Graduation Code of Conduct

Our graduation ceremonies are a celebratory occasion where we come together to recognise the hard work and achievements of our graduates.

We politely remind guests, that all guests are present to see their loved one's graduate and request that all in attendance respect the enjoyment of others and allow them to enjoy the event free from disturbances.

The University supports:

• mutual respect and understanding between individuals and within its constituent communities
• promoting equality of opportunity among employees and students alike

Expectations

The University expects all guests attending Graduation events (members of the University community) to treat each other with respect, courtesy and consideration at all times.

All members of the University community have the right to expect respectful behaviour from others and have a corresponding responsibility to behave respectfully towards others.

We operate a zero-tolerance approach to behaviours of harassment, bullying and victimisation. This means that any reports of bullying, harassment or victimisation will be treated and dealt with seriously.

Tickets

• All attendees aged 2 and over must be in possession of a valid ticket.
• Children under the age of 2 years of age will require a free ticket and must sit on the knee of the guest with a ticket. Children aged 2 and under will not be allocated a seat.
• All tickets will be scanned on entry to the event. Those without a valid ticket in their possession will not be permitted entry to the event.
• Please note that graduates and guests enter the venue via separate entrances, and therefore each attendee must be in possession of their own digital or printed ticket.
• Anyone found to be participating in ticket fraud will be asked to leave the venue.
• It will not be possible to order or buy guest tickets during Graduation week. The deadline for ticket orders is published on the graduation webpage and in all student graduation correspondence.

Security

• All Graduation events are carefully planned and managed to ensure that graduates and their guests enjoy the day.
• Security teams are present at all venues hosting graduation activity.
• Strict bag checks and searches are conducted at all Graduation venues.

Prohibited items

View our list of prohibited items. Large bags and suitcases are not permitted in our graduation venue.

Conduct

• All attendees are expected to show respect and courtesy to each other throughout the celebration events.
• Taking or receiving calls, and the use of handheld games consoles and devices are not permitted inside the ceremony room. It is disruptive and disrespectful to the other students and families in the room. If you must take or make a phone call, you must leave the room to do so. If you do not, you will be asked to leave, and the ceremony may be paused while you do so.
• Graduates and guests are required to remain in their seats for the duration of the ceremony. Graduates must return to their seats after crossing the stage. If guests move about, stand to take photos, they will be asked to return to their seat as they may block the view of the stage for families just as their graduate crosses the stage.
• Verbal abuse (including shouting, swearing and derogatory comments), violence, threats of violence and intimidation will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Anyone participating in verbal, physical abuse or intimidation will be removed from the venue.
• Graduates and guests are required to follow the instructions of the ceremony and venue staff. Your attendance is acceptance of this.

Thank you for helping make this a welcoming, friendly and inclusive event for all.

Contact information

If someone makes you or anyone else feel unsafe or unwelcome, please contact our team as soon as possible by emailing controlroom@cardiff.ac.uk.