Scoliosis and Spinal Fusion
CPD Courses
Terms & Conditions
Policies& Procedures
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Reasonable Adjustments and Special Considerations
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Appeals Procedure
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Cancellation Policy
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Equality And Diversity Policy
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Quality Assurance
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Malpractice and Maladministration
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Complaints Procedure
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Health & Safety at Work
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Data Protection
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Copyright
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PROCEDURES
All learners will be provided with as much support as they individually need and we will be available to the learners for them to access support. This includes email and telephone support and we will aim to reply within 48 hours of the initial query and will take into account any learning difficulties and try to help as much as we can. If this query is a complaint the following processes will apply:
1. SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES – Reasonable adjustment and special considerations policy.
Introduction
This policy is primarily for our learners who are undertaking or have completed an SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES qualification or unit. It is also for use by our staff to ensure they deal with all reasonable adjustment and special consideration requests in a consistent manner.
This policy outlines:
• our arrangements for making reasonable adjustments and special considerations in relation to our qualifications
• how learners qualify for reasonable adjustments and special considerations
• the reasonable adjustments we will permit and those where permission is required in advance before they are applied
• what special considerations will be given to learners
Our responsibility
It is important that all SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES staff involved in the management, assessment and quality assurance of SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES qualifications, including our learners, are fully aware of the contents of this policy.
Review arrangements
We will review the policy annually as part of our self-evaluation arrangements and revise it as necessary in response to learner feedback, changes in our practices, actions from the regulatory authorities or as a result to changes in legislation.
If you would like to feedback any views, please contact us via the details provided at the end of this policy.at info@scoliosisspinalfusionandcpdcourses.com
Arrangements not covered by this policy
Circumstances for both internal and external assessment not covered in this policy should be discussed with SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES before assessment takes place. Please contact us via info@scoliosisspinalfusionandcpdcourses.com
Appeals
If you wish to appeal against our decision to decline requests for reasonable adjustments or special consideration arrangements, please refer to our Appeals Policy.
Process for requesting reasonable adjustments and/or special considerations
If you wish to make a request, you should complete the Reasonable Adjustment and Special Consideration request form (info@scoliosisspinalfusionandcpdcourses.com
to request a form) and in doing so supply relevant supporting information:
• learner’s name and SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES registration number
• nature of, and rationale for the request
• supporting information/evidence (e.g. medical evidence or a statement from the invigilator or any other appropriate information)
Requests for reasonable adjustments should be submitted a minimum of 20 working days before the assessment.
Requests for special consideration should be submitted as soon as possible after the assessment and a maximum of five working days after the assessment. Requests for special consideration may only be accepted after the results of assessment have been released in the following circumstances:
• application has been overlooked at the centre and the oversight is confirmed by the centre contact
• medical evidence comes to light about a learner’s condition, which demonstrates that the learner must have been affected by the condition at the time of the assessment, even though the problem revealed itself only after the assessment
• for onscreen assessments where results are immediately available
If the application for special consideration is successful, the learner’s performance will be reviewed based on the available evidence. It should be noted that a successful application of special consideration will not necessarily change a learner’s result.
How SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES will deal with requests
We will aim to respond to all requests within five working days of receipt. If we are unable to respond on the same day we will provide you with an estimated response date.
Definition of reasonable adjustments
A reasonable adjustment is any action that helps to reduce the effect of a disability or difficulty that places the learner at a substantial disadvantage in the assessment situation. They are made to an assessment for a qualification to enable a disabled learner to demonstrate his or her knowledge, skills and understanding of the levels of attainment required by the specification for that qualification.
Reasonable adjustments must not affect the integrity of what needs to be assessed, but may involve:
• changing usual assessment arrangements, for example allowing a learner extra time to complete the assessment activity
• adapting assessment materials, such as providing materials in Braille
• providing assistance during assessment, such as a sign language interpreter or a reader
• re-organising the assessment room, such as removing visual stimuli for an autistic learner
• changing the assessment method
• using assistive technology, such as screen reading or voice activated software or getting the learner to bring in their own assistance eg a carer/special educational helper of their own to help them
• providing the mechanism to have different coloured backgrounds to screens for onscreen assessments or asking for permission for copying to different coloured paper for paper-based assessments
• providing and allowing different coloured transparencies with which to view assessment papers
Reasonable adjustments are approved or set in place before the assessment activity takes place; they constitute an arrangement to give the learner access to the programme. The use of a reasonable adjustment will not be taken into consideration during the assessment of a learner’s work.
SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES is only required by law to do what is ‘reasonable’ in terms of giving access.
What is reasonable will depend on the individual circumstances, cost implications and the practicality and effectiveness of the adjustment. Other factors, such as the need to maintain competence standards and health and safety, will also be taken into consideration.
Definition of special considerations
Special consideration can be applied after an assessment if there was a reason the learner may have been disadvantaged during the assessment.
For example, special consideration could apply to a learner who had temporarily experienced:
• an illness or injury
• learning difficulties - in some circumstances it is possible to take a multiple choice questionnaire to replace the case study work.
• some other event outside of their control and which has had, or is likely to have had, a material effect on that learner’s ability to take an assessment or demonstrate his or her level of attainment in an assessment
Special consideration should not give the learner an unfair advantage; neither should its use cause the user of the certificate to be misled regarding a learner’s achievements. The learner’s result must reflect his / her achievement in the assessment and not necessarily his / her potential ability.
Special consideration, if successful, may result in a small post-assessment adjustment to the mark of the learner. The size of the adjustment will depend on the circumstances and reflect the difficulty faced by the learner.
Learners should note that:
• where an assessment requires the learner to demonstrate practical competence or where criteria have to be met fully, or in the case of qualifications that confer a licence to practice, it may not be possible to apply special consideration
• in some circumstances, for example, for on-demand assessments, it may be more appropriate to offer the learner an opportunity to take the assessment at a later date.
Version 1.
Publication date. April 2020 Review date. April 2021 Author.C BROWER & L BORD
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR TRAINING PROVIDER PARTNERS
Version 2.
Publication date Dec 2023. Review date Dec 2024 Author.C BROWER
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR TRAINING PROVIDER PARTNERS
2. SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES – Appeals procedure.
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The purpose of an appeals procedure is to ensure that every learner who is not satisfied with the outcome of an assessment decision has the right to appeal against the decision that has been made.
The appeals procedure applies to any learner following completion of an SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES qualification at SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES and provides learners with a formal route to appeal against a decision.
SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES learners will be assessed against SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES published criteria and by assessors who must hold or be working towards any of the following:
In addition SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES will ensure that assessors:
• Possess a discipline specific qualification equivalent to the qualification being taught
• Have relevant industry experience
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All new SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES assessors will be given a clear action plan for achieving the appropriate qualification(s) and should be countersigned by an appropriately qualified individual until the qualification(s) are achieved.
Examples of areas you may wish to appeal against.
• You feel you have not been given the correct support throughout the course.
• You found there was very little contact or response from your teachers during parts or all of the
course.
• A marking decision was unfair
• You feel you have been unfairly treated by a member of staff or fellow learner
• You experienced major delays or course days were not run at all.
The appeal procedure to be followed comprises 4 stages:
Stage 1
Appeal through SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES appeals system
Contact the internal verifier within 7 days of the issue occurring
If still unresolved
please see stage two of the appeals process
Internal Verifier
Stage 2
SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES will contact the external verifier another person within the SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION COURSES within 3 working days of receiving the initial appeal.
If the external verifier is not present or unable to resolve the appeal issue, the learner should proceed to the third stage of the appeals process.
Stage 3
A written appeal should be made by the learner to SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES Head of Quality Assurance.
The Head of Quality Assurance will investigate the issue thoroughly and respond in writing within 14 working days
Stage 4
The learner will be offered a formal appeals hearing (costs associated). This will be conducted within 6 weeks by the appeals panel comprising of:
SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES
You can only appeal once and the appeal result is final. Further evidence to be submitted in the case of a further appeal.
We have a right to stop working with you if there is any intimidation.
SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES will endeavour to give support in the event of the learner not passing a part of the assessment. This will include telephone and email support to guide the learner and really help them so they understand the coursework and are able to pass the course.
Throughout the assessment process SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES will comply fully with SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES policy on reasonable adjustments and special considerations that can be found:
Part of this course will involve live observed assessments to assess your practical skills.
Investigating appeals is very problematic without the presence of impartial evidence. Therefore appeals in the context of live observed assessments will only be considered when accompanied by a suitable video recording.
As a learner of SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES you will be able to use a video recording as long as it does not adversely affect the assessment process, allows the assessor to carry on their role and does not contravene a venue/organisations rules or regulations. The learner must make suitable arrangements to arrange a video operator.
If a medical issue has the potential to affect your performance then it is your responsibility to inform SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES prior to assessment so that an informed decision can be made terms of an appropriate action plan.
Fees
There will be a charge of £125.00 for handling appeals that progress beyond stage 1 that are NOT upheld. If upheld the fee should be waived. A further minimum appeals fee from £100 subject to further evidence for an appeal
Version 1.
Date of publication. April 2020. Review date. April 2021. Author. C BROWER & L BORD
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR TRAINING PROVIDER PARTNERS
Version 2.
Date of publication Dec 2023. Review date Dec 2024. Author. C BROWER
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR TRAINING PROVIDER PARTNERS
3. Scoliosis & Spinal Fusion CPD Courses CANCELLATION POLICY
Please find below the Policies that are applicable for Scoliosis & Spinal Fusion CPD Courses.
Booking Policy
Full payment of the course of your choice will be required to reserve your space. Places for FACE to FACE / ZOOM (During COVID 19 Lockdown only ZOOM courses will be available) will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. If payment and the completed application form (along with supporting documents) is not received within 3 days of the start of the course, we reserve the right to offer the space to another student.
Fee’s for the Course
Included
An online copy of The Scoliosis Handbook for Safe and Effective Exercises Pre and Post Surgery by Caroline Freedman.
Course Work Instructions, Evaluation questionnaire,
For Face to Face / ZOOM Worksheets, Multiple Choice Test and by special arrangement for the Home Study Course.
Training and assessment will be provided by Caroline Freedman and ELizabeth Bord or Zoe Gibber or another suitable qualified trainer for the training, respectively.
Not Included
The Home Study (formerly known as Online Course) / FACE to FACE / ZOOM courses do not include a laptop, computer or Zoom subscription.
Insurance is not included in the course fees as a trainee. You should have insurance through CIMSPA, NRPT or another insurance provider relevant to your existing qualifications.
Refund Policy
Payments for the full course fee’s are non-refundable except under the following circumstances:
A full refund minus a 10% admin fee of the course price will be provided for cancellations made in writing, more than 30 days before the start date of the course.
The Scoliosis Handbook of Safe and Effective Exercises Pre and Post Surgery will not be returnable and a £10 charge will be deducted, alternatively, if the voucher provided to purchase an online or hard copy has not been used, this can be returned.
For cancellations with less than 30 days notice there are no refunds or transfers unless the following apply:
the course is full for FACE to FACE / ZOOM (up to 20 people maximum capacity teacher training) and your place can be filled by a waiting list or
you have a health issue preventing you from taking part in the course including COVID-19 injury/sickness or pregnancy and can provide a doctor’s note.
For the cases above we will refund the fee minus a 20% admin fee. The Scoliosis Handbook of Safe and Effective Exercises Pre and Post Surgery will not be returnable and a £10 charge will be deducted, alternatively, if the voucher provided to purchase an online or hard copy has not been used, this can be returned.
You are requested to agree to all terms and conditions upon booking onto a Scoliosis and Spinal Fusion CPD Course.
In the event that a course is cancelled you will be offered a full refund, or the alternative to re-book on an alternative date (applies to FACE to FACE / ZOOM).
When you have committed to a course we strongly advise you read through all the required information provided in The Scoliosis Handbook and your worksheets.
In the case of cancelled transport for FACE to FACE courses (flights, trains, buses) we are unable to give refunds. Please make sure that you take out relevant insurance to cover you for these issues.
Refunds are not available after a course has started and we cannot process these after 24 hours following the start of the course. However, in the event of contracting COVID-19 during the course, we will offer you the alternative to transfer to the next scheduled Scoliosis and Spinal Fusion CPD Course. If you fall ill and are unable to complete your online case study and progressive lesson plan within the required time, please contact us to arrange extended completion time.
We reserve the right to cancel the course for any reason. This will only happen in exceptional circumstances that means we cannot offer the course as advertised, or if there are insufficient numbers for the course (minimum 5 on-line teacher training), to make it viable for the teachers to teach the course. Should this happen you will have the option to re-book onto the next Scoliosis and Spinal Fusion CPD Course workshop at a later date, or be offered a full refund or be offered an online course. We take no responsibility for any additional costs that occur for your travel, accommodation or rate of exchange loss.
We will look at every case individually and endeavour to support the student to complete the course at another time in exceptional circumstances.
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Version 1.
Date of publication. April 2020. Review date. April 2021. Author. C BROWER & L BORD
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR TRAINING PROVIDER PARTNERS
Version 2.
Date of publication Dec 2023. Review date Dec 2024. Author. C BROWER
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR TRAINING PROVIDER PARTNERS
4. SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES – Equal Opportunity and Diversity Policy.
We promote a working environment in which diversity is recognised, valued and encouraged. We acknowledge the multicultural and diverse nature of the UK workforce and society in general. We are committed to principles of fairness and mutual respect where everyone accepts the concept of individual responsibility. These principles are embedded into SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES ’s Equal Opportunities and Diversity Policy.
We recognise that discrimination in the workplace/provision of training in any form is unacceptable and in most cases unlawful. We view any breach seriously. We will investigate and potentially take appropriate action.
Definitions and Protected Characteristics
Diversity. The concept of diversity encompasses acceptance and respect. It means understanding that each individual is unique, and recognizing our individual differences. These can be along the dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, or other ideologies. It is the exploration of these differences in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment. It is about understanding each other and moving beyond simple tolerance to embracing and celebrating the rich dimensions of diversity contained within each individual.
Protected Characteristics. No learner, or anyone our organisation deals with, receives less favourable treatment because of their protected characteristics. The protected characteristics are:
• Age
• Disability
• Gender Reassignment
• Marriage and Civil Partnership
• Pregnancy and Maternity
• Race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin)
• Religion or Belief
• Sex
• Sexual Orientation
SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES’s Stance
In adhering with this stance SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES ensures equality of treatment for all by aiming to:
• raise awareness of equality and diversity
• ensure that you are never discriminated against or receive less favourable treatment because of a protective characteristic
• acknowledge any issues that could be defined as discrimination, victimisation or harassment with
an appropriately sensitive and prompt investigation
• comply with SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES in making suitable reasonable adjustments
Your Responsibilities
Each and every one of us is a stakeholder in the success of this policy. We expect you to make a positive contribution towards maintaining an environment of equal opportunity throughout the organisation. Please make sure you observe this policy at all times. In particular, you have individual responsibility to adopt the following:
• Do not take unlawful discriminatory actions or decisions contrary to the spirit of this policy
• Do not discriminate against, harass, abuse or intimidate anyone on account of their protected
characteristics
• Do not place pressure on any other learners to act in a discriminatory manner
• Resist pressure to discriminate placed on you by others and report such approaches to an appropriate
member of staff
• Co-operate when we investigate, including providing evidence of conduct which may amount to
discrimination
• Co-operate with any measures introduced to develop or monitor equal opportunity
Discrimination is not just treating one person less favourably than another. It can take place because:
• someone associates with a person with a protected characteristic;
• someone is believed to possess a protected characteristic (even though they do not);
We expect you to treat, and be treated by, other learners and the people our organisation deals with
considerately and with respect.
Where You Encounter Discrimination.
• If you feel subject to discrimination of any kind as identified within this policy, make clear to the individual concerned that you find it unacceptable. Person-to-person discussion at an early stage may be enough to resolve your concern without involving anyone else. Alternatively, seek the help of a trusted colleague (e.g. a fellow learner or a trusted member of staff) and ask them to approach whoever has caused you offence.
• If discrimination continues, or you consider an instance to be particularly serious, you should consider who to highlight the issue with. For the majority of cases this will likely be the tutor or assessor. However we appreciate that this staff member may be implicated in your concern and therefore when this happens they should approach the tutor/assessors line manager or the designated internal verifier.
• The staff member approached will carry out a suitable documented investigation or where more appropriate will refer the issue to an appropriate individual responsible for this area within the company. In this instance it will be (ELIZABETH BORD OR CAROLINE FREEDMAN).
• The result of the investigation into alleged discrimination will be communicated to you with information including the action taken and outcome highlighted if applicable or appropriate.
• If you feel dissatisfied about the outcome of the investigation and you want to appeal then you will need to contact (ELIZABETH BORD OR CAROLINE FREEDMAN) within five working days of receiving the outcome, who will carry out a review of these concerns.
Version 1.
Publication date. April 2020 Review date. April 2021 Author. C BROWER & L BORD
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR TRAINING PROVIDER PARTNERS
5. SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES – QUALITY ASSURANCE POLICY.
SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES monitors and evaluates all its systems, policies and procedures for the delivery of regulated qualifications to ensure they are in line with regulatory General Conditions of Recognition*.
Continuous improvement is assured through ongoing monitoring, thus promoting public confidence in the quality of all SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES qualifications.
Prompt action is taken to address any weakness identified, and this monitoring forms part of SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES annual self-assessment activities.
SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES will also monitor and evaluate the following to better inform our processes:
• malpractice / maladministration events
• reasonable assessment adjustment and special consideration requests
• the nature and number of enquiries and appeals
Ensuring the standards of our qualifications and units
SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES has a responsibility to all learners undertaking our qualifications, to ensure that we stay in accordance with relevant national standards.
In order to meet this responsibility SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES has a set, monitored Internal verification process.
Our internal quality assurance systems are checked and monitored by the SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES and re assessed annually.
(*as published by Ofqual (England), CCEA (Northern Ireland and Qualifications Wales)
Contact
If you have any queries about the contents of the policy, please contact our support team at info@scoliosisandspinalfusioncpdcourses.com
Version 1.
Publication date. April 2020 Review date. April 2021 Author. C BROWER & L BORD
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR TRAINING PROVIDER PARTNERS
6. SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES – Malpractice and Maladministration Policy.
Definition of Malpractice
Malpractice is essentially any activity or practice which deliberately contravenes regulations and compromises the integrity of the internal or external assessment process and/or the validity of certificates and associated achievement. It covers any deliberate actions, neglect, default or other practices that compromises, or could compromise
:
• the assessment process
• the integrity of a regulated qualification
• the validity of a result or certificate
• the reputation and credibility of SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES or the qualification or the wider
qualifications community
Malpractice may include a range of issues from the failure to maintain appropriate records or systems, to the deliberate falsification of records in order to claim certificates.
For the purpose of this policy this term also covers misconduct and forms of unnecessary discrimination or bias towards certain groups of learners.
Examples of malpractice
The categories listed below are examples of centre and learner malpractice. Please note that these examples are not exhaustive and are only intended as guidance on our definition of malpractice:
• Denial of access to premises, records, information, learners and staff to any authorised SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES representative and/or the regulatory authorities
• Failure to carry out internal assessment, internal moderation or internal verification in accordance with our requirements
• Deliberate failure to adhere to our learner registration and certification requirements
• Deliberate failure to continually adhere to our centre approval and/or qualification approval
requirements
• Deliberate failure to maintain appropriate auditable records, e.g. certification claims and/or
disposal and/or forgery of evidence
• Fraudulent claim(s) for certificates
• The unauthorised use of inappropriate materials / equipment in assessment settings (e.g. mobile
phones)
• Intentional withholding of information from SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES which is critical to maintaining the rigour of quality assurance and standards of qualifications
• Collusion or permitting collusion in exams/assessments
• Learners still working towards qualification after certification claims have been made
• Persistent instances of maladministration within the centre
• Deliberate contravention by a centre and/or its learners of the assessment arrangements
specified for SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES qualifications
• A loss, theft of, or a breach of confidentiality in, any assessment materials
• Plagiarism by learners/staff
• Copying from another learner (including using ICT to do so)
• Impersonation - assuming the identity of another learner, or having someone assume your
identity during an assessment
• Unauthorised amendment, copying or distributing of exam/assessment papers/materials
• Inappropriate assistance to learners by centre staff (e.g. unfairly helping them to pass a written exam or practical assessment)
• Deliberate submission of false information to gain a qualification
• Deliberate failure to adhere to, or to circumnavigate the requirements of SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES Reasonable Assessment Adjustments and Special Considerations Policy
Definition of Maladministration.
Maladministration is essentially any activity or practice which results in non-compliance with administrative regulations and requirements and includes the application of persistent mistakes or poor administration within SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES (e.g. inappropriate learner records).
The categories listed below are examples of centre and learner maladministration. Please note that these examples are not exhaustive and are only intended as guidance on our definition of malpractice:
Unintentional, but persistent failure to adhere to our centre approval or qualification requirements and/or associated actions assigned to the centre
Late learner registrations (either infrequent or persistent)
Unreasonable delays in responding to requests and/or communications from SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES
Inaccurate claim for certificates made frequently, even if accidentally
Failure to maintain appropriate auditable records, e.g. certification claims and/or disposal and/or forgery of evidence
Withholding of information from SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES which is required to assure SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES of the centre’s ability to deliver qualifications appropriately
Misuse of SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES logo and trademarks, or misrepresentation of a centre’s relationship with SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES and/or its approval status with SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES
Failure to adhere to, or to circumnavigate, the requirements of SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES Reasonable Adjustments and Special Considerations Policy
Making an allegation of malpractice or maladministration.
Anybody who identifies or is made aware of suspected or actual cases of malpractice or maladministration at any time must immediately notify the appropriate personnel at SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES. In doing so they should put them in writing/email and enclose appropriate supporting evidence.
All allegations must include (where possible):
• Centre’s name, address and number
• Learner’s name and SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES registration number (If known)
• Centre/SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES personnel’s details (name, job role) if they are involved in the
case
• Details of the SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES course/qualification affected or nature of the service
affected
• Nature of the suspected or actual malpractice and associated dates
• Details and outcome of any initial investigation carried out by the centre or anybody else involved in the case, including any mitigating circumstances
SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES have a responsibility that all investigations are carried out rigorously and effectively.
In all cases of suspected malpractice and maladministration reported to SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES they will protect the identity of the ‘informant’ in accordance with their duty of confidentiality and/or any other legal duty.
SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES responsibility to prevent malpractice and maladministration.
To eradicate cases of malpractice/maladministration SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES will ensure:
• All staff are aware of policies and procedures and receive appropriate training/briefings on these
• Staff have clear roles and responsibilities
• There is a documented internal quality assurance procedure/methodology that is clearly in
place and is subject to regular internal reviews
• There are documented internal standard arrangements in place and evidence that these take
place at least once a year
• Learners are informed of their roles and responsibilities in terms of not doing anything that
may be deemed a malpractice and jeopardise their potential achievements
• All assessment and internal verification activities are accurately recorded and carried out in
accordance with the SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES internal quality assurance arrangements and in line
with the SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES expectations as outlined in its qualification guides etc.
• All registration and certification records are subject to appropriate internal review before
submission
• All registration, assessment and certification records will be kept in a locked filing cabinet, in a
locked cupboard for up to 3 years after the student has completed their course. Only authorised and appropriate members of staff will have access to them
SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES procedure to investigate malpractice or maladministration.
To embed effective arrangements to investigate instances of malpractice/maladministration the following should process will ensue. It is intended that the stages involve generic key activities; however, not all these would be implemented in every case.
Stage 1: Briefing and record-keeping
Anyone involved in the conduct of an investigation should have a clear brief and understanding of their role.
All investigators must maintain an auditable record of every action during an investigation to demonstrate that they have acted appropriately.
The officer assigning the investigating officer(s) will stipulate and/or provide secure storage arrangements for all material associated with an investigation in case of subsequent legal challenge.
Stage 2: Establishing the facts
Investigators should review the evidence and associated documentation, including relevant SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES guidance on the delivery of the qualifications and related quality assurance arrangements.
Issues to be determined are:
• What occurred (nature of malpractice/substance of the allegations)
• Why the incident occurred
• Who was involved in the incident
• When it occurred
• Where it occurred – there may be more than one location
• What action, if any, SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES has taken
Stage 3: Interviews
Interviews should be thoroughly prepared, conducted appropriately and underpinned by clear records of the interviews. For example:
• Interviews should include prepared questions and responses to questions which should be recorded
• Interviewers may find it helpful to use the ‘PEACE’ technique:
o plan and prepare
o engage and explain
o account
o closure
o evaluation
Face-to-face interviews should normally be conducted by two people with one person primarily acting as the interviewer and the other as note-taker.
Those being interviewed should be informed that they may have another individual of their choosing present and that they do not have to answer questions. These arrangements aim to protect the rights of all individuals. Both parties should sign the account as a true record/reflection of what was covered/stated/agreed.
Stage 4: Other contacts
In some cases, learners or employers may need to be contacted for facts and information. This may be done via face-to-face interviews, telephone interviews, by post or email.
Whichever method is used, the investigator will have a set of prepared questions. The responses will be recorded in writing as part of confirmation of the evidence. Investigators should log the number of attempts made to contact an individual. Again accounts should be signed for agreement with written records to be formatted as non-editable PDF.
Stage 5: Documentary evidence
Wherever possible documentary evidence should be authenticated by reference to the author; this may include asking learners and others to confirm handwriting, dates and signatures.
Receipts should be given for any documentation removed from SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES .
Stage 6: Conclusions
Once the investigators have gathered and reviewed all relevant evidence, a decision is made on the outcome.
Stage 7: Reporting
A draft report is prepared and factual accuracy agreement obtained. The final report is submitted to the relevant staff member within SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES for review and sign-off.
Stage 8: Actions
If you would like to refer to SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES policy for Malpractice and Maladministration, please visit www.scoliosisandspinalfusioncpdcourses.com
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Publication date. April 2020 Review date. April 2021 Author. C BROWER & L BORD
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7. SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES – Complaints Policy
Introduction
This document sets out SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES ’s complaints policy and procedure and is aimed at our learners and all interested parties who encounter a direct or indirect service from SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES . SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES values the learners who undertake our course. Our aim is for you to experience great teaching that puts you at the heart of how we teach, giving you the best results you can achieve. We value honesty, a good work ethic, clear guidelines and supporting each other in our learning journey.
Therefore, it is important should you feel you have encountered a level of service that is below both yours and our expectations that you raise any concerns you may have with us immediately so that we may address them and learn lessons appropriate to improving service level expectations.
Scope of the policy
This policy covers complaints that learners and members of the public may wish to make in relation to the qualifications offered by SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES .
It is not to be used to cover enquiries about services offered by SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES or appeals in relation to assessment decisions made by SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES . These areas are covered by our Appeals Policy. Should a complaint be submitted which is in fact an appeal we will respond to inform the relevant party that the issue is being considered in accordance with our Appeals Policy.
If you are unhappy about the way an examination or assessment was delivered and conducted and you suspect malpractice and/or maladministration may have occurred you should send your concern to us in accordance with the arrangements in our Malpractice & Maladministration Policy. This should occur as soon as possible to protect any associated evidence that may form part of your complaint.
How should I complain?
Stage 1. All SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES staff are trained to support our customers and are all keen to help, so you should first try to sort out any problem at the earliest opportunity by speaking to the person who dealt with your problem initially.
Stage 2. If they cannot help or you wish to speak to someone else please contact us at info@scoliosisandspinalfusioncpdcourses.com who will email you a receipt for your complaint within 5 working days and will respond with a solution for your complaint within 20 working days. Where it is not possible to offer a solution within 20 working days you will be notified of the time scaled action plan.
Stage 3. If stage 2 is not possible, or if you are not satisfied with the help provided by this member of staff, please send a written complaint which must be received within 20 working days of exhausting stage 2 of the event you are complaining about, and address it to us using the contact details 21 Holly Park N3 3JB.
Confidentiality and whistleblowing
Sometimes a complainant will wish to remain anonymous. However, it is always preferable to reveal your identity and contact details to us. If you are concerned about possible adverse consequences please inform us that you do not wish for us to divulge your identity.
What happens if my complaint is upheld?
If any part of your complaint is upheld we will of course respond to the complainant accordingly and give due consideration to how we can improve our service and arrangements. For example, by reviewing our procedures to assess the impact on our arrangements and assessment process (if relevant) or arranging for staff training. In extreme circumstances, internal disciplinary procedures may be exercised where the performance or behavior of our staff is deemed inappropriate.
In situations where a complaint has been successful, or where an investigation following notification from SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES indicates a failure in our processes, SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL FUSION CPD COURSES will give due consideration on a case by case basis to the outcome and will, as appropriate, take actions such as:
• identify any other learner, who has been affected by that failure
• correct, or where it cannot be corrected, mitigate as far as possible the effect of the
failure
• ensure that the failure does not recur in the future
• compensate the learner if the centre has found it has compromised its own terms and
conditions that form part of the contract between us and the learner in question.
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8. HEALTH & SAFETY AT WORK
The Health and Safety at Work etc Act (1974) is the primary piece of legislation covering occupational health and safety in Great Britain. The Health and Safety Executive, with local authorities (and other enforcing authorities) are responsible for enforcing the Act and a number of other capital letters Acts and Statutory instruments relevant to the working environment.
Visit: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1974/37/consents for more information.
How do we keep people safe?
We carry out a risk assessment of the assessment centre if a Face to Face course. We ensure all fire exits are known at the start of each session. For online learning or Zoom sessions, participants should ensure there is nothing they can trip over and that the area around them is clear. We will ask about any injuries prior to participation. We ensure our staff are trained in safe working practices such as keeping accident and near miss records.
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9. DATA PROTECTION
The Data Protection Act 1988 provides that instructors are under a legal obligation to ensure, where possible, that any data including computerised, electronic and manual records are stored securely and not disclosed to any party without the client’s consent. This is particularly important for a fitness professional if they are seeking advice from another professional or are referring a client to someone else. The client must provide their permission for any sharing of data to be authorised.
Visit: Data protection - GOV.UK
Visit: Guide to the General Data Protection Regulation
Our computers are personally protected. Participant’s names and addresses are not left lying around. All data is kept in one place. No names, addresses, personal information is given to any other participant without specific consent in the form of an email/text message.
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10. COPYRIGHT
The Scoliosis Handbook and Scoliosis and Spinal Fusion CPD Courses are protected by the following:
Copyright © Caroline Brower (Caroline Freedman) All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher and copyright holder, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law. Disclaimer: The information provided in this book is for educational purposes only. It is the result of the study and experience of the author. The booklet/manual and course is not meant to be used, nor should it be used, to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, always consult your own physician or your client’s physician. The publisher and author are not responsible for any specific health or allergy needs that may require medical supervision and are not liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application or preparation, to any person reading or following the information in this booklet and course. Any references are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources. Readers should be aware that the websites included in this book may change.
Illustrations by: Hannah Robinson, Dunelm Digital
Photography by: Sam Pearce, Square-Image
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Date of publication Dec 2023. Review date Dec 2024. Author. C BROWER
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR TRAINING PROVIDER PARTNERS