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Forward Academic Team is committed to providing a welcoming, respectful, and supportive learning environment where all learners, staff, and stakeholders are treated fairly and with dignity. We value the diversity of our community and actively promote inclusion across all aspects of teaching, learning, and professional practice.

Our Commitments

Equal Opportunities: We ensure that all learners have access to the same opportunities, free from discrimination on the grounds of age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background.

Inclusive Learning: Teaching and assessment methods are designed to meet the needs of all learners, with reasonable adjustments available where required.

Respect and Dignity: Everyone is expected to treat others with courtesy, respect, and professionalism at all times.

Zero Tolerance: Bullying, harassment, victimisation, or any form of discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated.

This policy outlines the enrolment process and conditions for learners applying to study at Forward Academic Team. It ensures that admissions are handled fairly, transparently, and in line with our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

This policy applies to all applicants and learners enrolling in any course offered by Forward Academic Team, including the NEBDN Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing (RQF).

Enrolment Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be aged 16 or above at the time of enrolment.
• Hold a valid right to work in the UK (where required for work placement).
• Demonstrate sufficient proficiency in written and spoken English to complete the course and communicate effectively.
• Currently employed / actively seeking employment as a trainee Dental Nurse in a GDC-registered practice.
• Meet any additional entry criteria specific to the qualification.

Enrolment Process

Application Submission

• Complete the official Forward Academic Team Application Form.
• Provide copies of: Valid ID, Proof of Address, CV, Enrolment fee

Initial Assessment

All applicants must complete an Initial Assessment, Literacy Test and Consent Form to determine course suitability.

Induction and Enrolment Confirmation

• Learners will receive a College Welcome Pack, class timetable, and login details.
• Enrolment is confirmed only when the required documents, registration fee, and signed agreement have been received.

Deferral or Transfer – Intake Month

Learners who wish to defer their start date or transfer to a different intake must:

• Submit a written request to the Admissions Team at least four weeks before the course start date.

Withdrawal Before Course Start

If a learner decides not to commence the course after enrolment:

• The registration fee (£450) remains non-refundable.
• Tuition fees already paid is non-refundable.
• Learners must provide written notice at least two weeks before the start date.

Fraudulent or Misleading Information

Providing false, misleading, or incomplete information during the application process may result in:

• Immediate cancellation of enrolment,
• Termination from the course, and/or
• Reporting to relevant professional or regulatory bodies (e.g., NEBDN or GDC).

Contact for Admissions:

Admissions Team
16 Beresford Square, Woolwich, London SE18 6AY
Tel: 020-7018-0221
Email: courses@forwardacademicteam.co.uk

Learners who wish to withdraw from their course must:

• Notify Forward Academic Team in writing,
• Provide clear reasons for withdrawal, and
• Complete the official withdrawal form (available from the administration team).

The following applies:

• The £450 registration fee is strictly non-refundable.
• Tuition fees already paid are non-refundable.

Responsibilities

Learners are responsible for promptly informing Forward Academic Team of their decision to withdraw.

Forward Academic Team is responsible for handling cancellations or withdrawals fairly, transparently, and in accordance with this policy.

Student Suspension

1. Grounds for Suspension

A learner may be suspended if their continued participation poses a risk to:

• Patient safety or public protection,
• The reputation of Forward Academic Team,
• Other learners, staff, or placement providers, or
• The learner themselves.

Examples of circumstances that may warrant suspension include (but are not limited to):

• Serious misconduct or breach of Forward Academic Team regulations,
• Allegations relating to fitness to practice,
• Pending outcomes of investigations (disciplinary or professional),
• Criminal proceedings or serious allegations under police investigation,
• Serious health or behavioural concerns impacting safe practice.

Forward Academic Team charges an initial non-refundable deposit of £450 to enrol students onto the NEBDN Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing (RQF). The remaining course fees can be paid in instalments after the course has commenced. We provide financial flexibility to ensure learners are able to pay without difficulty.

1. The following must be received by the administration team in order to enrol on a course:

• Identification document (passport or driving licence)
• Proof of address
• Updated CV
• Non-refundable registration fee of £450

2. Once the deposit and documents have been received, students will be sent an enrolment letter, copies of college policies, and relevant forms, together with confirmation of the course commencement date.

3. The registration fee of £450 is strictly non-refundable once paid.

4. In the case of a student who has paid the full course fee in advance, the £450 registration fee remains non-refundable. However, at the discretion of the Board of Directors, up to 50% of the remaining fee may be refunded if the student withdraws at least two months before the course commencement date.

5. No fees will be refunded for withdrawals made within one week of the course commencement date.

6. In the unfortunate event of a fatal accident or hospitalisation of a student who has already started the course and paid the full fees, Forward Academic Team may, on humanitarian grounds and at its discretion, refund the remaining course fees (excluding the £450 registration fee and any NEBDN examination fees).

7. Students must adhere to all Forward Academic Team policies and are expected to act in a mature and professional manner at all times.

8. Any concerns must be formally submitted in writing to the Director of Forward Academic Team.

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

1. Placement Support Services

Forward Academic Team provides free placement support to all enrolled learners, including:

• Personalised Guidance: One-to-one support with CV preparation and enhancement, interview skills, and job search strategies.
• Collaboration with Dental Practices: Building links with local practices to identify opportunities.
• Access to Online Resources: Guidance in using job boards, dental recruitment platforms, and professional networks.
• Placement Search Assistance: Directly reach out to dental clinics available near the learners’ living location, with the learner’s consent for the placement support. The placement support team may directly contact local dental clinics on the learner’s behalf and share their up-to-date CV and relevant documents strictly for placement purposes only.

2. Learner Responsibilities

To make placement support effective, learners are expected to:

• Engage Proactively: Attend interviews, respond promptly to communications, and follow placement guidance.
• Submit Applications: Take responsibility for applying to vacancies, both those sourced by Forward Academic Team and those found independently.
• Maintain Professional Conduct: Communicate appropriately with potential employers and demonstrate professionalism at all times.
• Provide Updated Documents: Submit an up-to-date CV and the required documents to the placement team so that they can assist you by directly reaching out to dental clinics in your area, strictly for placement purposes only.
• Provide Feedback: Share feedback on placement experiences and the support received, to improve future services.

3. Placement Application Support

• Initial Consultation: Each learner has a structured discussion to clarify their career goals and preferred locations.
• CV Review & Enhancement: Assistance with developing a professional CV tailored to dental nursing roles.
• Application Guidance: Support in identifying relevant positions and completing applications.
• Interview Preparation: Resources and practice sessions to build confidence.
• Placement Searching: The placement support team may use the learner’s college email account for placement purposes only, including applying for jobs or contacting local dental clinics for placement enquiries on behalf of the learner, if needed. The placement support team may also directly contact local dental clinics on the learner’s behalf and share their up-to-date CV and relevant documents, strictly for placement purposes only.

3. Placement Guarantee Disclaimer

• No Guarantee: Forward Academic Team does not guarantee placement. Our role is to provide tools, advice and connections to maximise success.
• Learner Effort Matters: Securing a placement depends significantly on the learner’s initiative, professionalism and the competitive job market.
• Ongoing Support: All learners will continue to receive guidance until they secure a placement.

4. Post-Placement Support

• Ongoing Assistance: Continued support during the early stages of employment to address issues or challenges.
• Career Development: Guidance on progression routes after qualification, including post-registration NEBDN qualifications and CPD opportunities.

5. Contact and Support

Learners can contact the Placement Support Team for assistance:
Email: puja@forwardacademicteam.co.uk
Email: prema@forwardacademicteam.co.uk

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.

Forward Academic Team aims to provide the highest quality of teaching and support. If students are unhappy with any aspect of their course or experience, this procedure explains how to raise a complaint.

1. Informal Stage

• Students should first raise the issue with their tutor or staff member.
• Many problems can be sorted quickly through discussion.

2. Formal Stage

• If the issue is not resolved, students can make a formal complaint in writing to sushmita@forwardacademicteam.co.uk
• The complaint should include details of the issue and the outcome the student is seeking.
• The Director (or nominee) will review the complaint and respond, normally within 20 working days.

3. Appeal

• If the student is unhappy with the outcome, they may appeal in writing to the Director within 10 working days.
• The appeal will be reviewed, and the decision made at this stage will be final.

4. Principles

• Complaints will be treated fairly and confidentially.
• Raising a genuine complaint will not disadvantage any student.
• Complaints should be raised as soon as possible (within 20 working days of the issue).

5. Contact

All complaints should be sent to:
The Director
Email: sangita@forwardacademicteam.co.uk

This policy outlines the procedure for learners who wish to appeal a decision made by Forward Academic Team in relation to assessment outcomes, disciplinary actions, course progression, or other formal academic matters.

It ensures all appeals are handled fairly, transparently, and without bias, in line with the principles of natural justice and NEBDN guidance.

This policy applies to all learners enrolled at Forward Academic Team who wish to appeal against:

• Assessment or grading decisions (including mock or internal assessments),
• Decisions relating to Fitness to Practice, disciplinary action, or suspension,
• Decisions relating to course deferral, withdrawal, or dismissal,
• Any other formal decision that may impact their academic progression or NEBDN eligibility.

It does not cover general concerns or complaints about teaching or support — these should follow the Complaints Policy.

Appeal Stages

Stage 1 – Informal Resolution

Learners are encouraged to discuss their concern informally within 10 working days of receiving the decision by contacting:

• Their Course Tutor (for academic or assessment issues), or
• The Programme Manager (for disciplinary or administrative issues).

Many issues can be resolved quickly through informal discussion and clarification.

Stage 2 – Formal Appeal Submission

If the matter cannot be resolved informally, the learner may submit a formal written appeal within 15 working days of the original decision.

The appeal must be sent to: sangita@forwardacademicteam.co.uk

Stage 3 – Review and Investigation

The appeal will be reviewed by a senior member of staff (not previously involved in the case), usually the Academic Manager or Director.

• A full investigation may be carried out, including consultation with tutors, assessors, or other relevant parties.
• The learner may be invited to a meeting (in person or online) to discuss their case.
• A written outcome will normally be issued within 20 working days of receiving the formal appeal.

Possible outcomes:

• Appeal upheld (decision changed or amended).
• Appeal partially upheld (with specific recommendations).
• Appeal rejected (decision stands).

Stage 4 – Final Appeal (Panel Review)

If the learner remains dissatisfied, they may request a Final Appeal Review within 10 working days of the Stage 3 outcome.

A Final Appeal Panel will be convened, comprising:

• The College Director,
• One senior staff member not involved in the earlier stages, and
• An independent representative (for example, tutor or professional).

The learner may attend the panel meeting and may be accompanied by a friend or representative (not acting in a legal capacity).

The Panel’s decision will be issued in writing within 15 working days and is final within Forward Academic Team.

External Review

If the appeal relates to an NEBDN examination or assessment, learners may also follow NEBDN’s official Appeals Policy after the college process has been completed.

Forward Academic Team can assist in directing the learner to the correct NEBDN procedure.

Forward Academic Team is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment for all learners, staff, and visitors.

This policy outlines how we safeguard the welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk, ensuring compliance with UK safeguarding legislation, including the Children Act 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018), and the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015 (Prevent Duty).

This policy applies to:

• All students, staff, tutors, volunteers, and contractors at Forward Academic Team,
• All delivery settings, including online classes, placements, and college premises,
• All individuals under the age of 18, and vulnerable adults (those aged 18+ who may be unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation).

Policy Statement

Forward Academic Team believes that every learner has the right to study in a safe and positive environment, free from abuse, neglect, exploitation, or discrimination.

We recognise our duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of all learners and to take appropriate action where there are concerns.

We will:

• Act promptly and effectively on any safeguarding concerns.
• Ensure all staff receive appropriate training and guidance.
• Create a culture of openness, trust, and accountability.
• Work closely with external agencies (e.g. local authorities, police, and safeguarding boards).
• Comply with the Prevent Duty by identifying and addressing risks of radicalisation and extremism.

Definitions

Abuse includes physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, neglect, exploitation, and online abuse.

Safeguarding means protecting individuals’ health, wellbeing, and human rights to ensure they live free from harm, abuse, and neglect.

Prevent Duty refers to the legal obligation on education providers to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism or extremist activity.

Roles and Responsibilities

Name: Sangita Marahatta
Email: sangita@forwardacademicteam.co.uk
Phone: 02070180221

Responsible for:

• Managing safeguarding and Prevent concerns,
• Liaising with local safeguarding boards and authorities,
• Maintaining confidential safeguarding records,
• Ensuring staff are trained and aware of safeguarding procedures,
• Overseeing reporting, investigations, and follow-up actions.

Safeguarding Procedures

If any member of staff, learner, or visitor has a concern that someone may be at risk of harm, they must:

1. Report it immediately to the concerned staff.
2. Record the concern in writing (using a safeguarding concern form).
3. Avoid investigating the matter themselves.
4. Maintain confidentiality and not discuss the concern with others.

Recognising Signs of Abuse

Common indicators of abuse may include:

• Unexplained injuries or frequent absences,
• Sudden changes in behaviour, confidence, or academic performance,
• Signs of neglect (poor hygiene, malnutrition),
• Disclosures or concerning conversations,
• Expressions of extremist views or isolation from peers (Prevent concern).

All staff and learners should remain alert to these indicators and report any concerns immediately.

Online Safety and Digital Safeguarding

As Forward Academic Team delivers online and blended learning, we ensure:

• All classes are held on secure, college-approved platforms (Google Meet, Teams).
• Tutors follow the College’s Online Conduct Policy (embedded within IT/Email Policy).
• Learners are reminded not to share personal details, inappropriate materials, or images.
• Any online safeguarding concern is reported to the DSL immediately.

Prevent Duty

Under the Prevent Duty, Forward Academic Team works proactively to protect learners from radicalisation and extremist influence by:

• Promoting British Values (democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance).
• Identifying signs of radicalisation, such as withdrawal from peers or expressing extremist views.
• Referring concerns to the DSL for assessment and, where appropriate, to the Channel Programme or local Prevent Team.
• Delivering awareness sessions to learners and staff.

This policy applies to:

• All learners enrolled on Forward Academic Team programmes (including the NEBDN Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing (RQF))
• All staff, tutors, assessors, and administrators involved in the delivery, supervision, support, or assessment of any programme
• Anyone handling assessments, the Portfolio of Evidence (PoE), or NEBDN examinations

Forward Academic Team is committed to maintaining the highest standards of academic integrity, professionalism, and fairness. Any form of malpractice, maladministration, plagiarism, or inappropriate use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is strictly prohibited.

Definitions

1. Malpractice

Malpractice refers to any deliberate act of wrongdoing, breach of regulations, or dishonest behaviour by a learner or staff member that compromises assessment integrity or the qualification process.

Examples include (but are not limited to):

• Cheating in written exams or mock assessments
• Submitting false, fabricated, or manipulated evidence in the PoE
• Collusion (working with others when individual work is required)
• Using unauthorised materials during assessments
• Impersonation (someone else completing work on behalf of a learner)
• Knowingly providing misleading placement or clinical evidence
• Attempting to influence assessors or examiners improperly

2. Maladministration

Maladministration refers to unintentional errors, omissions, or poor administration that may compromise assessment integrity or disadvantage learners.

Examples include:

• Failure to follow NEBDN assessment regulations or timelines
• Inaccurate or missing records
• Incorrect exam registration details
• Mishandling of examination or PoE materials
• Delays caused by administrative negligence

3. Plagiarism

Plagiarism is presenting someone else’s work, ideas, or words as your own without proper acknowledgement.

Examples include:

• Copying text from books, websites, or other learners
• Submitting work completed by another person
• Reusing previously submitted assignments without permission
• Paraphrasing without crediting the source

Plagiarism is considered a serious academic offence and will result in disciplinary action.

4. The Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI tools include (but are not limited to): ChatGPT, Bard, Grammarly, Quillbot, AI essay generators, and automated paraphrasing tools.

Acceptable Use of AI

Learners may use AI tools for:

• Grammar checks
• Improving clarity of personal writing
• Research support or concept explanation
• Drafting ideas or planning their approach to learning tasks

Unacceptable Use of AI

AI must not be used in ways that compromise academic integrity or NEBDN requirements.

Examples of unacceptable use include:

• Submitting AI-generated content as original learner work
• Using AI to fabricate PoE evidence or clinical experiences
• Using AI during assessments or exams
• Relying on AI-generated answers for portfolio questions
• Allowing AI to complete observation records or reflective logs

NEBDN requires all Portfolio of Evidence content to be 100% learner-written, based on real clinical experiences. Any breach will be treated as malpractice.

Responsibilities

Learners

Learners must:

• Complete their own work honestly
• Follow NEBDN and College assessment rules
• Declare any use of AI tools when required
• Ensure all PoE entries reflect their own clinical experience
• Not assist others in committing malpractice

Tutors and Assessors

Tutors and assessors must:

• Ensure assessments are conducted fairly
• Provide guidance on academic integrity and the appropriate use of AI
• Report any suspected malpractice, plagiarism, or inappropriate AI use
• Verify authenticity of PoE submissions

College Management

Management must:

• Investigate allegations promptly, fairly, and confidentially
• Apply sanctions or disciplinary actions when appropriate
• Report relevant cases to NEBDN where required
• Maintain accurate records of all investigations and outcomes

Investigation and Outcomes

If malpractice, plagiarism, maladministration, or inappropriate AI use is suspected:

• The learner will be notified in writing
• An investigation will be carried out
• Evidence will be reviewed by the Academic Integrity Panel
• The learner may be asked to attend a meeting or provide explanations

Possible Outcomes Include:

• Written warning
• Requirement to resubmit work
• Suspension from the programme
• Removal from the programme
• Reporting the incident to NEBDN (which may ban the learner from exams)
• Notification to external bodies (e.g., GDC for serious fitness-to-practise concerns)

Forward Academic Team is committed to protecting the privacy, rights, and personal data of all learners, staff and stakeholders. This policy outlines how personal information is collected, used, stored, shared, and protected in compliance with the Data Protection Act 2018 and the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR).

Purpose of the Policy

This policy ensures that all personal data handled by Forward Academic Team is:

• Processed fairly, lawfully, and transparently
• Used only for legitimate academic, administrative, safeguarding, or legal purposes
• Stored securely and protected from unauthorised access
• Retained only for as long as necessary
• Managed in accordance with learners’ and staff members’ rights under UK GDPR

UK GDPR Principles

Forward Academic Team adheres to the seven principles of UK GDPR, ensuring that all data is:

• Lawful, fair and transparent – Data will only be used in ways that learners and staff would reasonably expect.
• Purpose limitation – Data is collected for specific, explicit, and legitimate purposes only.
• Data minimisation – Only the minimum amount of data necessary is collected and processed.
• Accuracy – Personal data must be accurate and kept up to date.
• Storage limitation – Data is retained only for as long as required for educational, legal, or regulatory purposes.
• Integrity and confidentiality – Data is stored securely and protected against unauthorised or unlawful processing, loss, or damage.
• Accountability – Forward Academic Team is responsible for demonstrating compliance through documented policies and procedures.

Types of Data Collected

Forward Academic Team may collect and process the following categories of personal data:

a) Student Data

• Name, address and contact details
• Date of birth and proof of ID
• Academic records, attendance, and progress
• Placement records and performance
• Financial/payment records
• Health information (where relevant for safeguarding or support needs)

b) Staff Data

• Employment and payroll records
• Qualifications and training records
• DBS check information

Special Category Data

This may include:

• Health conditions
• Learning needs or disabilities
• Other sensitive data required for safeguarding, compliance, or professional standards

Data Sharing

Forward Academic Team may share personal data with authorised third parties when necessary to deliver education, support learner progress, and meet regulatory requirements. These may include:

• NEBDN – for learner registration, examinations, and PoE validation
• GDC – where required for professional registration or conduct matters
• Local dental clinics / placement providers – strictly for placement purposes only
• Safeguarding authorities – where concerns require escalation
• Regulatory and statutory bodies – where legally required (e.g., ICO, HMRC, Ofqual)

All personal data is handled securely and confidentially. Information is only shared with authorised bodies for legitimate educational, placement, safeguarding, or compliance purposes, and never for commercial use.

Data Security Measures

Forward Academic Team implements robust security procedures to protect personal data:

• Digital data is stored on secure, access-controlled systems (e.g., Google Workspace, CRM, Cloud Storage)
• Paper records are kept in locked, access-restricted areas
• Access to data is limited strictly to authorised staff on a need-to-know basis
• Passwords and login credentials must not be shared under any circumstances
• Staff receive guidance on secure handling of personal data
• Encryption and security protocols are used where appropriate

Learner and Staff Rights

Under UK GDPR, students have the right to:

• Access their personal data,
• Request corrections if data is inaccurate,
• Request deletion of data (where lawful and feasible),
• Complain to the college management if they believe their data has been misused.

All requests must be made in writing to sangita@forwardacademicteam.co.uk

Breaches

Any suspected or confirmed data breach must be reported immediately to the College Management Team.

• Forward Academic Team will investigate all breaches promptly
• Affected individuals will be informed where appropriate

For any questions regarding this policy, contact:
Sangita Marahatta
07581467182
sangita@forwardacademicteam.co.uk