University of Derby dismisses film lecturer Russell Cherrington over misogynistic remarks

Senior film studies lecturer Russell Cherrington at the University of Derby was suspended in December 2023 after four students complained that he repeatedly referred to women as “females”, described a female actor as “not attractive enough”, and called a trans‑student a “troublesome trans kid”. An internal investigation concluded his conduct amounted to gross misconduct and he was dismissed in April 2024.

Cherrington appealed the dismissal, arguing that his comments were protected by Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights and constituted academic freedom. An employment tribunal rejected his claim, finding the language discriminatory and disruptive to a safe learning environment. The Employment Appeal Tribunal upheld that decision, noting the university had confidence the lecturer could not return without risk of further incidents.