Student and staff personal relationship policy

Published: 05/10/2023

Professor Edward Peck, Vice-Chancellor, and Anna O'Hara, NTSU President, would like to make students aware of the University’s policy on personal relationships between staff and students.

Intimate relationships between staff and students are not condoned either by the University or the Students’ Union, for reasons that they could compromise, or be perceived to compromise, trust, confidence, and professionalism.

The policy was developed, following a wide consultation process, to reflect the highest professional and ethical standards that the University and Students’ Union are committed to maintaining. Our joint position is very clear - our staff should not enter into a personal relationship that is sexual and/or romantic with a student.

Of course, there may be genuine exceptions, such as for those couples in pre-existing partnerships. If a staff member has such a personal relationship with a student, they have a responsibility to inform the relevant authority as defined in the policy. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.

We're very clear on how we expect our students to conduct themselves. You must be responsible and respectful to other people. That includes other students, NTU staff, visitors, and the local community alike.

The Student Code of Behaviour outlines the expected standards of behaviour for NTU students, along with the procedures followed in cases of alleged misconduct.

Everyone at NTU has the right to feel safe. If you or someone you know has experienced or witnessed sexual assault, harassment, bullying, discrimination or a hate incident, please raise this via our Report + Support service.

This information will also be shared with our colleagues at NTU.

Best wishes

Professor Edward Peck, President and Vice-Chancellor of Nottingham Trent University
Anna O'Hara, NTSU President