The Equality Act 2010 (Specific Duties and Public Authorities 2017 requires gender pay reporting for employers with 250 or more employees to publish statutory calculations showing how large the pay gap is between their male and female employees. For organisations with less than 250 employees this is voluntary (as was applicable to The Academy of Contemporary Music in 2022-23).
View the organisation’s 2022-23 Gender Pay Gap Report here.
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
Procedure 069: Freedom of Speech
1.1 This document outlines the procedures to be followed in the event of a breach of ACM’s Freedom of Speech Policy. ACM is committed to ensuring that all members of the community can express their opinions in a responsible and respectful manner, and these procedures are designed to address any instances where this policy is violated.
1.2 These procedures are designed to ensure a fair and transparent process for addressing breaches of ACM’s Freedom of Speech Policy. The institution’s goal is to maintain a respectful and inclusive environment while upholding the principles of freedom of speech and academic integrity.
Reporting and initial assessment
2.1 Any member of the ACM community who believes that a student has breached the Freedom of Speech Policy should promptly report their concerns to their Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
2.2 Upon receiving the report, the DSL will conduct a preliminary investigation to determine the severity of the alleged breach. If the breach is deemed minor and can be resolved through informal discussions, the DSL may opt for a mediation process to address the issue. If the breach is more serious and warrants further action, the DSL will escalate the complaint to include relevant parties.
Investigation
2.3 The investigation may involve gathering evidence, interviewing relevant parties, and reviewing any relevant documents or communications. The investigation will be conducted in a fair and impartial manner, and confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible.
Suspension
2.4 In cases where the alleged breach is deemed to be of a serious nature and may pose a risk to the ACM community or the individuals involved, the DSL, in consultation with ACM leadership, may decide to suspend the student from the institution temporarily. Suspension is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of all parties and is not a punitive measure. Suspension does not imply guilt. During the suspension period, the student will be informed of the reasons for the suspension and the ongoing investigation.
Post-investigation
2.5 Once the investigation is complete, the DSL will prepare a report detailing the findings of the investigation. The report will include information about the alleged breach, the evidence collected, and any relevant statements obtained. The report will be submitted to an ACM panel for review.
2.6 Based on the investigation report, the panel will determine whether the student has breached the Freedom of Speech Policy. If a breach is confirmed, the appropriate actions will be taken, which may include disciplinary measures, educational interventions, or further dialogue with the student.
Right to appeal
2.7 If the student is found to have breached the policy and is subjected to disciplinary action, they have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process will be communicated to the student in writing along with information on how to submit an appeal.
4.1 The policy lead is responsible for the cyclical monitoring and review of this procedure in liaison with the Quality Assurance and Enhancement Manager. The Freedom of Speech lead is:
4.2 Decisions and appropriate actions in support of the implementation of the Policy will be authorised by the following designated staff:
Version: 1.0
Approved on: 01 September 2025
Approved by: Academic Board
Date of next review: August 2026
Download: PRO_069 Freedom of Speech
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POLICY 075: Student Use of Artificial Intelligence
1.1 This policy applies to all students enrolled on programmes at ACM, including all FE provision and all HE provision, including Foundation programmes, Integrated Masters programmes and Masters programmes.
2.1 ACM believes that AI tools are transformative and disruptive, and that they will feature in many academic and professional workplaces. As an institution, ACM is committed to exploring ways in which it can utilise AI to support and facilitate deeper learning.
2.2 Rather than seek to prohibit the use of AI tools, ACM will support students in using them effectively, ethically and transparently. Tools such as ChatGPT, Quillbot, CoPilot and Grammarly can help students in a number of ways. Examples might include:
3.1 Whilst AI tools are powerful and easy to use, they can negatively impact your learning as they can detract from the reflection and critical engagement that are essential for deep and meaningful learning.
3.2 AI tools can also easily provide misleading or incorrect information. Students who rely on these tools too much risk losing their own skills and expertise, and may struggle to study or work without them.
3.3 Students should be aware that tools such as those listed in 2.2, whilst useful, can lead a student to commit academic misconduct if content is created that is not the student’s own. These tools, and others, are multi-functional. It is the student’s responsibility to use these tools in a way that upholds academic integrity and to ensure you do not commit academic misconduct.
Academic Integrity
3.4 To our students we say: Be enquiring, be conscientious, be honest. Although the use of AI simplifies studying in many ways, it must not lead you to neglect your study efforts and rely on the outputs provided by these tools – keep academic integrity uppermost in your mind because academic misconduct can negatively impact your progression and final award.
3.5 Students must always ensure they demonstrate academic integrity in their work. This means employing good judgement to ensure that AI has been used appropriately and without gaining an inappropriate advantage. It is crucial that you do not use AI tools to generate work, including sections of written work, and submit it as if it was your own. This will be considered academic misconduct. As a result, submission of such work may result in your work receiving a fail grade, having to redo your work with a penalty to your grade, or even withdrawal from the course.
Know the Limitations of Artificial Intelligence
3.6 The use of AI has clear limitations. For example, currently available AI tools can:
3.7 AI tools are not reliable sources. Think of them as the equivalent of asking a random stranger on the street something: the information they provide might be taken from any number of inaccurate, misleading, or misremembered sources, but made to sound convincing.
Writing Style and Academic Writing
3.8 ACM is aware that students, especially those new to Higher Education, may struggle with Academic Writing and the purpose of such writing as a skill set. Academic writing is about presenting existing, trusted sources that support your own ideas, which are themselves based on your research and/or your experiences throughout your learning.
3.9 The academic writing approach allows you to deliver this as a body of work that is coherent and easily accessible by a university marker. But this is different to, and does not mean, using unnecessarily fancy words to make your work sound ‘smarter’. In fact, we have already seen instances of student work that has supposedly been ‘improved’ by AI actually become less coherent, or less in line with the Assessment task, due to an over-reliance on sounding ‘academic.’
3.10 Make sure you focus on the substance required of the assessment brief and the learning outcomes. Speak to your tutors, who are there to support you, about what the assessment is actually asking for.
3.11 It is a breach of academic integrity to blend AI-generated content with your own content.
Declaration of AI Use
3.12 Students should never pass off ideas or text taken from AI as their own, and there should be a clear acknowledgement of how AI has been used in the work. Your assessment briefs require you to complete a Declaration of Authenticity. This includes a statement on the use of AI and now takes the form of a Canvas ‘Quiz’.
3.13 Completing the Declaration of Authenticity is a mandatory requirement of the submission process. You should complete this declaration whether you have used AI in your submission or not. It is important to be aware that any suspected AI use in a submission that is not accompanied by an appropriate declaration will be flagged for potential Academic Misconduct.
AI Detection Tools
3.14 ACM employs the latest AI detection software, which includes Turnitin’s AI detector tool, as a component of our academic compliance procedure, though this is not our sole point of reference.
Keeping Drafts of your work
3.15 Should you feel the need or desire to improve your work through AI in an acceptable manner, such as those outlined in paragraph 1.3 above, it is good practice and in your own interests to keep drafts of your work before the influence of AI. This will be requested as a part of the Academic Misconduct investigation should there be any suspicion of over-reliance on AI in your work, particularly where there is no Declaration of Authenticity apparent. Being able to show how your drafts led to the finished work is a positive way of working with the academic integrity process.
3.16 ACM provides unlimited storage in Google Drive to every student. It is good practice and in your own interest to create, draft and store your work in your Google Drive, thereby maintaining transparency and a clear record of document creation.
4.1 Internal Documents
5.1 This policy applies to Academic Year 2024-25
| Version | 1.0 |
|---|---|
| Approved on | 01 September 2025 |
| Approved by | Academic Board |
| Date of next review | August 2026 |
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 070: SUICIDE AND RISK INTERVENTION
1.1 This Suicide and Risk Intervention Policy outlines ACM’s approach to creating a safe and caring environment, encouraging open communication so as to ensure that anyone facing difficulties receives the necessary support.
2.1 This policy applies to all staff and students at ACM Guildford, ACM London and ACM Birmingham.
3.1 ACM is committed to creating a positive and compassionate community of staff and students. Positivity and compassion encourages individuals to flourish and to achieve their maximum potential. We are committed to promoting good mental health and to taking preventative steps to reduce the risk of suicide.
3.2 ACM recognises our moral and statutory responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all that are associated with ACM. Safeguarding is a priority at ACM and promoting the wellbeing and welfare of our community is at the heart of everything that we do.
3.3 We will endeavour to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment where students, staff and visitors feel safe, respected and valued. We will be alert to the signs of abuse and neglect and will follow our policies and procedures to ensure that everyone receives effective support and protection from harm.
Prevention and Intervention
3.4 ACM is committed to taking a proactive stance on suicide prevention and intervention. We recognise the importance of a whole-institution approach to mental health and strive to create an atmosphere that promotes well-being, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
3.5 We ensure staff and students are aware of internal and external support information regarding mental health support.
3.6 We request feedback from staff and students regarding our support services each academic year to establish the health of the organisation and the effectiveness of the provision we have in place.
3.7 The Safeguarding team, through panel decision, will assess risk and determine the appropriate timing for contacting the next of kin, regardless of permissions set by the student on our internal systems during induction.
3.8 The assessment of risk will take into account specific factors:
(a) Whether contacting the next of kin poses additional risk to the student’s safety and wellbeing.
(b) If the student’s condition may deteriorate as a result of disclosing the intent to contact the next of kin.
(c) Where applicable, whether emergency services recommend or prefer to make the decision regarding contacting the next of kin.
3.9 If the assessment is inconclusive by panel decision, emergency services will be contacted for their advice and support on the matter.
3.10 If the risk is assessed as high, and the student is at immediate risk, ACM reserves the right to contact the Next of Kin as a supportive measure for the student’s wellbeing and safety.
Compassionate Communities
3.11 ACM recognises that compassionate communities can support the mental health of staff and students. ACM strives to foster a supportive, inclusive environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their difficulties and distress. We encourage open dialogue and seek to eliminate stigma surrounding mental health.
3.12 We provide safe spaces and easy reporting platforms of concerns for all staff and students.
3.13 We understand the challenges associated with sharing mental health concerns, which is why we prioritise creating multiple avenues for disclosure within our organisation. Our goal is to ensure that all individuals feel supported and empowered to share their experiences and seek assistance as needed.
3.14 We encourage staff and students to reach out if they feel that ACM is not adequately supporting their needs by contacting Human Resources (staff), Safeguarding and Wellbeing departments.
3.15 When concerns regarding adequate support are raised, a panel is convened to address the gaps in support and initiate a review of policies, procedures, and provisions in all relevant areas, where required.
3.16 When it is identified that a member or members of the ACM community are posing a threat to the mental health of another member or members, appropriate action is taken, which may involve invoking the student or staff disciplinary procedures. All concerns will be thoroughly reviewed by the appropriate teams.
3.16 Where applicable content warnings will be provided regarding all course content before delivery.
Encouraging Disclosure of Difficulties
3.17 ACM takes the position that seeking help is a sign of strength and actively encourages the disclosure of mental health difficulties and distress. We are committed to providing a safe space where individuals feel heard and supported without judgement. Anyone suffering difficulties and distress should contact dsl@acm.ac.uk
3.18 We offer support for all members of our community, including staff, volunteers, and students, encouraging open disclosure. We approach every disclosure with a commitment to achieving positive outcomes for everyone involved, irrespective of circumstances, individual needs, or protected characteristics.
3.19 We design our disclosure platforms to accommodate a diverse range of needs and abilities, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all individuals.
Emergency support
3.20 Individuals experiencing feelings of self-harm can access support services from our Safeguarding, Wellbeing, and Student Services teams, regardless of their position within ACM. Our support service teams collaborate as part of a comprehensive, integrated approach, leveraging diverse experiences to guide individuals through a positive recovery and supportive journey.
3.21 If you feel you are in immediate danger of seriously harming yourself or someone else, please dial 999 to contact the Emergency Services or go to the nearest A&E Service Department or NHS Walk in Centre. Alternatively, please contact:
Papyrus UK Suicide prevention
Phone 0800 068 4141
Text 07860 039967
or
The Samaritans Crisis Support 24/7
Phone: 116 123
Email jo@samaritans.org
3.22 The ACM support services teams are here to assist you throughout this process, especially if reaching out for support feels challenging.
Identification and Signposting
3.23 We strive to identify anyone within the ACM community who may be experiencing difficulties and promptly connect them with appropriate support. ACM is committed to being proactive in identifying potential signs of distress and ensuring that concerns are followed up with sensitivity and care.
3.24 All staff undergo a minimum of two training sessions per year on safeguarding matters, which includes training on identifying signs of poor mental health. Staff are also briefed on disclosure processes and equipped with effective strategies for supporting student needs thereafter.
3.25 Staff receive regular updates through Monthly Safeguarding Newsletters and Termly communications, which cover topics aimed at raising awareness of identifying concerning behaviours, providing guidance on who to contact, and offering strategies to support students in preventing conditions from worsening.
3.26 The education and support services teams convene regularly to address concerns such as attendance, engagement, and students falling behind on their studies. This proactive approach aims to mitigate factors that may contribute to poor mental health among students experiencing difficulties with their academic pursuits.
3.27 Supportive measures, including, where required, the Fitness to Study framework, Team around the Student Initiative, and Student Services 1:1 wellbeing support approaches, are implemented upon the identification of concerns regarding a student’s academic performance or disclosure of poor mental health. These approaches are activated following a panel decision.
Building Relationships with Local Partnerships
3.28 ACM develops and maintains relationships with local suicide prevention partnerships and external agencies. We recognise the value of collaboration and seek to benefit from the knowledge, expertise and quality frameworks of the organisations we work with in order to enhance our suicide prevention and risk intervention efforts.
3.29 We maintain our supportive approach throughout the support journey of staff or students, offering internal check-ins, sharing information with external organisations through partnerships, and facilitating communication with next of kin as needed.
Signposting Support
3.30 ACM is committed to providing clear information on the support available both within the institution and from external organisations. ACM will actively signpost individuals to relevant resources, counselling services, helplines, and other support mechanisms to ensure they have access to the help they need.
3.31 This commitment extends to:
(a) Internal Resources: ACM will maintain updated information on internal support services, including counselling services, mental health resources, and wellbeing initiatives available to staff and students.
(b) External Organisations: ACM will collaborate with external organisations and agencies to identify and provide information on additional support services available in the community, including inviting these organisations to present an assembly or talk on their provision of support.
(c) Helplines and Hotlines: ACM will ensure that contact information for helplines and hotlines, including those focused on mental health support, crisis intervention, and other relevant services, is readily accessible to all members of the ACM community on our internal VLE, website or posters around campus.
(d) Online Resources: ACM will curate and promote online resources, articles, and tools related to mental health, wellbeing, and self-care, making them easily accessible through digital platforms and communication channels.
(e) Training and Awareness: ACM will conduct training sessions and awareness campaigns to educate staff and students on how to identify signs of distress and effectively utilise available support resources. This will be provided at the start of the academic year.
3.32 By actively signposting support options, ACM aims to empower individuals to seek help and access the resources necessary for their mental health and wellbeing.
Training and Awareness
3.33 To further our commitment to suicide prevention, ACM will implement the following measures:
(a) Training Programmes: ACM will provide comprehensive training programs designed to equip staff and students with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognise mental health issues, identify suicide risk factors, and respond effectively to individuals in crisis situations.
(b) Awareness Campaigns: The wellbeing team will organise regular awareness campaigns focused on mental health issues, suicide prevention, and the importance of early intervention. These campaigns will aim to reduce stigma surrounding mental health, promote help-seeking behaviours, and foster a supportive environment within the ACM community.
(c) Suicide Risk Assessment Protocols: ACM will develop and implement protocols for assessing and responding to suicide risk among staff and students. These protocols will outline clear procedures for identifying individuals at risk, initiating appropriate interventions, and connecting them with necessary support services.
(d) Collaboration with Mental Health Professionals: ACM will collaborate with mental health professionals and organisations to enhance suicide prevention efforts and ensure access to specialised support services for individuals in need.
(e) Crisis Response Plans: The safeguarding team will establish clear protocols and procedures for responding to mental health crises and suicide attempts on campus. These plans will outline steps for managing emergencies, providing immediate support to affected individuals, and coordinating follow-up care.
3.34 By implementing these measures, ACM aims to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help, receive appropriate support, and access resources for suicide prevention and mental health promotion.
Review and Continuous Improvement
3.35 ACM is committed to continuous improvement in its approach to suicide prevention and risk intervention. This policy will be regularly reviewed to ensure its effectiveness and relevance, with reviews taking place not less than once per year.
Internal:
External:
Version: 1.1
Approved on: 01 September 2025
Approved by: Academic Board
Next review due: August 2026
Download this document: POL_070_Suicide and Risk Intervention_v1.1
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 outlines the open, transparent and accessible way in which ACM approaches criminal convictions in relation to admission and ongoing attendance on Higher Education Programmes (Degrees) and Further Education Courses (Diplomas).
1.2 This Policy applies to applicants and students studying at ACM Guildford, ACM Birmingham and ACM London on programmes validated by Middlesex University.
2. POLICY STATEMENT
2.1 This policy will normally be considered in conjunction with ACM’s main Admissions policy and Student Disciplinary policy.
2.2 ACM has a duty of care to its staff and students and therefore needs to be informed of any alleged criminal activity and/or convictions by its students and by any applicant to the ACM.
2.3 Disclosure will not necessarily bar an individual from studying at ACM. This will depend on the circumstances and background of the individual’s offence(s). Some types of investigation, charge or offence (e.g. sexual or violent offences) may be particularly strong indicators that an applicant is unsuitable and should not be offered a place; or that a current student may be suspended, excluded or dismissed from ACM.
2.4 When assessing whether an applicant or student is unsuitable, the Admissions or Student Disciplinary Panel will consider the following:
2.5 These factors must be balanced against the rights of the applicant to be treated fairly. Therefore the panel may also look at attaching specific conditions on the offer an applicant may receive such as not residing in student accommodation.
Applicant disclosure of criminal convictions
2.6 All applicants are required to disclose any unspent relevant convictions as part of the application process. This includes unspent relevant convictions from offences committed outside the UK. Failure to disclose any unspent relevant convictions may result in an offer of study being rescinded. Any Applicant receiving a conviction/being charged with a relevant offence during the application process must ensure they inform ACM immediately at admissions@acm.ac.uk
2.7 When declaring if you have a criminal conviction, first consider if you have a relevant conviction(s) and then whether it is unspent. Reference may be made to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
2.8 A relevant criminal conviction is deemed to include conviction, caution (including youth caution, verbal or written caution, conditional or unconditional caution), reprimand, final warning, conditional discharge, youth rehabilitation order, warning, reprimand, bind over order, community order, community protection notice (CPN), restraining order, sexual offences prevention order, penalty notices for disorder (PND), anti-social behaviour order (ASBO) or violent offender order (VOO), or similar in the UK or any other jurisdiction, involving one or more of those listed below:
If the above does not apply, any conviction is not deemed relevant and as such does not need to be declared.
2.9 If an applicant does have a relevant conviction, the criminal conviction can become ‘spent’ after a period of time. The length of time it takes to become spent is defined in England by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and depends on the sentence, the person’s age at the time of the offence or disposal made by the court following the conviction. Until that period has passed, the conviction is considered ‘unspent’ and must be declared.
Further convictions can impact when other convictions become spent. Sentences of over four years in prison cannot become spent. Most cautions, reprimands and final warnings become spent immediately, so will not normally be ‘unspent’. Careful reference should be made to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
2.10 Applicants must, upon request, provide full details of any/or all convictions they may have disclosed under points 2.6 to 2.8 above.
2.11 Applications from candidates with criminal convictions will receive careful consideration by the Admissions Panel consisting of Designated Safeguarding Lead, Admissions Manager and relevant Programme Managers or nominees, with advice from Senior Managers where deemed necessary.
2.12 ACM reserves the right to reject any applicant with a relevant unspent criminal conviction or any applicant who may in ACM’s opinion jeopardise the security, safety or reputation and integrity of ACM or its community, or where there are other relevant professional considerations.
2.13 Matters relating to disclosures of Criminal Convictions are managed by the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
Criminal Conviction arising whilst on a course of study
2.14 Where a student who is already on a course of study with ACM receives a new criminal conviction or is arrested and charged with an offence, including convictions and offences from outside the UK, the student is expected to undertake the same consideration as an application in terms of paragraphs 2.6, 2.7, 2.8 and 2.9 above.
2.15 Where it is deemed that a student has a new relevant, unspent criminal conviction or has been charged with a relevant offence, the student is required to send written confirmation of the conviction and details behind the conviction to safeguarding@acm.ac.uk for consideration. If they are sent to trial, ACM must also be kept informed at all stages either by the student or by their legal representative. If the student is convicted then this must also be reported along with details of any sentence imposed.
2.16 Students declaring with criminal convictions will receive careful consideration by the Risk Panel consisting of Designated Safeguarding Lead, Student Engagement Manager and relevant Programme Managers or nominees of the aforementioned, with advice from Senior Managers where deemed necessary.
2.17 Conduct which may constitute a criminal offence may also amount to misconduct under ACM’s Student Disciplinary Policy. Therefore, in addition to any criminal process, the student may be subject to disciplinary action by ACM.
2.18 ACM reserves the right to remove any current student with a relevant unspent criminal conviction who in ACM’s opinion may jeopardise the security, safety or reputation and integrity of ACM or its community, or where there are other relevant professional considerations.
2.19 Matters relating to disclosures of Criminal Convictions are managed by the DSL, under this Criminal Convictions Policy. The Admissions Manager or nominee is responsible for communicating the outcome of any risk assessment which results in a decision to offer or reject an application with the individual student.
Non Disclosure of Criminal Offences
2.20 If at any time during a student’s enrolment on a course of study at ACM it is becomes known that the student has a previously unspent, relevant criminal conviction that they failed to disclose at the point of application or notify ACM of in a timely manner, then they will be subject to ACM’s Student Disciplinary Policy and this policy.
2.21 For the avoidance of doubt, it is deemed a disciplinary offence not to have disclosed any unspent, relevant conviction(s) from the UK or overseas at the point of application or while enrolled, regardless of whether the conviction is subsequently spent at the time of actual disclosure or when such information becomes known to ACM.
Complaints relating to criminal conviction decision
2.22 Students may utilise ACM’s Complaints and Grievances Policy and Procedure should theyfeel removal from a course of study is unjustified.
2.23 Through utilising the Complaints and Grievances Procedure, applicants to ACM may request a review of ACM’s admission and offer decision, but may not appeal a decision. This is because ACM’s Appeal Policy is used alongside a request to review an academic decision.
3. RESPONSIBLE PARTIES
3.1 The policy lead is responsible for the cyclical monitoring and review of the policy in liaison with the Risk Committee. The Criminal Convictions Policy lead is:
3.2 Decisions and appropriate actions in support of the implementation of the Policy will be authorised by the following designated staff or their nominees:
3.3 Reference Points
3.3.1 Internal:
3.3.2 External:
4. DOCUMENT HISTORY AND NEXT REVIEW
Version: 1.1
Approved on: 03 September 2024
Approved by: Academic Board
Date of next review: August 2025
Download this document POL_059_Criminal Convictions Policy_2024/25
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Policy 071: USE OF E-SCOOTERS ON CAMPUS
1.1 This policy outlines in an open and transparent way ACM’s position on the use of e-scooters, and ACM’s position on legality and safety with regard to e-scooters.
1.2 This policy applies to all ACM campuses, including London, Guildford and Birmingham.
What is an e-scooter?
2.1 Electrical scooters (also known as e-scooters) come under the category of “powered transporters.” This covers a range of personal transport devices which are powered by a motor.
2.2 E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988. This means the rules that apply to motor vehicles also apply to e-scooters, including the need to have a licence, insurance and tax.
Illegal and dangerous use
2.3 It is not currently possible to get insurance for privately owned e-scooters, which means it is illegal to use them on the road or in public spaces. Using a private e-scooter on the road or in public spaces means the user risks having the vehicle seized under S.165 Road Traffic Act 1988 for having no insurance.
2.4 If a user causes serious harm to another person whilst riding an e-scooter, the incident will be investigated in the same way as if the user were riding a motorcycle or driving a car.
2.5 E-scooters therefore pose a significant health and safety risk when they are used on roads and in public places due to their illegal status when in use on UK roads and the unavailability of insurance cover for third party injuries. The UK government is currently reviewing the use of e-scooters, but at the current time, they are not road-legal.
Prohibition of e-scooters on ACM campuses
2.6 Since it is illegal to use private e-scooters on public roads, to accept them being brought onto campus would be to condone their illegal use as commuting transport. ACM takes its responsibilities seriously and does not condone or encourage such use. E-scooters are therefore not allowed on ACM campuses.
2.7 Students who bring e-scooters onto an ACM campus are in breach of the condition in paragraph 2.6 and may face a charge of misconduct under the Student Disciplinary Policy.
Fire hazard
2.8 There have been a significant number of reports in the media of spontaneous combustion of the batteries. Some cases have resulted in death due to battery explosions causing fires on premises. ACM believes it can be reasonably assumed that this is in part due to the unregulated nature of e-scooters. ACM therefore strictly prohibits e-scooters being parked or stored on campus in any way due to the concern of them posing a fire hazard.
2.9 ACM strictly prohibits the charging of e-scooters on campus or at ACM-related events under any circumstances. Students who are found to be in breach of this rule may face a charge of serious misconduct under the Student Disciplinary Policy.
2.10 ACM reserves the right to confiscate an e-scooter or to remove it from campus if it is considered appropriate to do so.
Rental e-scooter trials
2.11 Trials of rental e-scooters are currently taking place in the UK. Anyone using a rental e-scooter on a public road or other public space, has to comply with the relevant road traffic legislation or they face potential prosecution.
2.12 To rent an e-scooter you must:
2.13 E-scooters can only be used in approved areas on public roads.
2.14 Rental e-scooters must not be brought onto campus and must be parked in a public space with consideration at all times to members of the public and in a way that does not cause a hazard or obstruction. E-scooters must be parked according to the rules of the rental company.
2.15 Parking rental scooters on campus increases the likelihood of the e-scooter being abandoned, thereby increasing the likelihood of it becoming a hazard. Students who park e-scooters on campus are in breach of paragraph 2.13 and may face a charge of misconduct under the Student Disciplinary Policy.
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 Use of E-scooters on Campus policy lead is:
3.2 Decisions and appropriate actions in support of the implementation of the Policy will be authorised by the following designated staff:
4.1 Internal:
4.2 External:
Version: 1.0
Approved on: 01 September 2025
Approved by: Academic Board
Next Review: August 2026
Download this document: POL_071_Use of E-Scooters on Campus 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: anddegree@acm.ac.uk
ONLINE LEARNING CODE OF CONDUCT (STUDENT)
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 This Online Learning Code of Conduct applies to all students registered on a programme of study at ACM.
1.2 This Code is designed to protect the rights of all members of the ACM community, including staff, tutors and students and visitors. All members of the ACM community are encouraged to participate freely in the activities of the institution, both formally and informally.
1.3 ACM expects all members of the ACM community to be respectful towards each other at all times and to conduct themselves with due regard for their own legal responsibilities. All members of the ACM community are expected to preserve and enhance ACM’s good name and reputation.
2. SCOPE
2.1 This Code applies to all ACM students. Any breach of this Code will be taken seriously and, where deemed necessary, will be dealt with in accordance with ACM’s Student Conduct and Discipline Policy. Sanctions against unacceptable behaviour will be applied consistently in the interests of everyone’s learning, teaching and social experience.
2.2 By enrolling at ACM, students have confirmed their commitment to comply with ACM’s rules, regulations and procedures. Students are expected to maintain familiarity with these rules, regulations and procedures and with this Code throughout their enrolment.
2.3 ACM takes GDPR responsibilities seriously, ensuring personal data on our teaching and learning platforms is secure and confidential. We encrypt user data and regularly review our practices to maintain compliance.
3. CODE OF CONDUCT
3.1 Webcams must be switched on and ideally sited against a neutral background. A virtual / blurred background may also be used. Online learning activities should be conducted in a suitable, quiet area. If no such area or webcam background is available, or if there is a valid reason why their webcam should not be switched on, students must contact their module tutor in advance of the lesson to seek agreement. Students should note that agreement may only be given in exceptional circumstances.
3.2 Content and subject matter should strictly relate to teaching and learning. Students must avoid personal comments to maintain a professional and respectful learning environment. Discussions must remain focused and productive, promoting effective education and preventing potential misunderstandings or conflicts.
3.3 Language must be professional and respectful at all times, including any language used by persons in the background, whether they are enrolled participants in the learning and teaching or not.
3.4 Students must wear suitable clothing at all times, as should anyone else who might be visible on screen in the student’s shared spaces.
3.5 Students should be mindful of any personal information that may be on their computer desktop. Before sharing their screen, computer desktops should be cleared of any materials that will not be used. The deliberate or inadvertent sharing of any material that may be deemed inappropriate or offensive will be dealt with under the appropriate disciplinary procedure.
3.6 Students are expected to respect and observe ACM’s rules and regulations at all times while engaged in online learning activities.
3.7 Students are expected to present themselves professionally and respectfully in every aspect of academic life, including online platforms. This includes the use of appropriate profile pictures and biographies.
3.8 If a student’s behaviour is deemed to be in breach of this Online Code of Conduct, they will be removed from the class, or the tutorial or session will be ended, and the student will be subject to investigation in accordance with ACM’s Student Disciplinary Policy.
3.9 Breaches from staff and/or tutors will be subject to investigation in accordance with the appropriate disciplinary procedure.
4. ONLINE LEARNING INVOLVING VULNERABLE ADULTS AND STUDENTS UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE
4.1 All one-to-one online learning activities involving vulnerable adults or students under the age of 18 must be agreed in advance with parents/carers. Such activities must then take place only at the days/times agreed with parents/carers, and only when they or another responsible named adult are present.
4.2 All classes/tutorials will be recorded and backed up onto an approved safe, secure workspace to provide a record and to protect both the tutor and the student.
4.3 The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) will be consulted regarding the safeguarding protocols applied to the online workspace.
4.4 In addition to being subject to investigation, any breaches of this Code involving vulnerable adults or students under 18 years of age will be reported immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
5. RELEVANT POLICIES AND DOCUMENTS
Internal
External
6. DOCUMENT OWNER AND REVIEW
6.1 This Code is under the responsibility of the Academic Board. The responsible committee will ensure the cyclical review of this Code is carried out under ACM’s Quality Assurance Framework.
7. DOCUMENT HISTORY AND NEXT REVIEW
7.1 This Code of Conduct applies to Academic Year 2024-25
| Version | 1.0 |
| Approved on | 01 September 2025 |
| Approved by | Academic Board |
| Next review | August 2026 |
Download this Code of Conduct: Online Learning Code of Conduct (Student)_2425
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 076: RUN, HIDE, TELL
The Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM) is committed to the safety and well-being of its students, staff, and visitors. In the event of a major incident, such as a fire, natural disaster, or terrorist attack, it is essential to have a clear and concise plan in place to ensure the safety of all those on campus. This procedure is designed to provide guidance on how to react in such an event.
This procedure applies to all ACM campuses in Guildford, Birmingham, and Clapham. It applies to all staff, students, visitors, contractors, and anyone else who may be on campus during a major incident.
This procedure is in accordance with the following legislation and guidance:
This procedure should be read in conjunction with the following ACM policies and procedures:
5.1 RUN
5.2 HIDE
5.3 TELL
ACM will conduct regular training to ensure that everyone knows what to do in the event of a major incident.
This procedure will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary.
The policy lead is responsible for the cyclical monitoring and review of the policy in liaison with the Quality Assurance Team. The Run, Hide, Tell policy lead is:
Decisions and appropriate actions in support of the implementation of the Policy will be authorised by the following designated staff:
| Version | 1.0 |
| Approved on | 01 September 2025 |
| Approved by | Academic Board |
| Date of next review | August 2026 |
Download: POL_076 Run, Hide, Tell_v1.0
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) protects the rights of individuals by setting out certain rules as to what organisations can and cannot do with information about people. A key element to this is the principle to process individuals’ data lawfully and fairly. In order to meet the fairness part of this we need to provide information on how we process personal data.
This Fair Processing Notice satisfies this element of legislation and is designed to highlight the areas of Data Protection which may be of particular concern to contracted and/or former staff, and to help those people understand how information about them will be used. It will also provide guidance on your individual rights and how to make a complaint to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), the regulator for data protection in the UK.
Separate Fair Processing Notices are available for the Public, contracted Students and Suppliers.
More widely, ACM is committed to meeting the entirety of its responsibilities to current and former staff under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and related legislation taking these matters very seriously. We will always ensure personal data is collected, handled, stored, shared, retained and disposed of in a secure manner.
For the purpose of your data protection, ACM is the recognised ‘controller’ of your data. A number of legal entities trade as ACM. These include ACM Commercial Ltd, ACM Education Ltd, The Academy of Contemporary Music Ltd, ACM Guildford Ltd, ACM London Ltd, ACM Birmingham Ltd and Industrication Ltd. Regardless of which legal entity you liaise with, we make the same Data Protection Officer available to you, who can be contacted about any of the content held herein via:
Postal Address:
Data Protection Officer
The Academy of Contemporary Music Rodboro Buildings
Bridge Street Guildford Surrey
GU1 4SB United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0) 1483 500 800 Email: dpaofficer@acm.ac.uk
The legal basis by which we will process and may have already processed data about you:
While you are a staff member at ACM and after you cease to be a staff member, ACM needs to collect, store, use and disclose certain data about you. ACM needs to process this data in order to function effectively as an organisation. Personal data is processed for administrative, academic, statutory, support and health and safety purposes. All such personal data shall be collected and held in accordance with GDPR.
Under the General Data Protection Regulation our legal basis for processing this information about you as a staff member will be that processing is necessary:
○ “To protect the vital interests of a data subject or another person.” This means that in some rare circumstances it may be necessary to share information about you, for example to the emergency services.
If you leave the employment of ACM, the legal basis for continuing to process your personal information would then be:
○ “Necessary for the purposes of legitimate interests pursued by the controller or a third party, except where such interests are overridden by the interests, rights or freedoms of the data subject.” This means it is reasonable to expect that ACM would contact you if it had a query about any post-termination obligations, a matter relating to a time in which you were employed and/or in relation to a statutory/legal obligation it may have.
If you were a staff member of ACM before May 25th 2018 (the date on which GDPR came into effect), it is important for you to remember that your personal data was already protected another way, by way of The Data Protection Act (The DPA). The DPA established a framework within which information about living individuals can be legally gathered, stored, used and disseminated. At its core were eight Data Protection Principles, which ACM and other organisations needed to abide by. These specified that personal information must be:
○ Not transferred outside the European Economic Area unless certain conditions are met
GDPR builds on these requirements and states that from 25 May 2018 information must be:
GDPR also requires that:
○ “the controller shall be responsible for, and be able to demonstrate, compliance with the principles.”
These protections apply to information in electronic form and also many types of data in paper form. Further information about the Data Protection Act and the General Data Protection Regulation is available from the Information Commissioner’s Office at www.ico.org.uk .
How and why does ACM use your personal data?
Staff personal data is processed primarily for, but not limited to, the following purposes:
Processing Notice.
We may use copies of the data, including sensitive personal data, which we hold about you for the purpose of testing our IT systems. If your data is used for system testing, it will be copied to a test environment and used with data on other students to test changes to our IT systems in a realistic way. This is done to ensure that changes will be effective and will not cause loss or damage to data. The data about you which we hold in our live systems will not
be affected. Your data will not be kept in the test environment for longer than is necessary for testing purposes. Data in that environment will not be used for purposes other than testing. We will also apply appropriate security precautions to the data.
What personal data does ACM collect?
ACM collects personal data from teaching and non-teaching staff. The volume and nature of the personal data collected is described below, but is not limited to the data items specified:
○ A photograph for your Staff ID card
Further personal data captured about an employee is likely to relate to any performance or
appraisal process and any information needed to maintain a sickness/absence record.
Some of this information, such as your ethnicity, medical information and information about disabilities, is classed as “sensitive” personal data under the Data Protection Act. Under the General Data Protection Regulation sensitive data covers information consisting of racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, or trade union membership, genetic data, biometric data, data concerning health or data concerning a natural person’s sex life or sexual orientation. Sensitive personal data is subject to extra legal protection and we have to meet an additional set of conditions in order use the data fairly and lawfully.
Sensitive data about you, for example relating to your health, may be shared with restricted departments within ACM to ensure that you have access to appropriate services and support. Sensitive personal data may also be used to monitor equality of opportunity and access to higher education, but will not be used to make decisions about you. For further information about sensitive personal data, see ACM’s Data Protection Policy.
Your Staff Profile
In the normal course of employment, your work contact details will be made available via ACM systems. This may include name, job title, work location, work email address and work telephone number. Your Line Manager and other Senior Managers (as necessary) at ACM may request access to your personal contact details for the purpose of your line management, only as necessary, should there be times at which you are unable to be contacted by way of ACM-operated communications platforms. This may extend to sharing of emergency contact details, if the need arises.
Information, such as CVs/career credits, photos and specialisms, may be made available in a public manner, where relevant to promote ACM’s work, for example in our prospectus and on our website.
ACM Communications Platforms
ACM’s email and other communications services are provided by third parties and you are bound by their terms of service. ACM undertakes that data held within these services is held in accordance with GDPR legislation. ACM has contracts in place with these providers to ensure the protection of ACM owned personal data.
Staff email addresses are issued and used for communicating about ACM business, and are monitored to ensure compliance with our Data Protection and associated policies, as well as legislation such as The Prevent Duty.
CCTV
For safeguarding and crime prevention purposes, we may operate CCTV systems that cover your work areas. Please refer to our CCTV policy for more information.
Who else has access to my my data?
ACM is required to share personal data with certain other organisations in order to meet statutory requirements or to provide services to students. Sharing will always be undertaken in line with the requirements of data protection law, either through the consent of the individual, or another relevant legal gateway. The personal data that is actually shared will always be limited precisely to what the other organisation needs to meet its requirements or deliver its services.
Although we do not transfer data outside of the European Economic Area (EEA) as a matter of course of usual business, if this disclosure involves the transfer of your data outside the European Economic Area (EEA), we will inform you of this in advance, along with information
about the safeguards in place. The data will only be transferred outside the EEA if one of the conditions set down in the Data Protection Act has been met, or in compliance with the conditions of transfer outlined in the General Data Protection Regulation.
Your data may also be sent to different companies/departments within the ACM group where this is necessary for our day to day administration. The full list of ACM Group companies is: The Academy of Contemporary Music Ltd, ACM Commercial Ltd, ACM Education Ltd, ACM Guildford Ltd, ACM London Ltd, ACM Birmingham Ltd, Industrication Ltd, Metropolis London Music Ltd.
ACM will make some disclosures of personal data to third parties where appropriate. These third parties include:
Personal data may also be disclosed when legally required or where there is a legitimate interest, either for ACM or the data subject, taking into account any prejudice or harm that may be caused to the data subject.
ACM may also use third party companies as data processors to carry out certain administrative functions on behalf of ACM. If so, a written contract will be put in place to ensure that any personal data disclosed will be held in accordance with GDPR legislation.
How long do you keep data for?
HR hold individual files for all members of staff. Data we hold that is only relevant to current employees (such as bank information and emergency contact information) will be deleted within 2 months of you leaving our employment. Some other relevant correspondence in relation to member of staff’s employment will be held on file and retained for six years after an employee has left ACM, after which time it will be securely disposed of. Basic information about a member of staff (appointment, dates of service etc) will be retained indefinitely, along with any other data we are required to hold indefinitely for legal/statutory reason.
A full schedule concerning data retention and disposal is available via the policies section of our website.
What are my rights regarding the personal data you hold relating to me?
An individual has the right to be informed about data collection via a Fair Processing Notice. This is that notice.
An individual has the right to ask ACM what personal data we hold about them , and to ask for a copy of that information. ACM reserves the right to ask you to provide proof of identification and for you to clarify your request if it is unclear in the first instance. You will receive a reply no longer than 30 calendar days from the date you make the request in writing. If you are unhappy with the initial response you can ask ACM to undertake a further search if there is specific information you have good reason to believe exists but that hasn’t been delivered to you.
You have the right to rectify data that is incorrect. If you believe ACM holds information about you that is factually incorrect please email our HR department to provide the correct information, and ACM should update it within one month.
You have the right to be forgotten. Where there is not a legal / statutory obligation for ACM to hold data about you, you have the right to be forgotten.
You have the right to data portability where the personal data is processed with the consent of the data subject, not where the personal data has been collected using any of the other legal basis for processing.
You have the right to restrict processing.
You have rights in relation to automated decision making and profiling.
You also have the right to object / withdraw consent from the processing of your personal data by ACM at any time , if your consent was sought initially to use your personal data.
You also have the right to complain to the UK Regulator the Information Commissioner’s Office (the ICO) if you believe you request has not been dealt with properly or you have a complaint to raise against ACM for any other data protection related issue. A complaint can be raised via the ICO’s website at www.ico.org.uk or by writing to the following address:
The Office of the Information Commissioner Wycliffe House
Water Lane
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 5AF
How do I exercise my rights under GDPR?
For the purpose of your data protection, ACM is the recognised ‘controller’ of your data. A number of legal entities trade as ACM. These include ACM Commercial Ltd, ACM Education Ltd, The Academy of Contemporary Music Ltd, ACM Guildford Ltd, ACM London Ltd, ACM Birmingham Ltd and Industrication Ltd. Regardless of which legal entity you liaise with, we make the same Data Protection Officer available to you, who can be contacted if you would like to exercise any of your rights under GDPR:
Postal Address:
Data Protection Officer
The Academy of Contemporary Music Rodboro Buildings
Bridge Street
Guildford Surrey
GU1 4SB United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0) 1483 500 800 Email: dpaofficer@acm.ac.uk
What are my responsibilities?
ACM will make every reasonable effort to keep your details up to date. However, it is your responsibility to provide us with accurate information about yourself when you provide it. It is also your responsibility to let us know of any subsequent changes to your details. You must also abide by ACM’s Data Protection Policy when handling any personal data you come into contact with for which ACM is responsible.
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
STUDENT CHARTER (CODE OF CONDUCT)
ACM is committed to supporting students as they work towards • fulfilling their academic and personal potential. We form a community and microcosm of the creative industries to facilitate learning, within a culture based on mutual respect in which individual rights, responsibilities and diversity are respected and celebrated. The charter is a document for staff and students to reference, it does not constitute a legally binding contract, but gives an overview of how we work together to create a unique and effective environment to learning.
At all times you can expect that ACM will:
All students should:
ACM will provide:
Clear programme and module specifications which contain, or refer to, information about your assessment criteria; contact hours; mode of delivery; assessment and examination arrangements and regulations; academic guidance; how to access relevant support; and any professional requirements necessary.
Clear programme costs, the payment options and deadlines, and will provide an accurate estimate of the necessary additional costs you may incur.
As a student you will:
