Killjoys Exposed
Oxford University is currently finalising a Code of Conduct detailing restrictions on student behaviour during post-exam celebrations, The OxStu has learnt.
The University, OUSU and the City Council have been in talks to draw up the Code. This has been seen by The OxStu, and stipulates that students must not "throw or spray any foods or fluids, e.g. champagne/fizzy drink, flour, eggs, shaving foam, silly string." Throwing anything except glitter or confetti is also banned, along with the use of water pistols. Students will, however, be permitted to bring flowers and balloons as well as bottles of champagne, although they cannot open these.
Penalties for breaking the Code will include a spot fine of between £30 and £70. More serious breaches of regulations may be referred to the Proctors or the Court of Summary Jurisdiction.
This move follows numerous complaints about the aftermath of exams over a number of years and increased problems of policing the celebrations since 2003, when the University Police were disbanded. Thames Valley Police, who patrolled last year's festivities, have been advising those drawing up the Code. Superintendent Keith Ringsell told The OxStu: "The situation occurred over the last few years where there have been an unacceptable number of complaints from residents and colleges about the behaviour of well-wishers, and we welcome anything which reduces these nuisances." The Code makes clear that if student behaviour is considered to be a breach of the peace, Thames Valley Police can make arrests.
University rules already stipulate limitations on behaviour following exams. However, this year the new Code will be sent to all students. Its stated aim is still to allow "students to celebrate, but to minimise both the danger caused when crowds gather and the disturbance to local residents, examination candidates, drivers and passers-by."
The Code will be put to OUSU Council next week and, if passed, will have the Student Union's backing. It will be enforced by Thames Valley Police, the Council and the University. Rosie Buckland, VP Welfare, supports the move, telling The OxStu: "It is designed to ensure student safety and help to prevent accidents as much as it is to clamp down on the unacceptable noise and mess levels created by the celebrations... I don't want to see the university stamp out students celebrating after exams, as some senior members were initially keen to do."
Paul Sargent from Oxford City Council, which played a role in drawing up the code, told The OxStu he was initially approached by the University "to look at ways of 'designing out' the 'event'." He said he felt the Code was the "best way of preventing the celebrations being cancelled... It is regrettable that it has come to this. I do think that this is the most positive outcome that could have been reached considering the stance of the University and Thames Valley Police at the outset."
A spokesperson for the University said it "appreciates that students wish to celebrate... However the University is concerned about the disruption that can be caused to others and urges students to be considerate in their conduct."
22nd Apr 2004