Behaviour and Attitudes

The College Ethos

The College mission is to create learning environments where every student can reach their full potential. Our students are not just here to learn; they are here to develop, grow, and become active and respectful citizens.

Our practice and policy seeks to ensure that we have:

  • a culture of mutual respect, tolerance, democracy, individual liberty and shared expectations, consistent with British values

  • a safe learning environment for all members of the college community free from health and physical risks, bullying or harassment

  • an environment that is welcoming, friendly and supportive that promotes good attendance, punctuality and student progress both on campus, in work placements and online

  • an approach and response to behaviour which is based on recognising and overcoming, where possible, the ecological and environmental factors that affect students’ lives

Behaviour is a form of communication of an emotional need (whether conscious or unconscious) to be viewed in the context of relationships rather than an internal problem. Our aim is to work restoratively, to de-escalate incidents and resolve conflict, repair harm and seek positive outcomes for all parties involved. Student and staff safety and wellbeing is at the heart of what we do. In some cases, it may be necessary to follow the formal process for supporting behaviour, which is laid out in the policy. Our promise to parents and carers is to involve you in this process, as we recognise the importance of your contributions to supporting students. If students are under 18, or up to aged 25 with an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP).

The ‘Promoting Positive Relationships and Supporting Behaviour Policy’ is for all Further Education students, including students of the University Centre, and will be applied equitably: that means that not every student will be treated the same, but that our approach will acknowledge the different support needs and experiences of our students.

Behaviour not meeting expectations

Whilst we strive to provide a safe environment with a welcoming and supportive culture, we recognise that students can behave in a way that does not meet expectations. Students will be made aware of the core expectations during induction, and reminded of these if they do not meet them.

Behaviours that negatively impact others will not be tolerated. By this we mean that action will be taken to repair harm, and provide students with the support to make positive changes so that these behaviours are not repeated.

We want to highlight some key behaviours that are not tolerated by the college;

  • Sexual harassment and violence

  • Bullying

  • Discrimination or hate

  • Threatening and aggressive behaviour

Sexual harassment and sexual violence

The college does not tolerate sexual harassment and sexual violence, and takes reports of this behaviour very seriously. It must never be ignored, and the victim will be offered support. It is the responsibility of ALL staff to create a culture of inclusivity, challenge and safety. We will use restorative approaches and mediation wherever appropriate.

We have a clear process for dealing with sexual harassment outlined in our 'Promoting Positive Relationships and Supporting Behaviour' Policy. It will be dealt with by curriculum and safeguarding teams collaboratively, and may involve liaison with external agencies such as the Police or Children’s Social Work Services where appropriate. The college will take a victim-led approach, taking into consideration the alleged victim's wishes and feelings. Children and young people who abuse others will be responded to in a way that meets their needs as well as protecting others within the college community through a multi-agency risk assessment.

Students are encouraged to report any incidents of sexual harassment and violence, and can do so using the 'report it' button on the Student Safeguarding Page, or by speaking directly to a member of staff or the safeguarding team.

We recognise that anyone can experience sexual harassment or violence. Females are more likely to experience sexual harassment and violence than males, but we must remember that males can still be victims. People from the LGBTQ+ community are significantly more likely to experience it than others, and people with disabilities are also disproportionately affected.

If parents/carers have questions or concerns, they are welcome to contact the safeguarding team by email: safeguarding@leedscitycollege.ac.uk

You can find more information about sexual harassment and violence in education settings in this government guidance.

You can also find information and advice on Disrespect NoBody.

Consent Posters (3) (1).pdf
Sexual Harassment Posters - A3 (3) (1).pdf
Harmful Sexual Behaviours Posters - A3 (5) (1).pdf