Young Persons
Ensuring the safety of young persons attending the University of Portsmouth.
Introduction
Students under the age of 18 years, but over the minimum school leaving age of 16 under Health and Safety legislation are classified as "young persons".
The University of Portsmouth treats all of its students, regardless of age of entry, as independent, mature individuals, however the University has additional responsibilities towards students who are under the age of 18 years.
Admission Documentation
During the admissions process for young persons, Parents / Guardians are required to sign a consent form to accept the Universities Admission Policy for under 18's. Part of the consent process is acknowledging and understanding the activities that their child will be undertaking whilst studying. This policy should be read in conjunction with the Safeguarding policy.
For More Information
As part of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, it is a requirement by law for the University to identify and control risks so far as is reasonably practicable by risk assessing activities that are undertaken as part of University business.
It is the responsibility of the Faculty / School / Department that the young person is working within, to make arrangements to ensure all activities undertaken as part of the course meets these legal requirements and that best practices are adhered to.
In most cases, students under the age of 18 will be able to undertake the same activities as if they were over 18. However, this may mean putting in place additional control measures, such as controlling exposure limits (relating to hazardous chemicals, carcinogens or radiation) and providing additional training and supervision.
For more information and guidance on completing risk assessments at the University, please see the webpage below:
For more information and guidance on considerations for young people, see the link below: