About This Policy

This policy explains what types of personal information will be gathered when you visit the forwardacademicteam.com website, and how this information will be used. Please note that this policy applies to the College’s main web pages (i.e. those in www.forwardacademicteam.com).

Colleges, divisions, faculties, departments, institutes, academic services, libraries, portals and collections of the College may run and maintain their own websites on the forwardacademicteam.com domain (these will be identified as www.name.forwardacademicteam.com or name.forwardacademicteam.com). These sites may carry their own privacy policy or provide additional information relating to their activities, which will supersede or supplement this Privacy Policy.

If you follow a link to any other website, please check their policies before you submit any personal information to those websites.

Information Collected

On some parts of the website, you may be asked to provide some limited personal information in order to enable the provision of certain services (e.g. prospectus ordering, registering with a group, applying for a placement, etc). The College may store this information manually or electronically. By supplying this information you are consenting to the College holding and using it for the purposes for which it was provided. Information provided will be kept for as long as is necessary to fulfil that purpose.

We may also collect information about your computer, including where available your IP address, operating system and browser type, for system administration and to report aggregate information to our digital services function. This is statistical data about our users’ browsing actions and patterns which does not identify any individual and allows us to ensure that content from our site is presented in the most effective manner for you and for your computer.

How The Information Collected is Used

Personal information provided to the College by you will only be used for the purposes stated when the information is requested. Personal information will not be sold to third parties, or provided to direct marketing companies or other such organisations without your permission. Personal information collected and/or processed by the College is held in accordance with the “the provisions” of the General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Demographical and statistical information about user behaviour may be collected and used to analyse the popularity and effectiveness of the College’s website. Any disclosure of this information will be in aggregate form and will not identify individual users.

How We Store Information Collected

Information which you provide to us will ordinarily be stored on our secure servers. However, we do work with third party contractors, some of whom host and operate certain features of the website. Accordingly, information that we collect from you may be collected in or transferred to a destination outside the European Economic Area (“EEA”). That information may be processed by staff operating outside the EEA who work for us or for one of our contractors. By submitting personal information, you agree to this transfer, storing and processing. We will take all steps reasonably necessary to ensure that your data is treated securely and in accordance with this Privacy Policy.

We may disclose your personal information to third parties if we are under a duty to disclose or share such information in order to comply with any legal obligation or to protect the rights, property or safety of the University, its members or others.

How We Use Cookies

Most of our web pages use “cookies”. A cookie is a small file of letters and numbers that we place on your computer or mobile device if you agree. These cookies allow us to distinguish you from other users of our website, which helps us to provide you with a good experience when you browse our website and also allow us to improve our website.

For more detailed information on the cookies we use on the University’s main web pages (i.e. those in forwardacademicteam.com) and the purposes for which we use them, please see our Cookie Statement. Please refer to individual web pages for further information about the use of cookies on other web pages on the forwardacademicteam.com domain.

Access To Information

The provisions of the General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 gives you the right to access information held about you. For further information about this right and how to exercise it, please see the College’s Policy on Data Protection.

Changes To Our Privacy Policy

Any changes we may make to our Privacy Policy in the future will be posted on this page and, where appropriate, notified to you by email.

Links

This website contains links to other sites. Please be aware that the College does not claim any responsibility for the privacy practices of such other sites. The College encourages users to be aware and read the privacy statements of each and every website that collects personally identifiable information. This privacy statement applies solely to information collected by this website.

Contact

Any queries or concerns about privacy on this website should be sent by email to support@forwardacademicteam.com or addressed to the College Administration Office, Forward College, Woolwich, London Se18 6AY.

College Regulations and Policies

Welcome to Forward College “Forward Academic Team Ltd”. Students at Forward College must agree to abide by all regulations and policies and be should be aware of the student’s code. One can find such important information on Student Handbook, provided by the college during the course registration.

These regulations, policies, terms and conditions are updated regularly so it is advised to all have proper updates from the college. A full list of documents containing Forward’s relevant regulations and policies is also available on request through proper communication channels like email and call.

Course Registration Policy

Applicants/students should request course requirements and deadlines on academic standards and the should avoid ‘unfair practice’.  They should not harm or pose a threat to any student at the college and it’s property, equipment and learning resources.

The students should respect the College’s attendance requirements and be aware that failure to do so may have implications, including the requirement to retake elements of the course and pay the associated charges and further suspension as per the college’s regulations.

Course Registration Requirement Policy

Students should be vaccinated against Hepatitis B and if possible provide evidence of such vaccination, blood test results and also the DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) record. The applicant’s age should be appropriate during the registration process as per course requirements. Students must pay a non-refundable deposit of £450 (updated on Nov 2024 is £450; previous non-refundable fee was £400)  (already included in the total fee of the course) to the college in order to enrol to the dental nurse course or other courses. Students are liable to pay their full course fee before the completion of the course period.

The college will not be responsible for the failure of students to gain permission to study in the UK by the UK border agency. Please be aware that students who once enrol in the available course with the initial deposit, get no refunds which are already included in the total fee of the course.

Regarding the placement support of the students enrolled in a dental nursing diploma, as per the course requirement and assessment, the students themselves have to manage a placement for them. Also, the college will provide full placement support (applying for jobs in nearby dental practices, managing job interviews, preparing applicants documents required to apply for the jobs, create email id for the placement purpose and others) to the enrolled students till the course time period. However, the college will not provide a 100% guarantee/assurance on student placement as the college is only supporting students for their placement process.

Overseas Students: Be aware that the college will not do any visa process and every student enrolled in the college must have a valid UK visa with the work permit.

Placement Support Policy

This Placement support Policy outlines the procedures and guidelines for securing student placements with Forward Academic Team Limited free placement support for learners. Our aim is to facilitate a supportive and effective placement support activities that aligns with the career aspirations of our students.

1. Placement Support Services
   • Personalised Support: We offer individualised placement support to each student, assisting with CV preparation, interview techniques, and job search strategies.
   • Collaboration with Practices: Our team actively collaborates with dental practices to identify potential placement opportunities.
   • Online Job Portals: We utilise job portals and online platforms to broaden the search for suitable placements.
2. Student Responsibilities
   • Engagement: Students are expected to actively participate in the placement process, including attending interviews and performing proper communication guided by our team.
   • Applications: Students are responsible for applying to positions and attending interviews arranged through or outside our support services.
   • Feedback: Providing feedback on placement experiences and the support received is encouraged to continuously improve our services.
3. Placement Application Documents Support
   • Initial Consultation: A detailed consultation to understand each student’s preferences and goals.
   • CV Review and Enhancement: Assistance in creating or improving CVs to meet industry standards.
   • Search and Application: Guidance in searching for and applying to relevant placements.
   • Interview Preparation: Providing resources and training for successful interview performance.
4. Placement Guarantee Disclaimer
   • No Guarantee of Placement: Forward Academic Team Limited does not guarantee placement. Our role is to support and guide students in their job search and boost the placement process.
   • Student Initiative: Success in securing a placement is significantly influenced by the student’s own efforts and the competitive nature of the job market.
5. Post-Placement Support
   • Continued Assistance: We offer continued support after placement to address any issues or concerns arising during the initial phase of employment.
   • Career Development: Guidance is provided for further career development and advancement opportunities.
6. Policy Review and Updates
   • Regular Review: This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure its effectiveness and relevance.
   • Amendments: Amendments to the policy will be made in accordance with changes in industry standards, educational guidelines, and student feedback.
7. Contact and Support
   • Placement Support Team: For any queries or assistance, students can contact the Placement Support Team at puja@forwardacademicteam.co.uk
   • We welcome feedback and suggestions to improve our placement process

This policy is designed to clarify the expectations and procedures of the placement process at Forward Academic Team Limited, ensuring a transparent and effective approach for our students’ career development.

Attendance Policy

Forward College will provide a conducive atmosphere where all students feel valued and not numbered. We will consistently work towards a goal of 85% attendance for all students. Every opportunity will be used to convey to students and their employers about the importance of regular and punctual attendance. Each term the college will examine its attendance figures and these will be reflected in the student’s review and progress report.

Absence Record

Any student who is absent from class and have informed the administration is recorded as authorised (A) valid under the Education Act 1996. Students should inform the administration by calling the Centre before 10 am. Absence can only be authorized where valid proof of illness or emergencies is submitted to the administration Student absent without informing the administration will be considered unauthorised (U).

 Consecutive absence from Class

Any student who is absent on three consecutive occasions will receive a written warning and the students’ employer will be informed. If not resolved, this could result in dismissal or the student deferred to another intake.

Sessions

Saturday 10 AM to 3 PM (online class times can vary)

Sunday 10 AM to 3 PM (online class times can vary)

Extra Classes (class times can vary)

 Lateness

Student arriving15 minutes after the start of the session will be marked as late. It is the responsibility of the class tutor to make the student aware of the consequences of frequent lateness. In cases where a student begins to develop a pattern of lateness and absences, the college will try to resolve the problem with the student and employer. If this is unsuccessful the college refers the matter to the course co-coordinator and a student review meeting will be arranged. The student may be asked to explain the reason for lateness.

Absence notes

Notes received from employers/students explaining absence should be kept for the remainder of the academic year. If there are attendance concerns about the student that may require further investigation, then the notes will be retained in the student’s file.

Employers responsibility (Where applicable)

The college will remind employers that it is their responsibility to ensure that their learners receive an adequate education, therefore, they must make sure the student attends all lessons.

The student agreement will also raise awareness of good attendance.

Holidays in term time

Holidays during term time are not encouraged however students will be reminded of the effect that absence can have a negative impact on their achievement. Emergency leave will be looked into a case by case basis and a decision will be at the administration discretion.

Pregnancy During course

Pregnancy during the course is not advisable however if a student is pregnant should inform the tutor so that best arrangements can be put in place to enable the student to manage pregnancy, demands of academic studies, a record of experience and examinations. If the student fails to cope with the demands, might be deferred to another intake.

Behaviour Policy

Rules to be followed whilst you are at the college:

• Please switch off all mobile phones whilst in the classroom.
• Do not disturb or disrupt lessons.
• Keep the training room, kitchen, toilet facilities clean and tidy.
• No smoking inside the building or toilets as it is a fire hazard.
• Do not leave personal belongings unattended, as the college will not be responsible for theft, loss or damage to property.
• Always register as soon as you get into the classroom.
• Please do not swing on chairs or sit on tables as this could lead to serious accidents.
• If you have any type of accident (however minor) please report it to the course tutor where she will record it in the college accident book and call emergency if needed
• Always complete your evaluation sheet before you leave class.
• A verbal warning will be given to inappropriate behaviour followed by a written warning if there is no improvement.
• Mis-behaviour like fighting and stealing can lead to dismal.

Complaints Policy

Our Aim:

The college is committed to providing a quality service to students in an open and accountable way that builds the trust and respect of all our staff members. One of the ways in which we can continue to improve our service is by listening and responding to the views of our students and staff, and in particular by responding positively to complaints, and by putting mistakes right. Therefore we aim to ensure that:

• making a complaint is as easy as possible;
• we treat a complaint as a clear expression of dissatisfaction with our service which calls for an immediate response;
• we deal with it promptly, politely and, when appropriate, confidentially;
• we respond in the right way – for example, with an explanation, or an apology where we have got things wrong, or information on any action taken.
• we learn from complaints, use them to improve our service, and review annually our complaints policy and procedures.
• We recognise that many concerns will be raised informally, and dealt with quickly.

Our aims are to:

• resolve informal concerns quickly;
• keep matters low-key;
• enable mediation between the complainant and the individual to whom the complaint has been referred.

An informal approach is appropriate when it can be achieved. But if concerns cannot be satisfactorily resolved informally, then the formal complaints procedure should be followed.

The college defines a complaint as ‘any expression of dissatisfaction with a member of staff or a colleague. The formal complaints procedure is intended to ensure that all complaints are handled fairly, consistently and wherever possible resolved to the complainant’s satisfaction.

Our responsibility:

• acknowledge the formal complaint in writing;
• respond within a stated period of time;
• deal reasonably and sensitively with the complaint;
• take action where appropriate.

Complainant’s responsibility:

• bring their complaint, in writing, attention normally within 4 weeks of the issue arising;
• raise concerns promptly and directly with a member of staff in  (see our Student Support Information for staff contact details);
• explain the problem as clearly and as fully as possible, including any action taken to date;
• allow the Administrator a reasonable time to deal with the matter;
• recognise that some circumstances may be beyond the Administrator’s control in which case the complaint will be passed on to the Management

Responsibility for Action:

All Staff.

Confidentiality

Except in exceptional circumstances, every attempt will be made to ensure that both the complainant and a staff member maintain confidentiality. However, the circumstances giving rise to the complaint may be such that it may not be possible to maintain confidentiality (with each complaint will be judged on its own merit). Should this be the case, the situation will be explained to the complainant.

Monitoring and Reporting:

The Managing Director will receive annually a report of complaints made and their resolution.

Refund Policy

It is the student’s responsibility to enquire about college policies before they decide to enrol. We will give verbal and written information on the college’s complete policies.

The college only charges an initial deposit of £450 (non-refundable; already a part of the total course fee) (updated on November 2024 with immediate effect for the next enrolment intake; the previous non-refundable fee was £400) during the registration process to enrol students in Diploma in Dental Nursing Course. The remaining fees can be paid in different instalments after the commencement of the course. We provide financial flexibility to our students to make sure that they pay our fees without difficulties. The identification document (either passport or a driving licence), proof of address, and an updated CV with Non Refundable £450 Registration fee is to be received by the college administration to enrol in a course. Students will be sent an enrolment letter with college policies and all the forms with information of the course commencement date once the deposit and documents are received.

In the case of a student who has paid FULL Fees, the initial registration fees of £450 are not refundable but for the remaining fees, the college board of directors has the discretion to refund the 50% of the fees if the student has paid full fees before two months of the commencement of the course.

NO fee will be refunded since a week before the commencement of the course. In the unfortunate incident of a Fatal accident or hospitalisation of the student who has already started the course and has paid full fees, the college on a humanitarian ground will refund the fees paid except registration fees of £450 and exam fees to NEBDN. This is subject to the college’s discretion.

The students are to adhere to the college policies and should act in a mature and professional manner at all times.

Any concern should be formally directed to the college director in writing.

Note: Fees are subject to change from time to time.

Equal Opportunity Policy

(The Equality Act 2010) We believe that an Equal Opportunity Policy helps to ensure that there is no unjustified discrimination in the recruitment, retention, training and development of staff and students on the basis of:

• marital status (which includes civil partnerships),
• sexual orientation,
• religion, belief or lack of religion/belief
• race including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin,
• work pattern,
• age,
• sex
• being or becoming a transsexual person,
• being pregnant or having a child,
• disability,
• socio-economic background,

We also believe that an Equal Opportunity Policy benefits to achieve dignity as well as contributing to providing the best possible services. The aim of this policy is to communicate the commitment of the Management Team to the promotion of equality of opportunity in the Skills and Placement Centre.

We are opposed to all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination. All student applicants, employees and others who work for us will be treated fairly and will not be discriminated against on any of the above grounds. Decisions about recruitment and selection, promotion, training or any other benefit will be made objectively and without unlawful discrimination.

We recognise that the provision of equal opportunities in the workplace is not only good management practice; it also makes sound business sense. Our equal opportunities policy will help all those who attend this centre to develop their full potential and the talents and resources of the workforce will be utilised fully to maximise the efficiency of the organisation.

To whom does the policy apply?

This Equal Opportunity Policy applies to all students of FATE who apply to study at  FATE. Students employers will have in place their own Equal Opportunity policy, and students are asked to discuss this with their employers.

Equality commitments

We are committed to:

• Select and treat students solely on the basis of merit, ability and potential, and to the eradication of unfair and discriminatory practices.
• Promote equality of opportunity for all persons
• Promote a good and harmonious working environment in which all persons are treated with respect
• Prevent occurrences of unlawful direct discrimination, indirect discrimination, harassment and victimisation
• Fulfil all our legal obligations under the equality legislation and associated codes of practice
• Complying with our own equal opportunities policy and associated policies
• Taking lawful affirmative or positive action, where appropriate

Regarding all breaches of equal opportunities policy as misconduct which could lead to disciplinary proceedings.

Implementation

The Management and Head of Departments have specific responsibility for the effective implementation of this policy. Each employee of FATE also has responsibilities and we expect all our employees to abide by the policy and help create the equality environment which is its objective.

In order to implement this policy we shall:

• Communicate the policy to college staff, employers, job applicants, student applicants, relevant other individuals.
• Incorporate specific and appropriate duties in respect of implementing the equal opportunities policy into job descriptions and work objectives of all staff and students
• Provide equality training and guidance as appropriate, including training on induction and course activity.
• Ensure that those who are involved in assessing candidates for recruitment or promotion will be trained in non-discriminatory selection techniques
• Incorporate equal opportunities notices into general communications practices (e.g. staff and student newsletters, internet)
• Obtain commitments from other persons or organisations such as subcontractors or agencies that they too will comply with the policy in their dealings with our organisation and our workforce
• Ensure that adequate resources are made available to full fill the objectives of the policy.

Monitoring and review

We will establish appropriate information and monitoring systems to assist the effective implementation of our equal opportunities policy. The effectiveness of our equal opportunities policy will be reviewed annually, in consultation with the recognised professional bodies and action taken as necessary.

Complaints

Students who believe that they have suffered any form of discrimination, harassment or victimisation are entitled to raise the matter through the agreed procedures – a copy of these procedures are available from the Course Administrator.

All complaints of discrimination will be dealt with seriously, promptly and confidentially.

In addition to our internal procedures, employers and students have the right to pursue complaints of discrimination to an industrial tribunal or the Fair Employment Tribunal under The Equality Act 2010:

Employment Tribunal- Public Enquiry Line: Tel. 08457 959 775

Employment Tribunal Central Office ( England and Wales)

PO Box 10218

Leicester

LE1 8EG

However, students wishing to make a complaint to a tribunal will normally be required to raise their complaint under our internal grievance procedures first.  Every effort will be made to ensure that students who make complaints will not be victimised. Any complaint of victimisation will be dealt with seriously, promptly and confidentially. Victimisation will result in disciplinary action and may warrant dismissal.

Further information

The Equality Commission can provide advice and guidance on promoting equality of opportunity in the workplace and further information on a range of equality issues. Any information and advice to employers, service providers and individuals are free and confidential.

For further information please contact us:

Enquiry Line: 028 90 890 890 (for all information & advice enquiries)

Equality Commission for Northern Ireland

Equality House

7-9 Shaftesbury Square

Belfast BT2 7DP

Tel: 028 90 500 600 (Reception/Switchboard)

Textphone: 028 90 500 589

Fax: 028 90 248 687

Email: information@equalityni.org

Website: www.equalityni.org

Examination Policy

All students should be aware that the National Examination Board for Dental Nursing charges £525 (updated for 2025) to all applicants wishing to sit the Diploma exam.

To enter the examination you need to meet the following criteria-:

• Centre fee paid up to date.
• Completed Record of experience in time.
• Pay full examination fee
• Not less than 85% attendance.
• Pass the final mock examination.
• If you meet the above requirements then the Examination application form will be handed to you by your tutor.

You will have a list of centres where you will be able to sit your exam and you can choose 2 venues. The NEBDN will try and accommodate everybody for their first choice but in the event that the exam centre is full, they will use your second choice of centre.

Examination Re-sit Policy

NEBDN has two examinations in a year (Written and OSCEs ).

Therefore if you fail the first written exam you can re-sit in the next examination approximately eight months apart. The re-sit fee for NEBDN written exam is currently £525 at Forward which might change in the future. You will still have to attend revision classes and write a mock test. The college will provide at least 3-4 intensive revision sessions, which are compulsory, at a total fee of £350.

If you do not attend these revision classes you will be deferred to another intake.

OR

If you feel that you failed because you were not ready and still need more sessions you join the other intake behind your writing in the next eight months. By choosing this option you will have more sessions. For the full eight months session, the fee will be £650.

Candidates must pass both parts of the examination within the 3 year validity period of the Record of Experience (ROE).

Failure to pass NEBDN OSCEs

You can only do OSCEs examination when you pass a written examination. If you fail the OSCEs, Re-sit for NEBDN is currently £500 might change in the future.

The college will provide revision OSCEs practice and mock.

College fee is £350

Health & Safety Policy

Our policy is to provide and maintain safe and healthy teaching conditions, equipment and systems of work for all our employees and students, to provide the training and supervision needed for this purpose.

In order to meet these aims we shall:

• Keep up to date with best practice in relation to Health and Safety and comply with all relevant legislation and authoritative guidance.
• Ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, those who undertake work on our behalf apply the highest standard of Health and Safety for their employees and the community in general.
• Co-operate actively with local authorities, statutory bodies and public service in the interest of public safety and the safeguarding of the environment
• Maintain to a high standard the estate and working practices in respect of all the premises and sites over which we have control.
• Give a high priority to Health and safety in all our operations
• Develop, implement and monitor Health and Safety regimes appropriate to our work
• Co-operate with, and monitor, the performance of contractors who work for us
• Provide the necessary resources to implement our policies and keep them up to date
• Consult with, and involve, our staff in matters affecting their health and safety.
• Provide the necessary equipment and training for the tasks to be performed
• Where necessary supplement our in-house resources with external resources
• Enlist specialist support to keep our policies and procedures up to date.

We require the full and active participation of all our employees in order that the principles outlined in this policy statement may be achieved. The statutory duties placed on the college and all their employees, and providers of services and construction works, are to be regarded as minimum standards. We aim to achieve best practice in terms of Health and Safety in all that we do.

General Statement

1.1 Forward Academic Team fully recognises the duties placed upon it under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and all other relevant legislation. The Centre is committed to ensuring at least complies with the minimum requirement and wherever reasonably practicable shall exceed them. It also recognises the obligation it has to others with regard to its activities including the funding bodies in the UK responsible for the provision of youth training as well as other partners in relation to the delivery of training.

The Centre is committed to working with these partners to ensure a safe and healthy working environment. The company recognises the duties it has to not only its staff but also to trainees, contractors, visitors and any others who may be affected by its activities and shall adopt the principle of zero tolerance with regard to accident prevention. This principle is underpinned by the acceptance of the Centre that no accident at work is acceptable.

1.2 FATE also recognises the position it holds within the Recruitment and Training Dental Nurse and as such is committed to the production of high-quality Health and Safety training materials. The Centre will also work toward attaining a position of Standard in Health & Safety.

Policy Objectives

2.1 Health & Safety must be regarded as a mutual objective for management and employees at all levels. Therefore management will:

Provide and maintain a safe, healthy working environment with safe access and outlets;

Ensure the safety of staff who are mobile workers or those who work from work.

Ensure that trainees under its Training Agency are placed in a safe and healthy working environment;

Provide safety training, information and instruction as required for all employees, trainees, visitors and contractors etc, as appropriate.

Provide all necessary safety devices, protective equipment and supervise their use.

Maintain a constant and continuous improvement in all aspects of safety, in particular by introducing and monitoring safety procedures.

Consult employees on matters relating to workplace health, safety and welfare, development and review of policy and procedures through safety management established within the Centre.

Communicate relevant Health and Safety information through Notice boards in the workplace and the internal e-mail.

2.2 Staff have a duty to co-operate fully in the operation of this Policy by:

Working safely and efficiently, complying with any instruction, information * training in accordance with all procedures and statutory obligations.

Immediately reporting incidents (including accidents, near misses, which have resulted in, or may lead to injury).

Assisting with the investigation of accidents and aiding the introduction of measures to prevent a recurrence.

Policy Implementation

3.1 The Centre has appointed a Managing Director/Centre Manager responsible for Health & Safety who will ensure continual strategic direction with regard to health, safety and welfare in FATE.

3.2 FATE shall appoint local advisors competent in Health and Safety who will provide general advice on policy implementation.

3.3 The Health and Safety Officer shall maintain the safety management system and ensure processes are in place for its continual improvement.

3.4 Heads of Departments are responsible for the implementation and operation of the safety management system in their departments and will be accountable to the Managing Director/Centre Manager responsible for Health and Safety. Managers will be supported in this function by the Health and Safety officer.

3.5 The Operational health and Safety manual will give further guidance on arrangements for putting into effect this policy.

3.6 This policy shall be reviewed whenever circumstances require it such as changes to legislation or activities and at least annually.

3.7 This policy shall be issued to all new members of staff and be made available on notice boards, as well as to all other interested parties through the FATE  web site.

Hazards:

All substances used in the practice must be handled carefully and care taken to avoid skin contact, inhalation or ingestion. Staff and students must comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health ( COSHH )  guidelines. It will help you understand what you need to do to comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 (as amended) which apply to the way you work with these substances.

Some likely hazards:­

The following list of areas where hazards could arise, or where improvements might be possible, is to help employees in the identification of risks:

Premises:

Access, steps, stairs, floor coverings, passages, lighting, furniture, fittings, heating, ventilation, fires, fire precaution

Classroom:

Computer, cable, heater, lights, bookshelves, training instruments.

Accidents

The practice First Aid Box is in the classroom.

Electrical equipment

Never touch with wet hands. In the event of malfunction disconnect at the mains supply.

Machinery

Never use machinery unless you have been instructed in its safe use. Make no attempt to dismantle, repair or service machinery without instruction

Fire Evacuation Procedure

In case of fire Please follow the following procedures

FATE  Fire Marshals are named below:

Immediate Action:

Anyone discovering a fire must immediately:

Sound the alarm, go to the nearest fire alarm point (3-inch box on the wall).

Inform the person in charge.

Evacuate the building and report to the assembly point based in front of the Island Business Centre in Wellington Street.

Walk! Please Do not run.

The person in charge will:

Call 999 and report a fire.

Collect attendance register.

Make sure toilets are NOT occupied and everybody is out of the building.

Roll call will be done to make sure everybody is at the assembly point.

Escape routes:

Fire Doors are identified as Fire Exits

Fire doors are never locked.

“Fire fighting equipment” are maintained regularly and serviced.

Review of policy

The policy will be kept up to date, particularly as introduces new materials and equipment. To check the policy effectiveness and the way in which it has operated will be reviewed every year, and staff meetings held regularly to discuss problems.

The Managing Director – Sangita Marahatta is responsible for Health and Safety. If you notice any hazards please do not hesitate to contact: Sangita 0207018 0221, sangita@forwardacademicteam.com

INDIVIDUAL LEARNING REVIEWS POLICY

Aims of Policy:

Individual Learning Review will be carried at least 3times during the course.

The aim of this procedure is to:

Help student to set goals that are achievable.

Judge students’ performance against  agreed standards to make assessment decisions transparent and reproducible

Give students nurse feedback and support throughout their course.

Identify students challenges/needs and find ways of assisting them.

Use reviews to contribute to the internal quality assurance process.

Build a tutor/student rapport.

Help employer to be aware of their trainee dental nurse progress and needs.

Assess the progress of their Record of experience.

Reviews:

One to one.

Every student dental nurse will be asked to comment on the findings detailed in the review document and given an opportunity to suggest and give comments.

Ongoing teaching and training will be directed towards areas of weakness in the knowledge base and practical skills.

The student dental nurse’s achievements will be acknowledged and built upon during the course.

FATE equal opportunity policy and no student should be disadvantaged in any way.

RECORD OF EXPERIENCE POLICY

Students undertaking training towards NEBDN’s National Diploma in Dental Nursing qualification are required to complete a work based assessment portfolio called the Record of Experience (RoE).

Included in the RoE are a number of tasks based on the role of a qualified dental nurse. Students are required to complete these tasks in the workplace whilst being observed by a GDC registrant who acts as a “Witness/Mentor.

Witnesses observing the clinical activities must receive a documented, standardised level of training to ensure they are fully aware of their role and responsibilities.

This is a mandatory requirement for all GDC registered professionals acting as witnesses to any student working towards the NEBDN National Diploma in Dental Nursing qualification.

NEBDN will check that all dental nurses applying to enter either part of the NEBDN National Diploma in Dental Nursing examination from January 2014 provide supporting documentation that shows all witnesses involved in signing off their RoE have successfully completed the training course.

Any applicants that do not include this will not be eligible to enter the final Diploma examination.

Record of experience is online, therefore, you must have access to the internet.

Witness/mentor must sign the PERs within seven days of date activity.

A minimum amount of time that an ROE can be completed is 3months. This means that there must be at least 3 months between the date of the first completed PER and the last completed PERs.

The idea of the ROE is to show your growth and development during your training.

The tutors are there to support you and therefore if any problem informs your tutor by email or one to one.

Most of the supplementary outcomes will be done in class and some as homework.

Students should do Basic Life support which is mandatory.

The tutor role is to introduce the RoE, monitor progress and sign you off.

Please Note

To apply for your examination your Record of experience should be completed.

NEBDN due dates are 1 February 1 September however the FATE  due dates are two weeks before, therefore mid-January and mid-August.

RECRUITMENT POLICY

FAT aims to offer a range of health and professional courses to British and EU Nationals, who are genuine about gaining their educational awards while meeting the program entry criteria.

They are aimed at preparing adult students to progress to further study or enter into successful employment.

Course Information and Enquiries

Our Course Portfolio and handbooks can be found on our website www.forwardacademicteam.com  They list valuable information to enable candidates to choose the right program of study.

Course Enquiries or requests for additional information should be directed to the Course Administrator by email to shekhar@forwradacademicteam.com  telephone 020  7018 0221.

Our office opening hours are:

Mon- Fri 9.30am am-5pm

Saturday  10 am-3 pm

Course Entry Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate a good command of spoken and written English. Although

British Citizens and EU applicants do not require a SELT(Secure English Language Test) they might be required to provide one to prove English language ability, in regards to course entry criteria. Applicants will also be required to pass internal Literacy Assessment Test provided by Skills and Placement Centre.

Students must have at least 3 GSCE’s or equivalence.

The National Diploma in Dental Nursing Course is aimed at Students Dental Nurses who are currently employed within the dental industry or those willing to start Dental Nursing as a career in which case they will have to start their work placement within the first 3 months of starting the course.

Students must be capable of paying course and examination fees, proof might be required

FAT reserves the right not to enrol students who do not fulfil the above requirements

Equal Opportunities

It is our policy to provide training to all, irrespective of:

Gender, including gender reassignment

Marital or civil partnership status

Having or not having dependants

Religious belief or political opinion

Race

Disability

Sexual orientation

All prospective students and other staff will be treated fairly and will not be discriminated against on any of the above grounds. Decisions about recruitment, training or assessment are made objectively and without unlawful discrimination.

Admission Procedures

EU/UK Students can make study enquiries directly at the Centre if they are already in the UK, through our website, email, by calling the Centre itself or through our Educational Representatives (Agents)

Submitting an application form

On-line and/or by Post

Click on the ‘Dental Nursing Course tab’ on the website and then click on ‘Apply now’ to

Download the Application Form. A downloaded and completed application form should be emailed to the Course Administrator at shekhar@forwardacademicteam.com

Alternatively, you can post it to:

Forward Academic Team

16 Beresford Square

Woolwich

London

SE18 6AY

In person

If you are in the UK, you can come directly to the Centre to meet the Course Administrator and fill in an application form.

Please ensure you complete all relevant sections of the application form to ensure smooth enrolment process.

We recommend that you submit your application form well in advance of the intake you wish to join, to allow us a sufficient amount of time to process your application.

2.Obtaining a Conditional Offer Letter

Once your application has been received, you will be contacted by our Course Administrator who will discuss the course entry criteria and fees.

If your application is successful,  we will issue you with a conditional offer letter via email.

If your application is unsuccessful, we will send you an email stating the reason for the outcome.

3.Accepting the offer

After receiving a conditional offer letter, you need to reply to the email informing us of your decision to accept the offer and attach all documents listed in the conditional offer letter.

Making payment

You will be required to pay the minimum deposit of £250 towards your course fee before enrolment can be completed.

Accepted methods of payment include:

Paypal

Electronic bank transfer

Cheque

Debit card

Credit card (attracts a 2% surcharge)

Cash

Once we have received all the necessary documents and payment has cleared we will enrol you into the program.

Completing registration

Please contact us via Tel or Email to arrange an appointment and visit Course Administrator to complete your registration process.

You must bring with you the following documents:

Your valid Passport /ID card

Your original qualification certificates. No photocopies can be accepted

Proof of address in the UK

2 recent passport size photographs

We will also discuss and issue an instalment plan outlining the dates and payment method of the remainder of your course fee.

To complete the enrolment students are required to accept and sign relevant FAT policies such as:

Attendance Policy

Placement Policy

STUDENT SUPPORT POLICY

1.0 Policy Statement

The Centre will be proactive in its provision of student services and will endeavour to secure equality of opportunity by:

1.1 ensuring that student services are oriented towards the needs of the student body and are appropriate in their range and quality

1.2 ensure that the organisational structures supporting student services are effective in sustaining their delivery, development and evaluation

1.3 ensuring that student opinion is actively elicited in the development and evaluation of student services

1.4 ensuring a strategic approach to the development of student services

1.5 ensure that there is continued correspondence with all National Examination

Board policies/strategies related to student support and particularly the:

• mission statement and strategic plan
• disabilities policy
• learning, teaching and assessment strategy
• widening participation strategy
• equal opportunities policy
• student charter
• bulling Policy
• student disciplinary procedures

1.6 ensuring that student services are sustainable by both appropriate resourcing and by staff development

1.7 ensuring that student services are subject to regular review and evaluation based on accurate qualitative and quantitative data

1.8 communicating its policy clearly to all concerned

2.0 Policy Scope

2.1 The policy is applicable to all students of the Centre and to all aspects of ‘the student

experience’

3.0 Policy Purpose

3.1 The purpose of this policy is to assert: –

• an enabling and proactive approach to the development of College educational, social and welfare provision for all students whatever their individual differences

3.2 to provide: –

• a coherent statement of institutional purpose with regard to student service issues.
• a framework for identifying priorities and to help facilitate the development of an appropriate range of educational, social and welfare services.
• a framework which allows for the progressive enhancement of provision

3.3 to ensure

• the equitable provision of educational, social and welfare services and to all students whatever their individual differences and, where practicable, whatever their location

3.4 to help establish an environment where the difference is recognised and

valued.

Forward Academic Team will do there best to support you and is looking forward to your

contribution in order to achieve its goals.

LEARNING POLICY

Forward Academic Team will create a conducive environment for all students. According to the following article “Everyone has the right to education”: Article 26: Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)

International elaborations

1969: International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, Article 5:

“…States Parties undertake to prohibit and to eliminate racial discrimination in all its forms and to guarantee the right to everyone, without distinction as to race, colour, or national or ethnic origin, to equality before the law, notably in the enjoyment of the following rights:…e.(v) The right to education and training.”

FAT  will provide adequate education and training to all students regardless of race, colour or ethnic origin. FAT Centre will follow the NEBDN Curriculum for the students to pass the National Diploma in Dental Nursing.

FAT  to achieve this will provide the following:

adequate lessons for students.

tutor and student ratio should allow close monitoring of students.

monitoring of progress through evaluation, reviews, homework and record of experience.

provision of qualified and experienced staff.

a student is given homework and assignments.

student work or homework marked and give feedback within a week.

standard marking guides used.

practical mock exams (OSCEs) provided.

periodical tests and revision of tests.

communication with employers and surgery visit if required.

individual learning plans.

FAT  will guarantee students the right to education and training if you find that your learning is disrupted please inform your tutor or contact administration immediately.

TEACHING AND LEARNING RESOURCES POLICY

FATE  will make available of all training and learning resources used by all dental nurses.

Resources and equipment provided are the following:

Power points

Whiteboard

Flip charts

Handouts

Library books

Dental instruments

Dental materials

Teaching materials will be always be kept to a high standard and updated yearly.

A tutor will provide handout during lessons.

Well trained and qualified tutors will always be accessible for advice and guidance.

Any special needs students FATE will find the best ways of supporting their students.

All the resources will be monitored and updated regularly.

The college will provide mock tests, instruments and materials for preparation of Examination.

FATE will make sure that there are sufficient resources for trainees to successfully complete all areas of their programme.

FATE will recommend the best books and websites for students to use.

Students should have access to the internet in order to do the online Record of experience.

LEARNING SUPPORT POLICY

Learning resources are accessible to all student dental nurses. However, a record of all resources is kept and maintained to a very high standard.

Student dental nurses have access to a wide range of IT and library resources, which help to underpin teaching opportunities offered by  FATE.

We strive to select competent clinical and academic support staff to deliver the course.

Provide professional mature staff that can give advice and guidance to students.

Handouts, copies and teaching materials will always be kept to a high standard, and quality monitored.

regularly monitor and evaluate the resource requirements of the dental nurse training, and make sure that resource needs are built into the course.

make sure there is suitable accommodation for all aspects of training.

make sure that there are sufficient resources for trainees to successfully complete all areas of their programme.

FITNESS TO PRACTISE PROCEDURES & POLICY

Approved – June 2020

 Introduction

1.1     These regulatory procedures are applicable to students enrolled on any College programme of study which leads to a professional qualification and / or which entitles the individual to register with a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body (PSRB) and / or to practise under license.  Such programmes are hereinafter referred to as ‘Professional Programmes’.

1.2     In addition to meeting the learning outcomes of a Professional Programme, students must satisfy the College that, in respect of their health and conduct, they do not constitute a risk to patients or professional clients and those they meet the requirements of professional bodies.  The College may be required to sign a declaration confirming that an individual is a safe and suitable entrant to the given profession and is ‘Fit to Practise’.  The College may also be required to have in place arrangements for terminating enrolment on a programme or an element within a programme where a student has been found unfit to practise.

1.3     Professional Programmes normally require a student to undertake placements and / or work based practise / learning and the College has a duty both to the student and to the public to ensure that any risk or harm is minimised.  Fitness to Practise procedures apply equally to offsite placement and to classroom learning which forms part of the Professional Programme.

1.4     Although disciplines may have specific external regulatory requirements for determining Fitness to Practise (which may be known by different titles), it is expected that the generic procedures contained within this document will form the basis of all Fitness to Practise procedures applied to enrolled students.

1.5     Requests for any additions to the procedures described in this document, based on the presentation of Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body (PSRB) evidence, should be provided at validation.  Additions should not in any way undermine the principles or diminish the impact of the procedures described in this document, but may add to them. In the case of any amendments to approved addition(s) they should be presented to a Periodic Review and Revalidation (PRR) panel.  Approved addition(s) should be published in definitive documents, in particular the Programme Specification, and submitted in electronic and hard copy to the Academic Registry.

1.6     Programmes undertaken in or with a collaborative partner institution, but where academic authority lies with the College, shall be subject to the procedures described in this document.  Collaborative partner institutions should seek advice on details of implementation from the Academic Department.

1.7     These regulations operate in conjunction with the other College regulations and procedures including the Academic Regulations for Taught Provision, Student Disciplinary Procedures, Student Complaints Procedures and Fitness to Study Procedures.  Care should be taken to ensure that the procedures invoked are appropriate to the circumstances.  There may be circumstances when more than one set procedures must be invoked.  Where necessary, advice should be sought from the Academic Head.

1.8     If a student registered on a Professional Programme is under investigation by the profession it is the student’s responsibility to communicate this information to the Course Leader.

1.9     These Fitness to Practise procedures are applicable to enrolled students.  They recognise that an offer of a place by the College on a Professional Programme may be conditional upon the applicant being deemed fit to practise, which could require, for instance, satisfactory completion of a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check or a declaration of the applicant’s good health.  Once enrolled, a student must disclose any changes to circumstances which could affect their continued fitness to practise, for instance a subsequent criminal conviction, a change in health status, or a complaint or disciplinary matter that arises during a practise placement.

1.10   Directors of Studies / Course Leaders must ensure that students are informed of the standards of academic performance, health, behaviour, attitude and attendance expected of them for a declaration of fitness to practise to be made.  In this context, students must be informed of the profession’s own fitness to practice standards which will contribute to the declaration by the College.

2. Definition of Fitness to Practise

2.1     The essence of Fitness to Practise is defined as:

‘Where a student is enrolled on a programme that leads directly to, or that satisfies a necessary condition of, a professional qualification, and/or which gives the right to practise in one or more professions, he/she shall not engage in any conduct which renders him/her not fit to be admitted to and practise that profession.

2.2     Examples of circumstances that might render a student unfit to practise are given below. This list is not exhaustive, and the examples may not all be applicable to every programme.

Conduct

1. Offences against the vulnerable, including children, the elderly and the mentally incapacitated;
2. Exploiting the vulnerability of a patient or professional client, including to establish a sexual relationship;
3. Chronic drug or alcohol abuse;
4. Acting in a violent manner on or away from College premises;
5. Conviction of a criminal offence;
6. Intimidation of fellow students, patients, professional clients or staff;
7. Failure to rectify behaviour that has been subject to any disciplinary actions under the College’s regulations;
8. Repeated inappropriate behaviour towards others;
9. Falsification of patient, client or other professional records;
10. Failing to act in a way to ensure the safety and wellbeing of those who are vulnerable;

Health

1. Significant health issues;
2. Severe and relapsing mental illness;
3. Being a carrier of a serious communicable disease.

Other

1. Providing false or inaccurate statements or answers on self-declaration forms.
2. Principles and procedures

3.1     The principles underpinning these procedures are that they:

• reflect rules of natural justice;
• presume a student to be innocent of any allegation until proven on balance of probabilities;
• are transparent and involve timely resolution of Fitness to Practise;
• include procedures for independent review and decision making;
• encourage the resolution of problems at a local level wherever possible;
• enable the College to fulfil its statutory and ethical responsibilities to professional bodies, the student and the public at large;
• enable the College to ensure compliance with relevant legislation.

3.2     Where possible and appropriate, concerns related to Fitness to Practise should be addressed initially, through an informal approach, at the local level.  For example, any concern can first be discussed with the module tutor and tutor / supervisor at the placement agency.  Should this approach fail to resolve the matter then the following Fitness to Practise procedures should be used.

3.3     Information about any individual involved in Fitness to Practise procedures will be dealt with confidentially and privacy respected.  However, it may be necessary to disclose information to others in order to resolve concerns over Fitness to Practise and in these circumstances the parties concerned will be informed of such disclosure.

3.4     Whoever initiates formal Fitness to Practise procedures will not suffer any disadvantage or discrimination as a result of taking such action in good faith.  However, if such action is judged to have been made frivolously, vexatiously or with malice, by a student or College employee, disciplinary action may be taken; and if an employee, client or other individual associated with the provider is involved, the College will undertake to discuss the matter with the appropriate managers of the organisation to determine if any further action should be taken.

4. Preliminary Investigation at Department level

4.1     Any allegation of concern that a student enrolled on a programme coming under the scope of these regulations may be unfit to practise must be made via formal notification, normally in writing and promptly, and submitted to the Department Head.

4.2     Upon receipt of an allegation, the Faculty Head should decide within five working days whether the issue can be resolved informally, or whether to arrange for a preliminary investigation into the student’s fitness to practise.  In certain circumstances, the Faculty Head may need to take immediate action to safeguard all parties, but without prejudice to the outcome of the investigation.

4.3     If it is decided that a preliminary investigation is required to determine whether a prima facie case exists, the Faculty Head will appoint an independent senior member of Faculty staff as Investigating Officer who will carry out the investigation.

4.4     Reports from ‘experts’ may be requested by the Investigating Officer in respect of the student’s health, and these reports may be disclosed to other individuals as necessary for the proper conduct of the investigation and any subsequent proceedings.  This requirement may include reports from a student’s GP, the College’s Medical Officer, social workers, probation officers and the police.

4.5     The Investigating Officer will present his/her report to the Faculty Head who shall be responsible for determining whether to:

4.5.1  dismiss the allegation without further action;

4.5.2  issue a formal warning to be placed on the student’s record (via Academic Registry), and inform the student that any future conduct will be monitored and that consideration of any future misconduct whilst registered on the programme will take such warning into account;

4.5.3  refer the allegation to the College Fitness to Practise Panel (via the Academic Registrar).

4.6     If the Faculty Head considers the allegation is so serious as to threaten the safety of others, he/she may seek the approval of the Vice-Chancellor (or nominee) for an immediate temporary suspension of the student’s studies.

4.7     The College may be required to notify a professional body of cases at the point when an allegation is first investigated, when it is referred to the College Fitness to Practise Panel, or when a student is suspended from a programme of study.

5.1     When a case is referred to the Fitness to Practise Panel, the Faculty Head concerned will send the following documentation to the Academic Registrar:

1. the investigation report, plus name of the person(s) to be called to present the case on behalf of the College;
2. any additional written comments on the student’s conduct and/or health, explaining why there is concern as to the student’s fitness to practise;
3. any relevant factual information about the student’s professional progress on the course;
4. any other relevant documentation.

5.2     The Academic Registrar will provide adequate notice of the date of the Panel hearing, and will circulate relevant documentation to all participants.

5.3     The student will be invited to set out his/her case in writing prior to the hearing, enclosing copies of any relevant documentation. This must be sent to the Academic Registrar not less than 10 working days before the hearing.

5.4     The student will be invited to attend the hearing, and will be entitled to be accompanied by a friend or representative of his/her choosing.  A legal advisor may be the representative to accompany the student. The student must confirm the name and status of the person accompanying them in writing to the Academic Registrar no less than four working days before the hearing.  If a legal advisor accompanies the student the College reserves the right to be legally represented.

5.5     If the student does not appear at the hearing without reasonable explanation, and the Panel is satisfied that due notice was given to the student, the Panel may proceed in the absence of the student and shall consider at the appropriate stage any representations made on behalf of the student.  The Chair will have discretion to determine what constitutes ‘reasonable explanation’.

5.6     Witnesses may be called by both the student and by the person presenting the case on behalf of the College.   Both the student and the College’s representative must ensure:

1. that the names and addresses of all their respective witnesses are communicated to the Academic Registrar not later than four working days before the hearing;
2. that their respective witnesses are informed of the date, time and place of the hearing and are able and willing to attend. It is the responsibility of each party, not the Secretary, to ensure that witnesses are ready to appear when called.

6. Decisions available to the Fitness to Practise Panel

6.1        The Panel will have power delegated by Academic Board to decide:

• That the student is fit to practise and is

i) permitted to continue with the programme without further action;

ii) permitted to continue with the programme under supervision as defined/required by the Panel;

iii) permitted to continue with the programme but that a formal warning be placed on his or her file/ record;

iv) subject to any other action considered appropriate by the Panel to enable the student’s successful completion of the remainder of the programme.

• That the student is not fit to practise and

i) is required to suspend his or her studies for a specified period of time, following which the Panel will review the conditions set and decide whether to re-admit the student to the programme, and the decision be recorded on his or her file/ record;

ii) the student’s studies on a programme leading to a professional qualification be terminated and the decision be recorded on his or her file/ record; but recommend that the student may seek advice to be admitted to an alternative programme within the College;

iii) the student’s studies be terminated and the student to exit the College with an interim award, which may or may not satisfy professional requirements, and the decision recorded on his or her record;

iv) the student’s studies be terminated and the student be required to withdraw from the College without an award; the decision will be recorded on his or her file/ record.

7. Procedures of the Fitness to Practise Panel

7.1     A quorum will be three voting members including the Chair and the practising professional external to the College.  A formal record of the meeting will be kept by the Academic Registrar or nominee.

7.2     The Chair will provide the Panel with an initial briefing.

7.3     The Chair will invite the person presenting the case on behalf of the College  to make an opening statement in the presence of the student and his/her friend, and to call witnesses as previously notified to the Academic Registrar. The Panel will be invited to ask questions of the College’s representative and witnesses.

7.4     The Chair will invite the student (or his/her friend or representative) to make a statement, and to call witnesses as previously notified to the Academic Registrar.  The Panel will be invited to ask questions of the student and witnesses.

7.5     At each stage the Chair has discretion to allow reciprocal questioning by the various parties, or to call an adjournment of the panel so that parties may investigate any new matters introduced at the meeting.

7.6     Once the Chair is satisfied that members of the Panel have completed their questioning, and that the student has had a full opportunity to convey information to the Panel, he/she will ask the student, the students’ friend and / or  representative, the person presenting the case on behalf of the College, and their witnesses to withdraw.  Any professional advisers appointed by the Panel may remain whilst the Panel deliberates in private but only to the extent necessary to provide any specialist advice requested by the Panel, and will withdraw before the Panel considers its decision.

7.7     The Panel must refer to the code of professional practice for the relevant profession in reaching its decision.

7.8     Considerations of the Panel will be confidential and, where necessary, its decision will be reached by ballot.  The Chair will have a casting vote in the event of a tie.

7.9     The decision of the Panel will be confirmed in writing to the student and to the Faculty  Headed by the Academic Registrar normally within 10 working days.  At the same time the student will be notified of his/her right of appeal against the decision of the Fitness to Practise Panel.

7.10   Where required, the decision of the Panel and the evidence upon which it was based will be communicated to the relevant professional body.  It is recognised that the body may invoke further action regardless of the outcome of the College’s Fitness to Practise procedures.

8. Appeals against a decision of the Fitness to Practise Panel

8.1     The student must give notification in writing to the Academic Registrar, within ten working days of notification of the decision of the Fitness to Practise Panel, of his/her intention to appeal.

8.2     The notice of appeal must clearly set out the grounds for the appeal and must be accompanied by appropriate documentary evidence.

8.3     Appeals may only be considered on one or both of the following grounds:

1. irregularities in the conduct of the Fitness to Practise procedures of such a significant nature as to cause reasonable doubt whether the Fitness to Practise Panel would have reached the same decision had they not occurred;
2. exceptional personal circumstances or new evidence not known to the Fitness to Practise Panel when the student’s case was considered, and which can be shown to be relevant to the case. The appellant must show good reason why such personal circumstances or evidence were not made known to the Fitness to Practise Panel before or at its meeting.

8.4     Appeals against a decision of the Fitness to Practise Panel will be considered by a Fitness to Practise Appeal Board.  Its membership shall comprise:

• a Chair (nominated by the Vice-Chancellor);
• two members of academic staff: one of whom should be a member of staff from another Faculty offering qualifications that lead directly to a professional qualification, and/or which give the right to practise in one or more professions; and one of whom should normally be a member of Academic Board;
• A student representative nominated by the Students’ Union.

8.5     The Academic Registrar will provide adequate notice of the date of the Appeal Board hearing, and will circulate relevant documentation to all participants.

8.6     The student will be invited to attend the hearing, and will be entitled to be accompanied by a friend of his/her choosing.  The student must confirm the name and status of the person accompanying them in writing to the Academic Registrar no less than four working days before the hearing.

8.7     If the student does not appear at the hearing without reasonable explanation, and the Appeal Board is satisfied that due notice was given to the student, the Board may proceed in the absence of the student and shall consider at the appropriate stage any representations made on behalf of the student.  The Chair will have discretion to determine what constitutes ‘reasonable explanation’.

8.8     The Faculty concerned will be invited to send a member of staff to attend the hearing and, at the invitation of the Chair of the Appeal Board, to contribute to the hearing.

8.9     The Fitness to Practice Appeals Board will have powers to confirm, modify or quash the penalty or penalties originally imposed by the Fitness to Practise Panel, or to recommend to the Vice-Chancellor any further action to be taken by the College.  The student and the Faculty  Head will be notified in writing of the decision of the Fitness to Practice Appeals Board normally within 10 working days of the appeal hearing.

8.10   Where required, the decision of the Appeals Board will be communicated to the relevant professional body.  It is recognised that the body may invoke further action regardless of the outcome of the appeal.

8.11   The decision of the Fitness to Practise Appeals Board will be final and there will be no further right of appeal within the College.

8.12   On an annual basis the Academic Registrar will present a report to Academic Board containing an anonymised analysis of cases considered under this procedure which details:

• the number and nature of the cases considered under the formal procedures and the outcomes thereof;
• an analysis of cases by minority group, gender and disability based on information supplied at registration.

WHISTLE BOWING POLICY

1. Purpose

1.1 This College is committed to the highest possible standards of openness, probity and accountability in public life. In line with that commitment, we encourage employees or workers with serious concerns about the College’s activities to come forward and voice those concerns on a confidential basis and without fear of reprisal.

1.2 This Procedure is part of the normal day to day management rules and does not form part of any member of staff’s contract of employment/service and it may be amended from time to time at the College’s sole discretion.

2. Scope

2.1 This Procedure provides employees or workers with:

• guidance on how to raise serious concerns about any aspect of the
College’s activities and receive feedback on any action taken;

• the means to take the matter further if dissatisfied with the College’s response; and

• Reassurance of protection from possible reprisal or victimisation for whistleblowing in good faith.

2.2 There are other, existing, procedures for employees or workers to raise concerns arising from their employment, for example the Grievance Procedure.

2.3 A serious concern may be about something that an employee or worker sincerely believes in good faith:

• is unlawful;
• involves sexual, physical or other abuse;
• is against the College’s rules and procedures;
• amounts to improper conduct;
• involves damage to the environment;

• is a health and safety risk to students, employees or workers, or the public;

• involves fraud, corruption or other financial irregularity including but not limited to funding body or examination body requirements; or
• involves unauthorised use of public funds;

3. Safeguards

3.1 Harassment or victimisation: The College recognises that the decision to raise a serious concern may be a difficult decision to make and will not tolerate harassment or victimisation of those reporting such concerns in good faith.

3.2 This does not mean, if an employee or worker is already subject to a formal College process, for example, disciplinary or redundancy, that such processes would be halted as a result of whistleblowing.

3.3 Confidentiality: The College will do its best to protect the identity of those raising a serious concern who does not want their name to be disclosed. However, it should be recognised that the investigation process may reveal the source of the information and a statement may be required from the person raising the concern.

3.4 Anonymous allegations: This Procedure invites employees or workers to put their name to any serious concern raised as this permits a dialogue to be entered into that enables the investigator to seek or explore further information. Concerns expressed anonymously are less powerful, but will be investigated thoroughly as far as it is practicable to do so and at the discretion of the College. Factors to be taken into account in investigating anonymous allegations include the seriousness and credibility of the concern raised and the availability of evidence to investigate.

3.5 Untrue allegations: If an allegation is made in good faith but is not confirmed by investigation, no action will be taken against the person raising the concern. However, when it appears that there are clear grounds for suggesting that the person raising the concern acted frivolously, maliciously or vexatiously, the College may undertake a disciplinary or other investigation. Depending on the outcome formal disciplinary action or other action may then be taken.

4. How to Raise a Concern

4.1 If the serious concern involves a student or member of academic staff, a safeguarding or academic issue then it should be raised with the Deputy Chief Executive immediately. If the serious concern involves fraud, corruption or financial irregularity, a health and safety matter or an issue involving a member of the Support staff it should be raised with the Chief Operating Officer immediately. Concerns involving the Deputy Chief Executive or Chief Operating Officer should be raised with the Principal and CEO. The Clerk to the Governors may refer concerns raised to another party as appropriate, for example a concern rose regarding the Principal and CEO.

4.2 Concerns are better raised in writing. The person raising the concern is invited to set out the background, history of the concern and give factual information where possible, for example names, dates and places, and the reason for the concern arising. However, if the person raising the concern does not feel able to put it in writing, concerns may be raised in person.

4.3 Urgent and serious concerns should always be raised immediately. In addition, the earlier the concern is expressed then generally the easier it is to take action.

4.4 A person raising a serious concern is not expected to prove the truth or investigate the matter themselves but is expected to demonstrate the grounds for their belief. It is very important that evidence is preserved but not altered or tampered with.

4.5 A person with a serious concern may wish to discuss the matter in confidence with a trusted colleague or trade union or professional association representative in advance of raising the matter.

5. How the College will Respond

5.1 The College will respond to any concerns raised. It will test the evidence for the matters raised but it should be noted this is not the same as rejecting the concerns. Initial enquiries will be made to decide whether an investigation is appropriate and, if so, the form it will take. The matters raised may be investigated internally or referred to an external body as appropriate, for example the Police, the external Auditor or other independent, safeguarding or regulatory body. Some concerns may be resolved by agreed action without the need for investigation.

5.2 The overriding principle which the College will have in mind is the public interest.

5.3 Within 10 working days of a concern being received, the College will contact the person raising the concern to:

• acknowledge that the concern has been received;

• indicate how it proposes to deal with the matter;

• give an estimate of how long it will take to provide a final response;

• inform the person raising the concern whether any initial enquiries have been made; and

• inform the person raising the concern as to whether further investigations will take place, and if not, why not.

5.4 The amount of contact between the person considering the concern and the person who raised it will depend on the nature of the matter raised, the potential difficulties involved and the clarity of the information received. If
necessary, further information will be sought from the person raising the concern. Meetings may be arranged off-site and the person raising the concern may be accompanied by a representative from a trade union or professional association or a friend.

5.5 Where possible, the College will provide information to the person raising the concern on the outcome of any investigation.

6. How the Matter can be Taken Further, if Necessary

6.1 This Procedure is intended to provide employees and workers with a clear route to raise serious concerns within the College and for the concerns to be dealt with and settled appropriately. However, if the person raising the concern considers that this has not happened then they may contact an appropriate external body such as:

• the Police;

• a relevant examination or other assessment body;

• a relevant funding agency; or

• the local authority or safeguarding body.

6.2 Complaints made to individuals, the media or other bodies may actually hamper a speedy, full and professional investigation of the serious concern raised.

7. Record Keeping
7.1 The Principal / Director has overall responsibility for the maintenance and
operation of this Procedure and will ensure the maintenance of a confidential
record of concerns raised and the outcomes.

8. Feedback

8.1 Comment on the Procedure is welcomed and should be forwarded to the Director.