the existing framework for these authorities to fulfill their Prevent duty obligations.

1.5 This Policy applies to all staff, students, and third parties of ACM and to all Academy-controlled activities undertaken in the UK.

2. Policy Statement

Legal Context and ACM Approach

2.1 The underlying considerations adopted by ACM in implementing the Prevent Duty are: 

• a commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our staff and students and all who interact with ACM, including not being victims of, or complicit with any activities linked to radicalisation; 
• preserving equality and diversity as foundations of ACM life, whilst ensuring these values are not threatened; 
• supporting campus cohesion and harmonious relations across all parts of ACM community; 
• that the requirements described in this Policy are implemented in a proportionate and risk-based manner, relevant to the local context in which ACM campus is based. 

2.2 The legal definition of terrorism as defined in the Terrorism Act 2000 applies to the Prevent duty. ACM acknowledges and upholds the position that the definition of terrorism in the Terrorism Act is broad, in describing it as “the use or threat of action which involves serious damage to property; or endangers a person’s life; or creates a serious risk to the health and safety of the public or a section of the public; or is designed seriously to interfere with or disrupt an electronic system. The use or threat must be designed to influence the government or to intimidate the public and is made for the purpose of advancing a political, religious, racial or ideological cause.” 

2.3 Terrorism may take the form of extremist behaviour and acts. The statutory Prevent Duty Guidance defines extremism as “vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs and calls for the death of members of our armed forces, whether in this country or overseas”. 

2.4 In accordance with this definition, ACM considers that extremist ideologies, and those who express them, undermine the principles of freedom of speech and academic freedom. 

2.5 Office for Students is the principal regulator of ACM and has established a monitoring framework to assess compliance of all Higher Education Providers with the Prevent Duty. ACM has a legal duty to provide reports and evidence of its compliance with the Prevent Duty to OfS, including serious issues which arise related to ACM’s Prevent responsibilities. OfS’s role does not extend to investigating terrorism-related incidents on campus. 

Arrangements to demonstrate due regard to the Prevent Duty

Working in Partnership

2.6 ACM will work in close partnership with relevant partners including the FE/HE Regional Prevent Coordinator, local police, local authorities including Multi Agency Safeguarding Hubs, academic partners and establishment of formal links for sharing good practice in approaches, and information where this is a necessity. 

Leadership and Governance

2.7 The Executive has a statutory responsibility to ensure ACM satisfies the requirements of the Prevent Duty, with leadership and implementation delegated to the Senior Management Team for Prevent-related matters. 

2.8 The Senior Management Team has appointed ‘Leads’ to oversee implementation and review of Safeguarding and for Prevent Duty. 

Risk Assessment and Action Plan


2.9 ACM has developed a Prevent Risk Assessment of how and where students and staff might be drawn into terrorism, including violent and non-violent extremism, and an embedded action plan to mitigate risks. The Risk Assessment addresses the adequacy of institutional policies and arrangements regarding the campus and student welfare, including equality and diversity and the safety and welfare of students and staff. The Prevent Risk Assessment and embedded action Plan is coordinated by the Prevent Lead. 

External Speakers and Events

2.10 ACM has implemented a Policy for External Speakers and Events to reflect the Prevent Duty responsibilities. The Policy sets out the arrangements for managing events on campus and institution-branded events taking place off campus. The Policy is set within the context of the statutory responsibility of ACM to secure freedom of speech. A risk-based approach to the assessment of events will be taken and this may require modification or adjustments to the content of, or arrangements for, events to mitigate risks in respect of the Prevent duty. Whilst in exceptional circumstances only, the right is reserved by ACM to prohibit events where speakers promote or seek to incite hatred of, or violence against others. 

Welfare and Pastoral Care

2.11 ACM has a range of services for welfare and pastoral care through the Student Services (for students) and Human Resources department (for staff) . Whilst ACM does not have a specific campus chaplaincy service, guidance regarding local services is made available. 

Staff Training

2.12 ACM has accessible training materials available to academic and professional services staff outlining the requirements of the Prevent Duty. Training is delivered to all staff to aid awareness of the Prevent duty and its requirements, and the arrangements that ACM has in place to seek to prevent staff or students from being drawn into terrorism or victims of it. 

2.13 ACM is committed to the ongoing training and development of staff through the provision of approved CPD activity, ‘train the training’ events and seminars. 

IT Networks

2.14 ACM has in place various web-filtering mechanisms to ensure that its IT networks or equipment cannot be used by staff or students to access, support, promote or facilitate harmful content, including extremism-related material, unless this is for bona fide teaching and research purposes as approved by ACM. 

2.15 ACM is committed to engaging with its students in relation to the new Prevent duty requirements and will work with the Students council in this regard. This engagement includes collaboration and consultation on Prevent duty policy requirements as developed and delivered by ACM, representation of Student Union Officers and the Senior Management Team, and ongoing dialogue to ensure that the arrangements between both parties are joined up and effective. 

Referral and Reporting

2.16 ACM’s implementation of the Prevent duty is not to challenge or re-shape the current relationship between staff and students, or between any other stakeholders who make up the community. Instead the focus is that, in the rare event that a member of our community – be it a staff member, student, or anyone else connected with ACM – has a serious concern that someone else in our community is potentially being drawn into violent extremism or terrorism, they know where to seek advice and what to do with that concern. 

2.17 When a concern is raised about an individual in line with the process following this paragraph, we will respond sensitively and appropriately, mindful of the fact that some of the factors which may appear as signs of a person’s potential radicalisation might, in fact, be signs of a wide range of other support needs on the part of that individual. ACM therefore recognises the difficulties in defining attitudes and behaviours which may suggest someone has been, or is being, drawn into terrorism but would encourage concerns to be reported as outlined below. 

2.18 Where an individual is thought to be at imminent risk of harm to themselves or others, the emergency services should be called first (999) and then ACM Safeguarding Lead (01483 910197) to ensure follow-up action is coordinated. 

2.19 For Prevent-related concerns in relation to students where there is not perceived to be an immediate threat to the individual concerned or others, the Prevent Lead should be contacted directly. 

2.20 The Prevent Lead will gather information in relation to the referral and undertake an assessment to determine if there may be cause for concern in relation to the Prevent Duty. The Prevent Lead may seek guidance and advice from the Regional Prevent Coordinator when undertaking this initial assessment. For any matters of immediate concern may be referred directly to the local police to each campus (999). 

2.21 The Regional Prevent Coordinator for London and the South East region is:

Name: Alamgir Sheriyar

Phone: 0207 974 5828

Email: alamgir.sheriyar@camden.gov.uk

2.22 The Regional Prevent Coordinator for the West Midlands region is:

Name: Hifsa Haroon-Iqbal

Phone: 07872 941129

Email: hifsa.iqbal@birmingham.gov.uk

2.23 The Regional Prevent Coordinator for the London region is:

Name: Jennie Fisher 

Phone: 07880 469588 

Email: jennie.fisher@education.gov.uk 

 

Source: http://www.safecampuscommunities.ac.uk/guidance/regional-coordinators

2.24 Where there is a cause for concern the Prevent Lead will make prompt contact with the regional Multi-agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH), and work to ensure adequate safeguards are implemented as part of a coordinated approach as determined by the agency.

Surrey Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH)

2.25 The MASH is based at Guildford Police Station and combines Children’s Service social workers, Adult’s Service social workers, and health and police staff.

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm

(outside of these hours the Surrey Police should be contacted through 999)

Phone: 0300 470 9100

Email: mash@surreycc.gov.uk

Birmingham City Council Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH)

2.26 The MASH includes partners from our  Children’s Services, West Midlands Police, and Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Trust

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 8:45am to 5:15pm

Friday: 8:45am to 4:15pm

Phone: 0121 303 1888

Emergency out-of-hours:

Telephone: 0121 675 4806

Email: MASH@birmingham.gcsx.gov.uk

Lambeth Council Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) 

2.27 The MASH includes partners from our Children’s Services, Met Police, and Lambeth NHS Trust 

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9-5 

Phone: 0207 926 5555 

Web:  lambeth.gov.uk 

2.28 For concerns about staff where there does not appear to be an immediate threat to the individual concerned or others, the HR Manager should be contacted with details of the concern. The HR Manager will liaise with the Prevent Lead, and refer to external authorities as required.

2.29 It is recognised that allegations against, or concerns about staff and students may be referred through other routes. In turn, these may be raised anonymously, in which case these will be raised as per the relevant routes above. 

2.30 ACM will ensure that the ACM student council is provided training and support in relation to the Prevent Duty and the referral of concerns to the ACM Prevent Lead.

2.31 Allegations or concerns which are raised by anonymous individuals will be investigated where there are sufficient grounds or scope to be able to do so based on the information provided. 

2.32 If an allegation is made frivolously, in bad faith, maliciously, or for personal gain or revenge by a student or staff member, disciplinary action may be taken against the person making the allegation. However, no action or detriment related to employment or study respectively will be taken against any member of staff who raises a genuine concern that proves to be unfounded. 

2.33 ACM will follow disciplinary procedures against any member of staff or student who is found to have committed criminal acts or any other misconduct related to terrorism, in the course of their studies or work activities, which may result in expulsion or dismissal. 

2.34 ACM has a legal duty to share information – in confidence – within ACM, and with external authorities, on matters related to individuals assessed as vulnerable to being drawn into terrorism, or at risk of being complicit in terrorist activity. Confidentiality cannot be guaranteed if, as a result of an investigation, individuals are requested to participate in subsequent investigations by the statutory authorities. 

2.35 A confidential record of all internal and external referrals made under this policy will be kept. In reaching any decision about external referral, ACM will have regard to its obligations under its Data Protection Policy and the General Data Protection Regulation 2018. Concerns will only be shared externally where there is a clear and compelling requirement to do so. 

Related safeguarding considerations

2.36 Concerns about individuals being drawn into terrorism may raise related welfare and safeguarding considerations, due to the likelihood of increased personal vulnerability (e.g. due to the recruitment tactics employed by radicalisers) and the possibility of associated abuse. Additional referral options exist for such cases, which would be explored and agreed with external safeguarding and statutory agencies as required. 

3. Responsible Parties

3.1 The policy lead is responsible for the cyclical monitoring and review of the policy in liaison with the Quality Assurance and Enhancement Manager. Updates in the legislation will be incorporated into this policy in a timely manner. The Prevent Duty Policy lead is:

• Safeguarding & Pastoral Services Manager

3.3 Implementation and compliance with the Policy is overseen by the following designated staff:

• Safeguarding & Pastoral Services Manager 
• Human Resource Department 
• Executive Management

1. Reference Points

4.1 Internal:

• Safeguarding Policy 
• Safeguarding Procedure 
• Critical Incident Policy 
• Equality and Diversity Policy 
• Health and Safety 
• Staff Disciplinary Policy 
• Acceptable Use of IT and E-Safety

4.2 External:

• The Prevent Duty 
• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups 2006 
• Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 
• Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018 
• Keeping Children Safe in Education 2022
• Safe Campus Communities (http://www.safecampuscommunities.ac.uk/ )

5. Date of Approval and Next Review

Version:                     1.3

Approved on:            01 September 2025

Approved by:            Safeguarding and Pastoral Services Manager

Next Review:            August 2026 

Download POL_026_Prevent Duty

Policy 022: Health and Safety Policy

1. Purpose and Scope

1.1 This policy outlines ACM’s approach with regard to health and safety responsibilities and meets the legal duties for the health and safety of all members of the ACM community and others affected by the activities of ACM.

1.2 In accordance with the duty under Section 2 (3) of the Health and Safety at Work etc, Act 1974, and in fulfilling our obligations to our staff, students and others who may be affected by our activities, the Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM) has produced the following Health and Safety Policy.

2. Policy Statement

2.1. The Executive Team and Senior Management Team will lead by example in communicating and promoting this policy and will seek continuous improvement in health and safety performance.

2.2. ACM expects all ACM employees and students to fully commit to achieving the objectives of this policy.

2.3. The provision of a healthy and safe working and learning environment is central to the commitment of ACM in the development of a positive working environment that stimulates, inspires and supports academic achievement.

2.4. As a part of that commitment ACM recognises its legal duty to provide a safe and healthy workplace for staff, students, visitors and others who may be affected by ACM activities.

Assurances by ACM

2.5. Through its Health and Safety Policy ACM will, so as far as is reasonably practicable: 

• Ensure adequate resources are provided to meet ACM health, safety and fire obligations. 
• Ensure the systematic identification and assessment of our hazards and the development and implementation of proactive measures aimed at eliminating those risks. 
• Provide an environment in which everyone can carry out their tasks without fear of intimidation, harassment, violence or undue stress 
• Ensure the management team afford health and safety matters equal priority to other management functions;
• Ensure machinery, plant, equipment and systems of work are maintained in a safe condition. 
• Provide and maintain safe systems in connection with the use, handling, storage and transport of articles and substances 
• Provide such information, instruction, training and supervision as is necessary, to ensure the health and safety of staff, students and others 
• Maintain effective communication and consultation with all staff and students on health and safety issues 
• Ensure that this documentation and supporting information is made accessible, primarily through the ACM induction and training for staff
• Ensure that students receive full health and safety information through the induction process 
• Monitor, evaluate and audit the effectiveness of ACM health and safety performance, plans and strategies to ensure continuous improvement and provide reports to the ACM Executive 
• Review the Health and Safety Policy Statement, Organisation and Arrangements at least once every three years or more often if circumstances so require. 

3. Responsible Parties

3.1 The policy lead is responsible for the cyclical monitoring and review of the policy in liaison with the Quality Assurance and Enhancement Manager. The Health and Safety Policy lead is:

• Facilities Manager

3.2 Decisions and appropriate actions in support of the implementation of the Policy will be authorised by the following designated staff:

• Human Resource Management
• Facilities Manager
• Senior Management
• Executive Management

4. Reference Points

4.1 Internal:

• Lone Workers Policy 
• Critical Incident Policy 
• Equality and Diversity Policy 
• Safeguarding Policy
• Student Disciplinary 
• Risk Assessment Policy 

4.2 External:

• Health and Safety at Work, Act 1974
• Health and Safety Act 1999

5. Date of Approval and Next Review

Version:                        1.2

Approved on:              01 September 2025

Approved by:               Academic Board

Next Review:                August  2026

Download POL_022_Health and Safety

If you have a disability which makes reading this document or navigating our website difficult and you would like to receive information in an alternative format, please contact: anddegree@acm.ac.uk

Policy 012: LEARNING, TEACHING, ASSESSMENT AND ATTAINMENT

1. PURPOSE

1.1 This Policy outlines ACM’s approach to learning, teaching, assessment at ACM.

1.2 It is the intention of this Policy to clearly outline the ways in which ACM promises to achieve its strategic aim of developing autonomous learners who are equipped to sustain a career in the creative industries.

1.3 This Policy has been written in accordance with ACM’s Learning, Teaching, Assessment and Attainment Strategy. 

2. POLICY DETAILS

2.1 ACM is committed to delivering an architecture for learning that supports and celebrates differentiation and inclusion.

2.2 ACM has constructed the education programme to ensure that students experience being part of a discipline-specific community; an engaging and dynamic cohort; and a focused and purposeful project group applying the knowledge and skills developed in each of the modules.

2.3 ACM understands the different needs of students across each academic level, and the transitions between them. ACM will work to ensure that students obtain the knowledge and skills at each level, and support them in preparing for and achieving the learning journey of each level.

2.4 ACM believes that pastoral care and academic learning should work in parallel in order to achieve the best possible outcome for students. Senior academic staff will support the students on the learning journey of each level alongside the delivery of the modules for that level.

2.5 ACM will ensure there is flexibility in the learning, teaching and assessment strategies to support students with additional needs, disabilities, or other mitigating circumstances. Details on ACM’s approach to supporting students with Additional Needs and Disabilities can be found in ACM’s Additional Needs and Disabilities Policy which can be found here: acm.ac.uk/policies.

2.6 ACM encourages and challenges its staff to continuously improve the attainment rates of students in widening participation groups as defined in ACM’s Access and Participation Plan.

2.7 ACM recognises the value of transferable skills, which may be learned anywhere, and we encourage all students to engage in life-long and life-wide learning. This is reflected in the programme design and curriculum development.

2.8 ACM will skills-match all academic staff with the learning provision to ensure that students have consistent and high-quality learning that is appropriate to the level at which they are studying.

2.9 ACM will assure the high standards of delivery are maintained through carrying out session observations via formal learning walks. This not only supports the student journey but also the professional development of ACM’s academic staff.

2.10 Students progress through their learning journey is continuously reviewed throughout the modules, via feedback from peers and academic staff in both formal and informal structures. This works to empower the students to take ownership of their progression, recognise the skills, knowledge and understanding they have gained at any given point, and identify what they need to accomplish in order to develop and achieve their goals.

2.11 Students receive positive, constructive and applicable feedback so that ACM can assist them in making progress in their personal, professional and academic journey.

2.12 ACM double marks all research projects at FHEQ Level 6, and ensures standardisation across all marking at each level. Moderation procedures are carried out as part of each marking event to ensure parity across grading.

2.13 ACM complies with the academic regulations of its validating partners, Middlesex University and East Surrey College, and provides samples of work as required.

2.14 ACM has five core development pathways benchmarked at each level, building the capacity of the student up to graduate level. These are:

1. Musical Literacy
2. Digital Literacy
3. Research
4. Professional Conduct
5. Enterprise

ACM has appointed Level Leaders to champion this development for all students.

2.15 ACM Learning Resources and Library have been developed to support the five core development pathways outlined in 2.14 and all of the validated programmes. ACM aims to provide dedicated study space on each of our campuses and access to a wholly digital collection of resources which encompass relevant academic and professional fields.

3. POLICY SCOPE

3.1 This Policy applies to all students at ACM, studying across all levels and at all campuses.

3.2 This Policy also applies to the academic staff across all ACM campuses.

4. RELATED POLICIES

• Student Engagement and Participation
• Additional Needs and Disability
• Reasonable Adjustments
• Extenuating Circumstances
• Safeguarding

5. POLICY OWNER

5.1 This Policy is under the responsibility of the Academic Board. The responsible committee will ensure the cyclical review of this Policy is carried out under ACM’s Quality Assurance Framework.

6. DEFINITIONS

6.1 Discipline-specific community: These are sessions that relate to the specific subject area, or pathway, and involve the entire community in that area. These ensure consistency and standardisation of approach and direction of the module.

6.2 Engaging and dynamic cohort: These are sessions that enable specialist interests through discussion, debate, demonstrations, case studies, and peer-review. They usually consist of a smaller group of students (normally around 20-28 students).

6.3 Focused project groups: These are sessions of around 6-9 students working independently and collectively on projects that enable them to apply the knowledge and skills gained in the modules in a professionally-relevant context.

6.4 Life-long learning: Life-long learning is an attitude that recognises that learning never stops and is relevant for every job role and creative work project throughout your career.

6.5 Life-wide learning: Life-wide learning encapsulates the skills you learn in any aspect of your social, community, or professional life and you can apply them outside of the initial context in which you learned them.

7. EXHIBITS/APPENDICES/FORMS

There are no relevant exhibits, appendices or forms related

8. DOCUMENT HISTORY AND NEXT REVIEW

Version:                         2.1

Approved on:               03 September 2024

Approved by:               Academic Board

Date of next review:    August 2025

Download: 012 POL_012_Learning Teaching Assessment and Attainment_202209

If you have a disability which makes reading this document or navigating our website difficult and you would like to receive information in an alternative format, please contact: anddegree@acm.ac.uk

Policy 010: SAFEGUARDING POLICY

1. PURPOSE

1.1 The purpose of the policy is to assist ACM in discharging its duties and commitments in respect of safeguarding students, staff and the wider community in institution-led activities fully, effectively and in accordance with statutory guidance and legislation. 

1.2 It is the intention of this Policy to promote high standards of personal and professional practice across the institution and outlines the procedures for staff to follow when concerns arise. 

1.3 This Policy has been written in accordance with, and with reference to, the statutory guidance and legislation as outlined in Item 8. 

2. POLICY DETAILS

2.1 The Academy of Contemporary Music is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all students, staff, visitors and guests and acknowledges its particular responsibilities to children, young people and adults at risk. 

2.2 All staff within ACM have a responsibility to be involved in contributing to a culture in which safeguarding is embedded, discussed openly and risk proactively reduced. Every member of staff is DBS checked prior to commencing employment, and again every three years, and all staff members must complete training in the following areas: 

• Safeguarding Young People
• Mental Health Awareness in Children & Young People
• An introduction to GDPR
• Health and Safety in Education Awareness
• The Prevent Duty
• First Aid Essentials

2.3 All suspicions and allegations of abuse or concerns about radicalisation will be taken seriously by ACM and responded to appropriately involving referral to external agencies when deemed necessary. These suspicions and allegations will be acted upon immediately. 

2.4 ACM will ensure that there are established governance structures in place to ensure that all aspects relating to safeguarding are regularly audited, reviewed and monitored. 

2.5 All ACM students and staff are required to wear ID cards and lanyards at all times whilst on ACM premises. Any person or persons found to be on ACM premises without a valid ACM ID will be removed by security representatives. The main doors to ACM buildings are key card access only to ensure access is only granted to ACM students and staff, or supervised contractors. Any member of the ACM community found to be abusing this system (e.g. by granting access to another person by using their ID card), may be subject to staff or student disciplinary procedures. 

2.6 All visitors, guests and contractors etc. are required to register at the Campus Reception on arrival. They will be issued with, and must display at all times, a Visitor Pass and are required to return it on leaving the premises. A Safeguarding leaflet will also be issued which contains essential information for disclosure process, team information and also includes fire precautions and first aid information. 

2.7 All visitors, guests and contractors etc. will be made aware of and follow ACM’s safeguarding policy. They will recognise, respond to and report any concerns that come to their attention regarding the safety and/or welfare of a young person or vulnerable adult. 

2.8 ACM’s safeguarding policy and procedure are supported by the Safeguarding Team. The safeguarding team must remain aware of all safeguarding policies and procedures and be able to communicate them effectively to all staff. They are responsible for providing comprehensive safeguarding inductions, regular training and reinforcing staff responsibility to recognise, report and respond to concerns. 

2.9 The ACM safeguarding team consists of the Designated Safeguarding Lead and a team of Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads, and is responsible for responding to safeguarding disclosures under the direction of the DSL. Such actions may include, referring allegations to the relevant investigating agencies such as Local authority , Police, Channel panel, social services; Attending Child In Need meetings and Child Protection conferences. 

2.10 ACM is committed to providing clear and easy to follow procedures for management of all concerns, including those that are deemed low level. In addition to its safeguarding provision, ACM has established procedures to enable staff to raise low level concerns about staff competency, organisational risk and reputational risk. 

2.11 Notwithstanding the measures in place to safeguard children and young people, and ACM’s commitment to students in need of extra support as outlined in Section 8 of the Additional Needs and Disability Policy, ACM does not act in loco parentis for registered students under 18. 

3. POLICY SCOPE

3.1 The policy applies to all members of the ACM community, including students at all levels and campuses, staff, applicants, associate members, visitors, contractors and volunteers. 

3.2 All ACM campuses have students under the age of 18 participating in courses or events, our safeguarding policy and training programme is developed in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education for both our Higher and Further Education provision. All staff adhere to recommendations and necessary requirements stated within this legislation regardless of role or position. 

4. RELATED POLICIES

• Safeguarding Procedures 
• Staff Code of Conduct 
• Student Charter 
• Data Protection Policy 
• Prevent Policy 
• External Speaker and Events Policy 
• Acceptable Use of IT and E-Safety Policy 
• Social Media Policy 
• Student Disciplinary Policy 
• Student Complaints and Grievances Policy 
• Equality & Diversity Policy 
• Staff Recruitment Policy 
• Health & Safety Policy 
• Whistleblowing Policy 
• Criminal Convictions Policy 

5. POLICY OWNER

The responsibility for this Policy falls under the remit of the Safeguarding and Pastoral Services Manager, overseen by the Student Experience and Quality Committee. This role is supported under the Integrated Services Division. 

The responsible committee will ensure the cyclical review of this Policy is carried out under ACM’s Quality Assurance Framework.

6. DEFINITIONS

DSL: Designated Safeguarding Lead is the member of staff that coordinates all safeguarding concerns and oversees all referrals. 

DDSL: Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead is the member of staff who supports the DSL in maintaining the function of safeguarding throughout all campuses. 

LADO: Local Authority Designated Officer 

ABUSE: A form of maltreatment of a person. Somebody may abuse or neglect another person by inflicting harm or by failing to act to prevent harm. Someone may be abused in a family or in an institutional or community setting by those known to them or, more rarely, by others. Abuse can take place either wholly online, or technology may be used to facilitate offline abuse. People may be abused by an adult or adults or by young people. 

PHYSICAL ABUSE: A form of abuse which may involve hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning or scalding, drowning, suffocating or otherwise causing physical harm to anyone. Physical harm may also be caused when a responsible adult fabricates the symptoms of, or deliberately induces, illness in someone. 

EMOTIONAL ABUSE: The persistent emotional maltreatment of a person such as to cause severe and adverse effects on that person’s emotional development. It may involve conveying to a person that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person. It may include not giving the person opportunities to express their views, deliberately silencing them or ‘making fun’ of what they say or how they communicate. It may feature age or developmentally inappropriate expectations being imposed on people. These may include interactions that are beyond a person’s developmental capability as well as overprotection and limitation of exploration and learning or preventing the person from participating in normal social interaction. It may involve seeing or hearing the ill-treatment of another. It may involve serious bullying (including cyberbullying), causing people frequently to feel frightened or in danger, or the exploitation or corruption of people. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of maltreatment of a child, although it may occur alone. 

SEXUAL ABUSE: Involves forcing or enticing someone to take part in sexual activities, not necessarily involving violence, whether or not the person is aware of what is happening. The activities may involve physical contact, including assault by penetration (for example rape or oral sex) or non-penetrative acts such as masturbation, kissing, rubbing, and touching outside of clothing. They may also include non-contact activities, such as involving someone in looking at, or in the production of, sexual images, watching sexual activities, encouraging people to behave in sexually inappropriate ways, or grooming someone in preparation for abuse. Sexual abuse can take place online, and technology can be used to facilitate offline abuse. Sexual abuse is not solely perpetrated by adult males. Women can also commit acts of sexual abuse, as can people under the age of 18. The sexual abuse of children by other children is a specific safeguarding issue (also known as peer on peer abuse) in education and all staff should be aware of it and ACM’s policy and procedure for dealing with it. 

NEGLECT: The persistent failure to meet someone’s basic physical and/or psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of the person’s health or development. Neglect may occur during pregnancy, for example, as a result of maternal substance abuse. Once a child is born, neglect may involve a parent or carer failing to: provide adequate food, clothing and shelter (including exclusion from home or abandonment); protect a child from physical and emotional harm or danger; ensure adequate supervision (including the use of inadequate care-givers); or ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment. It may also include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to, a child’s basic emotional needs. 

CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION (CSE) and CHILD CRIMINAL EXPLOITATION (CCE) Both CSE and CCE are forms of abuse and both occur where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance in power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child into sexual or criminal activity in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, and/or for the financial advantage or increased status of the perpetrator or facilitator and/or through violence or the threat of violence. CSE and CCE can affect children, both male and female and can include children who have been moved (commonly referred to as trafficking) for the purpose of exploitation. 

SERIOUS VIOLENCE: Indicators may signal someone is at risk from or is involved with serious violent crime. These may include increased absence from education, a change in friendships or relationships with older individuals or groups, a significant decline in performance, signs of self-harm or a significant change in wellbeing, or signs of assault or unexplained injuries. Unexplained gifts or new possessions could also indicate that someone has been approached by, or are involved with, individuals associated with criminal networks or gangs and may be at risk of criminal exploitation. 

MENTAL HEALTH: Mental health problems can, in some cases, be an indicator that a person has suffered or is at risk of suffering abuse, neglect or exploitation. Only appropriately trained professionals should attempt to make a diagnosis of a mental health problem. ACM staff, however, are well placed to observe students day-to-day and identify those whose behaviour suggests that they may be experiencing a mental health problem or be at risk of developing one. 

FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION (FGM): FGM is a procedure where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed, even though there is no medical reason for this to be done. It is also referred to as female circumcision. If a member of staff, in the course of their work, discovers that an act of FGM appears to have been carried out, they must report this to the DSL or DDSL and it must be reported to the police. 

PEER ON PEER ABUSE: Children can abuse other children and it can happen inside or outside the institution and online. Even if there are no reports from within the institution, it does not mean it is not happening; it may be the case that it is just not being reported. It is therefore important if staff have any concerns, they should contact the Designated Safeguarding Lead or Deputy. Inappropriate behaviours between peers that are abusive in nature should be challenged. Downplaying certain behaviours, for example dismissing sexual harassment as “just banter”, “just having a laugh” can lead to a culture of unacceptable behaviours, an unsafe environment for people and in worst case scenarios a culture that normalises abuse leading to people accepting it as normal and not coming forward to report it. Peer on peer abuse is seen as a specific safeguarding concern. ACM therefore additionally covers peer on peer abuse in a separate policy and procedures document. 

7. PROCEDURES

The procedure that accompanies this safeguarding policy is Procedure 010: Safeguarding Procedure, and can be found at acm.ac.uk/policies

8. EXHIBITS/ APPENDICES/ FORMS

This Policy has been written in accordance with, and with reference to, the following statutory guidance and legislation: 

• Keeping Children Safe in Education (DfE, 2022) 
• Working Together to Safeguard Children (HM Government, 2018)
• What to do if you’re worried a child is being abused (DfE, 2015)
• The Prevent Duty (DfE, 2015, updated 2019) 
• Child sexual exploitation; definition and guide for practitioners (DfE, 2017)
• Sexual violence and harassment between children in schools and colleges (DfE, 2018) 
• The Children Act 2004 (with later amendments) 
• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
• The Sexual Offences Act 2003
• Office for Students (OfS) Condition E6
• Guidance for English Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) (DIUS, 2007)
• Protection of Freedoms Act 2012
• Children and Families Act 2014
• Care Act 2014 
• Information sharing: advice for practitioners providing safeguarding services to children, young people, parents and carers (HM Government, July 2018) 

9. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

There are no further supporting documents to this Policy.

10. DOCUMENT HISTORY AND NEXT REVIEW

Version:                       6.1

Approved on:             01 September 2025

Approved by:              Academic Board

Date of next review:  August 2026

Download: Policy 010_ SAFEGUARDING POLICY

If you have a disability which makes reading this document or navigating our website difficult and you would like to receive information in an alternative format, please contact: and@acm.ac.uk

Policy 009: Additional Needs and Disability

1. PURPOSE

1.1 This Policy aims to ensure that ACM promotes and embodies the delivery of inclusive education across all it’s campuses, including Higher Education, Further Education and for all ACM students.

1.2 This Policy describes how the ACM meets the needs of students with additional needs and disabilities by:

• Providing targeted and specialist support to those meeting evidential criteria to access funding for Further and Higher Education support.
• Providing advice to students with an additional need during enrolment, on course and through progression.
• Working collaboratively and proactively with parents/guardians/stakeholders by adopting a multi-disciplinary partnership approach.
• Influencing organisational decisions ensuring adequate levels of inclusive practice and accessibility are considered.
• Advocating for students who have a protected characteristic as recognised by the Equality Act.

2. POLICY DETAILS

2.1 ACM is committed to the provision of equal opportunities for students with additional needs and disabilities, and aims to create an environment that enables them to participate fully in Further and/or Higher Education. It recognises its duties to make reasonable adjustments as described in Section 20 and 21 of the Equality Act 2010.

 

2.2 ACM recognises and embodies a social model of disability. That everyone who has the capability to benefit from studying at ACM should have the opportunity to do so: this is the principle that informs ACM’s approach to widening participation in a range of areas, including disability.

 

2.3 ACM takes positive steps to ensure that disabled students can fully participate in the education and other benefits, facilities and services provided for students. This duty is anticipatory and continuing.

 

2.4 To encourage an inclusive approach to disabled students, ACM need to respond appropriately ensuring that:

• staff have appropriate training to review their own practices and adopt more inclusive learning, teaching and assessment approaches;
• staff understand their duties to make reasonable adjustments;
• staff are aware of the advice and support services for disabled students within ACM.

2.5 ACM does not deny admission to prospective students on the grounds of their disability and takes such steps as it is reasonable, within its means and capabilities, to avoid any disadvantage. In the event that ACM is not able to meet the needs of a particular student, alternatives will be discussed. Admission to the programme would be institutionally irresponsible if ACM is not able to make the necessary adjustments to ensure the well-being, safety and quality of experience for prospective students.

2.6 For all matters relating to this policy and inclusive practice please refer to the Additional Needs and Disability Department. They can be contacted via email on and@acm.ac.uk  or by telephone on 01483 501211.

4. POLICY SCOPE

4.1 This policy applies to ACM students studying both Further Education and Higher Education. It is embodied in all three campuses and across the organisation as a whole.

4.2 It also recognises its responsibility to applicants, staff, visitors and contractors that may also have an additional need or disability.

5. RELATED POLICIES

This policy is embedded across all organisational practices. All associated documents can be found on the ACM website under policies or by using the link. https://www.acm.ac.uk/policies/

Associated policies include:

• 008 Equality and Diversity010 Safeguarding
• 011 Fitness to Study
• 012 Learning, Teaching, Assessment and Attainment
• 013 Hardship and Travel Bursary Funding
• 015 Admissions Policy
• 020 Data Access and Protection
• 046 Risk Assessment
• 058 Student Withdrawal, Interruption and Internal Transfer
• 067 Looked After Young People and Care Leavers

It also directly relates to ACM’s Access and Participation Strategy. This can be found on the ACM website via the link:

https://www.acm.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/ACMGuildfordLtd_APP_2020-21_10067853.pdf

6. POLICY OWNER

6.1 This Policy is under the responsibility of the Student Engagement and Quality Committee. The responsible committee will ensure the cyclical review of this Policy is carried out under ACM’s Quality Assurance Framework. The Student Engagement and Quality Committee delegates operational responsibility to the Additional Needs and Disability department. They can be contacted via email on and@acm.ac.uk  or by telephone on 01483 501 211.

7. DEFINITIONS

7.1 Throughout this policy the term ‘Additional Needs and Disability’ is used to denote students with an identifiable additional need that may not be met by the core offer. It is interchangeable with the term ‘Special Educational Needs (SEN)’ and includes those with a learning disability, specific learning difficulty, mental health condition, health problem, physical/hidden impairment or a social care need.

8. PROCEDURES

Admissions Arrangements

8.1 All applicants wishing to study at ACM complete an admission form that includes details of any additional need or disability. We encourage applicants to share information on any condition that may inhibit their ability to access their chosen course/job role.

8.2 All applicants who have made a disclosure will be referred to the Additional Needs and Disability Department (AND Department) who engage with the applicant to ensure that they are given information and advice about the support available.

8.3 Students who have declared an additional need or disability are assessed by the AND department. Depending on the age of the student, the course they are undertaking and their individual needs a recommended support plan is then put in place.

Specialist Support

8.4 Students that have an identifiable additional need or disability may be entitled to specialist support and/or equipment. It is the responsibility of the AND department to support students to apply for local and/or national funding.

8.5 Higher Education disabled students can apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). After they supply evidence of their disability they are invited to attend a Needs Assessment at a local Assessment Centre. The Assessor will write a report to outline what support is available.

8.6 Non Medical Help support includes Specialist Study Skills Tutors and Mentors.The Specialist Tutors are on the Association of Dyslexia Specialists in Higher Education (ADSHE) register, and the Specialist Mentor is accredited by the University Mental Health Advisors Network (UMHAN) ensuring they complete rigorous CPD and peer supervision. ACM offers remote study skills sessions and mentoring to all three campuses and face to face appointments in Guildford.

8.7 Students may also be entitled to assistive technology/software, printing costs, accommodation top ups and transport.

8.8 Further Education disabled students in receipt of an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) may be entitled to local authority funding. Learning Support Assistants and a Learning Support Officer may be allocated if required.

Facilities

8.9 The AND Department is located in ACM’s Guildford campus. It has a separate entrance to the main teaching areas so students can attend discreetly. The AND Department aims to have a calm and positive environment, where students feel welcome and comfortable. In Clapham and Birmingham students may access support via remote communication or on campus by appointment.

8.10 All areas in ACM buildings have disabled access and toilets. Where disabled access is not available ACM are committed to finding an alternative arrangement.

8.11 There is a no-food-or-drink policy in all teaching areas, enabling attendance of students at risk of anaphylaxis.

Allocation of resources

8.12 Students with an additional need or disability are either supported/advised by the Learning Support Officer (for Further Education) or Disability Officer (for Higher Education). Both roles sit within the Additional Needs and Disability department.

8.13 The Additional Needs and Disability Department is responsible for regulating and monitoring the allocation of resources.

Identification of needs

8.14 Students who declare their support needs, and satisfy data protection requirements, are identified to teaching staff through the Insight program, which flags the student’s name on the staff registers, enabling teaching staff to have instant access to the information entered. Staff are also advised when this information is updated.

8.15 Teaching staff may refer any student to the AND Department if they have concerns regarding the student’s support needs.

8.16 AND Department staff keep detailed records of support given to students and the progress made.

Access to the Curriculum

8.17 ACM takes positive steps to ensure that disabled students can fully participate in the education and other benefits, facilities and services provided for students.

8.18 This duty is anticipatory and continuing – ACM plans ahead and anticipates reasonable requirements of disabled students. This includes providing all documentation in a digital format and providing alternative forms of assessment as required.

Evaluating the success of provision

8.19 Records are kept of the attendance, retention and achievement of all students, including those with additional needs and disabilities.

Complaints

8.20 Complaints against ACM made by students are treated seriously and, if found to be valid, are acted upon to ensure that the students’ interests are protected as far as it is possible for ACM to do so.

8.21 Informal, and formal grievances can be made in accordance with the Student Complaints and Grievances Policy and Procedure. This can be found on the ACM website under policies or through the link https://www.acm.ac.uk/policies/

9. EXHIBITS/APPENDICES/FORMS

There are no further exhibits, appendices or forms relevant to this Policy.

10. SUPPORTING INFORMATION

There is no further supporting information relevant to this Policy.

11. DOCUMENT HISTORY AND NEXT REVIEW

Version:                         2.1

Approved on:               01 September 2025

Approved by:               Academic Board

Date of next review:    August 2026

Download 009 POL_009_Additional Needs and Disability

Policy 008: Equality and Diversity

1. Purpose and Scope

1.1. This policy describes the way in which ACM approaches matters relating to student and staff equality and diversity.

1.2. This policy outlines the steps taken to ensure due consideration is taken to the embedding of a culture at ACM which is sensitive, inclusive and mindful of its stakeholders differing needs and expectations in relation to equality and diversity.

2. Policy Statement

Equality and Diversity

2.1. The Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM) aims to ensure that no one is treated less favourably than another on the grounds of gender, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religious or political beliefs, disability, marital status, social background, family circumstance, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, spent criminal convictions, age or for any other unlawful reason.

2.2 ACM recognises and encourages the valuable and enriching contribution of all who work within ACM and the rights of all individuals who come into contact with ACM, such as prospective students and other stakeholders.

2.3 This policy provides ACM’s overarching vision, values and commitments in relation to equality and diversity. It has been written to reflect changes in equality legislation including the Equality Act 2010.

2.4 At ACM we are committed to advancing equality of opportunity, respecting and celebrating differences, eliminating discrimination, harassment and victimisation and fostering good relations between all who work or learn at ACM, or use our services. We recognise that all have a right to equality of opportunity regardless of the nine characteristics covered by the Act:

• Race
• Disability
• Gender
• Age
• Sexual Orientation
• Religion and belief
• Gender Reassignment
• Pregnancy/maternity
• Marriage/civil partnership

2.5 Other aspects of a person’s identity, background or circumstances can cause them to experience discrimination, for example a person’s socio economic status, class or background. ACM is committed to advancing equality and eliminating discrimination on these and other grounds. 

The Student Experience

2.6 ACM  is committed to:

• Ensuring and promoting equality through teaching and learning, and also in the selection, enrolment, assessment and progression of students.
• Providing appropriate student support and guidance which reflects the diversity of students’ needs both pre-entry and on-course. This means that no student will receive less favourable treatment on the basis of their protected characteristics.
• Support and guidance for students will be linked to their particular needs. It also means that ACM aims to promote equal respect for all people, to challenge prejudice and to prepare students to work in a multicultural and diverse society.
• Ensuring equality of opportunity for all under-represented groups of students through an up to date and regularly reviewed Access and Participation Plan (APP) 

Principles

2.7 This Policy is underpinned by principles to which all ACM students and stakeholders should adhere, namely:

• To create an environment in which individual differences and the contributions of all our staff and students are recognised and valued.
• That successful implementation of the Policy is the responsibility of all ACM students and stakeholders.
• That all students and other stakeholders of ACM will be treated with fairness, respect and sensitivity.
• To aim to create and maintain a working and learning environment where all stakeholders will have the opportunity to fully participate in order to achieve their full potential in a climate free from discrimination, bullying or harassment.

2.8 Breaches of this Policy will be regarded as misconduct and could lead to disciplinary proceedings.

2.9 The Equality Act recognises the following types of discrimination:

• Direct discrimination, including associative and perception of discrimination.
• Indirect discrimination
• Harassment
• Victimisation
• Discrimination arising from disability
• Failure to make reasonable adjustments

2.10 This policy applies to all students and visitors to ACM. Where students are working at premises other than ACM locations, they will be subject to the policy.

2.11 This policy covers all behaviour by the individual including online platforms such as the Virtual Learning Environment, email, communications channels, distribution media and platforms and across any social media.

Implementation

2.12 The Equality Act 2010 introduced a Public Sector Equality Duty, in force from April 2010, which requires ACM to give due regard to:

• Eliminating discrimination, harassment or victimisation.
• Advancing equality of opportunity.
• Fostering good relations.

2.13 Implementation of this policy is managed via ACM, School and Department plans which will take account of ACM’s commitment to Equality and Diversity and seek to implement its provisions.

2.14 ACM will ensure that its strategic plan has a commitment to equality and diversity; that they receive and review reports on student equality, diversity and widening participation, that they agree relevant equality targets and impact measures and monitor progress towards these.

2.15 The Senior Management Team will take an active and visible lead in driving forward equality and diversity; provide reports; oversee implementation of this policy; ensure equality and diversity data is embedded within self-assessment reports and development plans and agree quality targets with managers.

Monitoring

2.16 The effectiveness of this policy in ensuring we are meeting our obligations will be monitored through regular collection and analysis of data that should be as unobtrusive to individuals as possible, commensurate with this objective.

2.17 ACM monitoring of the implementation and effectiveness of the Policy will be the responsibility of the Senior Management Team. Departments will be responsible for the gathering and analysis of data as required in line with cyclical reporting. Outcomes from analysis of information collated will inform self assessment processes and ACM improvement plans.

Addressing Discrimination, Harassment and Victimisation

2.18  ACM will:

• Actively challenge and tackle all forms of prejudice, discrimination and stereotypical attitudes.
• Deal with allegations of discrimination, harassment and victimization sensitively, and investigate promptly, fairly and thoroughly.
• Treat any form of discrimination, harassment or victimisation carried out by an individual as a matter for possible disciplinary action. This includes harassment by a third party.

Publicity

2.19 The Image ACM projects of itself in its promotional material, advertising and public relations activity, sends messages about the people ACM expects and wishes to serve. ACM’s publicity will be regularly reviewed to ensure that:

• It is non-discriminatory to any group or individual
• It is provided in hard copy and electronic forms to ensure that information is widely available and accessible by individuals with a range of needs.
• It gives the positive image of a place which welcomes everyone for education and training.
• Applications from members of disadvantaged or underrepresented groups are actively encouraged into areas where such groups might be underrepresented.

2.20  Every effort will be made to ensure that appropriate publicity reaches all groups in the community, enabling the widest possible recruitment.

2.21  All ACM students, and potential students, should be made aware of:

• The available study support.
• The services available within ACM to support students with additional learning needs.
• ACM counselling and guidance services.
• The availability of careers guidance and industry related opportunities and enrichment activities.

Student Recruitment

2.22 The process of gaining admission to ACM programmes will be clearly expressed and structured to allow, wherever possible, ease of access to all students throughout the year where appropriate. Prospective students will be offered support and guidance at all stages.

2.23 During the admissions process, students will be invited to indicate details relating to their ethnic origin, any additional learning needs and any special educational needs. This information will be used only for the purposes of providing support, for monitoring and as a reference when considering necessary modifications to the curriculum, marketing activities, buildings and equipment.

2.24 No ACM employee will discriminate unfairly, directly or indirectly in the guidance and recruitment of students.

2.25 Students with additional learning needs and special educational needs will be given the opportunity to discuss ways of overcoming any problems of access (in it’s widest sense, including access to the curriculum) and should be actively involved in problem solving.

Access to the Curriculum

2.26 ACM is an open access institution that seeks to offer learning opportunities to all, whatever their previous level of achievement.

2.27 Programme Handbooks, syllabi and resources will be regularly examined to ensure they do not discriminate, directly or indirectly, against any student group. They should be enhanced by including positive acknowledgement of the contributions made to society by a diversity of cultures.

2.28 Programmes should be accessible to as wide a range of students as possible, by enhanced flexibility in both delivery and timing.

2.29 Learning Support will be made available to all students requiring it, subject to resources.

2.30 Ways of modifying curriculum delivery to allow access to classes to individuals with additional learning needs or special educational needs should continue to be sought.

2.31 Assistive technologies will be developed and deployed to assist and enhance the participation of students with disabilities and impairments in their use of learning opportunities.

2.32 Learning opportunities will be provided for targeted groups to facilitate access and opportunity.

2.33 Procedures for accreditation and assessment will, wherever practicable, be flexible and responsive to the needs of the whole range of students who attend ACM.

2.34 ACM supports the entitlement, for the whole ACM community, to information, guidance and counselling, which will enable individuals to manage their personal development.

Equality and Diversity related concerns

2.35 Any student, customer or client who feels she/he is being discriminated against for reason of disability, gender, ethnic origin, age, socio-economic group or sexual orientation should raise the matter formally or informally, as appropriate, with one of the following, in the first instance:

• Their Pathway Leader
• Dean of Education
• Head Education Delivery and Development
• Head of Student Services
• Academic Registrar
• Quality Assurance and Enhancement Manager

2.36 The Student Complaints and Grievance Procedure is available for cases of alleged discrimination against students.

2.37  All complaints will be taken seriously by the person receiving them and the appropriate process will be followed to respond to the complaint. Complaints provisions are subject to regular review under the Quality Assurance and Enhancement policy and procedures.

ACM Environment

2.38  By adapting and modifying the environment and facilities, where appropriate, ACM will strive to make students, staff, customers and visitors feel welcome.

2.39 Offensive material of a discriminatory nature will not be displayed in any part of ACM.

2.40 ACM communications and publication (internal and external) will not use language or images which are potentially discriminatory against any group or individual.

2.41 A facility will be made available, if required, to meet diverse religious needs.

2.42 ACM catering facilities will reflect the needs of and show sensitivity to different dietary needs.

2.43 ACM will comply with the requirements of all current legislation relating to the access rights of people with disabilities.

2.44 Consideration will continue to be given to the provision of off-site tuition, where appropriate, to the needs of disadvantaged groups.

3. Responsible Parties

3.1 The policy lead is responsible for the cyclical monitoring and review of the policy in liaison with the Quality Assurance and Enhancement Manager. The Equality and Diversity Policy lead is:

• Head of Student Services

3.2 Decisions and appropriate actions in support of the implementation of the Policy will be authorised by the following designated staff:

• Head of Student Services
• Head of Diversity, Access and Participation
• Senior Management Team
• Education Management Team
• Pathway Leaders
• Staff with line management responsibilities

4. Reference Points

4.1 Internal:

• Safeguarding Policy
• Student Complaints and Grievances Policy
• Student Conduct and Discipline Policy
• Staff Disciplinary Policy
• Data Protection Policy

4.2 External:

• The Equality Act 2010

5. Date of Approval and Next Review

Version:                        1.2

Approved on:               01 September 2025

Approved by:               Academic Board

Next Review:                August  2026

Download POL_008_Equality And Diversity

If you have a disability which makes reading this document or navigating our website difficult and you would like to receive information in an alternative format, please contact: anddegree@acm.ac.uk 

1. PURPOSE AND SCOPE

1.1 This policy describes how the Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM) supports students who are engaging with and making use of the Student Complaints and Grievances. If you are not sure who to speak to, seek advice from the Student Hub at your campus or via studentsupport@acm.ac.uk.

1.2 This policy explains, in an open, transparent and accessible way, how ACM deals with student complaints and grievances.

1.3 Complaints against ACM made by students are treated seriously and, if found to be justified, are acted upon to ensure that our students’ interests are protected.

1.4 ACM is committed to providing a high-quality experience for each student and encourages all students report any cause for concern in a timely manner.

2. POLICY STATEMENT

Student grievances and complaints

2.1 The guiding principles are that complaints shall be:

1. treated seriously and with fairness;
2. dealt with promptly, sensitively and at the appropriate level of ACM;
3. treated consistently across ACM;
4. progressed through two stages – an informal stage and, if necessary, a formal stage;
5. dealt with and resolved, wherever possible, informally and with the least amount of disruption as is possible.
6. without prejudice to a student’s or group of students’ right to pursue remedies outside ACM and the awarding body, having exhausted ACM and/or the awarding body’s complaints procedures
7. In order to be considered, any student complaint must be submitted no more than six calendar months after the event or problem relating to the complaint.

2.2 The procedures detailed below are designed to manage all forms of student complaints. ACM reserves the right to refer student cases to be investigated under the Appeals Policy and Procedure if deemed appropriate.

2.3 These complaints procedures and any decisions made under them are not intended to give rise to legal rights, or obligations on ACM or its awarding bodies to pay compensation either in respect of a decision made pursuant to the procedures or for a breach of these procedures. This policy is intended to facilitate ACM to resolve grievances.

2.4 Complaints can only be accepted and acted on when received from the student themselves or, where the student is under 18 or deemed to be unable to act in their own interest, from the Parent or Guardian previously declared to ACM.

2.5 Students are strongly encouraged to provide ACM feedback to allow ACM the opportunity to act on the feedback at the earliest opportunity before raising a complaint. If after receiving feedback they still wish to seek further advice they should refer to the stages below:

1. Informal Complaint – Students should raise the complaint with the relevant team responsible to be invited to an in-depth discussion for early resolution. If unsure who to contact complaints@acm.ac.uk can assist students at this stage.
2. Formal Complaint – Students can submit a complaint form for a formal investigation of the issue, where they are not happy will all previous early resolution responses. This is submitted to complaints@acm.ac.uk The complaints panel will meet to review all formal complaints raised.
3. Validating body/ partner institution review – following the outcome of a formal appeal students may request a review by the validating body/ partner institution. Students can appeal the result at stage 3 of a formal complaint where they feel there was a material error in the way the complaint was processed. When the review has been concluded, the student will be issued with a Completion of Procedures (CoP) letter.
4. (HE students only) Following this, any student who is dissatisfied with the final decision on their case may be able to apply to the Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA) for Higher Education. Information and eligibility rules are available at: oiahe.org.uk.

2.7 Students must submit complaints within the timescale stated within the complaints procedure. If there is a delay in submitting a complaint, the complainant may be asked to explain the reason for the delay, and the delay may be grounds for the complaint to be rejected. If significant time has passed, it may be difficult and/or impossible for a fair and proper investigation of the circumstances and detail of the complaint.

2.8 If the student or applicant is not satisfied with the decision at the conclusion of ACM’s Formal stage or if the recommendations made at this stage are not implemented, they may appeal in the first instance to ACM’s awarding body for their programme, which will follow its own process, as noted in 2.9 below.

2.9 For information on the complaints policy of their relevant awarding body, students should refer to:

1. Degree students:
 Student Complaints and Grievance Procedures, Middlesex University Regulations
2. Diploma Students: University of the Arts London’s Student Complaints Procedures
3. Diploma Students, where a grievance relates to funding: East Surrey College Complaints Procedure

2.10 For applicants, decisions made by the awarding institution will be final, in line with their regulations.

2.11 For relatively minor queries or complaints, students and applicants are encouraged to raise them in the first instance to a relevant member of staff. The appropriate member of ACM staff may be able to resolve the issue without needing to make use of these Student Complaints and Grievances Policy, and corresponding Procedure.

Group Complaints

2.12  
ACM recognises that students may wish to lodge complaints collectively. In such instances students are asked to nominate one spokesperson with whom ACM staff will liaise to address the complaint. The spokesperson should endeavour to gather the views of all of the students who wish to lodge the complaint. If Stage 1 does not satisfactorily address the complaint, the spokesperson should complete a written explanation of the complaint (either a report or via the Student Complaints Form), which should be agreed by the entire group before submission. Students may opt to have their elected Student Representative act as spokesperson for the group.

Possible Outcomes from an Upheld Complaint

2.13 Where a complaint is upheld, ACM may instigate in any one or a combination of the following resolutions

• A change in teaching content or teaching/support staff where applicable
• A partial or full refund of fees paid
• A opportunity for a student to repeat certain teaching without additional cost
• A altered date the student ceased study on a course.

3. POLICY OWNER

3.1 The policy lead is responsible for the cyclical monitoring and review of the policy in liaison with the Quality Assurance Team. The Student Complaints and Grievances Policy lead is:

• Quality Assurance and Enhancement Manager
• Quality Assurance qualityassurance@acm.ac.uk

3.2 Decisions and appropriate actions in support of the implementation of the Policy will be authorised by the following designated staff:

• Quality Assurance and Enhancement Manager
• Student Services Manager
• Registry Manager
• Senior Management, including Executive Senior Management

4. SUPPORTING INFORMATION

4.1 Internal Documents

• Academic Appeals
• Academic Integrity
• Admissions
• Student Disciplinary
• Equality and Diversity

4.2 External Documents

• Middlesex University Regulations: Student complaints and grievance procedures
• University of the Arts, London: Student Complaint Procedures
• East Surrey College: Client Feedback Policy
• QAA Quality Code, Chapter B9: Academic Appeals and Student Complaints

5. DOCUMENT HISTORY AND NEXT REVIEW

Version:                      3.0

Approved on:             03 September 2024

Approved by:             Academic Board

Next review due:      August 2025

Download Policy 003_Complaints and Grievances_AY2324