Learner Behaviour Policy

Location	Cintra People; Policies Hub; NMT Website
Policy Number	02	Version	4.0
First Implemented	Apr-15	Previous Issue Date	Dec-25
Review Cycle	1 Year
Owner	Safeguarding Manager
Approver(s)	· Learning and Development Manager · Senior Safeguarding Team · Board
Distribution	Internal and External

Revision History

Version	Approved	Section	Change Summary
2.0	Sep-25	All Sections	Updated to new document format.
			All sections reviewed and updated for current relevancy in line with business growth.
			Removed any processes or procedures from the policy – separate process guide created.
		2.9.1	No longer signposts to the Safeguarding Policy; instead confirms that all incidents and reports of bullying are considered safeguarding matters.
3.0	Dec-25	All	Amended all references to “Appogee HR” to “Cintra People”.
		2.5.4 to 2.5.6	Information on Learner dress code moved to a dedicated section (2.4).
		2.6	Medication now covers medication only.
		2.7	Updated to Prohibited Items only.
		All	Numbering updated in line with the above amendments.
4.0	Aug-26	1.0	Policy purpose refined to provide a clearer and more concise description of the policy’s purpose.
		1.1	Scope expanded to provide greater clarity on the groups to whom the policy applies.
		1.2	Related Policies section added to signpost key NMT policies linked to this policy.
		1.3	Terms and Definitions section added to define key terminology used in the policy.
		2.2.2	Requirement for learners to wear their ID badges added.
		2.3	The Role of Parents/Carers in Supporting Positive Behaviour separated from Expectations of Learners and moved to a standalone section for clarity.
		2.4.1	Updated wording on the use of reasonable force to clarify that it must only be used where justified, as a last resort, and where necessary and proportionate to protect oneself, the learner, or others from immediate risk of injury or serious harm.
		2.7	Section added to clarify expectations for responsible mobile phone and device use during learning activities.
		2.13 and 2.14	Expanded to explicitly include cyberbullying and clarify that bullying may occur in person or online.
		3.1	Serious Misconduct updated to include smoking/vaping.
		All	Section numbering updated throughout the policy to reflect the new and revised sections.
		All	Policy reviewed in its entirety to confirm continued relevance, accuracy and alignment with current practice in line with the scheduled policy review cycle.

Versioning

Major Versions (1.0, 2.0, 3.0 etc.) represent change(s) requiring formal release, e.g., Employee:
Training / Education
Email Communication
Acknowledgement via Cintra People
Minor Versions (1.1, 1.2, 1.3 etc.) represent changes not requiring formal release, e.g.:
Spelling or grammatical change
Formatting change
Update of contact information

Overview

1.0 Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish clear expectations for Learner behaviour at New Meaning Training (NMT) and to promote a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment. Positive behaviour and self-discipline are essential for effective learning and the personal development of learners. This policy outlines the rights and responsibilities of learners, parents/carers, and NMT employees to ensure that all members of the NMT community contribute to a positive and professional atmosphere.

The policy covers expected standards of behaviour within NMT premises, during off-site activities, and in any situation where a learner is identifiable as an NMT learner, and the responsibilities of NMT employees in managing learner conduct.

The policy defines acceptable and prohibited behaviours, details the categorisation of misconduct, provides guidance on the consequences of inappropriate behaviour and describes the procedures for addressing misconduct. Provision for handling bullying, prohibited items, and appeals related to disciplinary actions are also detailed. The role of parents/carers in supporting positive behaviour is outlined.

1.1 Scope

This policy and all related policies listed under section 2 Related Policies apply to the following key groups:

All learners enrolled in NMT programmes, including those who remain enrolled with another education provider.
All Parents/Carers of NMT learners.
All employees at NMT including full-time, part-time, temporary employees, volunteers, contractors and board members.
All individuals working with NMT in a professional capacity, such as external partners or service providers.
All visitors to NMT premises.
The Senior Safeguarding Team, comprising: the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Additional Designated Safeguarding Leads (ADSLs), who hold responsibilities for implementing and maintaining the safeguarding.
External Professionals, who work with NMT to support a safe environment for learners and ensure safeguarding concerns/incidents are reported through clear and effective processes.

1.2 Related Policies

This policy should be read alongside the following related policies:

Safeguarding, Prevent and Child Protection Policy
SEND and Inclusion Policy
Equality and Diversity Policy
Physical Contact and Use of Reasonable Force Policy
First Aid and Medical Needs Policy
Health and Safety Policy
Online Safety, Filtering and Monitoring Policy
Attendance and Missing Education Policy
Trips, Visits and Outings Policy
Complaints Policy for Learners and Parents/Carers

The NMT Governance Framework applies to all NMT policies and provides the overarching governance context for how policies are approved, implemented, monitored and reviewed. All policies must align with this Framework to support consistent decision-making, accountability, compliance, assurance and continuous improvement across NMT.

1.3 Terms and Definitions

Term	Definition
NMT	New Meaning Training
Learner	Anyone enrolled on or accessing an NMT programme.
Parent/Carer	A person with parental responsibility for a learner, or another adult who has a recognised role in supporting their care, welfare or education.
Employee	Anyone working for or on behalf of NMT, including employees, volunteers, contractors and board members.
NMT community	Everyone who learns, works, supports, visits or engages with NMT, including learners, parents/carers, employees, volunteers, contractors, board members, visitors, external professionals and work placement providers.
NMT premises	Any NMT building, site, centre or other location used for learning, work or NMT-related activity.
Prohibited Item	Any item that must not be brought onto NMT premises.
Reasonable Force	The minimum physical contact or intervention necessary in the circumstances to prevent harm, maintain safety, or manage an immediate risk.
KCSIE	Keeping Children Safe in Education, statutory guidance issued by the Department for Education that sets out safeguarding responsibilities for schools and colleges in England.

Policy

2.0 Behaviour Expectations

2.1 Importance of Positive Behaviour

NMT recognise that positive behaviour and self-discipline support effective learning and are vital for Learners both during and after their time at NMT. Boundaries and sanctions are clear to all and are applied fairly, without discrimination or prejudice and with consideration for individual needs and challenges.

2.2 Expectations of Learners

As an NMT Learner you can expect:

To be made welcome.
To be listened to.
To be treated fairly by all NMT employees.
Clear standards and expectations.
The importance and value of positive behaviour to be promoted.
To receive encouragement and praise for positive achievements.
To receive termly reports to update on progress.
Behaviour to be monitored during unstructured activities (breaks & lunches).
All NMT Employees to model positive behaviour.
All NMT employees to apply consistency and fairness when addressing issues of poor behaviour.
To be supported to understand positive behaviour and encouraged to take control and be responsible for your own behaviour.
- As an NMT Learner you are expected to:
Attend all sessions and to ensure the Tutor is informed if the Learner will be absent.
To treat everyone respectfully within the NMT community.
Refrain from shouting or using of any form of offensive language.
Understand that bullying of all forms will not be tolerated – including racism, sexism, homophobia, intimidating or threatening behaviour.
Not to smoke or vape within the building of any NMT premises.
Understand that drugs, alcohol and weapons are strictly forbidden on any NMT premises.
Respectfully not to cause damage to oneself, employees, peers or NMT property.
Always wear their NMT ID badge visibly while on NMT premises or taking part in NMT-related activities, unless an agreed exception applies.
To promote a culture of positive behaviour, NMT Learners are expected to demonstrate the ‘Three Rs’: Respect, Responsibility and Ready to Learn.

1). Respect

Show Respect:

For knowledge and learning.
For yourself, towards employees and other Learners.
For the opinions, feelings and abilities of other Learners and employees.
For the diversity of Learners.
For the NMT centre and its equipment/facilities.
By discouraging bullying or harassment of others.
Ensure their behaviour does not hurt or humiliate another individual or group, whether intentionally or inadvertently, physically or emotionally.
Not collude or reinforce bullying by being a bystander– Learners should walk away and get help or include the victim in a group for safety.
Understand strategies to prevent bullying and know to whom to report concern.

2). Responsibility

Take responsibility for own learning by:

Making a positive contribution in class, in the workplace and any other NMT activities.
Showing commitment to learning.
Completing work on time.
Attending all classes.
Taking the initiative to improve or maintain NMT centres e.g. take litter with you, reporting any breakages.

3). Ready to Learn

Be a Learner role model by:

Preparing for learning.
Being on time and motivated to learn.
Being involved in volunteering and finding work experience opportunities.
Being proactive during classes – joining in discussions, completing work.
Responding positively to feedback on how to improve quality of work or behaviour.
Thinking about the future and how education will support this.

2.3 Role of Parents/Carers in Supporting Positive Behaviour

NMT asks Parents/Carers to support positive behaviour by:

Talk to the Learner about NMT and what happens there, taking a positive interest in educational progress.
Instil the value of education and positive behaviour.
Encourage the Learner to look to the future and aspire.
Attend any reviews scheduled for the Learner in which their contribution will be recorded.
Inform NMT of any change in circumstances that may impact on their child’s behaviour.
Provide feedback by completing surveys distributed by NMT.

2.4 Expectations of NMT Employees

NMT Teaching staff are expected to:

Be responsible for managing the behaviour of Learners. All NMT employees will provide a supportive presence and will challenge/discuss behaviours not appropriate to a learning or professional setting – these behaviours will be dealt with in a calm and therapeutic manner, following the NMT Loving Care Approach.
Create and promote a learning environment that is welcoming, safe, secure and free from bullying and harassment.
Model fair and respectful behaviours and leadership.
Challenge all forms of prejudice and promote equality.
Prevent bullying between Learners who are a part of the NMT community.
Intervene in any bullying that does occur and ensure those involved receive the support they need. Monitor and report on the incidents of bullying and actions taken to address concerns.
Provide information to all about what we should all do to prevent and respond to bullying.
Support Learners to develop resilience and strategies for preventing bullying and how to report bullying and concerns.
In the event of a Learner behaving aggressively, employees must first use appropriate de-escalation techniques to reduce the risk and prevent the situation from escalating. The use of reasonable force must always be a last resort and only where there is clear justification for doing so. Any use of force must be necessary, proportionate and reasonable in the circumstances, and may only be used to protect the Learner, protect oneself or others, or prevent an immediate risk of injury or serious harm. Employees must use no more force than is reasonably necessary and must act in accordance with the Physical Contact and Use of Reasonable Force Policy. Where reasonable force is insufficient to manage the immediate risk or maintain the safety of those involved, employees should take all reasonable steps to ensure the safety of others and contact the police for further assistance where appropriate.
- NMT Leadership Team are expected to:
Be aware of and comply with all relevant policies and procedures.
Implement NMT policies and procedures.
Be proactive in the promotion of positive behaviours with Learners.
Support all NMT employees when undertaking activities to address and promote positive behaviours as well as advising action on negative behaviour of Learners.

2.5 Dress Code

NMT do not require Learners to wear a uniform, however, Learners are expected to wear clothing appropriate to ensure a respectful, comfortable and professional learning environment for all; this means:

No offensive slogans/logos/pictures/graphics.
No unnecessary skin on show.
No skin-tight or revealing clothing.
Appropriate outer clothing for the weather.
Appropriate footwear (no sliders or open-toe/backless footwear).
- If employees believe a Learner to be inappropriately dressed, they have the right to send them home to get changed or request that certain clothing is covered up.
- If inappropriate clothing is worn repeatedly, employees will liaise with Parents/Carers to discuss what clothing must be worn in future.

2.6 Mobile Phone and Device Use

NMT recognises that mobile phones and personal devices can support learning when used appropriately. NMT is not a school and does not operate a blanket ban on mobile phones; however, learners are expected to use mobile phones and devices responsibly and only when permitted to do so. Tutors are responsible for managing mobile phone and device use within the classroom and may allow learners to use them where this supports learning activities.
Learners must comply with any reasonable request from their tutor or another NMT employee regarding mobile phone or device use. This may include putting the device away, placing it on silent, using it only for an agreed learning activity, or not using it during a specific part of the session. Failure to follow reasonable instructions about mobile phone or device use may be addressed in line with this policy.
Mobile phones and devices must not be used in any way that disrupts learning, compromises safety, invades privacy, enables bullying or harassment, or involves recording, photographing or sharing images, audio or video without permission. Any concerns involving inappropriate mobile phone or device use may also be considered under NMT’s safeguarding and online safety procedures.

2.7 Physical Contact Between Learners

NMT recognise that respectful relationships among learners contribute to a positive learning environment. However, physical contact between learners, including those in relationships, must align with the standards of respect and appropriateness expected within the education community.
Displays of affection, such as hand-holding or brief hugs, may be acceptable in moderation, provided they do not disrupt others, distract from educational activities, or make any individual feel uncomfortable.
Behaviour involving excessive physical contact or intimacy is not acceptable on NMT sites or during education-related activities.
NMT expects all learners to exercise discretion, respect boundaries, and prioritize maintaining a professional and inclusive atmosphere.

2.8 Medication

Where appropriate, Parents/Carers must inform NMT in writing of any medical requirements requiring medication to be taken during the learning day, in accordance with the First Aid and Medical Needs Policy.
No NMT employee can administer medication; Learners must take responsibility for taking their own medication.
Any medication brought onsite must be clearly labelled and handed to the Lead Tutor, who will store it in a securely locked cabinet until the scheduled dosage is due.

2.9 Prohibited Items

Searches are carried out as standard for all learners as they enter NMT premises. This includes the use of a metal detecting wand. Employees must obtain consent to carry out personal searches of learners, their clothing or their personal property. The following items are not to be brought onto any NMT premises under any circumstances:

Alcohol
Drugs
Stolen items
Knives and other weapons
Fireworks
Pornographic material
- If a Learner is suspected of carrying any of the items listed above, they may be searched by an NMT employee of the same biological sex. Another NMT employee will also be present during the search. The Learners’ consent will be requested before any search takes place. Prohibited items will be confiscated, and the police may be contacted. Additional disciplinary action may also be taken.
- If a Learner refuses to consent to a search, they will be denied entry to NMT premises, and their parent/carer will be notified. If there is a suspicion that the learner is carrying illegal or harmful items, the police may be contacted.

3.0 Categories of Behaviour Misconduct

3.1 Examples and Categories of Behaviour Misconduct

Some examples of behaviours which are unacceptable to NMT are given below for guidance purposes; this list is not exhaustive. It is important to understand that even minor breaches of the code of conduct may be treated as serious misconduct if they are persistent or repeated.
The categorisations are intended to be illustrative and are designed to set a framework within which NMT employees can make a judgement as to the severity of a disciplinary issue.
It should be acknowledged that all situations are unique and that a range of circumstances should be taken into consideration before making a final judgement. Unacceptable behaviour can be divided into the following categories:

1). MINOR Misconduct

This includes, for example:

Unexcused regular lateness.
Noisy behaviour.
Using mobile phones or devices inappropriately or contrary to section 7 Mobile Phone and Device Use.
Failure to observe reasonable instructions by employees.
Regular absence without notification.

2). SERIOUS Misconduct

This includes, for example:

Failure to observe health and safety regulations.
Smoking or vaping inside any NMT premises.
Disruptive behaviour.
Damage to NMT property.
Excessive physical contact with another Learner.
Failure to respond to verbal warnings.
Failure to respond to a direct instruction.
Repeated misconduct.

3). GROSS Misconduct

This includes, for example:

Assault on, or abuse towards, Learners or employees (includes sexual, racial or verbal abuse).
Bullying, harassment or the making of threats against other Learners or employees.
Theft or fraud.
Committing any criminal offence whilst involved in an NMT activity.
Serious damage or misuse of NMT property.
Seriously disruptive behaviour.
Dangerous behaviour, including the possession of offensive weapons.
Accessing or making available to others pornographic or other offensive material.
Bringing others on to NMT premises or compromising NMT security in any way.
Possessing, or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Serious misuse of, or interference with, electronic systems or data.

3.2 Learner Behaviour Off NMT Premises

The boundaries and expectations set out in this policy apply to Learners when they are:

Taking part in any NMT-organised or NMT-related activity, on or off site.
Travelling to or from NMT premises.
Identifiable in any way as a Learner from NMT.
- The boundaries and expectations set out in this policy apply in any location where a Learner’s conduct:
May have repercussions for the orderly running of NMT.
Poses a threat to another Learner or member of the public.
May adversely affect the reputation of NMT.

4.0 Bullying and Cyberbullying

4.1 NMT’s Approact to Bullying and Cyberbullying

All NMT employees are committed to maintaining a learning environment that is safe, secure and free from any form of bullying or harassment, including cyberbullying.
Bullying may take place in person or online and includes any behaviour that is intended to hurt, intimidate, humiliate, exclude or cause distress to another Learner. This includes cyberbullying through mobile phones, social media, messaging platforms, online forums, images, videos or any other digital communication.
NMT will review, implement, and monitor its anti-bullying practice to ensure that every Learner feels safe to learn and socialise without victimisation or discrimination when attending an NMT setting, taking part in NMT-related activities, or engaging with other online where this impacts the NMT community.
NMT will provide training to employees in prevention of, and response to, bullying and cyberbullying to ensure a clear, consistent approach.

4.2 Reporting and Recording Bullying and Cyberbullying Concerns

All incidents and reports of bullying are considered safeguarding matters and must be reported through the appropriate channels, in accordance with procedures for handling learner welfare concerns. Contact the Safeguarding Manager for further information.
All child-on-child abuse is unacceptable and will be taken seriously – it is important that every Learner feels heard and understood.
Learners can self-refer to the senior safeguarding team either in person, via telephone 07746 218 834 or by emailing safeguarding@newmeaning.training. All safeguarding concerns and incidents are recorded on the safeguarding reporting platform.

5.0 Rights and Appeals

Any actions taken by NMT employees based on a Learner’s behaviour, including warnings or suspensions shall be subject to a right of appeal by the Learner or their Parents/Carers.
The Learner or Parent/Carer should write to the Operations Director of NMT, within 10 working days of the action, stating the reasons for appeal.
The Operations Director of NMT will review all evidence submitted during the investigation. The Operations Director of NMT will make the final decision as to whether the action(s) will remain in place.

Implementation and Communication

NMT will make this policy available to all via:

Cintra People (HR platform)
POLICIES HUB SharePoint
NMT Website

NMT will inform all Employees of changes to this policy via:

All Employee email.
HR platform communication.
Weekly all Employee update communication.

Training on this policy will be provided at:

Small group and/or individualised training as required.

Awareness of safeguarding, Prevent and child protection issues will be promoted through:

The cascade of key safeguarding updates by the Senior Safeguarding Team following fortnightly safeguarding meetings.
Targeted information campaigns and communications.
The assignment of mandatory online training to employees in response to emerging themes, identified risks, changes in legislation, or lessons learned from safeguarding practice.