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Policies and Procedures

At Patterns Institute, we champion anti-oppressive learning experiences. Our unified policy ensures transparent complaints, appeals, data protection, responsible marketing, and ongoing course review for high-quality outcomes.

Patterns Institute is committed to providing high-quality learning experiences, fair treatment, and a supportive environment for all learners, staff, and partners. This document brings together key principles from our various policies (Complaints, Appeals, Reasonable Adjustments, Equal Opportunities, Malpractice, Data Protection, Course Content Review, etc.) into one unified framework.

1.

Equal Opportunities & Learner Charter

  1. Non-Discrimination: We do not tolerate discrimination on the basis of age, disability, faith, race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, marital status, or any other protected characteristic.
  2. Positive Learning Environment: All learners have the right to expect a respectful atmosphere, accessible resources, and fair assessment.
  3. Learner Responsibilities: We ask that learners show courtesy to staff and peers, provide accurate information regarding any needed support, and abide by the Institute’s rules to promote a safe, positive environment.

2.

Reasonable Adjustments & Special Considerations

  1. Commitment to Access: Under the Equality Act 2010, the Institute will make reasonable adjustments to ensure learners with disabilities or other needs are not disadvantaged.
  2. Application Process: Requests for adjustments should be made as early as possible—ideally at the time of course registration. We may offer adapted materials, assistive technologies, or other provisions, provided they do not compromise the integrity of the course or assessment.
  3. Special Considerations: If an illness, injury, or personal circumstance affects performance, learners may apply for an adjustment (e.g., rescheduling an assessment). Each request is handled case by case.

3.

Complaints & Appeals

  1. Complaints Procedure:
    1. Step 1: Raise any concern with the relevant staff member within 48 hours of the issue.
    2. Step 2: If unresolved, submit a written complaint to the Institute’s Directors. We aim to respond within 7–10 days.
    3. Step 3: If a resolution is still not found, a final review may be held with senior management, whose decision is final.
  2. Appeals Against Assessment Decisions:
    1. Grounds: Disagreement with an assessment outcome, refusal of special consideration, or any irregularity affecting results.
    2. Process: Discuss informally with the Assessor, then submit a formal Appeals Application if needed. The Institute’s Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) will investigate and respond in writing.

4.

Malpractice

  1. Definition: Any act or omission compromising the integrity of assessments, including plagiarism, falsification of records, or misconduct by learners, staff, or external partners.
  2. Examples of Learner Malpractice: Copying work, impersonation, disruptive behavior, or use of forged documents.
  3. Staff/Assessor Malpractice: Knowingly allowing unfair practices, failing to report malpractice, or falsifying results.
  4. Consequences: May include written warnings, removal from course, dismissal (for staff), or notification to relevant authorities/regulators.

5.

Data Protection

  1. Compliance: We adhere to the Data Protection Act 2018 to ensure all personal data is processed lawfully, fairly, and securely.
  2. Individual Rights: Learners and staff have the right to request access to, correct, or erase their personal data, and to object to data processing if they believe it is inaccurate or violates privacy.
  3. Retention & Security: Personal data is kept only as long as needed for academic or legal purposes. We protect data via secure electronic and physical storage, and we never share it without legitimate need or permission.

6.

Course Content Review

  1. Annual Review: All courses are reviewed yearly to ensure accuracy, relevance, and alignment with current legislation and best practices.
  2. Subject Matter Specialists: Experts evaluate course materials for quality; legal references are checked by our legal advisors.
  3. Implementation: Recommended changes are actioned promptly to keep materials current and ensure continuous improvement.

7.

Responsible Marketing Strategy

  1. Honesty & Transparency: All Institute marketing materials must be accurate, truthful, and not misleading.
  2. Respectful Approach: We do not use offensive, aggressive, or discriminatory imagery or language.
  3. Compliance & Review: Marketing communications follow legal guidelines, avoid unsubstantiated claims, and reflect our commitment to ethical practices.

8.

Monitoring & Review

  1. Policy Oversight: The Institute’s senior management oversees the implementation of these policies.
  2. Continuous Improvement: We periodically review and update this Unified Policy to maintain alignment with legal requirements, industry standards, and feedback from learners and staff.

This simplified policy provides essential guidance drawn from our more detailed documents. It is designed for easy reference and accessibility, while the full versions remain available for thorough consultation. If you need more details or specific guidance, please feel free to get in touch.