What is support to study?
The University defines fitness to study as being able to participate, with reasonable adjustments where necessary, in the programmes of study and/or research that the University provides and/or in University life in general without negatively impacting the safety or well-being of themselves or others, and with full opportunities to meet the learning outcomes for their programme. This includes engaging in Disciplinary, Fitness to Practise and similar University processes.
The University is committed to supporting student wellbeing and recognises that a positive approach to the management of physical and mental health is crucial to student learning and academic achievement. The University encourages students to access the support services available to them on campus, and also to access support from external sources and the University recognises that the accessing of such support is not, on its own, a cause for concern regarding fitness to study.
When an event happens that gives rise to concerns about a student's welbeing, safety, health or behaviour (known as a 'trigger event'), Support to Study procedures may be initiated. This is a supportive process and the aim is to identify if a support package can be provided to assist the student in the continuance of their programme of study.
The student may be invited to a:
Professionals Meeting: a meeting of professionals to explore and implement a support package for the student and will include a Managed Support Plan
Support to Study Panel hearing: to explore whether the student is currently fit to study without putting their safety and wellbeing at risk or that of other students, staff or third parties, whether they are fit to study with a new or amended support package or whether they may be fit to study after a period of temporary withdrawal with a new or amended support package upon their return.
For more information on support to study, please visit our support to study page.