Student Disciplinary Procedure

MPES – Student Disciplinary Procedure

Last Revised: April 2022

Purpose and Scope

MPES’ student disciplinary procedure provides a framework for addressing breaches of the Code of Conduct which may be considered too frequent or too serious to be dealt with informally. This framework ensures all students have access to a fair hearing where all relevant facts are established and considered before final decisions are made.

Investigation

In most cases, disciplinary matters arise from a complaint raised by a fellow student or an MPES employee. An investigation will take place to determine whether the complainant needs to attend a disciplinary interview.

Suspension

In cases where alleged misconduct is deemed very serious or where it may be detrimental to MPES or any individual for the student to remain on-site, suspension may be considered during the investigation. The student will be informed of the reason for suspension.

Suspension from studies does not constitute a warning for misconduct or removal from studies with MPES.

Criminal Proceedings

If a staff member believes or is informed that a student may have committed a criminal offence, MPES will normally refer the matter to the police. MPES may also initiate disciplinary proceedings under this procedure or suspend the student pending the outcome of police enquiries.

When the results of those enquiries and any criminal proceedings are known, MPES reserves the right to recommence disciplinary proceedings. Disciplinary action related to alleged criminal offences will be based on reasonable belief.

Written Warning

For cases of serious misconduct, a student may be issued a written warning. The student will be informed that further misconduct or failure to meet the standards outlined in the Student Code of Conduct may result in exclusion from studies.

Details of written warnings will remain on the student’s file for 12 months from the date of issuance. Failure to attend a disciplinary interview may result in a decision being made in the student’s absence.

Exclusion from MPES

Further misconduct following a warning, gross misconduct, or any other circumstances deemed particularly serious by MPES may result in exclusion from studies. Students excluded from MPES will not be entitled to any form of refund.

Appeals

Students issued with a written warning or excluded from studies are entitled to appeal the decision. Appeals must be made in writing within 10 working days of receiving the warning/exclusion letter. The original decision letter will specify to whom the appeal should be directed.

The Manager conducting the appeal may hold an appeal interview with the student and will notify them of the decision in writing.

Third Party Notification

MPES reserves the right to inform the sponsor, relevant governing body, and/or the Home Office (where applicable) at any stage of the disciplinary process.