NZ Comedy School Code of Conduct

Our Community Values

The NZ Comedy School is committed to creating a supportive, challenging environment where all students can explore their unique comic voices. We welcome individuals of all backgrounds, identities, beliefs, and experiences, provided they engage respectfully with their fellow students.

Growth Mindset

  • You're here to improve, not to prove yourself or compete with others

  • We recognize everyone starts from different places with different strengths

  • Embrace constructive feedback as an opportunity for growth

  • Focus on your own progress rather than comparing yourself to others

Respectful Content

  • Aim to create comedy that doesn't target individuals based on their immutable characteristics

  • We ask that you avoid comedy that demeans or dehumanizes others based on their identity

  • All political viewpoints, religious beliefs, and personal philosophies are welcome, provided they're expressed in ways that don't attack fellow students

  • We encourage exploring controversial topics when approached thoughtfully and with nuance

  • When in doubt about potentially sensitive material, discuss it with the instructor privately

Classroom Guidelines

  • What happens in class stays in class

  • Respect everyone's privacy and confidentiality

  • Obtain consent before sharing others' personal information or recording performances

  • While we encourage creative risk-taking, consider how your material might impact others

  • If you have concerns about material, please speak privately with the instructor

  • Treat your fellow students with the same respect you'd want to receive

Collaborative Learning Environment

  • Be present and engaged during class

  • Put away devices when others are performing

  • Be a supportive audience member—laugh and applaud generously

  • Contribute actively to group discussions and exercises

  • Share the spotlight and respect everyone's time to speak

Creative Process

  • Embrace quantity over immediate quality in your writing

  • All ideas deserve exploration—judgment comes later in the process

  • Take creative risks and be willing to be vulnerable

  • Respect that different styles of comedy will resonate differently with people

Maintaining Community Standards

  • Serious breaches of respect may result in a private conversation or, in extreme cases, dismissal

  • We approach conflicts with fairness and a commitment to resolution

  • These guidelines will be applied consistently regardless of background or beliefs

  • The instructor commits to considering all perspectives when addressing concerns

By enrolling in NZ Comedy School, you agree to engage respectfully with all community members while pursuing your creative development. We're excited to laugh, learn, and grow together!

Note: This code of conduct applies to all NZ Comedy School activities, including in-person classes, online sessions, performances, and related events. We aim to balance artistic freedom with maintaining a respectful learning environment for everyone.