Student Conditions of Participation
Western Sydney University (WSU) mandates high standards of personal and professional behaviour for students participating in overseas programs. Students are required to respect obligations to the University, the host location, and fellow participants. This includes adhering to University policies and ensuring personal and group safety. Non-compliance may lead to program removal without a refund, and the obligation to repay any received grants or scholarships. Students agree to these conditions is a part of the application process when completing the requirements on the Go Global Portal.
Misconduct
Trip Leaders are permitted to remove a student from a group travel program if the student's behaviour poses a significant risk or disruption to the learning, safety, or well-being of themselves or others. This may include actions that:
- Violate local laws or regulations
- Breach University policies
- Breach the conditions of participation
- Endanger the individual or others
- Disrupt the group's overall learning experience or safety
Removing a student from the program effectively terminates their participation in the group travel component. Such a decision should only be made after careful consideration and when deemed absolutely necessary.
Before discharging a student, Trip Leaders are strongly encouraged to seek prior approval from their supervisor or designated delegate.
Upon removing a student from the program, Trip Leaders can provide assistance finding alternative transportation or accommodation. However, once discharged, students are solely responsible for their own safety, transportation, and accommodation arrangements.
Trip Leaders must maintain comprehensive documentation and evidence supporting the decision to discharge a student. This information should be presented to their supervisor, Western Sydney International, and the relevant Authorised Officer for Student Misconduct in their school or department (as outlined in the Student Misconduct Rule).
Formal Notification of Breach of Conditions of Participation in Learning Abroad Program
Trip Leaders are encouraged to personalise the communication provided below, tailoring it to the specific breach. This message should be sent to the student, with copies sent to the trip leader’s supervisor, Dean, Western Sydney International, and the relevant Authorised Officer for Student Misconduct in their respective School or department.
Subject: [Student Name], Breach of Conditions of Participation in Learning Abroad Program
To: [Student Name]
Cc: Supervisor, Dean, Western Sydney International, Authorized Officer for Student Misconduct
Dear [Student Name],
I am writing to inform you that your participation in the [Learning Abroad Program Name] has been terminated due to a breach of the program's Conditions of Participation.
On [Date], you engaged in the following behaviour:
[List of specific actions that violated the Conditions of Participation]
This behaviour is unacceptable and has resulted in a significant disruption to the learning, safety, and well-being of the group. As a result, we have made the difficult decision to remove you from the program.
We understand that this may come as a shock, but we cannot tolerate behaviour that puts others at risk or undermines the overall objectives of the program. Our primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, and your actions have jeopardised that commitment.
Please be advised that you will forfeit all program payments and may be held financially responsible for any additional costs incurred due to your actions. This may include expenses related to alternative transportation, accommodation, or other logistical arrangements.
We encourage you to review the Student Code of Conduct, Student Misconduct Rule, and Student Misconduct Rule - Inappropriate Behaviour Guidelines for a detailed understanding of the expectations and consequences of participating in the Learning Abroad Program.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Trip Leader Name]
Discussion of Conditions Prior to Departure
Trip leaders are required to discuss the Conditions of Participation specific to their program with students before departure. This should encompass the following key aspects:
- Expectations and Responsibilities: Clearly outline expectations for student behaviour during the program, emphasising the importance of respecting local laws, adhering to University policies, and maintaining a safe and considerate environment for all participants.
- Consequences of Misconduct: Clearly explain the potential consequences of breaching the Conditions of Participation, including removal from the program, financial penalties, and potential academic sanctions.
- Support and Resources: Inform students about available support services and resources should they encounter difficulties or concerns during the program. This may include contacting the program leader, accessing emergency assistance, or seeking guidance from the host institution or local authorities.
- Open Communication and Dialogue: Encourage open communication and dialogue among participants throughout the program. Foster a culture of mutual respect, understanding, and accountability to prevent potential misconduct issues.
Complaints Resolution
If a student feel that their concerns have not been adequately addressed or that incidents during the trip require formal investigation, they have the right to submit a formal complaint. This process is facilitated through the Complaints Resolution Unit at Western Sydney University.
Relevant Policies
Student Code of Conduct: https://policies.westernsydney.edu.au/view.current.php?id=00258
Student Misconduct Rule: https://policies.westernsydney.edu.au/document/view.current.php?id=304
Student Misconduct Rule - Inappropriate Behaviour Guidelines: https://policies.westernsydney.edu.au/document/view.current.php?id=315
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