Policy category: Middlesex Policies

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 017: FINANCE 

1. PURPOSE 

1.1 This policy outlines the arrangements for collection of student fees and charges. It covers sanctions which may be used in relation to students with overdue debts and is designed to ensure that all students are treated fairly, equitably and reasonably. Where arrangements apply specifically to international students, this will be made explicit in the paragraph wording. 

1.2 It is the intention of this Policy to clearly outline fee liability for all students at ACM Guildford, ACM Birmingham and ACM London. 

1.3 Students studying on short courses at ACM are required to pay the fees in full seven days prior to the commencement of their studies. No refund will be applicable should a student withdraw. 

1.4 ACM follows the guidance of Student Finance England, which administers student loans on behalf of the Government. Information on this can be found on the Student Finance England website: http://www.practitioners.slc.co.uk/policy/  

2. POLICY DETAILS 

Tuition fee charges 

2.1 The amount that you will pay in respect of tuition fees is dependent on the course and year of study that you attend during the academic year. 

2.2 Fees at ACM are set on an annual basis each autumn for the following academic year, based on Government policy. 

2.3 Tuition fees may increase for every new academic year for the duration of your course dependent on government policy and to take into account inflation linked to the retail price index and costs associated with delivery. Therefore, students may be charged different fees for subsequent years of their chosen programme of study. Any changes will be notified to students in a timely manner. 

2.4 Tuition fees for each year of study, payment methods and due dates are outlined in the Fee Schedules for each programme. 

2.5 Annual Tuition fees at ACM cover registration, first attempt tuition, and entrance to first attempt examinations. Note: the fees do not include those for graduation, which are payable to the awarding university, or any resit assessments or retake modules. Any study visits or additional activities are not covered by tuition fees. Any additional fees for any second attempt teaching or retakes, will be confirmed at the point of relevance but will be set based on the relevant course fee and period of attendance required. 

2.5 Annual Tuition fees at ACM cover registration, first attempt tuition and entrance to first attempt examinations. Note: the fees do not include those for graduation, which are payable to the awarding university, or any resit assessments or retake modules. Any study visits or additional activities are not covered by tuition fees. Any additional fees for any second attempt teaching or retakes, will be confirmed at the point of relevance but will be set based on the relevant course fee and period of attendance required. 

2.6 Once enrolled, students are responsible for the payment of tuition fees and any other associated charges, including any amounts due from third parties which are not paid. Failure to settle fees on time will mean that ACM will withdraw access to relevant learning facilities and this may ultimately lead to deregistration from the University in the case of unpaid tuition fees. 

2.7 ACM reserves the right to reassess any student’s tuition fee liability should new information come to light that may affect the original assessment. 

2.8 Should a student change Programme, Pathway, Modules or Level during the course of the year, a tuition fee review and relevant change of tuition fee charges may be incurred. 

Tuition Fee payment types. 

2.9 There are three tuition fee payment types: 

(a) Fully funded by student loan – a student loan is available to cover the full tuition   fee; 

(b) Part-funded by student loan, and part self-financing – student loan only covers 

      part of the tuition fee and student is self funding the remaining element. 

(c) Fully self-financing – student is not eligible for student loan, or opts to self-fund the full tuition fee. 

2.10 Students waiting for confirmation of funding from Student Finance England or equivalent will be classified as fully self-financing until confirmation of support is received. Students will be required to provide evidence that the loan application is in progress if funding is not in place at the start of the academic year. 

2.11 Students aged 18 and under on the start date of their programme, studying on an FE course should be entitled to full government funding of tuition if the eligibility criteria is met. Students that have not secured government funding or that are aged 19 and over on the start date of their programme, will become personally responsible for the payment of tuition, unless a specific government funding plan exists. 

Tuition Fee Liability 

2.12 Students (or their parents or legal guardians for those students under the age of 18) become liable for the payment of the Annual Tuition Fee 14 days after the course start date, or 14 days after enrolling onto the programme where enrolment takes place after the course start date, having signed the terms and conditions. 

2.13 ACM offers home students the facility to pay their full fee in instalments. Students must be aware of instalment payment dates, which are detailed on the Fee Schedule sent to each student following acceptance onto a programme of study. 

2.14 Even where fees are payable by a third party, students remain personally liable to ACM for fees notified to them. 

2.15 The overall fee liability is based on the annual course fee liability, not any instalment plan that may have been agreed. 

2.16 Where a home student opts to pay their fees in full by the single upfront fee payment deadline, students will be offered a 10% discount on the Annual Tuition Fee. The discount will be removed if third party funding is later secured and the refund of the initial payment is requested. The discount described in this paragraph only applies to home students. 

2.17 UK undergraduate and postgraduate students and students with Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) are responsible for ensuring that their application for financing from Student Finance England (SFE) or equivalent is made before the start of the academic year. Students must also ensure that any requests for further documentation and or information are complied with as soon as possible. 

2.18 If an employer or a third party organisation is paying the tuition fees, the student will need to provide evidence of this in writing in line with the payment deadlines above. A purchase order (as provided by your Sponsor) containing your details including your student ID and the value of your sponsors’ contribution should be emailed to studentfinance@acm.ac.uk 

2.19 ACM reserves the right to reject sponsorship purchase orders or letters if they are not original documents, do not contain the correct information, or if they are found not to be issued by a recognisable third party organisation. All invoices issued by ACM must be settled in full within 30 days. If invoices are not paid in accordance with these terms the debt will revert to the student. 

2.20 Fees paid by a relative or friend of the student is not considered to be a formal sponsorship. In this instance, the student will be considered to be self-financing. 

Fee Liability, Change of Circumstances and Withdrawal from Programme

2.21 Tuition fee charges are determined on the basis of enrolment status and not actual attendance. This means that if a student stops attending, but does not formally withdraw or interrupt, the student will be liable for tuition fees up until the point in time that they officially notify ACM or are de-registered by ACM. 

2.22 In order to officially withdraw or interrupt from a programme of study, the student must contact ACM to request a Change of Circumstance form, complete the form and submit it to registry@acm.ac.uk  In the absence of written notification of a change, the student shall be deemed to be enrolled and, as such, liable for the payment of tuition fees for the academic year. Further details on the Change of Circumstances procedure can be found in ACM’s Withdrawal, Interruption and Internal Transfer Policy. 

2.23 The fee schedule for the relevant academic year confirms a student’s individual fee liability based on the date of withdrawal or interruption. International students are required to pay each academic year’s fees in full prior to the start date of the relevant academic year. 

2.24 Where exceptional circumstances have arisen, ACM may review the fee liability for an individual student. Exceptional Circumstances would cover cases of bereavement, critical illness and other severe medical and social circumstances that would prevent a student being able to complete studies and benefit from the cost of education. 

2.25 In the matter of the recovery of the outstanding programme fees, ACM will consider each student on a case-by-case basis. The options which may be applied in each case are: 

• Fee remission, where students are permitted a part or full tuition fee waiver; 
• Charge for the full Annual Tuition fee for the current academic year; 
• Charge for the full Annual Tuition fee for all years of the program attended. 

2.26 Where payment has been made in excess of the tuition fee charged (including non-refundable deposits) the overpayment will not be refunded for an interrupting student. Any credit balance may be carried forward to be applied against future tuition fee charges. The credit may be carried forward for up to one academic year. 

2.27 When an interrupted student returns to study in the subsequent year, ACM will charge the student the relevant fee for that course and Year of Study for the relevant Academic year. This may result in a student incurring a higher or lower fee upon return. 

Fee waivers, Scholarships and Bursaries 

2.28 ACM offers fee waivers in the form of scholarships and bursaries. Details of these can be found on the ACM website or via separate communication. Please refer to the relevant terms and conditions. 

2.29 Applicants who successfully secured a fee waiver, scholarships or Bursary and leave the course early or defer entry will have the funding provided by ACM pro-rata for the period attended. 

Debt policy and procedures 

2.30 Failure to pay tuition fees or any other charges on time may result in various connected services including access to tutorials, rehearsal space/studio bookings, and career development services being withdrawn, and access to ACM buildings may be denied. 

2.31 ACM reserves the right to withhold award certificates and/or assessment results, where arrears of tuition fees exist. 

2.32 Students who are unable to pay any fees or charges by the appropriate due date are encouraged to contact studentfinance@acm.ac.uk  at the earliest opportunity, as help may be available. ACM will be sympathetic and assist where it can. However, the quality of teaching is dependent upon funding and so it must act to recover all outstanding debts. The Student Finance Team will be able to give advice on sources of funding available including Hardship loans. 

2.33 If your financial circumstances change after you start your course, then you may be able to agree to a non-standard instalment plan. To find out, contact the Student Finance team: 

• by email at studentfinance@acm.ac.uk
• by telephone on 01483 500804 

Please note that documentary evidence to support your request will be required before it can be considered. Please have this information to hand when contacting us. 

De-registration for non–payment of tuition fees 

2.34 Students who fail to pay their tuition fees, maintain an agreed payment plan or provide confirmation of sponsorship will be suspended at the end of learning week six. For students who fail to pay their tuition fee instalments in Term 2, suspension will take place at the end of the sixth teaching week in Term 2. For students who fail to pay their tuition fee instalments in Term 3, suspension will take place at the end of the sixth teaching week in Term 3. The option to pay by instalments, available at the start of the academic year, may no longer be available. 

2.35 Following suspension enacted for non-payment of tuition fees or for non-confirmation of sponsorship, ACM will start the de-registration process if no acceptable provisions have been made to secure funding, make payments or confirm sponsorship. Such provisions must be made within the six-week period following suspension for the de-registration process to be reviewed. Provisions must be evidenced and acceptable to ACM. It is the student’s responsibility to keep ACM informed of their funding status and of any provisions being made to secure funding or sponsorship. The option to pay by instalments, available at the start of the academic year, may no longer be available. 

2.36 Any student who has been de-registered will be liable for tuition fees up to the point of de-registration, as per paragraph 2.21 of this policy. 

Late payment charges 

2.37 Students who fail to pay their tuition fees or provide confirmation of sponsorship on or before payment deadlines will be subject to a £200.00 late payment charge. This late payment charge will be payable on each occurrence of default, including the first instalment. 

Financial Holds 

2.38 If you have a tuition fee debt that becomes overdue, holds will be applied to your student account automatically. Holds are designed to prevent access to certain facilities and services, depending on the age and value of the tuition fee debt. The hold types and their effects are as follows: 

Returning students with debt 

2.39 Students with outstanding debts from a previous academic year may not be permitted to re-enrol or resume their studies. All debts should be paid in full ahead of the following academic year. 

External debt collection agencies 

2.40 ACM reserves the right to refer debt in respect of any alumni or ex-student to a county court and/or external debt collection agency for recovery. 

Refunds 

2.41 If a self-financing student has paid up front for the academic year and subsequently chooses to withdraw or interrupt, the student can claim for a refund of any fees paid ahead of the liability point. 

2.42 Refunds can only be applied for once the withdrawal process has been completed and any refund of tuition fees will take effect from the date the Change Request form is authorised. ACM’s Student Engagement or Student Finance team will confirm the new fee liability as part of this change process. 

2.43 Tuition fee refunds and other monies paid to ACM are only refunded to the individual or organisation that paid ACM originally. Refunds should be processed within 2 weeks of the request being received by ACM finance. 

2.44 Where fees have been paid by the Student Loan Company, any refunds due will be paid to the Student Loans Company thereby reducing the value of the loan secured by the individual student. 

2.45 ACM will confirm any fee changes to the Student Loans Company directly upon confirmation of a Change Request Form being submitted in writing. 

2.46 For the purposes of tuition fees, only monies paid to ACM will be refunded. Any scholarships or fee waivers awarded by ACM will be excluded from any refund. 

2.47 Refunds will not be made in cash or by banker’s draft. 

Anti-money laundering regulations 

2.48 ACM will not accept any payment from persons or organisations unless they relate to a valid charge, levied or impending. This is to comply with UK Money Laundering regulations. Any suspicious payments and or refund requests may be reported to the appropriate regulating body. 

2.49 ACM will not accept Tuition Fee payments in cash to ensure compliance with the UK Money Laundering regulations. 

Library Charges, Materials and Other Equipment 

2.50 Students using the Library and/or borrowing equipment of any type have an obligation to respect the rights of others by returning library and other equipment on time. To encourage this, fines are charged on items that are returned late and sanctions may be imposed for non-payment. 

Fee Complaints 

2.51 Students who wish to dispute a debt must submit their dispute within 21 days of receiving a request for payment. The dispute must be in writing and forwarded to studentfinance@acm.ac.uk  Please include attachments of any supporting evidence. Any fee complaint will be handled in line with ACM’s Student Complaints and Grievances Policy and Student Complaints and Grievances Procedure. 

3. POLICY SCOPE 

3.1 This Policy applies to students at ACM Guildford, ACM Birmingham and ACM London studying across all levels, less the exceptions outlined in 3.2 and 3.3 below. 

3.2 This Policy does not apply to students studying at Level 2 or Level 3 who are aged 18 or under on the start date of their programme, and are eligible for UK government funding for FE programmes. 

3.3 This Policy does not apply to students studying at Level 2 or Level 3 under an Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP) for which they are eligible for UK government funding. 

4. RELATED POLICIES 

• Withdrawal Interruption and Internal Transfer Policy 
• Refunds and Compensation Policy 
• Student Protection Plan 

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. The Academic Board delegates operational responsibility of this Policy to ACM’s Finance and Registry departments. 

6. DOCUMENT HISTORY AND NEXT REVIEW 

Download: 017 POL_017_Finance_202407

1. Introduction:

This code of conduct exists to provide guidance of legal obligations relating to external speakers and events at ACM, and to ensure that all speakers taking part in an event or activity, on an ACM campus or elsewhere in relation to ACM, act in accordance with the ACM External Speaker and Events Policy.

It is the responsibility of the event or activity organiser – the individual, named in the External Speaker submission form and the ACM Industry Link team to ensure that:

• The External Speaker Code of Conduct is communicated to all external speakers (once approved and confirmed via the External Speaker Booking Process) and the declaration form is signed, returned and stored centrally with the respective booking form.
• That all reasonable steps are taken to ensure that the requirements within it are upheld during the running of the event or activity.

2. Freedom of speech:

Freedom of speech is fundamental to ACM as a Higher Education provider. The Higher Education and Research Act 2017 requires ACM to take such steps as are reasonably practicable to ensure that freedom of speech, within the law, is secured for its employees, students and visiting speakers. All staff and students through their membership are expected to tolerate and protect the expression of opinions, within the law.

Whilst the law promotes and protects freedom of speech, it also places limits on those freedoms in order to maintain public order and safety. ACM acknowledges that it has a legal responsibility to create a balance between minimising the possibility that extremism or unlawful conduct will arise on an ACM campus and ensuring that it meets its legal obligations in relation to securing freedom of speech.

3. Conduct 

ACM expects external speakers to act in accordance with the law and not to breach the lawful rights of others. Set out below are examples of the expectations, this is by no means an exhaustive list.

During the course of the event at which he or she participates, no speaker shall:

• Incite hatred, intolerance or violence or act in any way that is a breach of the Criminal Law.
• Encourage or promote any acts of terrorism or promote individuals, groups or organisations that support terrorism.
• Discriminate against or harass any person or group on the grounds of their sex, race, nationality, ethnicity, disability, religious or other similar belief, sexual orientation or age.
• Defame any person or organisation.
• Raise or gather funds for any external organisation or cause without express permission of the Director of Creative Industry Development.

ACM reserves the right to not permit an external speaker to speak at or attend an event, to refuse to permit an event and/or to halt an event at any time if it reasonably considers there may be a breach of the External Speaker and Events Policy or of any legal obligation.

4. Segregation

ACM as a Higher Education provider, employer and service provider has duties under the Equality Act 2010 and Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023. ACM will not unlawfully discriminate against students, employees and other individuals to whom services are provided.

Segregation by sex or gender is not permitted in any academic meetings or at events, lectures provided for students, or at events attended by members of the public or employees of ACM. Segregation is therefore not permissible for any event covered by the ACM External Speaker and Events Policy and this Code of Conduct.

5. Date of Approval and Next Review

Version:                        1.3

Approved on:               01 Sep 2025

Approved by:               Academic Board

Next Review:               August 2026

Download this code of conduct

The .pdf version linked above contains the ACM ‘External Speakers and Code of Conduct Declaration Form’, which needs to be read and signed by all external speakers to ACM.

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 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: 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

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