Use of editorial and proof-reading services

Students are expected to produce work that reflects their own abilities and understanding. While the use of tools such as grammar and spell-checking software has become common practice, students must ensure that their work adheres to the principles of academic integrity. 

Principles for the Use of Tools, Services, and Support 

• Personal Responsibility: All submitted work must represent the student’s own efforts and understanding. Any assistance from tools, services, or third parties must not compromise the authorship or originality of the work. 
  
  
• Prohibited Actions: Students must not use another person, such as a friend, family member, classmate, or a professional proof-reading or editing service, automated tools or Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools to: 
  - Rewrite or restructure sentences or paragraphs to improve style or clarity. 
  - Correct grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors on the student’s behalf (but errors may be identified or highlighted for the student to address themselves). 
  - Change the meaning, interpretation or argument of the work. 
  - Directly introduce new ideas, phrasing or content such that authorship of the work is compromised. 

Permitted Uses 

There are certain cases where using software may be permitted: 

• Generative AI Tools: Where explicitly allowed in the assessment guidelines, generative AI tools may be used to support learning or assist with drafting. Such usage must be cited as appropriate and should not exceed what is outlined in the assessment's expectations. 
• Reasonable adjustments: A software tool may be used where it has specifically been recommended as part of a reasonable adjustment, as identified by the Disability Advisory Service, and is recorded in the student’s Individual Learning Plan (ILP)/exam recommendations. However, the principles stated above would remain the same, and students must submit work that demonstrates their own efforts and understanding.  The software must not be used to change the meaning/argument within the work, or introduce new ideas not originally created by the student.  

Support Available 

Students who wish to improve their written English are encouraged to: 

• Consult their Academic Tutor or School staff for advice on writing skills.
• Use resources provided by the Study Advice service for guidance on clarity and accuracy.
• Access the Academic English Programme, which offers communication skills support for international students.