ACCESS TO ASSESSMENT POLICY

I. SCOPE

This policy details the rights, opportunities and services afforded to all students, past, present and potential, of London International College (LIC) with regard to their access, use and benefit of programmes, assessments, evaluations and student services.

II. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to:
1. Declare the equal rights, opportunities and services afforded to any and all students, whether they are past, present or potential students;
2. Provide access to assessments and examinations to all students;
3. Provide for the accommodation of students who has missed the assessments/ examinations; and
4. Identify the student support tools available and accessible to all students at any point in time.

III. DEFINTIONS

“disability” means—

• total or partial loss of a bodily function;
• total or partial loss of a part of the body;
• malfunction of a part of the body including a mental or psychological disease or disorder; or
• malformation or disfigurement of part of the body.

“ethnicity”, in relation to a group of people, means the origin, characteristics, classification and distinctive cultural or aesthetic traditions of that group of people.

“marital status” means the status or condition of being—

• single;
•  married;
• married but living separately and apart from one’s spouse;
• divorced | widowed.

“race”, in relation to a person, means a group of persons of common ethnic origin, colour or of mixed race.

“sex” does not include sexual preference or orientation.

IV. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

•  In accordance with our Equal Opportunity Policy, LIC is mandated and committed to providing equal opportunities to all students, both past and present.
•  All students, both past and present, and potential applicants must have equal rights and opportunities regarding but not limited:

1. 1. entry into programmes;
   2. entry requirements;
   3. access to programmes;
   4. assessments and examinations; and
   5. the facilities.

•  LIC shall not discriminate against any student, whether past, present or potential, in terms of race, ethnicity, nationality, origin, creed, colour, religion, sex, marital status, disability or age.
•  LIC must take extensive steps, through its members of staff and representatives, to incorporate, maintain and safeguard these equal rights and opportunities to the students and potential applicants.

V. ASSESSMENTS AND EXAMINATION

• In accordance with our Examinations and Invigilation Policy, all students are expected to sit the final examination, where applicable.
• Each student must pay all tuition fees before sitting exams or submitting final assessments;
• A student, who misses the scheduled exam date where extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the student affect his/her performance and/or attendance at an examination, is given an opportunity to rewrite the final examination on another scheduled date which is set by the Examinations Officer.

VI. STUDENT SUPPORT

In accordance with our Student Support Policy, LIC is committed to providing support tools to its student population to ensure and promote the highest educational experience.

A. Financial Aid

• Payment plans must be available and provided to any and all students, where necessary.
• Students will be afforded the opportunity to pay on a monthly basis as they simultaneously complete their programme.
• A down-payment must be paid toward the total cost of any programme upon registration, and a customized payment plan will be created based on the outstanding balance.
• A deadline date for final payment will be given upon registration.
• All students will receive letters from administration reminding them of their deadline date for payment as well as their outstanding balance.
• Any student who is unable to make payments by the due date may apply for an extension by making a request in writing and their payment plan will be updated and kept on file.

B. Psychological Support

• LIC is committed to ensuring the health and welfare of staff and students is taken seriously. Guidance Counsellors are integral to the learning environment and are available for counselling sessions on request. The institution has a qualified and experienced Counsellor who is available by appointments.
• Counselling and Advisory Sessions are available from lecturers and staff to all students.
• This service is accessible at any point in time whereby students can access the service as needed and by referral by any member of staff. • This service is free to all staff and students.

C. Consultancy after the programme has completed

• Upon completion of a programme, support services still exist.
• Past students have access to consultancy and advice, “quick” revision sessions, notes, accounting services, usage of facilities, recommendations and references. This will assist students in their future studies and professional development.
• A cost may be applied depending on the situation.

VII. DOCUMENT REVISION

This policy is reviewed to determine its appropriateness and effectiveness. This policy may be amended to ensure that it remains relevant and consistent with our mission and strategic purpose, the requirements of our stakeholders and best practice.

ADMISSIONS AND ENROLMENT PROCESS

I. SCOPE

It is the policy of London International College (LIC) that all students desirous of studying at the Institution are afforded equal rights in the process of admissions and enrolment in accordance with our Admissions Policy.

II. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to identify the clear process for admissions and enrolment adopted by the Institution.

III. PROCESS

The following is a guide on the steps and procedures to be taken by the Institution in admitting and enrolling students.

Step 1: Application

• All applications are to be submitted online only.

Step 2: Evaluation by Registry Officer

• All applications are evaluated by the Registry Officer.
• All applications are evaluated on the admissions criteria based on the requirements of the relevant awarding body and qualification.

Step 3: Approval/ Bridging

• All applications, once evaluated by the Registry Officer, must be reviewed by and subject to the approval of the Admissions Committee.
• The Admissions Committee consists of the Academic Director, Academic Manager, and the Registry Officer.

Step 4 Part A: Notification of Application Status

• All applications are either approved and students are granted direct entry or are provided with an alternative route of learning/ bridged with a more suitable programme.

Step 4 Part B: Offer and Acceptance

• All approved students are issued an Offer of Acceptance letter that includes the payment information and credentials for the online learning management system.
• The payment information is subject to the relevant requirements of the awarding body affiliated with the choice of programme.

Step 5: Enrolment (Programme Specific)

• All students are granted access to their approved programme where a programme specific orientation is available.

IV. DOCUMENT REVISION

This policy is reviewed to determine its appropriateness and effectiveness. This policy may be amended to ensure that it remains relevant and consistent with our mission and strategic purpose, the requirements of our stakeholders, and best practice.

ADMISSIONS POLICY

All students desirous of attending the institution will be given the right to do so according to our Equal Opportunity Policy. Admittance into the institution must be substantiated by a valid form of identification. All courses are weighed differently and entry into some courses is based on certain qualifications and criteria. Foreign Students must have valid visas and proper documentation before being admitted entry into the institution. Students who are desirous of applying to the institution should know the following information before they apply:

• Available courses/programmes;
• Entry requirements for the course/programme of choice;
• Documents required for application and registration;
• Cost and the payment options available.

To gain entry to courses/programmes offered by the institution, prospective students must provide:

• An online or hard copy application form;
• A non-refundable application fee;
• The original and a copy of either their National Identification Card, Passport or Driver’s License;
• The original and a copy of all relevant academic certificates;
• The original and a copy of their marriage certificate/ affidavit. (This is applicable if the name on the certificate is different from the name on the application form);
• Birth certificate/and marriage certificate (if relevant);
• One (1) passport size photograph.

A mature student is a person who enters the institution at the age of 21 years and over and has been out of secondary school for at least five years. Such a person should demonstrate academic interest and have gained relevant knowledge and work-place experience. Students will be required to present with their application, full details of their career. This includes a document outlining their knowledge development, employment record, references, and other documents that can support the application. In addition, students may need to take additional assessments or participate in interviews as required to gain entry to courses/programmes. This type of assessment is discussed further in the institution’s Recognition of Prior Learning Policy.

RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING POLICY(PLAR)

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) is a competency-based assessment process which seeks to recognize and give formal credit for college-level learning that is acquired informally, non-formally, and formally. London International College (LIC) seeks to enrol all persons interested in their programmes and to that end seek to address those learners who may have acquired learning over time but not formal certification or recognition for their competencies. To this end our institution has a policy that governs this construct.

Prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) is available to persons interested in pursuing a programme at our institution.

• 1.1 To be eligible for PLAR, candidates must be 19 years of age or older;
• 1.2 The PLAR candidate’s prior learning is assessed by Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), who are academic /pastoral staff with subject matter expertise in the area. If the learning is deemed equivalent to the programme learning outcomes / requirements, special consideration is awarded to the learner;
• 1.3 PLAR procedures and processes will respect current, recognized national standards and best practices for PLAR;
• 1.4 PLAR Candidates must go through the regular admission process to gain entrance into the program;
• 1.5 The assessment is undertaken by SMEs who are approved by the Academic Director and supported by the Academic Manager;
• 1.6 The SME will complete his/her initial assessment within two (2) weeks of receiving the completed test or portfolio;
• 1.7 If a learner does not meet the prescribed requirements as laid out by the SME for the programme the SME may ask a candidate to complete additional assessment methods;
• 1.8 The Academic Department notifies the candidate through email or telephone of the outcome of their Assessment

2. Appeals (PLAR Process)

• 2.1 Learners may appeal the outcome of their assessment. To do so, the PLAR candidate must communicate a request, in writing to the Academic Department within ten (10) working days of communication of his/her assessment results.
• 2.2 The learner will outline the reasons why an appeal is warranted.
• 2.3 Upon receiving a written request for appeal from the PLAR candidate, the Academic Manager will organize an Appeal Committee to review the submission.
• 2.4 The Appeal Committee will consist of:
• • The Academic Manager;
  • A faculty member, who has not been the applicant’s SME and who is knowledgeable of the relevant programme/course;
  • A faculty member or staff person with knowledge of the PLAR process.
• 2.5 The results of the Appeal are final and binding on all parties.

APPEAL POLICY FOR LEARNERS

London International College (LIC) is committed to providing students with an education of the highest possible quality. This extends to the providing and safeguarding of the right of the students to express their concerns, complaints or grievances about matters or issues relating to their academic experiences at London International College (LIC).

I. SCOPE

This policy details the rights and opportunities afforded to students and potential students to raise concerns, complaints or grievances about matters or issues relating to their academic experiences at the Institution.

II. PURPOSE

This policy will:

• ensure every student has an equal and fair right to file an appeal;
• ensure that the procedures used to review and resolve complaints or grievances are fair and must be seen to be fair;
• respect the confidentiality for all parties, unless the use of the information is authorized by law;
• ensure that faculty and/or staff involved in resolving complaints or grievances will act fairly at all times and ensure that conclusions will be based on a fair hearing of each point of view;
• ensure that there are no reprisals or acts of victimisation as a result of a complaint or grievance made by a student in good faith;
• ensure that complaints or grievances are handled in a timely manner with achievable deadlines specified for each stage in the resolution process; and
• ensure that any student who makes a complaint or grievance and any staff member or student on whom the complaint or grievance has a direct impact, is regularly informed of the progress of the matter.

III. POLICY

It is the policy of London International College to ensure that each student is satisfied with the quality of education and academic experience achieved at all levels of the Institution. In achieving this, all appeals, concerns, complaints or grievances are dealt with in an ethical and non-adversarial manner. The person initiating the appeal or queries, or any other individuals so concerned, must accept the final decision of the Appeals Procedure as final.

IV. PROCEDURE

1. All formal appeals are to be submitted using the Student Formal Appeal Form.
2. All formal appeals will be acknowledged in writing within seven (7) days of the date of receipt of the Appeal Form.
3. Once a formal appeal has been filed, all appeals or queries in all scenarios will be impartially investigated once the matter has sufficient evidence and facts available.
4. In some instances, matters will be invalid and may not be favourable for the student. This occurs when there is insufficient evidence, and the claims are unfounded. These matters are dealt with according to specific policies and regulations. Deviations will arise based on the severity of each appeal or query made.
5. All formal appeals are separated based on ‘Appeals specific to marks, grades and percentages’ and ‘Other Queries’.

Appeals Specific to Marks, Grades and Percentages

The formal procedure for student queries is as follows:

• Scenario One: The student (s) speaks directly to the lecturer. Problem is dealt with immediately – Positive Solution. If the problem cannot be positively solved – Scenario Two is enacted.
• Scenario Two: The student speaks to the lecturer but does not receive the desired response. Problem is dealt with by the Academic Manager – Positive Solution. The lecturer may or may not be involved at this point. If the problem cannot be solved – Scenario Three is enacted.
• Scenario Three: The student speaks to the Academic Manager and is not satisfied. He/she will then speak to the Academic Director. This is the final stage – The outcomes of all matters will be reported to the Executive Director.

Other Queries

The formal procedure for dealing with queries which do not include marks, grades and percentages is as follows:

1. Step One: Problem /Query is taken to the Administrative Department. If problem is not solved:
2. Step Two: Problem /Query is escalated to the Management level. If problem is not solved:
3. Step Three: Problem /Query is taken to the Academic Director. If problem is not solved:
4. Step Four: Problem/Query is taken to the Executive Director. Final decisions and definite problem solving is achieved at this stage.

V. DOCUMENT REVISION

This policy is reviewed to determine its appropriateness and effectiveness. This policy may be amended to ensure that it remains relevant and consistent with our mission and strategic purpose, the requirements of our stakeholders and best practice.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

I. SCOPE

This policy encourages regular and consistent attendance and punctuality at London International College (LIC) by all learners. LIC maintains that there is a high correlation between good attendance, academic achievement and successful work experience.

II. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to:

1. Outline the rules and regulations regarding class attendance;
2. Establish the circumstances under which a learner may be absent from a class;
3. Outline the rules and regulations regarding examination attendance;
4. Declare the circumstances under which a learner may be absent from an examination/ assessment and the procedures to be adopted; and
5. Identify the circumstances under which a learner may request a leave of absence and provide the policy to be adopted by the Institution.

III. CLASS ATTENDANCE

• All learners must attend a minimum of 75% of all classes in order to qualify to write examinations/ assessments and award for the Certificate.
• All learners are expected to attend scheduled classes regularly and punctually in order to fulfil the course objectives in a timely fashion.
• All learners are required to sign an attendance sheet at the end of every class/ session.
• For online classes, attendance is automatically logged when the learner logs into the session.
• The attendance of all learners after every class/ session is monitored and reviewed by the administration of LIC.
• Learners are permitted to miss scheduled classes under extenuating circumstances including but not limited to:
  • Illness: Learners may become physically unfit to attend classes due to illness, injury or otherwise.
  • Personal Emergencies: Learners may face emergency situations that are unexpected, unforeseeable and frustrating.
• It is the responsibility of the learner to inform the tutor or administration of their absence and reason for absence.
• Upon receipt of notification of the learner’s absence, the tutor and administration will make the necessary decisions and arrangements to accommodate the learner.

IV. EXAMINATION ATTENDANCE

• The examination date, where applicable, is determined by the Institution.
• All learners will be advised of the examination date at a reasonable time, prior to the end of the teaching period of the semester.
• All learners are expected to write final examinations/ assessments for the programme of their study by attending the selected means of assessment.
• In the event that a learner is unable to attend and has missed the examination/ assessment, the learner must present valid reasons for their absence to the administration.
• A supplemental examination/ assessment may be permitted, at the discretion of the Academic Director, where extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the learner affect their performance and attendance at an examination/ assessment.
• The supplemental examination/ assessment shall be held on a date prescribed by the Institution.
• In the event that a learner has missed the supplemental examination/ assessment, the learner is required to write the examination/ assessment in the semester in which the programme is subsequently offered.

V. LEAVE OF ABSENCE

• All learners must submit in writing their request for leave of absence through the submission of the Leave of Absence Form.
• The Leave of Absence Form must be supported by relevant documents, where applicable.
• All learners returning from leave of absence is required to pay a re-registration fee. The re-registration fee may be waived, at the discretion of the Academic Director, in extenuating circumstances.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of the circumstances in which a student may request a leave of absence:

1. Bereavement
   • A learner will be granted a leave of absence if there is an immediate or associated death in the family.
   • The learner is allowed to re-join the programme after the period of grieving.
   • The learner is waived of paying the re-registration fee once all other outstanding fees have been cleared.
   • It is available to the learner, at their discretion, the choice of either re-joining a programme that has already started and adjust accordingly or start at the beginning of a new programme.
2. Illness/ Surgery: Family/ Self
   • A learner will be granted a leave of absence if the learner has to undergo a personal surgery.
   • The severity of the surgery will determine the length of the leave of absence.
   • The learner is responsible for ensuring all fees are paid either before or after their leave of absence.
   • It is the policy of LIC that learners of this nature are treated with leniency and a flexible nature.
   • It is available to the learner, at their discretion, the choice of either re-joining a programme that has already started and adjust accordingly or start at the beginning of a new programme. The fees applicable are dependent on the decision taken by the student.
3. Pregnancy
   • All female learners maintain the right to take a leave of absence due to pregnancy.
   • The learner is responsible for ensuring all fees are paid before their leave of absence. This may be subject to change depending on the circumstances of the learner, at the discretion of the Executive Director.
   • The learner may be waived of the paying the re-registration fee depending on the time frame between their leave and return. The re-registration fee is waived once the learner returns within six (6) months to one (1) year.
4. Work
   • All learners who are registered for programmes at the Institution and subsequently requests a leave of absence for work related reasons may do so on their own accord.
   • Learners of this nature are responsible to pay all fees in full before taking their leave of absence.
   • Learners of this nature are allowed to return to the programme at their discretion however, these learners are required to re-register as new students. This may be subject to change depending on the circumstances, at the discretion of the Executive Director.
5. Other
   • The Institution recognises that a request for leave of absence may vary accordingly and as such, will be sympathetic to causes, where applicable, in providing assistance to all learners in completing their programme of study.
   • It is the policy of the Institution to treat each request fairly and equally and exercise proper authority accordingly, once required.

VI. DOCUMENT REVISION

This policy is reviewed to determine its appropriateness and effectiveness. This policy may be amended to ensure that it remains relevant and consistent with our mission and strategic purpose, the requirements of our stakeholders and best practice.

COMPLAINTS POLICY

London International College (LIC) is committed to providing a secure, fair and welcoming environment to all its stakeholders. This extends to the providing and safeguarding of the right of all stakeholders to express their concerns, complaints or grievances about matters or issues relating to their experiences at London International College (LIC).

I. SCOPE

This policy details how an individual can lodge a complaint to LIC regarding the Institution, its staff, any stakeholders and experiences within same.

II. PURPOSE

This policy will:

• ensure that all stakeholders have an equal and fair right to lodge a complaint;
• ensure that the procedure regarding a complaint is straightforward and impartial;
• allow for a full and fair investigation into the complaint;
• ensure confidentiality is respected for all parties involved, with the exception of circumstances permitted by law; and
• ensure the delivery of an effective response and appropriate redress.

III. DEFINITIONS

For the purpose of this policy:

• Criminal behavior refers to the conduct of an offender that leads to the commission of an unlawful act.
• Data protection refers to restrictions that keep information stored in the possession of the Institute private and that control who can read it or use it.
• Confidentiality refers to the process of an obligation to keep a transaction, document or any information private and secret.
• Discrimination refers to the practice of treating a person or a particular group of persons in society less fairly than others.
• Malpractice is a term that covers any act, dereliction, default or other practice which is deemed to be in breach of the Institution’s’ standards, which can in turn lead to the undermining of the integrity of the institution.
• Maladministration is the mismanagement of administrative aspects of the institution’s provision of learning and its Duty of Care to its constituents, be that learner or other stakeholder.
• Unreasonable behavior refers to the conduct of a person or group of persons that is considered unacceptable by the reasonable man.

IV. TYPES OF COMPLAINTS

Individuals may wish to raise a complaint where they are dissatisfied with the conduct of the Institution, its staff and any stakeholders within same. Examples of where an individual may wish to make a complaint include, but are not limited to, instances of:

• Criminal Behaviour
• Data Protection/ Confidentiality Breach
• Delays in the issuing of certificates upon learner achievement
• Discrimination
• Enquiries sent are not responded to in a timely or appropriate manner
• Malpractice or Maladministration
• Unacceptable or Unreasonable Behaviour

V. PROCEDURE

Step 1: Notification

All complaints are to be made in writing to the Executive Director with the inclusion of the following information:

• The individual’s full name and contact details, including a daytime telephone number and email address;
• A full description of the complaint, including as much detail as possible such as dates, times and individuals involved;
• Details of any responses already received from LIC; and
• Copies of any supporting documentation or evidence related to the complaint.

Step 2: Acknowledgement

All complaints are to be received by Administration where all complaints will be acknowledged in writing within seven (7) business days of the receipt of the complaint. The acknowledgement will indicate the action that is to be taken and the likely timescale for resolution.

Step 3: Investigation and Resolution

Depending on the type of complaint, Administration will forward the complaint to the relevant department and/or authorized personnel. All complaints will be impartially investigated by the relevant department and/or authorized personnel. At this point, there may be a request for additional information from the complainant and to speak to the complainant personally and to others who have knowledge of the circumstances. Following appropriate investigation, the Executive Director and Board of Directors will be notified and briefed on the complaint, the investigation and the outcome for approval. The Board of Directors will convene for the hearing of the investigation for the complaint and hold a vote on the most appropriate form of redress to all parties included. Administration will then notify the complainant in writing of the decision and the reasons for it.

Step 4: Outcome

Following an impartial and fair investigation, with the approval of the Board of Directors, Administration will inform the complainant of the outcome of the investigation and the resolution to the complaint in writing.

Step 5: Record of Complaints

Administration is responsible for keeping a log of all complaints received or referred to LIC. The log should provide a brief written summary of the name of the complainant, the date of receipt of the complaint, the matter complained of and the manner and date of its resolution.

VI. DOCUMENT REVISION

This policy is reviewed to determine its appropriateness and effectiveness. This policy may be amended to ensure that it remains relevant and consistent with our mission and strategic purpose, the requirements of our stakeholders and best practice.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY

I. SCOPE

This policy details the expectations, responsibilities and procedure to ensure that all staff members at London International College (LIC) and the broader school community are aware of how to identify, disclose and manage any actual, potential or perceived conflicts of interest in order to protect the integrity of the Institution.

II. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to:

1. Define what is conflict of interest;
2. Declare the duty and expectation of all staff members to freely, openly and honestly disclose any and all conflicts of interest;
3. Identify the typical conflict of interest situations within the education sector and work environment; and
4. Establish the procedure for disclosing and managing conflicts of interests at the Institution.

III. DEFINTIONS

“Conflict of interest” occurs when an individual’s personal interests – family, friendships, financial or social factors – could compromise his or her judgment, decisions or actions in the workplace.

“Actual conflict of interest” occurs where there is a real conflict between a staff member’s professional duties and private interests.

“Potential conflict of interest” occurs where a staff member has private interests that could conflict with their professional duties. This also refers to circumstances where it is foreseeable that a conflict may arise in future.

“Perceived conflict of interest” occurs where a member of the school community, the public or third party could form the view that a staff member’s private interest could improperly influence their decisions or actions, now or in the future.

IV. POLICY STATEMENT

• All directors, managers, teachers and other internal and external staff members of LIC are expected to freely, openly and honestly declare all and any actual, potential and perceived conflicts of interest, in full and without reservation, at the earliest opportunity.
• Having a conflict of interest does not necessarily amount to a breach of this policy. However, failure to disclose a conflict of interest may constitute a breach.

V. TYPICAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST SITUATIONS

• The following is a non-exhaustive list of the most common conflict of interest situations that arises within the education sector and work environment:

VI. PROCEDURE FOR CONFLICT OF INTEREST

• All directors, managers, teachers and other internal and external staff members of LIC must freely, openly and honestly declare all and any actual, potential and perceived conflicts of interest, in full and without reservation, at the earliest opportunity.
• All declarations of interests must be detailed in writing and directed to the Executive Director.
• The Executive Director will take the appropriate decisions and actions in order to manage the declared conflict of interest.
• All declarations of interests will be processed confidentially and in accordance with data protection principles, unless required otherwise.
• If it is found that any director, manager, teacher or any other member of staff of LIC has failed to declare and disclose any actual, potential and perceived conflict of interest, that staff member is held in breach of this policy. The breach will be treated according to the circumstances, at the discretion of the Executive Director.

VII. DOCUMENT REVISION

This policy is reviewed to determine its appropriateness and effectiveness. This policy may be amended to ensure that it remains relevant and consistent with our mission and strategic purpose, the requirements of our stakeholders and best practice.

DATA PROTECTION POLICY

London International College (LIC) is committed to implementing and enforcing a code of conduct for the security of information in accordance with Data Protection Legislation and Regulations.

I. SCOPE

This policy details the rules and regulations by which the Procedure for Record Keeping, IT and Cyber Security Policy and Records Room Procedure are governed.

II. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to:

1. Ensure compliance with the relevant law and regulations pertaining to data protection of the jurisdiction;
2. Establish a code of conduct for the collection and disclosure of personal information;
3. Establish a code of conduct for the maintenance and storage of personal information; and
4. Provide for a procedure whereby individuals can dispute the Institution’s practices and decisions regarding the disclosure of their personal information.

III. DEFINITIONS

“data” means any document, correspondence, memorandum, book, plan, map, drawing, pictorial or graphic work, photograph, film, sound recording, videotape, machine-readable record and any other documentary material, regardless of form or characteristics, and any copy of those things;

“individual” means a natural person who have provided personal information to LIC;

“personal information” means information about an identifiable individual that is recorded in any form including—

• • information relating to the race, nationality or ethnic origin, religion, age or marital status of the individual;
  • information relating to the education or the medical, criminal or employment history of the individual or information relating to the financial transactions in which the individual has been involved or which refers to the individual;
  • any identifying number, symbol or other particular designed to identify the individual;
  • the address and telephone contact number of the individual;
  • the name of the individual where it appears with other personal information relating to the individual or where the disclosure of the name itself would reveal information about the individual;
  • correspondence sent to an establishment by the individual that is explicitly or implicitly of a private or confidential nature, and any replies to such correspondence which would reveal the contents of the original correspondence; and
  • the views and opinions of any other person about the individual.

 V. GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF DATA PROTECTION

1. LIC is responsible for the personal information under its control.
2. LIC is an organisation recognised by law that collects personal information from individuals for the sole purpose of the operations of the Institution as an education and training facility.
3. The collection of personal information is legally undertaken and limited to what is necessary in accordance with the purpose of registering, communicating and monitoring the individual as a stakeholder to the Institution as an education and training facility.

4. The personal information is only retained by the Institution for the purpose identified.

5. The personal information must not be disclosed for purposes other than the purpose identified without the prior consent of the individual.

6. The personal information must be protected by appropriate safeguards having regard to the nature and sensitivity of the information.

7. The policies and procedures regarding data protection are made available to the individuals for their knowledge and assurance.

8. Any and all individuals have the ability to challenge the Institution’s compliance with the principles hereto listed and shall receive the appropriate engagement in a timely manner.

VI. MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE OF PERSONAL INFORMATION

All hard copies of data and personal information are maintained in the Records Room of the Institution, the logistics of which are appropriately detailed in the Records Room Procedure. The procedures and practices pertinent to the security of all data and personal information, of both physical and electronic nature, are appropriately outlined in the Procedure for Record Keeping and IT and Cyber Security Policy.

VII. DISCLOSURE OF PERSONAL INFORMATION

1. An individual who has personal information stored in the Institution has a right to and on request, be granted access to the personal information about the individual in the custody and control of the Institution.
2. The personal information under the custody and control of the Institution are not to be disclosed to any third party without the prior consent of the individual to whom it relates, save and except where such information is disclosed for the following purposes; for which the information was collected, of a Court Order or complying with any written law.
3. The personal information under the custody and control of the Institution are not to be disclosed to any third party residing in another jurisdiction unless;

• • The Institution informs the individual to whom it relates of the purpose for which the information is being collected (once it is known), the identity of the person requesting the information and the identity of the relevant public body with the responsibility for Data Protection in the other jurisdiction; and
  • The Institution obtains the consent of the person to whom it relates.

VIII. CHALLENGING DISCLOSURE

1. All individuals who are dissatisfied with the data protection principles and practices of the Institution have the right to make a complaint.
2. This complaint will be treated in accordance with the procedure outlined in the Complaints Policy.
3. If upon the execution of the Complaints Procedure, the individual is dissatisfied with the outcome, the individual has the right to make a complaint to the Office of the Information Commissioner.

IX. DOCUMENT REVISION

This policy is reviewed to determine its appropriateness and effectiveness. This policy may be amended to ensure that it remains relevant and consistent with our mission and strategic purpose, the requirements of our stakeholders and best practice.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY POLICY

London International College is committed to an environment of equal opportunity. The Institution will strive to ensure that no student, employee or any other stakeholder be discriminated against in terms of race, ethnicity, nationality, origin, creed, colour, religion, sex, marital status, disability or age. It is the responsibility of LIC through members of staff to ensure that all equal opportunity measures are enacted, maintained, and incorporated into all the Institution’s activities. The Institution will strive to ensure that all procedures and policies regarding equal opportunity rights comply with Government Laws and Standards.

I. SCOPE

This policy details the commitment of the LIC to ensure that equal opportunity rights are provided to all its stakeholders.

II. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to secure and safeguard the rights of all stakeholders, to provide a comfortable learning facility, to increase productivity and promote excellence.

III. DEFINITIONS

For the purpose of this policy;

• disability means—
  • total or partial loss of a bodily function;
  • total or partial loss of a part of the body;
  • malfunction of a part of the body including a mental or psychological disease or disorder; or
  • malformation or disfigurement of part of the body.
• ethnicity, in relation to a group of people, means the origin, characteristics, classification and distinctive cultural or aesthetic traditions of that group of people.
• marital status means the status or condition of being—
  • single;
  • married;
  • married but living separately and apart from one’s spouse;
  • divorced; or
  • widowed.
• race, in relation to a person, means a group of persons of common ethnic origin, colour or of mixed race.
• sex does not include sexual preference or orientation.

IV. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

LIC is mandated and committed to providing equal opportunities and rights to all its stakeholders, including but not limited to:

A. Students and Potential Applicants

All students and potential applicants must have equal rights regarding entry into programmes, entry requirements, access to programmes, assessments and the facilities.

LIC shall not discriminate against any student or potential applicant:

• by refusing or failing to accept that person’s application for admission as a student;
• in the terms and conditions on which it admits him/her as a student;
• by denying or limiting the student’s access to any benefits, facilities or services provided by LIC; and
• by expelling the student or subjecting the student to any other detriment.

London International College (LIC) must take extensive steps, through its members of staff and representatives, to incorporate, maintain and safeguard these equal rights and opportunities to the students and potential applicants.

B. Employees and Prospective Employees

All employees and prospective employees must be afforded equal rights and opportunities to the terms and conditions in the determination of employment, the offer of employment and the workplace.

London International College (LIC) shall not discriminate against any employee or prospective employee:

• In the arrangements made for the purpose of determining who should be offered employment;
• In the terms and conditions on which employment is offered;
• By refusing or deliberately omitting to offer employment;
• In the terms and conditions of employment that LIC affords the employee;
• In the way the LIC affords the employee access to opportunities for promotion, transfer or training or to any benefit associated with employment, or by refusing or deliberately omitting to afford access to them;
• By dismissing the employee or subjecting the employee to any other detriment; and
• By hindering the right of the employee or prospective employee to the freedom of speech and freedom of expression within respectful bounds.

LIC must take extensive steps, through its Directors and their policies and regulations, to incorporate, maintain and safeguard these rights and opportunities afforded to their employees and prospective employees.

C. Other

It is the responsibility of LIC. to provide and maintain an equal, fair and welcoming environment to all its stakeholders, including but not limited to staff and prospective employees, students and potential applicants, visitors and persons frequenting the building, regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, origin, creed, colour, religion, sex, marital status, disability or age.

V. APPEALS

Any person who feels discriminated against has the right to file a complaint in accordance with the Complaints Policy. Allegations of discrimination, harassment or unfair treatment should be made in writing to the Executive Director, who will investigate the matter, and take appropriate action. The Executive Director of LIC exercises the right to assist those with complaints and concerns and strives to rectify any problems regarding equal opportunity rights. All allegations will be reported to the Board of Directors.

VI. DOCUMENT REVISION

This policy is reviewed to determine its appropriateness and effectiveness. This policy may be amended to ensure that it remains relevant and consistent with our mission and strategic purpose, the requirements of our stakeholders and best practice.

MALPRACTICE, MALADMINISTRATION AND PLAGIARISM POLICY

It is the responsibility of London International College (LIC) to prevent the occurrence or possibility of an occurrence of malpractice, maladministration and plagiarism. Incidents of malpractice, maladministration and plagiarism can potentially lead to learners being disadvantaged, can require the conducting of costly and time-consuming investigations and may cause reputational damage to the Institute. In circumstances where prevention is unlikely, suspected or actual cases should be dealt with quickly, thoroughly and effectively. This policy applies to internal and external summative assessments, assignments and examinations and their reporting.

I. SCOPE

This policy details the procedures to be adopted and the roles and responsibilities of all relevant personnel regarding malpractice, maladministration and plagiarism.

II. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to:

• Define what constitutes malpractice and maladministration;
• Minimise the risk to the integrity of London International College and its stakeholders;
• Protect the learners’ interest;
• Outline the policies and procedures to be adopted when a case of malpractice and maladministration arises;
• Define what constitutes plagiarism;
• Outline the policies and procedures to be adopted when a case of plagiarism arises;

III. DEFINITIONS

For the purpose of this policy;

• Malpractice: is a term that covers any act, dereliction, default or other practice which is deemed to be in breach of the institution’s’ standards, which can in turn lead to the undermining of the integrity of the institution.
• Maladministration: is the mismanagement of administrative aspects of the institution’s provision of learning and its Duty of Care to its constituents, be the learner or other stakeholder.
• Plagiarism: is presenting work or ideas from another source as your own, with or without consent of the original author, by incorporating it into your work without full acknowledgement.

IV. MALPRACTICE AND MALADMINISTRATION

Maladministration is often unintentional, and may be superficial or infrequent enough not to warrant suggestion of malpractice. Any instances of maladministration must however be addressed in order to prevent their reoccurrence and/or development into a more significant issue.

London International College will take all reasonable steps to prevent the occurrence of malpractice and maladministration through the introduction, adoption and monitoring of policies and procedures which reduce the risk of malpractice and maladministration from occurring during the administration and delivery of programmes.

When a suspected case of malpractice and maladministration arises, London International College is to be notified in writing to the Executive Director. This will be treated as a complaint as detailed in the Complaints Procedure as contained in the Complaints Policy.

Should maladministration and/or malpractice become known, London International College reserves the right to take legal or punitive action as the incident/s warrants within the legal authority to which we operate.

V. PLAGIARISM

London International College. is committed to deterrence and prevention of plagiarism in order to preserve the integrity of the Institution and the promotion of student development and learning.

When a suspected case of plagiarism arises, the following procedure is adopted:

1. An initial review of the assessment by the Assessor must be conducted to determine whether the maximum allowable plagiarism percent of 20% was exceeded.
2. Once the determination of the suspected case is positive, the Academic Manager is informed.
3. The Academic Manager conducts a second review of the assessment and engages discussion with the Academic Council on the level of plagiarism and the appropriate repercussions. The Academic Council consists of the Executive Director, Academic Director and Academic Manager.
4. The Academic Manager then prepares an Academic Report accordingly. This Academic Report provides a description of the assessment, a summary of the level of plagiarism and the plagiarized work, a listing of the evidence corroborating the offence of plagiarism and the decision taken by the Academic Council.
5. The Academic Manager holds a meeting with the student(s) and the Assessor on the outcome of the investigation.

VI. APPEALS

If any party is of the belief that this policy and procedure have not been applied consistently, accurately or fairly regarding their case, they can appeal the decision made by the Academic Council through the submission of a complaint in accordance with the Complaints Policy.

VII. DOCUMENT REVISION

This policy is reviewed to determine its appropriateness and effectiveness. This policy may be amended to ensure that it remains relevant and consistent with our mission and strategic purpose, the requirements of our stakeholders and best practice.

QUALITY POLICY

London International College (LIC) is committed to satisfying its stakeholders by ensuring that its programmes are of excellent standards in the areas of practical applications and development of skills, and that its support systems are exceptional. The institution will continuously promote learning opportunities and improve the standards of programmes offered to students.

I. SCOPE

This policy details the quality system adopted by London International College. and its principles with the aim of ensuring the highest standard of education and training.

II. POLICY

London International College Quality Policy will be achieved by implementing an efficient Quality System and via a dedicated process of continuous quality improvement.

The institution will persist in achieving improved levels of quality by ensuring that a strict system is in place to adequately deal with conflict/problem contents, solutions, recommendations and eliminations to ultimately provide a suitable and solid educational setting to facilitate proper teaching and learning.

To adequately achieve, promote and maintain excellence throughout the organization, needs and goals will be identified based on stakeholder feedback and a constant process of review will be conducted to ensure that all policies and procedures conform to all laws and public standards.

III. PRINCIPLES

The Quality Policy is based on the following principles:

• Ownership and Accountability: It is integral that both staff and students take an active role being aware of all quality policies and procedures that govern the institution as they are all integrated in all Organizational Processes. The institution is accountable to its stakeholders for the quality and standards of its academic provision and awards. The institution will aim to continuously improve clients’ satisfaction by providing high quality services with professionalism and fairness.
• Standards: The institution will strive to produce globally competitive professionals by ensuring that the academic standards are quality assured by international awarding bodies. These standards will be maintained through continuous programme monitoring, programme and peer review and analysis of data on student achievements. The institution prides itself on using the most updated technologies to cater for all students with various learning abilities.
• Continuous Staff Enhancement/ Development: The institution is committed to staff training continuously throughout the year. Management will ensure quarterly training on the institution’s internal Learning Management Systems, various Assessment Instruments and Teaching methodologies to achieve higher levels of teaching expertise and student support.
• Prompt Response and Resolution: The institution is committed to responding in a timely manner to the views of all stakeholders, including students, staff, employers and Professional Regulatory and Awarding Bodies and to the rapid resolution of issues.
• Quality Management: Quality Management aims to continuously improve the operations and ensure quality is embedded in all aspects of the institution’s activities. Feedback is a crucial aspect of the Quality system, and this will be obtained mainly through Quality system audits, evaluations and surveys from students and continuous interactions with lecturers and staff.

The institution will adopt the Plan, Do, Check, Act continuous quality improvement cycle, to ensure all processes and procedures are regularly review and updated.

• Plan: The Board of Directors will ensure that Quality Management is inherent in the overall strategic plan of the institution when there is annual planning for the organization.
• Do: All plans will be implemented throughout the organization such as delivery of new programs and additional processes and procedures for better work efficiency.
• Check: At this stage, all implemented strategies will be evaluated and reviewed to determine the necessary changes to be made.
• Act: Once the reviews are undesirable and do not align with the future direction of the company, improvements are made to programs and courses, processes and systems and professional development can also be recommended for administrative staff.

IV. DOCUMENT REVISION

This policy is reviewed to determine its appropriateness and effectiveness. This policy may be amended to ensure that it remains relevant and consistent with our mission and strategic purpose, the requirements of our stakeholders and best practice.

REFUND POLICY

I.  SCOPE

This policy details the procedure and conditions upon which a refund of the fees incurred by the learners is to be processed and granted by London International College.

II.  PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to:

1. Declare which fees incurred by the learner is refundable;
2. Establish the conditions upon which a refund to a learner may be granted;
3. Outline the procedure by which a refund may be processed; and
4. Declare the circumstances under which an exception to the general rules for refunds may be applied.

III.  REFUND OF TUITION FEES

• Learners may be entitled to a refund of their tuition fees paid, whether it was paid in part or full, if they withdraw from their programme of study before the commencement of the semester.
• Learners are only entitled to a refund prior to the commencement of the semester. Learners are not entitled to a refund once the semester has commenced.
• If a learner has any debt to the Institution, it will be subtracted from any refund of fees payable.
• Refunds are not applicable to learners who are withdrawn from the Institution due to nonpayment of fees.

IV.  PROCEDURE FOR REFUND OF TUITION FEES

• It is the responsibility of the learner to formally notify the Institution of their withdrawal from their programme of study through the submission of the Withdrawal Form.
• It is also the responsibility of the learner to formally notify the Institution of the request for a refund of their tuition fees, whether paid in part or full, through the submission of the Request for Refund Form.
• The said forms are available to the learners in both physical copies at the Head Office of the Institution as well as soft copies via Cognito Forms.
• All refunds are to be processed by the Academic Director within seven (7) working days of the date of submission of the Request for Refund form. Once approval is granted, the refund is processed within seven (7) working days and the learner is notified via e-mail by the Finance Department.
• Refunds are only approved up to two (2) days before the commencement of the semester.
• Refunds will only be made to the individual or organization that originally paid the tuition fees.
• Refunds will be issued in the manner in which the payment was originally made, thereby either in cash or via electronic means.
• The Institution will not refund any shortfalls due to fluctuations in exchange rates or provide compensation for any charges incurred, including but not limited to, any bank or service provider charges.

V.  EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCES

• Learners who have applied for a withdrawal and subsequent refund upon and after commencement of the semester shall only be granted refunds in extenuating circumstances.
• These applications will be considered on a case basis and at the discretion of the Academic Director. The following is a non-exhaustive list of the circumstances that are considered acceptable and non-acceptable so as to classify as extenuating circumstances:

VI.  REFUND OF REGISTRATION FEES

• Registration fees are usually non-refundable.
• Registration fees may be refundable only under the following circumstances:

1. Learner is withdrawn from the programme by the Institution, except in the instance of nonpayment of fees.
2. The programme of study which the learner applied for is no longer available.

VII.   DOCUMENT REVISION

This policy is reviewed to determine its appropriateness and effectiveness. This policy may be amended to ensure that it remains relevant and consistent with our mission and strategic purpose, the requirements of our stakeholders and best practice.

STUDENT SUPPORT POLICY

Student Support is an important element of London International College’s (LIC) entire structure.

I. SCOPE

This policy outlines the commitment of London International College to provide support tools to its student population to ensure and promote the highest educational experience.

II. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to:

• Implement tools to support the student population of London International College;
• Facilitate education and training to all students of all backgrounds and competencies;
• Ensure the highest educational experience to all students;
• Promote academic excellence among all students; and
• Ensure all students achieve the knowledge, skills and training to enter the working field.

III. POLICY

It is the policy of London International College to provide multiple support tools to its student population, both past and present, to ensure that their educational experience is satisfactory and that they achieve the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities essential for competency in the workplace.

Support will not be limited to academic forms and will incorporate diverse tools to assist students in developing internally and to prepare them for external development.

Student Support is given in the following forms:

• Financial: Payment plans will be provided for students. Students will be afforded the opportunity to pay on a monthly basis as they simultaneously complete their programme. A down-payment must be paid toward the total cost of any programme upon registration, and a customized payment plan will be created based on the outstanding balance. A deadline date for final payment will be given upon registration. All students will receive letters from administration reminding them of their deadline date for payment as well as their outstanding balance. Any student who is unable to make payments by the due date may apply for an extension by making a request in writing and their payment plan will be updated and kept on file.
• Psychological: Counselling and Advisory Sessions are available from lecturers and staff for all students. This service is accessible at any point in time whereby students can access the service as needed and by referral by any member of staff.
• Make-up Sessions/Revision: Students who miss classes have continuous access to the institution’s online learning management system known as MyEportal. Access to revision notes, supplements and the facilities are available once the student is currently enrolled at no additional cost. Revision classes are provided in preparation for some exams or on an as needed basis.
• Examinations: A student who misses the scheduled exam date is given an opportunity to rewrite the final examination on another scheduled date which is set by the Examinations Officer once a valid reason is provided and supporting documents are presented. If the student misses both scheduled dates, an exam fee is attached per exam.
• Student Advisement: A student wishing to register for a course will be advised of the different courses, programmes, length of study, course requirements, financial considerations and major pathways after completion of the course. Students enrolled in courses will be guided on the courses and course load to carry in order to achieve academic success.
• Consultancy after the programme has completed: Upon completion of a programme, support services still exist. Past students have access to consultancy and advice, “quick” revision sessions, notes, accounting services, usage of facilities, recommendations and references. This will assist students in their future studies and professional development. A cost may be applied depending on the situation.
• Job Placement: This is one of the most important support tools available. Our policy is to assist as many students as possible in attaining jobs. This will provide them with experience, a chance to utilize skills and knowledge learnt, promote growth and development, obtain a pay cheque and learn the value of earning one’s own salary; and eventually achieve their dream careers. In this regard, we aim to assist the student in becoming an integral contributor to the development of society and by extension the nation’s economy.
• Ready for the World of Work: During the course of study, the institution strives to prepare students to be ready for the world of work. To create diversity in a student’s skill level, professional development is promoted. Students are assisted in creating personalized cover pages, curriculum vitae, sentence structure, appropriate use of language and vocabulary, editing, interview skill, good work ethics and dressing for success. All courses offered have a practical component ingrained to ensure that students are exposed to real-life situations.