Category 1 Investigations

20. The following may conduct Category 1 investigations:

(i) The Director of Information Services, (or nominee) in the case of an alleged breach of Information Services Regulations, including regulations relating to the use of computer facilities and general University facilities.

(ii) The Head of an academic department in the case of minor breaches of Rules and Regulations relating to academic provision, including those relating to the use of departmental facilities.

(iii) The Head of Commercial Services (or nominee), in the case of an alleged breach of Sports Regulations.

(iv) The Director of Estates (or nominee), in the case of breach of licence agreement.

(v) Faculty Managers or other nominees of Faculty Pro Vice-Chancellors, in the case of minor breaches of Rule 2.19 Health and Safety, not relating to individual academic departments.

(vi) In the case of an alleged breach of Regulation 3.7 (Regulations in Respect of the Students’ Union) the decision by the Academic Registrar or nominee on whether a breach of discipline has occurred and whether a penalty should be imposed will be taken only after consultation with the President of the Students’ Union.

21. On receiving an allegation, the head of department or nominee will conduct a preliminary assessment, liaising with Academic Registry casework@aber.ac.uk as appropriate. The head of department shall proceed to conduct an investigation, interviewing witnesses and considering documentary evidence. Students shall be made aware of allegations made against them throughout the process.

22. If the head of department or nominee is satisfied, on the balance of probabilities, that the allegation has been upheld and that the appropriate penalty can be imposed under Category 1, the student will be informed in writing by issuing the standard template letter. A copy of this letter must be provided to Academic Registry casework@aber.ac.uk

23. If the head of department or nominee determines that the severity of the allegation requires Category 2 investigation, Academic Registry should be consulted before submitting the allegation form and all relevant evidence to casework@aber.ac.uk.

24. Penalties issued following Category 1 investigations are limited to those indicated in Appendix 1.