Code of Conduct – Online Learning
Date: 1 September 2026
Review date: August 2027
Author: James Underwood, Chief Executive, West Sussex Music
Responsible Trustee: Nicola Hughes
Welcome to West Sussex Music Online Learning!
To ensure a positive, safe, and productive learning environment for everyone, we expect all participants to adhere to the following code of conduct when learning online:
- Respect others: Treat all staff and fellow participants with kindness and respect. Listen actively and value diverse opinions and ideas.
- Be prepared: Come to each session ready to learn. Have your materials, software and any required equipment ready to ensure a smooth experience.
- Participate actively: Engage in discussions, ask questions and contribute to group activities.
- Stay on topic: Keep discussions relevant to the topic of the session and the course material.
- Use appropriate language: Communicate respectfully. Offensive or inappropriate language will not be tolerated.
- Follow instructions: Adhere to guidance provided by tutors, including technical requirements and assignment deadlines.
- Protect your privacy and online safety: Do not share personal information. Participants must not contact staff or other learners through personal social media accounts. Only approved West Sussex Music platforms should be used for communication and learning.
- Recording and sharing content: Participants must not record, photograph, screenshot or distribute any part of an online session without prior permission from West Sussex Music.
- Use cameras and microphones appropriately: Where requested by the tutor, participants should have cameras enabled unless alternative arrangements have been agreed. Microphones should remain muted when not speaking.
- Learn in an appropriate environment: Where possible, participate in a suitable location within the home that is free from distractions and appropriate for learning.
- Be supportive: Encourage peers and celebrate their successes. Constructive feedback should always be supportive.
- Report issues: If you encounter problems or feel uncomfortable during the course, tell a member of staff immediately. Parents/carers should report concerns directly to West Sussex Music. Any safeguarding concerns should be reported immediately to the West Sussex Music Safeguarding Lead through published safeguarding contact details.
- Have fun and be creative: Enjoy the learning process and explore new ideas in music production.
Inappropriate behaviour will be dealt with in one or more of the following ways:
- Reminder of expected behaviour and the Code of Conduct.
- Temporary removal from part of a session or learning activity.
- Parent/carer contacted by West Sussex Music staff.
- Temporary suspension from online learning activities.
- Permanent exclusion in serious or repeated cases.
Please note: Serious or repeated inappropriate behaviour may result in exclusion from sessions. Course fees will not be refunded for missed sessions due to exclusion.
By following this Code of Conduct, we can create a safe, respectful, and enjoyable learning environment for everyone.