Student Code of Conduct

As a student at the Hand & Lock School for Embroidery & Creative Arts, you are expected to follow this Code of Conduct, which establishes guidelines for behaviour and engagement across all Hand & Lock courses. Together, we aim to create a safe, respectful and supportive environment where all can learn the intricate art of hand embroidery.

Community Respect

  • Treat all members of our embroidery community with respect regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability or socioeconomic status.

  • Embrace diversity and contribute to an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported.

Academic Engagement

  • Take responsibility for your own learning by engaging in clear, constructive dialogue with tutors and seeking help when needed to support your unique learning style.

  • Approach each course with commitment and active participation to maximise your experience.

Respect for the Working Environment

  • Show appreciation and respect for the expertise and time of your tutors, understanding that they are there to guide and support your learning.

  • Follow instructions given by tutors and engage actively in classes, but also respect their boundaries, as they are dedicated to supporting all students equally.

  • Constructive feedback and questions are encouraged, but maintain a polite, open, and respectful tone in all interactions.

  • Follow all Health and Safety protocols in the studio to ensure a secure learning environment for everyone.

  • Maintain a tidy workspace, clean up after yourself and leave any space you use as you found it.

  • Treat all Hand & Lock property and resources with respect, as well as those of any external venues partnered with Hand & Lock.

Communication

  • Communicate with Hand & Lock staff, tutors and fellow students in a respectful and professional manner at all times.

  • Avoid conversation topics that could be distressing to other students.

  • Respect the boundaries and workload of Hand & Lock staff. As a small team, we aim to respond to all enquiries in 2 working days, within office hours (BST/GMT).

Behaviour Towards Tutors

  • Disrespectful, threatening, or rude behaviour towards tutors will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Any such behaviour may result in immediate disciplinary action, including removal from the Students community and disqualification from future Hand & Lock courses.

Violations & Consequences

  • If you witness or experience behaviour that violates this Code of Conduct, you are encouraged to report it to the Hand & Lock School at school@handembroidery.com.

  • We operate a two-strike policy for general misconduct:

    1. First strike – You will receive a formal warning.

    2. Second strike – You will be removed from the Students community and will not be allowed to take any future Hand & Lock courses.

  • For grave or serious offences (such as threatening or aggressive behaviour towards tutors or other students), Hand & Lock reserves the right to take immediate action, which may include permanent removal from the Students community and prohibition from future courses.

We are committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment for all. Thank you for helping us make the Hand & Lock School a positive space to learn, create, and grow.