Student and staff personal relationship policy

Published: 10/10/2024

Professor Edward Peck, Vice-Chancellor, and Jess Walker, NTSU President, remind students of the University’s policy on personal relationships between staff members and students.

As the new academic year begins, it is timely to remind students of the University’s policy on personal relationships between colleagues and students.

The position 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 clear. Staff members should not enter into personal relationships that are sexual and/or romantic with students. Such intimate relationships are not condoned either by the University or Students’ Union. They could compromise, or be perceived to compromise, trust, confidence, and professionalism. Pursuing such relationships can result in disciplinary action.

Of course, there may be exceptions, such as for those couples in pre-existing partnerships. If a staff member does have 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.

If a staff member experiences any sexual harassment, including an attempt to form a sexual and/or romantic relationship from a student, then this should be reported through our report and support service. This will be investigated in a thorough and timely manner.

Professor Edward Peck, Vice-Chancellor of Nottingham Trent University

Jess Walker, NTSU President