MKLC Training Policies
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Students on all courses apart from the Award in Education and Training, need to show activity on the Moodle site at least every 60 days or the course access is suspended for inactivity. Students on the week long Award in Education and Training course need to show activity at least every three days and at least once a fortnight on the month long Award in Education and Training course. A reminder will be sent by e-mail as a reminder along with the options for placing on hold.
Courses may be placed on hold for up to a year in total, this may be in a single block or three times on Diploma courses and twice on other courses without needing to provide evidence or reason. Subsequently the course may be placed on hold if fulfilling one of the following requirements and able to provide supporting documentation:
Bereavement
Medical (including carer responsibilities for others)
Redundancy where affects the practical elements of courses
Family leave (i.e. maternity or paternity leave)
Other circumstances may be considered on an individual case basis.
The course will be placed on hold from the date an e-mail is sent to the MKLC office. The time on hold is not counted towards the allocated active time of the course and the deadline will be adjusted accordingly.
At the end of the year allowance, any remaining active time on the course will resume.
If there is no contact to place the course on hold and the student requests to reactivate during their time allowance, the course can be resumed for a reactivation fee as outlined in the terms and conditions. If the time allowance has passed, there is a three-month period where the course can still be reactivated with the reactivation fee along with an extension fee, after the three-month period, there will be a re-registration fee to continue.
There is scope to apply authorised absence retrospectively if able to provide supporting documentation for any of the following, where a student may not have had prior notice:
Bereavement
Medical (including carer responsibilities for others)
Other circumstances may be considered on an individual case basis.
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Introduction
MKLC is committed to leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly and ethically to enhance online training and learning experiences. This policy outlines the principles and guidelines for AI use within MKLC to ensure transparency, fairness, and integrity in our educational offerings.
Scope
This policy applies to all AI tools and technologies used by MKLC, including, but not limited to, content generation, student support, learning management systems (LMS), assessments, and administrative processes.
Purpose
This policy aims to:
Provide clear guidelines on the responsible use of AI in training programs.
Ensure AI applications align with educational objectives.
Maintain academic integrity and uphold ethical standards.
Protect user privacy and data security.
AI Use in Training
MKLC may utilise AI for various purposes, including but not limited to:
Personalised learning experiences and recommendations based on student performance, preferences, and learning styles.
Analyse student progress, provide feedback and recommend relevant learning resources.
Virtual assistants and chatbots for learner support.
Content generation and summarisation
Enhance course content with automated tools for real-time translation, transcription, or summarisation.
AI in Assessments
AI may assist in generating and grading assessments, but final evaluation decisions will always involve human oversight.
MKLC will take measures to prevent academic misconduct through AI-powered proctoring, ensuring fair evaluation for all students.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
AI tools will be designed to enhance accessibility for students with disabilities.
AI and Academic Integrity
To maintain academic standards, MKLC:
Prohibits the misuse of AI in assignments and assessments where original work is required.
Encourages learners to use AI responsibly as a learning aid rather than a substitute for critical thinking.
Implements AI detection tools to ensure compliance with academic integrity policies.
Ethical Considerations
MKLC upholds ethical AI use by adhering to the following principles:
Transparency: Informing when AI is used in course materials, assessments, or interactions.
Fairness: Avoiding biases in AI-driven decision-making and ensuring equal access to learning resources.
Accountability: Human oversight of AI tools to prevent unintended consequences.
Privacy and Security: Compliance with data protection regulations to safeguard user information.
Data Protection and Privacy
MKLC ensures that AI systems comply with applicable data protection laws, including GDPR. This includes:
Collecting only necessary data for AI functionalities.
Ensuring anonymization and encryption of personal data where applicable.
Providing learners with control over their data and AI interactions.
Student Consent and Control
Students will be informed when AI is being used, and they can opt out of non-essential AI tools or services.
Transparency and Accountability
MKLC will provide clear explanations of how AI technologies impact learning processes and outcomes.
Human oversight will be maintained over key decisions, such as grading, assessments, and student interventions.
AI technologies will be regularly reviewed for fairness, accuracy, and efficiency.
Continuous Review and Improvement
MKLC will regularly review its AI practices and update this policy as needed to reflect technological advancements and evolving educational needs. Feedback from learners, educators, and stakeholders will be considered in policy revisions.
MKLC will stay informed of the latest advancements in AI and continuously improve its systems to enhance educational delivery.
AI technologies will be regularly updated to reflect the best practices in online education and emerging ethical standards.
Contact and Compliance
For any concerns or inquiries regarding AI use within MKLC, learners and educators can contact info@mklc.co.uk. Any breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary action in line with MKLC’s terms of service.
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MKLC will not tolerate bullying or like behaviour and has determined that a learning environment should be a safe and protective setting where students are encouraged to learn and meet their academic goals. As such, bullying interferes with both a student’s ability to learn and MKLC’s ability to teach because of its disruptive nature. Positive behaviour including respecting others, setting an example, and discouraging bullying is expected of all administrators, tutors, staff, and students.
Bullying can be physical, verbal, emotional, & cyber (which includes email, mobile, Facebook, etc.). Any gesture that is expressed through written language, verbally, and/or physically that degrades a person is considered bullying. This includes, but is not limited to a person’s race, religion, colour, gender, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, or any other unique characteristic. This behaviour will be considered bullying.
Any student who chooses to participate in bullying will be met with a swift and severe consequence and is likely to result in withdrawal from the course. However, each case will be examined on a case-by-case basis and could vary based on several factors including age, nature of the problem, and past history. The discipline plan should then include strategies to correct the behaviour, to prevent it from happening again, and to protect the bullying victim from further harm.
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1. Purpose and scope of the procedure
The purpose of the complaints procedure is to ensure that, as far as possible, complaints are dealt with and resolved informally through discussion between the aggrieved student and staff. Complaints are concerns or problems raised by a student or students and may be made in writing or orally. (There is a separate procedure for student academic appeals.) Before using the complaints procedure it is expected that a student will try to resolve the complaint informally. The formal stage of the procedure should only be used when the informal stage has failed to resolve the issue or is not making progress at reasonable speed.
This procedure applies to all students.
2. Principles of the procedure
The procedure is based on the following principles:
A student has the right to be accompanied by a colleague or friend at every stage of the formal procedure.
Any complaints, to become formal, must be made in writing as soon as possible
In all cases, reference to informal resolution in advance of formal complaint is recommended
All proceedings, whether informal or formal, should, so far as is practicable, remain confidential
A formal record of any hearing will be available to the student. The hearing will be recorded and a copy given to the student
The timescales set out may be extended with the agreement of the parties. Where more than one student has lodged a complaint relating to the same, or substantially the same, issue, the complaints may be dealt with together in the interests of fair and consistent decision-making.
Where a complaint concerns an apparently trivial issue the relevant staff member will discuss this informally with the student to determine whether there is a real need to pursue the matter through the complaints procedure.
If the student and member of staff are unable to agree, the student will be entitled to submit the complaint formally together with any further evidence or explanation that throws new light on it, and demonstrates that a substantive complaint is in fact being made.
If the student’s complaint restates a complaint that has been dealt with in the past, the student will be asked to explain how the new complaint differs from the previous one, and either what new incident has occurred or what new evidence has come to light.
Where it is clear that there is nothing new being raised, the centre can reject the complaint without a hearing or committee meeting.
3. Informal Stage
If a student has a complaint that involves another student or other students, they should first of all try to resolve the matter by direct approach to the student or students involved. The student representatives and welfare officer may intervene if the situation demands their intervention.
If the matter relates to academics, general welfare, tutors or staff or facilities provided by the School, the student may request a meeting with a relevant staff member and efforts made to resolve the issue. Any informal meeting with staff should be held within 10 working days of the submission of the request. Usually student complaints are likely to take the form of suggestions for improvement (e.g. more library books, changed teaching hours) and can be dealt with either informally or formally based on the nature of the issue.
If, after any action to resolve the complaint taken by staff, the student is not satisfied with such actions, he/she may proceed to the formal stage of the procedure.
4. Formal Stage
If the complaint has not been resolved at the informal stage and the student wishes to proceed to the formal stage, the student may do so and the complaint will be heard by the Principal. The student must set out in writing the nature of their complaint and the reasons why they are dissatisfied with the outcome of the informal stage. The student should explain how they think it should be settled. This must be submitted to the Principal. The record of this written complaint will be kept in a specified Complaints File for three years, whatever decision is made and however the issue is resolved.
Should the complaint relate to a process or decision, the Principal will appoint another person as investigating officer who will be asked to provide a full written report together with any relevant documents. The investigation should be conducted as quickly as possible while allowing for all relevant information and evidence to be gathered. A timescale for this will be agreed between the student and the Principal.
Should the complaint be against a named individual or individuals, the Principal will give them a copy of the complaint at the earliest opportunity. The individual will present their response at the hearing and it would not normally be necessary to conduct an investigation. Every attempt will be made to ensure that the hearing will be held within 10 working days of receipt of the investigating officer’s report, or within 10 working days of the complaint being received if it is against an individual. The student will be given five working days’ notice that the hearing is to be held. The student may request an alternative date to allow up to an additional five working days if their representative is unavailable. If following a reasonable attempt to rearrange the hearing, the student is still unable to attend, they may send a representative, or the hearing may be held in their absence.
The complainant should ensure that they attend the meeting at the specified time. If they are unable to attend because of circumstances beyond their control, they should inform the Principal as soon as possible. If they fail to attend without explanation, or it appears that they have not made sufficient attempts to attend, the hearing may take place in their absence. A copy of any decision will be given in writing to the complainant within three working days of the hearing.
5. Right of Appeal
Should the complainant wish to appeal against the decision of the Principal they must do so, in writing, within five working days of being informed of the decision. A request for an appeal must specify the grounds of the appeal preferably under one or more of the following headings: the nature of any redress the finding of the hearing on a point of fact which is pertinent to the decision of the hearing a failure to adhere to the published procedure.
The appeal will be considered by an external independent adjudicator who has not been directly involved in the matters detailed in the complaint and is independent of the management and running of the School. All details of the complaint will be made to the external adjudicator, including findings and reasons for the decision.
The appeal will be heard by the independent external adjudicator. The student will be given five working days’ notice that the hearing is to be held. The complainant may request an alternative date to allow up to an additional five working days if their representative is unavailable. If following a reasonable attempt to rearrange the hearing, the student is still unable to attend, they may send a representative, or the hearing may be held in their absence.
The complainant should ensure that they attend the meeting at the specified time. If they are unable to attend because of circumstances beyond their control, they should inform the Director of Studies as soon as possible. If they fail to attend without explanation, or if it appears that they have not made sufficient attempts to attend, the hearing may take place in their absence. The appeal is not a rehearing of the original complaints, but rather a consideration of the specific areas with which the student is dissatisfied in relation to the original complaints. The adjudicator may therefore confine discussion to those specific areas, rather than reconsider the whole matter afresh.
The adjudicator will hear all or part of the previous hearing depending upon the nature of the appeal. The adjudicator has the scope to:
Uphold all or part of the previous decision
Not uphold the previous decision.
If the adjudicator decides either to uphold only part of the previous decision or not to uphold the previous decision, he/she may at their discretion substitute an appropriate remedy of their own choosing. Within three working days of the appeal the adjudicator will record the decision and give it to the student. Any recommendations made by the adjudicator will be notified to the appropriate individuals, and will be time bound. The decision of the appeals adjudicator is final. Written records of this complaint will then be kept in the Complaints File for three years and then destroyed.
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Last updated: 24 / 8 / 2022
Definitions:
MKLC - the training provider
GDPR - means the General Data Protection Regulation
Register of Systems - means a register of all systems or contexts in which personal data is processed by MKLC.
1. Data Protection Principles
MKLC is committed to processing data in accordance with its responsibilities under the GDPR. Article 5 of the GDPR requires that personal data shall be:
a. processed lawfully, fairly and in a transparent manner in relation to individuals;
b. collected for specified, explicit and legitimate purposes and not further processed in a manner that is incompatible with those purposes; further processing for archiving purposes in the public interest, scientific or historical research purposes or statistical purposes shall not be considered to be incompatible with the initial purposes;
c. adequate, relevant and limited to what is necessary in relation to the purposes for which they are processed;
d. accurate and, where necessary, kept up to date; every reasonable step must be taken to ensure that personal data that are inaccurate, having regard to the purposes for which they are processed, are erased or rectified without delay;
e. kept in a form which permits identification of data subjects for no longer than is necessary for the purposes for which the personal data are processed; personal data may be stored for longer periods insofar as the personal data will be processed solely for archiving purposes in the public interest, scientific or historical research purposes or statistical purposes subject to implementation of the appropriate technical and organisational measures required by the GDPR in order to safeguard the rights and freedoms of individuals; and
f. processed in a manner that ensures appropriate security of the personal data, including protection against unauthorised or unlawful processing and against accidental loss, destruction or damage, using appropriate technical or organisational measures.”
2. General Provisions
a. This policy applies to all personal data processed by MKLC.
b. The Responsible Person shall take responsibility for MKLC’s ongoing compliance with this policy.
c. This policy shall be reviewed at least annually.
d. MKLC shall register with the Information Commissioner’s Office as an organisation that processes personal data.
3. Lawful, Fair and Transparent Processing
a. To ensure its processing of data is lawful, fair and transparent, MKLC shall maintain a Register of Systems.
b. The Register of Systems shall be reviewed at least annually.
c. Individuals have the right to access their personal data and any such requests made to MKLC shall be dealt with in a timely manner.
4. Lawful Purposes
a. All data processed by MKLC must be done on one of the following lawful bases: consent, contract, legal obligation, vital interests, public task or legitimate interests (see ICO guidance for more information).
b. MKLC shall note the appropriate lawful basis in the Register of Systems.
c. Where consent is relied upon as a lawful basis for processing data, evidence of opt-in consent shall be kept with the personal data.
d. Where communications are sent to individuals based on their consent, the option for the individual to revoke their consent should be clearly available and systems should be in place to ensure such revocation is reflected accurately in MKLC’s systems.
5. Data Minimisation
a. MKLC shall ensure that personal data are adequate, relevant and limited to what is necessary in relation to the purposes for which they are processed.
6. Accuracy
a. MKLC shall take reasonable steps to ensure personal data is accurate.
b. Where necessary for the lawful basis on which data is processed, steps shall be put in place to ensure that personal data is kept up to date.
7. Archiving / Removal
a. To ensure that personal data is kept for no longer than necessary, MKLC shall put in place an archiving policy for each area in which personal data is processed and review this process annually.
b. The archiving policy shall consider what data should/must be retained, for how long, and why.
8. Security
a. MKLC shall ensure that personal data is stored securely using modern software that is kept-up-to-date.
b. Access to personal data shall be limited to personnel who need access and appropriate security should be in place to avoid unauthorised sharing of information.
c. When personal data is deleted this should be done safely such that the data is irrecoverable.
d. Appropriate back-up and disaster recovery solutions shall be in place.
9. Breach
In the event of a breach of security leading to the accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorised disclosure of, or access to, personal data, MKLC shall promptly assess the risk to people’s rights and freedoms and if appropriate report this breach to the ICO (more information on the ICO website).
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The ethos of any support we provide is to offer a student the opportunity to retain their independence and encourage them to gain maximum benefit from the whole student experience.
We welcome applications from students who have a disability or medical condition and are committed to promoting recruitment from the diverse communities we serve. The aim of the recruitment process is to ensure that support needs relating to a disability are separated from consideration of academic suitability. Potential students are asked if they require any support needs and this is noted on a spreadsheet. All information received from applicants is treated in a confidential manner and relayed only to those with a need to know; this is normally MKLC staff, the dedicated tutor, and the awarding body verifier. It is the responsibility of the student to advise of any needs they may have.
Adjustments or additional support arrangements for formal examinations are permitted on the recommendation of the tutor, principal and/or the awarding body. We are committed to ensuring that students who have a disability or medical condition, which could affect their performance in an examination, are able to demonstrate their ability in an examination setting while ensuring that they are not put at a disadvantage compared with other candidates. In the past arrangements have included additional time, and use of appropriate technology.
Special examination needs are normally discussed as part of the initial assessment process. However, it is recognised that a disability or medical condition may arise or circumstances change at any time after enrolment and/or during a course of study.
The online portal provides access for those with physical disabilities which are a barrier to attending premises. Use of Skype or Zoom also facilitates the face-to-face element of any course. The Moodle site offers learning resources intended to enable students with a range of disabilities, including sensory impairments and specific earning difficulties, such as dyslexia.
The office and meeting rooms are all accessible by wheelchair users and lifts are available for all students and staff to use.
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MKLC has a policy of commitment to ensuring that all our students have equal opportunities, underpinned by the Equality Act 2018.
This means that we will not tolerate discrimination, harassment or bullying in any form. Everyone is expected to adhere to our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy which applies to all staff and learners, irrespective of:
Age
Gender
Ethnicity
Disability
Sexual orientation
Religion
Marital status
Socio-economic status.
Our courses are inclusive in that they offer accessible and flexible learning. Learners are fully supported on their programme and every effort is made to break down barriers to learning. Where additional support is required, we will do our best to provide inclusive teaching through differentiation and being aware of the specific challenges faced by some learners.
We are committed to ensuring that our services meet the varied and individual needs of our learners, that our employment practices are fair and promote equality, and that we respect a wide variety of lifestyles and cultures.
To this aim we endorse the following principles:
All learners are of equal value
Relevant differences are recognised
There is mutual respect and good relations between learners, tutors and staff
Staff are respected for their values
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This is the statement of general policy and arrangements for MKLC office.
Overall and final responsibility for health and safety is that of Judith McKeon, Principal.
Day-to-day responsibility for ensuring this policy is put into practice is delegated to Emma Burrows.
Duties of all staff
The duties of all MKLC staff are to:-
Take reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves, visitors and others who may be affected by their acts and omissions while on MKLC premises and the sites where learners are working
Report promptly any accidents, incidents, unsafe conditions or practices and potential risks to their line manager
Personally demonstrate good standards of health & safety practice
Take particular care in all practical teaching areas
Promote good practice through the quality of learning and understanding of health & safety
Duties of all learner and course delegates
Learners and course delegates have a duty to look after their own well being. They are held to be equally responsible for the health & safety of others or those who may be affected directly or indirectly by their behaviour on MKLC premises
They will:-
Familiarise themselves with all health and safety information provided by MKLC and their employer
Follow and act upon any instructions that are given either verbally or in writing by a MKLC member of staff in connection with health and safety.
Bring to the attention of a member of MKLC staff any difficulty in understanding health and safety information or instructions.
Co-operate fully at all times with MKLC to ensure that statutory obligations are met.
Report immediately to a member of MKLC staff any hazard, potential hazard, breakdowns in practice or procedures, unsafe conditions or defects to equipment which may affect health and safety in the workplace or training centre.
Report any accidents or incidents they are involved in.
Ensure that where necessary/required the relevant PPE is used in the interests of health and safety.
Advise their trainer/assessor of any personal difficulties associated with the use of any equipment provided.
Provide MKLC and their employer (where relevant) with any medical information which may affect personal health and safety or welfare.
Portable electrical equipment is in use by MKLC. It is subjected to periodic inspection to ensure its continued safety in use. If any person identifies a worn cable, defective plug or any issue with electrical equipment which does not work correctly, it is their duty to report the hazard to their line manager, immediate supervisor or Centre Manager/Director/Owner.
Fire alarms will be tested weekly by the owners of the building.
If a fire is discovered on MKLC premises:-
Sound the alarm
Leave the building by the nearest exit and do not delay by collecting your belongings.
Go to the fire assembly point
Ring the Fire Service (999)
Do not re-enter the building until the ‘all clear’ is given
Trained staff who feel competent may wish to tackle a fire using the equipment provided but do not attempt to fight any fire in isolation.
In the event of a person being injured and requiring first aid, a qualified first aider should be contacted.
Smoking is only permitted in designated areas outside the premises.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is issued for protection where it is not possible to remove all the risks from a process or operation by other means. PPE does not remove all the risks and caution must still be exercised when carrying out an activity.
In general, it is a requirement to:
wear or use PPE when it is required by legislation or code of practice
ensure that PPE is worn in accordance with any training or instruction that has been given
take reasonable care of PPE to ensure it remains in good condition
report any defects to your immediate supervisor as soon as they are noticed
ensure that others who may be affected by activities are either isolated from contact or are issued with temporary PPE
MKLC will undertake risk assessments to identify significant hazards that may arise in the workplace.
Trainers and assessors working on behalf of MKLC are responsible for conducting risk assessments on curriculum activities to ensure safety of the learners.
Young people (under the age of 18) may be at greater risk due to factors such as a lack of maturity and experience. Therefore, it is particularly important to undertake a risk assessment on activities to be undertaken by a young person. In addition a young person must not be asked to undertake activities beyond their physical or mental ability or where lack of experience and training would mean they are unlikely to recognise the risks.
Statement of general staff responsibility policy
1. To prevent accidents and cases of work-related ill health and provide adequate control of health and safety risks arising from work activities.
Risk assessment completed and any action arising implemented. This is reviewed annually. Emma Burrows, responsible.
2. To provide adequate training to ensure employees are competent to do their work.
Staff given induction when joining company. Any necessary training carried out as and when necessary. This is reviewed and audited annually. Emma Burrows, responsible.
3. To engage and consult with employees on day-to-day health and safety conditions.
Staff to keep area around desks clean and tidy. Any concerns to be relayed to Judith McKeon.
4. To implement emergency procedures.
All main external doors to be kept clear at all times. Fire extinguishers are tested annually. In event of evacuation, all staff to gather in carpark. Emma Burrows, responsible.
5. To maintain safe and healthy working conditions.
All electrical appliances tested annually. Emma Burrows, responsible.
Health and safety law poster is displayed on the wall adjacent to the office door.
First-aid box and accident book is in first cupboard.
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Scope of the policy
This policy is aimed at MKLC customers, including learners and staff members who are using or delivering the qualifications and courses MKLC offer and who are involved in suspected or actual malpractice and/or maladministration.
Purpose of the policy
The purpose of this policy is to set out the steps to follow when reporting suspected or actual cases of malpractice and maladministration. It is also in place to review those processes which led to the suspected or actual case of malpractice and/or maladministration and to support any investigations.
As an approved centre of TQUK, we will act upon any reports of suspected or actual cases of malpractice and/or maladministration that we receive regarding our staff or learners, which may affect the integrity of MKLC training courses, qualifications and quality assurance systems. We also have a professional responsibility to report non adherence to this policy to our awarding organisation, TQUK.
Location of the policy
This policy is available for all staff members, third parties and learners to access.
Communication of the policy
It is important that staff involved in the management, assessment and quality assurance of our qualifications and learners undertaking qualification with us are fully aware of the contents of the policy.
Statement of Principles
Definitions of Malpractice:
Malpractice is any activity or practice which deliberately contravenes regulations and compromises the integrity of the assessment process and/or the validity of certificates. For the purpose of this policy this term also covers professional misconduct.
Definition of Maladministration:
Maladministration is 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 a centre (e.g. inappropriate learner records).
The categories listed below are examples of centre and learner malpractice and maladministration. Please note that these examples are for guidance only and are not exhaustive:
Plagiarism of any nature by learners.
Forgery of evidence.
Exam irregularities of any nature by learners.
Exam irregularities of any nature by staff.
Submission of false information to gain a proxy or a qualification.
Discriminatory, bullying or harassing behaviour.
Unprofessional conduct.
Behaviour likely to endanger the health or safety of the public.
Breach of confidentiality including, staff members, learners or MKLC information.
Failure to meet the Awarding Body or regulator’s requirements.
Falsifying assessment and/or exam records.
Falsifying administration records.
Reporting Procedure
Any person identifying cases of malpractice and/or maladministration should report them to a senior member of staff or centre manager to investigate.
If senior staff members or centre managers are suspected of being involved in malpractice and /or maladministration, the awarding organisation can be contacted.
MKLC have to investigate all cases of malpractice and maladministration in liaison with any parties concerned. If an investigation finds evidence of malpractice or maladministration, we will have to take the necessary steps to ensure that the learners’ interests are protected as far as is reasonably possible.
Reports into malpractice and/or maladministration must include:
The learner’s name
MKLC staff member details (name, job role) if they are involved in the case
The title of the qualification affected or nature of the service affected
The date(s) suspected or actual malpractice and/or maladministration occurred
The full nature of the suspected or actual malpractice and/or maladministration
We will acknowledge reports received within 3 working days of receipt
We will arrange for appropriate personnel to review the report and commence the investigation
We will aim to action and resolve all investigations within 7 working days of receipt of the report
We will advise on the outcome of our investigation within 2 working days of making our decision
We will report any suspected or actual incidents of malpractice and/or maladministration
When we receive a report of malpractice and/or maladministration, we will allocate a panel comprising senior MKLC staff members to investigate. The panel will review the report and supporting evidence and carry out the investigation.
The Investigation Process
During the investigation the panel’s review may involve:
A request for further information
Interviews (face to face or by telephone) with personnel involved in the investigation
We will make informed decisions based on the evidence
We will protect the identity of the ‘informant’ if required.
As part of our approved centre status with the Awarding Body, MKLC must inform them of any investigations and reports produced from investigations into suspected or actual cases of malpractice and maladministration. The Awarding Body reserve the right to lead and/or review any reported investigations into malpractice and/or maladministration within approved centres.
If issues regarding malpractice and maladministration are reported directly to the Awarding Body.
MKLC must allow the Awarding Body access to the centre, including staff members, learners, learners work and third party information (as required) in order to fully investigate any issues.
1. Definitions
Cheating includes but is not limited to:
Plagiarism, explained below.
Submission of work that is not the student's own for papers, assignments or exams.
Submission or use of falsified data.
Theft of or unauthorised access to an exam.
Use of an alternate, stand-in or proxy during an examination.
Use of unauthorised material including textbooks, notes or computer programs in the preparation of an assignment or during an examination.
Supplying or communicating in any way unauthorised information to another student for the preparation of an assignment or during an examination.
Submission of the same work for credit in two courses without obtaining the permission of the instructors beforehand.
Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, failure to indicate direct quotes with quotation marks or other uses of sources with suitable referencing, where appropriate if any of the following are reproduced in the work submitted by a student:
A phrase, written or musical.
A graphic element.
A proof.
Specific language
An idea derived from the work, published or unpublished, of another person.
Collusion means unauthorised collaboration on assessable written, oral or practical work with another person or persons and can occur when a student works with others to produce assessment tasks and presents the work as their own. The person supplying the work can also be deemed to have participated in collusion.
Collusion may involve MKLC students work or from work from a student external to the organisation. Unintentional collusion can happen in study or workshop groups and from group-based assessment where students are unsure about the boundary between what the trainer/assessor considers acceptable group work and collusion.
Policy
MKLC will rely on assessors to detect plagiarism, cheating and collusion in student’s assessment tools which are submitted.
If any plagiarism, cheating and collusion is suspected the main office should be informed.
MKLC will be responsible for conducting an investigation, and confirming if the first warning should be issued by the tutor or with repeated action will assess the severity of the individual case and determine an appropriated response based upon the procedure set out below.
Procedure
First indication of potential infringement > First formal written warning > Requirement to resubmit either part or whole assignment again.
Second indication of potential infringement > Meeting with MKLC > Depending on severity: 1) Final chance to submit, 2) The ability to complete other units for a unit certificate but not the full qualification provided.Third indication of potential infringement > Withdrawal from the course and recorded with the Awarding Body > The Awarding Body may impose restrictions on completing any course accredited to them either with MKLC or an alternative provider.
Learner Malpractice
If the investigation confirms that learner malpractice has taken place, MKLC have no alternative but to impose one or more of the following sanctions on the learner. Please note that this list is not exhaustive:
Disallowing all or part of the learner’s assessment evidence
Disallowing a learner to undertake an exam
Disallowing all or part of the learner’s external assessment marks
Not requesting the learner’s certificate(s) from TQUK
Disallowing a learner to undertake a qualification or course with MKLC
Disqualification from the qualification
In cases of malpractice and/or maladministration by learners, MKLC will make learners aware that their final results may be void if the case is proven. Any certificates which have already been issued by the Awarding Body may be deemed to be invalid. Certificates may need to be returned to the awarding body.
If a learner is not satisfied with the investigation process or outcome conducted by MKLC, they can escalate their issues to the Awarding Body to investigate.
The decision regarding any malpractice and/or maladministration investigation undertaken by the Awarding Body is final.
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Preventing the radicalisation of students is part of a Government initiative to develop an effective counter terrorism programme. The UK faces a range of terrorist threats. All the terrorist groups who pose a threat to us seek to radicalise and recruit people to their cause. The Government Prevent strategy seeks to:
Respond to the ideological challenge of terrorism and aspects of extremism, and the threat we face from those who promote these views
Provide practical help to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism and ensure they are given appropriate advice and support
Work with a wide range of sectors where there are risks of radicalisation which needs to be addressed, including education, criminal justice, faith, charities, the internet and health
A system of threat level has been created which represents the likelihood of an attack in the near future. The five levels are:
Critical - an attack is expected imminently
Severe - an attack is highly likely
Substantial - an attack is a strong possibility
Moderate - an attack is possible but not likely
Low - an attack is unlikely
As we work with ethnically diverse learners, we must be aware that we have a role to play in promoting shared values. Although our learners are low risk, we must recognise that violence and extremism can manifest themselves anywhere, even in training settings such as ours.
Our objectives are:
To promote and reinforce shared values
To support inter-faith and inter-cultural dialogue and understanding
To ensure student safety by keeping MKLC interactive programmes free from bullying, harassment and discrimination
To ensure that staff are aware of their roles and responsibilities in preventing violent extremism.
In order to achieve these objectives we will:
Promote equality and diversity and understanding which are our core values
Develop understanding of the issues and confidence to deal with them
Use teaching and learning strategies which explore controversial issues in a way which promotes critical analysis and pro social values
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“Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a method of assessment [leading to the award of credit] that considers whether learners can demonstrate that they can meet the assessment requirements for a unit through knowledge, understanding or skills they already possess and so not need to develop through a course of learning.” (Ofqual)
MKLC provides opportunities for learners to have units of their qualifications accredited as RPL providing the evidence submitted covers the principles of being valid, current, reliable, authentic and sufficient.
Learners need to provide a certificate or transcript with the name of the units clearly shown, the certificate should be issued by an Ofqual Awarding Body, a recognised University or other approved external bodies. Work which has been internally assessed by another provider but not externally approved can be reviewed but cannot be automatically accredited.
Certificates issued within the last five years will be accepted, but if more than a year since being issued, learners will need to complete a short document to demonstrate their knowledge is still current. Certificates over five years will be considered on an individual basis.
This policy will be reviewed on an annual basis.
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Scope of the policy
This policy is provided for MKLC customers, including learners and staff members who are using or delivering the training/ qualifications MKLC offer.
Location of the policy
This policy is available for all staff members, third parties and learners to access.
Communication of the policy
It is important that staff involved in the management, delivery, assessment and quality assurance of the training/qualifications and learners undertaking these qualifications, are fully aware of the contents of the policy.
Review of the policy
MKLC will review the policy annually and revise it as and when required in response to customer and stakeholder feedback, changes in practices, actions required by Awarding Bodies or changes in legislation. Our review will ensure that our procedures continue to be consistent with the regulatory criteria and are applied properly and fairly in arriving at judgements.
Policy Statement
This policy provided for MKLC centre staff and learners to ensure they deal with all reasonable adjustment and special consideration requests in a consistent manner.
Statement of Principles
MKLC is committed to complying with all current and relevant legislation in relation to the development and delivery of qualifications. We are committed to ensuring that all learners have fair and equal access to assessment where possible and practicable. A reasonable adjustment may be required where a learner has a permanent disability or specific learning needs A special consideration may be required where a learner has a temporary disability, medical condition or learning needs or is indisposed at the time of the assessment.
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 during an assessment.
Reasonable adjustments 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
providing and allowing different coloured transparencies.
Reasonable adjustments are approved or set in place by the Awarding Body before the assessment activity takes place; they constitute an arrangement to give the learner access to the assessment.
Requesting Reasonable Adjustments
Learners must make relevant MKLC staff members aware of any reasonable adjustments they require. MKLC staff members are responsible for applying to The Awarding Body for reasonable adjustment request (when appropriate). All requests must be made following procedures as outlined in The Awarding Body’s guidelines and policies.
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.
Any requests to The Awarding Body for Special Considerations, must be made by a relevant MKLC staff member within 5 days of the assessment taking place.
For example, special consideration could apply to a learner who had temporarily experienced:-
an illness or injury
some other event outside of their control
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.
All documents relating to reasonable adjustments and special considerations must be saved and stored securely in the centre. The Awarding Body must be given access to any information or documents regarding any appeals, when requested.
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Scope of the policy
This policy is provided for MKLC customers, including learners and staff members who are using or delivering the courses/qualifications MKLC offer.
Location of the policy
This policy is available for all staff members, third parties and learners to access.
Communication of the policy
It is important that staff involved in the management, assessment and quality assurance of our qualifications and learners undertaking qualifications and courses with us, are fully aware of the contents of the policy.
Statement of Principles
MKLC is strongly committed to practices that protect children, young people and vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect or significant harm.
Staff recognise and accept their responsibilities to develop the awareness of the risk and issues involved in safeguarding.
MKLC also recognises that it has a responsibility to protect staff from unfounded allegations of abuse. MKLC will seek to ensure, where reasonably practicable, outcomes set out in ‘Every Child Matters’ are extended to work-related learning and work-based situations, in particular that activities contribute to children and adults:
Being Healthy
Staying Safe
Enjoying and Achieving
Making a Positive Contribution
Achieving Economic Well-Being
Definition
For the purposes of this policy and procedures, children are defined in the Children Act of 1989 as a person under the age of 18 years. The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 defines a ‘vulnerable adult’ as a person aged 18 and over and:-
receiving a social care service
receiving a health service
living in sheltered accommodation
detained in custody or under a probation order
requiring assistance in the conduct of his/her affairs
receiving a service or participating in an activity targeted at older people, people with disabilities or which physical or mental health conditions
any other adults whose particular circumstances make them vulnerable at a particular time
Accountability and Responsibility
Staff members are responsible for monitoring and managing incidents or concerns and liaising with the relevant safeguarding agencies when appropriate.
MKLC is responsible for ensuring that the Safeguarding Policy and procedures are in place, and that they are available for scrutiny by the relevant authorities. MKLC are accountable for the overall Safeguarding Policy of the organisation and we will act in accordance with the statutory and legislative guidance to safeguard and protect the welfare of learners and our employees.
Staff Training
MKLC has a duty to promote safeguarding issues and measures to staff and ensure that they:
analyse their own practice against established good practice, and assess risk to ensure their practice is likely to protect them from false allegations.
recognise their responsibilities and report any concerns about suspected poor practice or possible abuse
follow the guidelines for staff
undertake training on safeguarding to raise awareness of current issues and legislation
complete Criminal Record Bureau Checking (DBS)
Learners
MKLC will provide information advice and guidance for learners with regards to this policy.
The company has a responsibility to ensure safe recruitment and employment practices. New and existing staffs who frequently or intensively work with children, young people and vulnerable adults in training, supervision, advice, etc will be checked through the Home Office for criminal record information. All potential new employees will be subjected to pre-employment checks.
Statutory Framework
MKLC aims to meet legislative requirements and good practice in safeguarding. The statutory framework under which we operate includes the Children’s Act 1989. This provides a legal framework for the protection of children and young people in the UK. The Protection of Children Act 1999 requires employers to carry out Criminal Record Checks before employees are allowed to come into contact with children. The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 sets out the type of activity in relation to children and vulnerable adults for which employers and individuals will be subject. From 2008 Ofsted inspectors make a judgement on procedures for safeguarding learners meeting current government requirements. They comment on policy, procedures, vetting and training as impact on learners dictates.
Review
MKLC Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed annually. The review process includes analysis of monitoring data, consultation with and feedback from learners, clients, staff and other stakeholders to determine the impact of the policy and any action required.
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Scope
This is the statement of sustainability policy related to MKLC staff, operations, courses and students.
Purpose
This Sustainability Policy aims to integrate a philosophy of sustainable development into all the organisation’s activities and to establish and promote sound environmental, social and economic practice in our operations. Through this policy we:
Commit to comply with applicable law in all our operations.
Commit to protect human rights. We are a committed equal opportunity employer and will abide by all fair labour practices. We’ll ensure that our activities do not directly or indirectly violate human rights in our own or other country.
Commit to minimise our impact on our environment and maximise the effective use of resources.
Commit to foster responsible environmental behaviour amongst staff at all levels.
Commit to minimise risks and impacts through processes and systems to implement, measure and monitor environmental and social performance.
Commit to increase communication and awareness of our efforts.
MKLC has taken into consideration the 17 goals of the United Nations and the COP26 pledge to reduce to zero carbon emissions and based our policies and actions on these.
Principles
Environmental
We will:
comply with all laws governing the environment.
strive to better understand both the direct and indirect impact that our practices may have on the environment.
minimise or offset our impact on the environment.
work towards the conservation of energy, water and resources in all our operations.
dispose of waste thoughtfully, and follow the waste hierarchy of ‘Avoid, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’.
lessen our environmental impact by purchasing environmentally-friendly products and services.
take steps to continually improve environmental performance.
protect and support biodiversity.
conduct audits, evaluations, and self-assessments of the implementation of this policy.
work with our entire supply chain in order to gain mutual benefits of incorporating environmentally sustainable goals into everyday business.
be an environmentally responsible neighbour in our community.
promote environmental awareness throughout all operations of the company.
foster a sustainably aware culture, where responsibility is assigned and understood.
strive to raise awareness in the community, encourage participation and train employees in environmental and social matters.
People / Social
We will:
comply with legislation such as the Modern Slavery Act 2018, Equality Act 2010 and PREVENT.
provide a safe and healthy workplace.
support diversity and inclusion.
encourage gender equality
engage early and meaningfully with stakeholders, including indigenous organisations, communities, industry and government.
avoid harming the lives of local people.
look to promote educational inclusivity to all
promote long-term economic benefits within communities.
Economic
We will:
consider and support sustainability initiatives with a strong business case.
integrate sustainability into our existing business models, accounting and reporting
add value to our products and services to support sustainability markets.
reduce operating costs through improved resource management eg, water, waste, energy, carbon, employee engagement.
manage risk of operational disruptions e.g. resource scarcity, climate change impact, or community risks.
reduce reputation risks and communicate actions.
Principles in Action
Environmental
Carbon emissions
At MKLC we are committed to lowering our carbon footprint where possible, by providing the majority of microteaches through Zoom platforms this reduces the carbon emissions per microteach to around 0.07g CO2e compared to 18kg CO2e for those in person. We use video conferencing to reduce our national and international need for travel, as well as providing flexibility for staff to work from the office or home reducing travel emissions. Any lights or electrical items not needed for Health and Safety are switched off when the office is empty.
Waste and recycling
MKLC aims to reduce paper waste in the organisation, by using tablets where possible to display handouts and for note taking, where handouts require a physical copy, these are made into notepads if possible or otherwise recycled. Paper based products which need to be shredded which currently can reduce the ability to recycle in paper mills are composted.
To reduce waste, items are used again if possible or adapted for other uses, particularly items from previous microteaches.
Responsible consumption and production
Our main services can be delivered with no physical good production or transportation, no set textbooks are required for the courses and all material is available online.
For some courses MKLC is now offering learners the choice of digital certificates only. Where hard copies are requested, these are sent in envelopes which are fully recyclable and where possible multiple certificates are sent in same cohort to reduce transport emissions, particularly those requiring air mail.
Social
MKLC staff have the opportunity to work from different locations to improve their work-life balance. We support our staff and encourage them to develop their skills and knowledge to reach their full potential through continuous professional development and notify staff of options. We value our staff and provide opportunities for everyone to be involved and express themselves and our dress policy does not discriminate against anyone. MKLC promotes equality and inclusivity to our staff as well as our students, our induction forms have sections for preferred pronouns, gender identity and preferred names. MKLC strives to only work with ethical organisations and where possible purchase fairtrade or from local suppliers.
Our courses are designed to be flexible reducing barriers to education for those who are working and unable to take leave to complete a course. The online aspect means the course is open to people regardless of their location, during the course they are introduced to our policies and values, which we hope will be delivered onto their students.
Economic
MKLC has improved our resource management by considering our carbon footprint and taking steps where possible to reduce these. We reduce operating costs by using modern communication technologies and web-based platforms for course delivery. We are implementing our environmental and social policies to reduce ethical liabilities. When planning for the future, we take into consideration how actions would impact the economy, and which will help promote a sustainable economy.
MKLC has offices in a building owned by an independently owned charity, which provides grants and encourages philanthropy in the local area, to support the growth and development in the local economy.