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List of active policies

Name Type User consent
Acceptable Use Policy Site policy All users
IT & Cyber Security Policy Site policy All users
Data Protection Policy Site policy All users
Complaints Policy Site policy All users
Appeals Policy Site policy All users
Refund Policy Site policy All users
Malpractice, Maladministration and Plagiarism Policy Site policy All users

Acceptable Use Policy

Summary

Acceptable Use Policy

Full policy

Spaedu.global recognizes the value of computer and other electronic resources to improve student learning and enhance the administration and operation of its schools. To this end, spaedu.global encourages the responsible use of computers; computer networks, including the Internet; and other electronic resources in support of the mission and goals of spaedu.global and its schools.

Because the Internet is an unregulated, worldwide vehicle for communication, information available to staff and students is impossible to control. Therefore, spaedu.global adopts this policy governing the voluntary use of electronic resources and the Internet in order to provide guidance to individuals and groups obtaining access to these resources on spaedu.global-owned equipment or through spaedu.global-affiliated organizations.

Spaedu.global Rights and Responsibilities

It is the policy of the spaedu.global to maintain an environment that promotes ethical and responsible conduct in all online network activities by staff and students. It shall be a violation of this policy for any employee, student, or other individual to engage in any activity that does not conform to the established purpose and general rules and policies of the network. Within this general policy, the spaedu.global recognizes its legal and ethical obligation to protect the well-being of students in its charge. To this end, the spaedu.global retains the following rights and recognizes the following obligations:

1.     To log network use and to monitor fileserver space utilization by users, and assume no responsibility or liability for files deleted due to violation of fileserver space allotments.

2.     To remove a user account on the network.

3.     To monitor the use of online activities. This may include real-time monitoring of network activity and/or maintaining a log of Internet activity for later review.

4.     To provide internal and external controls as appropriate and feasible. Such controls shall include the right to determine who will have access to spaedu.global-owned equipment and, specifically, to exclude those who do not abide by spaedu.global’s acceptable use policy or other policies governing the use of school facilities, equipment, and materials. Spaedu.global reserves the right to restrict online destinations through software or other means.

5.     To provide guidelines and make reasonable efforts to train staff and students in acceptable use and policies governing online communications.

 

Staff Responsibilities

1.     Staff members who supervise students, control electronic equipment, or otherwise have occasion to observe student use of said equipment online shall make reasonable efforts to monitor the use of this equipment to assure that it conforms to the mission and goals of the spaedu.global.

2.     Staff should make reasonable efforts to become familiar with the Internet and its use so that effective monitoring, instruction, and assistance may be achieved.

 

User Responsibilities

1.     Use of the electronic media provided by spaedu.global is a privilege that offers a wealth of information and resources for research. Where it is available, this resource is offered to staff, students, and other patrons at no cost. In order to maintain the privilege, users agree to learn and comply with all of the provisions of this policy.

 

Acceptable Use

1.     All use of the Internet must be in support of educational and research objectives consistent with the mission and objectives of spaedu.global.

2.     Proper codes of conduct in electronic communication must be used. In news groups, giving out personal information is inappropriate. When using e-mail, extreme caution must always be taken in revealing any information of a personal nature.

3.     Network accounts are to be used only by the authorized owner of the account for the authorized purpose.

4.     All communications and information accessible via the network should be assumed to be private property.

5.     Subscriptions to mailing lists and bulletin boards must be reported to the system administrator. Prior approval for such subscriptions is required for students and staff.

6.     Mailing list subscriptions will be monitored and maintained, and files will be deleted from the personal mail directories to avoid excessive use of fileserver hard-disk space.

7.     Exhibit exemplary behavior on the network as a representative of your school and community. Be polite!

8.     From time to time, the spaedu.global will make determinations on whether specific uses of the network are consistent with the acceptable use practice.

 

Unacceptable Use

1.     Giving out personal information about another person, including home address and phone number, is strictly prohibited.

2.     Any use of the network for commercial or for-profit purposes is prohibited.

3.     Excessive use of the network for personal business shall be cause for disciplinary action.

4.     Any use of the network for product advertisement or political lobbying is prohibited.

5.     Users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data, or passwords belonging to other users, or misrepresent other users on the network.

6.     No use of the network shall serve to disrupt the use of the network by others. Hardware and/or software shall not be destroyed, modified, or abused in any way.

7.     Malicious use of the network to develop programs that harass other users or infiltrate a computer or computing system and/or damage the software components of a computer or computing system is prohibited.

8.     Hate mail, chain letters, harassment, discriminatory remarks, and other antisocial behaviors are prohibited on the network.

9.     The unauthorized installation of any software, including shareware and freeware, for use on spaedu.global computers is prohibited.

10.   Use of the network to access or process pornographic material, inappropriate text files (as determined by the system administrator or building administrator), or files dangerous to the integrity of the local area network is prohibited.

11.   Spaedu.global network may not be used for downloading entertainment software or other files not related to the mission and objectives of spaedu.global for transfer to a user's home computer, personal computer, or other media. This prohibition pertains to freeware, shareware, copyrighted commercial and non-commercial software, and all other forms of software and files not directly related to the instructional and administrative purposes of spaedu.global.

12.   Downloading, copying, otherwise duplicating, and/or distributing copyrighted materials without the specific written permission of the copyright owner is prohibited, except that duplication and/or distribution of materials for educational purposes is permitted when such duplication and/or distribution would fall within the Fair Use Designs and Patents Act 1988 UK.

13.   Use of the network for any unlawful purpose is prohibited.

14.   Use of profanity, obscenity, racist terms, or other language that may be offensive to another user is prohibited.

15.   Playing games is prohibited unless specifically authorized by a teacher for instructional purposes.

16.   Establishing network or Internet connections to live communications, including voice and/or video (relay chat), is prohibited unless specifically authorized by the system administrator.

 

Disclaimer

1.     Spaedu.global cannot be held accountable for the information that is retrieved via the network.

2.     Pursuant to the Electronic Communications Privacy, section 7 of the Telecommunications Act 1984 notice is hereby given that there are no facilities provided by this system for sending or receiving private or confidential electronic communications. System administrators have access to all mail and will monitor messages. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities will be reported to the appropriate authorities.

3.     Spaedu.global will not be responsible for any damages you may suffer, including loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by our own negligence or your errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained is at your own risk.

4.     Spaedu.global makes no warranties (expressed or implied) with respect to:

·             the content of any advice or information received by a user, or any costs or charges incurred as a result of seeing or accepting any information; and

·             any costs, liability, or damages caused by the way the user chooses to use his or her access to the network.

5.     Spaedu.global reserves the right to change its policies and rules at any time.

 

Electronic Mail Policy

User Responsibilities

These guidelines are intended to help you make the best use of the electronic mail facilities at your disposal. You should understand the following:

1.     The agency provides electronic mail via its e-learning platform to students to enable them to communicate effectively and efficiently with other students or lecturers.

2.     When using the agency's electronic mail facilities, you should comply with the following guidelines.

3.     If you are in any doubt about an issue affecting the use of electronic mail, you should consult spaedu.global

4.     Any breach of the agency's Electronic Mail Policy may lead to disciplinary action.

DO

1.      Do check your electronic mail daily to see if you have any messages.

2.     Do include a meaningful subject line in your message.

3.     Do check the address line before sending a message and confirm you are sending it to the right person.

4.     Do delete electronic mail messages when they are no longer required.

5.     Do respect the legal protections to data and software provided by copyrights and licenses.

6.     Do take care not to express views that could be regarded as defamatory or libelous.

DO NOT

1.     Do not print electronic mail messages unless absolutely necessary.

2.     Do not expect an immediate reply; recipients might not be at their computer or could be too busy to reply straight away.

3.     Do not forward electronic mail messages sent to you personally to others, particularly newsgroups or mailing lists, without the permission of the originator.

4.     Do not use electronic mail for personal reasons.

5.     Do not send excessively large electronic mail messages or attachments.

6.     Do not send unnecessary messages such as festive greetings or other non-work items by electronic mail, particularly to multiple people.

7.     Do not participate in chain or pyramid messages or similar schemes.

8.     Do not represent yourself as another person.

9.     Do not use electronic mail to send or forward material that could be construed as confidential, political, obscene, threatening, offensive, or libelous.

Please note the following:

1.     All electronic mail activity is monitored and logged.

2.    All electronic mail coming into or leaving the organization is scanned for viruses.

3.    All the content of electronic mail is scanned for offensive material.

 

 

 


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IT & Cyber Security Policy

Summary


Full policy

IT AND CYBER SECURITY POLICY

 

 

 

The School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A) Education Ltd. is committed to preventing students, staff or the S.P.A. local or cloud IT infrastructure from internal or external threats.

 

I.   SCOPE

 This policy exists to ensure that all staff and students of the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A) Education Ltd. follow certain basic rules with regard to internet use and use of IT in general. This policy covers all IT assets (local or virtual cloud assets).


II.   PURPOSE

 School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A) Education Ltd. is committed to protecting the security of its information, information systems and users. The following are the objectives of the information security policy:

1.      to protect academic, administrative and personal information from threats;

2.      to maintain the confidentiality, integrity and availability of the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A) Education Ltd.’s information assets;

3.      to prevent data loss, modification and disclosure, including research and teaching data from unauthorized access and use;

4.      to protect from information security incidents that might have an adverse impact on the business, reputation and professional standing of the school; and

5.      to establish responsibilities and accountability for information security.

 

 

III.    POLICIES

Use of the internet

 

The School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A) Education Ltd. will provide internet access to faculty, staff and students for the primary purpose of study, legitimate research, accessing or delivering online classes, email access and general internet access. The availability and variety of information on the Internet has meant that it can be used to obtain material reasonably considered to be offensive, illegal or potentially dangerous to humans and IT

infrastructure. The use of the Internet to access and/or distribute any kind of offensive or potentially damaging material, or material that is not work or study related, leaves an individual (staff and students) liable to disciplinary action which could leadto dismissal.

 

S.P.A. Internet access and IT provision may not be used for:

 

  • transmitting, retrieving or storing any communications of a discriminatory or harassing nature
  • transmitting, retrieving or storing any communications which are derogatory to any individual or group
  • obtaining material that would cause offence on the grounds of race, colour, religion, political beliefs, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender, age, disability, nationality, marital status,
  • engaging in ANY form of cyber bullying
  • searching for obscene, offensive, sexually explicit or pornographic material
  • obtaining any material for the purpose of harassment of another person
  • distribution of harmful software or illegal software over the S.P.A network.
  • Using the S.P.A network (local or cloud) to engage in any sort of cyber-attacks or pose a digital threat to any person or organization inside or outside of S.P.A
  • establishing communications which are defamatory or threatening
  • obtaining material that is unlawful or that infringes on another person’s legal rights (e.g. illegal downloads)

 

Monitoring Use of Computer Systems

 

S.P.A has the right to monitor electronic information created and/or communicated by students or staff using computer systems and networks, including work e-mail, e-learning systems and usage of the Internet.

 

Remote Access

 Only authorized persons may remotely access the S.P.A IT network.

 

 

Social networking sites

  • DON'T search for illegal and inappropriate sites or material.
  • DO use the computers for school/study use or to connect with other students in a positive manner.
  • DON'T bully anyone through blogs, emails, chatrooms, or any other form of internet use
  • DON'T download anything illegally.

 

 

Any work-related issue or material that could adversely affect S.P.A, its staff or its students must not be placed on a social networking site at any time and via any medium.

 

E-mail (Staff and e-learning internal emails)

The use of the E-mail system is encouraged as its appropriate use facilitates efficiency. Used correctly it is a facility that is of assistance to employees. Inappropriate use however causes many problems including distractions, time wasting and legal claims. The procedure sets out the company's position on the correct use of the E-mail system.

Authorized Use

  •  Unauthorized or inappropriate use of the E-mail system may result in disciplinary action which could include summary dismissal.
  •  The E-mail system is available for communication and matters directly concerned with the legitimate business of S.P.A. Users the E-mail system should give particular attention to the following points: -

  1. all comply with company communication standards;
  2. E-mail messages and copies should only be sent to those for whom      they are particularly relevant;
  3. E-mail should not be used as a substitute for face-to-face communication or telephone contact. Flame mails (i.e. E-mails that are abusive) must not be sent.

Hasty messages sent without proper consideration can cause upset, concern or misunderstanding;

 

       4. if E-mail is confidential the user must ensure that the necessary steps are taken to protect confidentiality.

 

 

 

  • S.P.A will not tolerate the use of the E-mail system for unofficial or inappropriate purposes, including: -

  1. any messages that could constitute bullying, harassment or other detriment;
  2. personal use (e.g., social invitations, personal messages, jokes, cartoons, chain letters or other private matters);
  3. on-line gambling;
  4. accessing or transmitting pornography

 

Penalty for Security Violation

 S.P.A takes the issue of security seriously. Users who use the technology and information resources of S.P.A must be aware that they can be disciplined if they violate this policy. Upon violation of this policy, an employee may be subject to discipline up to and including discharge. The specific discipline imposed will be determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the nature and severity of the violation of the Cyber Security Policy.

 

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.

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Data Protection Policy

Summary


Full policy

 DATA PROTECTION POLICY

The School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A.) Education Ltd. is committed to implementing and enforcing a code of conduct for the security of information in accordance with the Data Protection Act of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago Chapter 22:04.

 

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 S.P.A; “personal information” means information about an identifiable individual that is recorded in any form including—

(a)   information relating to the race, nationality or ethnic origin, religion, age or marital status of the individual;

(b)  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;

(c)   any identifying number, symbol or other particular designed to identify the individual;

(d)  the address and telephone contact number of the individual;

(e)   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;

(f)    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

(g)  the views and opinions of any other person about the individual.

 

V.   GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF DATA PROTECTION

  1. S.P.A is responsible for the personal information under its control.
  2. S.P.A 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;

a.) 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

b.) 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.


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Complaints Policy

Summary


Full policy

COMPLAINTS POLICY

 

The School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A.) Education Ltd. 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 the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A.) Education Ltd.

 

I.    SCOPE

This policy details how an individual can lodge a complaint to the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A.) Education Ltd. 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:

a.         Criminal Behaviour

b.         Data Protection/ Confidentiality Breach

c.         Delays in the issuing of certificates upon learner achievement

d.         Discrimination

e.         Enquiries sent are not responded to in a timely or appropriate manner

f.          Malpractice or Maladministration

g.         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:

a.         The individual’s full name and contact details, including a daytime telephone number and email address;

b.         A full description of the complaint, including as much detail as possible such as dates, times and individuals involved;

c.         Details of any responses already received from the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A.)

            Education Ltd.; and

d.         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 the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A.) Education Ltd. 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.

 

 

 

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Appeals Policy

Summary


Full policy

APPEAL POLICY FOR LEARNERS


The School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A.) Education Ltd. 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 the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A.) Education Ltd.


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 victimization 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 the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A.) Education Ltd 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:

• Step One

Problem /Query is taken to the Administrative Department.

If problem is not solved:

• Step Two

Problem /Query is escalated to the Management level.

If problem is not solved:

• Step Three

Problem /Query is taken to the Academic Director.

If problem is not solved:

• 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.

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Refund Policy

Summary


Full policy

 

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 the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A) Education Ltd.


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 non-payment 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:

 

Acceptable

Notes

Recent (less than 1 month) death of a close relative

This includes, parents/guardians, siblings, children, spouse/partner. Can include in-laws, grandparents and grandchildren. Deaths of aunts, uncles and cousins not normally accepted unless it can be shown that relationship was close.

Recent (less than 1 month) diagnosed illness or serious accident of the learner

Medical evidence must be provided in the instance of illness or and on-going medical condition that renders the learner unable to continue studies. Fractures and serious sprains may be considered.

Recent (less than 1 month) diagnosed illness of a close relative

This includes, parents/guardians, siblings, children, spouse/partner. Can include in-laws, grandparents and grandchildren. Illnesses of aunts, uncles and cousins not normally accepted unless it can be shown that relationship was close.

Recent (less than 1 month) change of employment circumstances

Withdrawal of funding for programme if funding was provided by employer.

Recent (less than 1 month) unforeseen diagnosis of special needs or disability

Special needs that hamper the learner from studies.

 

Non-acceptable

Notes

Minor ailments and other conditions

If the condition can be alleviated with over-the-counter medication. Unless learner is sole carer for relative with ailment/condition.

Social

Decision to work as opposed to study. Poor time management.

Personal or non-serious disruptions

Moving house, wedding, holidays, religious festivals or other events. Illness or death of pets change of job or job pressure (exceptional crisis at work may be acceptable).

Study-related

Computer and software difficulties.

 

 

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 non-payment 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.

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Malpractice, Maladministration and Plagiarism Policy

Summary


Full policy

MALPRACTICE, MALADMINISTRATION AND PLAGIARISM POLICY


It is the responsibility of the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A) Education Ltd. 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:

a. Define what constitutes malpractice and maladministration;

b. Minimise the risk to the integrity of the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A) Education Ltd. And its stakeholders;

c. Protect the learners’ interest;

d. Outline the policies and procedures to be adopted when a case of malpractice and maladministration arises;

e. Define what constitutes plagiarism;

f. Outline the policies and procedures to be adopted when a case of plagiarism arises;

 

III. DEFINTIONS

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.

The School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A) Education Ltd. 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, the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A) Education Ltd. 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, the School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A) Education Ltd. reserves the right to take legal or punitive action as the incident/s warrants within the legal authority to which we operate.

 

V. PLAGIARISM

The School of Practical Accounting (S.P.A) Education Ltd. 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.


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