Definitions

For the purposes of these terms and conditions:

“the Centre”, “we” and ”us” means The Full Spectrum Centre Limited, company number 10069380. Our address is The Full Spectrum Centre Limited, The Old Courthouse, Chapel Street, Dukinfield, Greater Manchester SK16 4DY. Our telephone number is 0161 711 0658. Our e-mail address is training@thefullspectrumcentrelimited.co.uk and our website address is https://vocationaltraining.fullspectrumcentrelimited.co.uk

“you” means the learner attending our course or courses

“course” means the course designed, developed or offered by us including any revision or updates to the course as we may make from time to time and includes CPD/Introduction training days

“course materials” means the physical working material relating to any of our courses including any revisions or updates that we may make from time to time and may be in any format of our choosing

“CPD training day” means training day(s) offered to maintain and meet up to date continuing professional development requirements.

Enrolment

Upon enrolment all course/registration fees must be received in full or a payment plan arranged, and deposit paid. All course/registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. If a learner fails to attend or complete a course for any reason (including personal issues, change in personal circumstances, change of mind or relocation), except in exceptional circumstances e.g. Terminal Illness, at our sole discretion, we may consider refund or transfer of any deposit or payment made for a course if non-attendance or cancellation is a result of serious illness in the learner. However, we will require a doctor’s certificate before considering the exercise of this discretion. Please see Fee Waivers, Transfers and Refund Requests.

Fee Waivers, Transfers and Refund Requests

The Centre Policy is that fees are not waived, transferred nor refundable except in the following exceptional circumstances:

1. A course/class is cancelled by the Centre; where cancellation of a course takes place, students will be offered either a place on a suitable alternative course or a full refund/fee waiver.
2. If the time, day, evening or location of the class has been changed by the Centre and the learner is unable to continue attending because of these changes.
3. Fee waiver, transfer or refund applications shall be considered only in exceptional circumstances by the Financial Controller. Any case for exceptional circumstances to be considered must be supported by appropriate evidence. This will include situations where the learner did not attend the course of study but only informed the Centre after the course commenced. Any approved fee waiver, transfer or refund will be subject to a £25 administration fee. Please be aware that requests for cancellation and refund after 120 days of enrollment or pre-existing conditions or circumstances will not be accepted as exceptional circumstances.

If a fee waiver/refund applicant has attended one or more classes/practical training days or accessed their theory lessons online then no reduction in fee (waiver) nor refund may be given, except in circumstance 3 above. Where a refund has been refused it may be possible to transfer the tuition fee paid to another course/workshop or defer studies until the applicant is in a position to continue. Registration, examination and validation fees will NOT be waived or refunded.

How to request a Fee Waiver / Refund Request

For circumstances 1 and 2 above no request is required. You will automatically be contacted by the Centre to discuss alternative options or a refund will be issued.

For circumstances 3 a Fee Waiver/Refund Request form must be completed. This form is also available in a pre-printed format from the Centre. Under circumstance 3 supporting evidence must be submitted along with your request. If you do not submit evidence your request will not be considered. Any approved fee waiver or refund will be subject to a £50 administration fee.

Appeals

In the event that a fee waiver/refund applicant is dissatisfied with the outcome of their application, they may lodge an appeal, in writing, within 14 working days of the receipt of the outcome letter. Applicants cannot appeal a Fee Waiver/Refund decision on the same issue unless there is new evidence or other grounds to do so.

Payment Plans

Once a Payment Plan is in place full payment is required even if the learner decides to cancel/leave a course before its completion for any reason. Course fees may be transferred to an alternate course or start date, but they are non-refundable. Payment Plans are only available to UK residents. Late payments are subject to a £25 Late Payment Fee.

Cancellations

According to distance selling regulations if you enrol online you have the right to a 14-day cooling off period where during the first 14 days after enrolling on a course/courses or setting up a payment plan you have an unconditional right to cancel.

If you exercise your right to cancel a course which has commenced before the cancellation period of 14 days expires, you will be liable to us for our reasonable fees for the work we have carried out up to the date of cancellation. If the entire course has been completed prior to cancellation, then you lose your right to cancel. You acknowledge that these terms and conditions constitute notice of your loss of the right to cancel in these circumstances.

Payments

Our normal payment methods include direct bank transfer, credit/debit card via our card processing merchant Stripe, cash or direct debit. We do not accept cheques.

Course Completion

You have a maximum of 2 years to complete your course. It is not the responsibility of your tutor to contact you with regard to your study work, we will not remind you of the time allocation left and once this time is up your registration will expire. In the event of your registration expiring prior to course completion then a charge to cover reregistration fees can be made to extend your study time. The request to extend your studies must be made within two weeks of your registration expiring. If you are struggling to complete your course for any reason please contact your course tutor who will do everything they can to support you. You do have the option to defer, meaning you can take a break from your studies and commence them again when able to. Please be aware this may incur additional registration fees in some cases.

Centre Rules

Plagiarism

Plagiarism, that is the presentation of another person's thoughts or words as though they were your own, must be avoided, with particular care in assignments. Note that you are encouraged to read, evaluate, critique, contrast and compare the work of others as much as possible at this level. You are expected to incorporate this in your thinking and in your assignments. You must acknowledge and reference your sources.

Direct quotations from the published or unpublished work of others, from the internet, or from any other source must always be clearly identified as such. A full reference to their source must be provided in the proper form and quotation marks used. Remember that a series of short quotations from several different sources, if not clearly identified as such, constitutes plagiarism just as much as a single unacknowledged long quotation from a single source. Equally, if you summarise another person's ideas or judgments, figures or diagrams, you must refer to that person in your text, and include the work referred to in your bibliography or as footnotes or endnotes.

The direct and unacknowledged repetition of your own work which has already been submitted for assessment can constitute self-plagiarism.

We have anti-plagiarism procedures in place and will not accept work copied from the internet. We have the right to withhold certification and use oral/verbal questions via the telephone should we suspect this to be the case.

Policies and Principles

All courses are developed and designed to be delivered in English, and therefore a good standard of English is required to offer maximum chance of success, enjoyment, participation and learning.

We will use your feedback within course reviews, and annual self-evaluation for our business and will ask permission to use this for marketing purposes.

We believe that no learner should be disadvantaged by reason of disability.

We expect reasonable behaviour from our candidates and their representatives, and for them to refrain from bad language that may be thought of as offensive, abusive, racist, libellous or defamatory. We reserve the right to terminate the registration of candidates or their representatives should the behaviour be found, in our opinion, to be unreasonable.

All of our policies and documents are available within our online Virtual Learning Resource and candidates are required to download them and familiarise themselves with them.

Once you have successfully completed all the assessment work necessary for your qualification, your certificate will be claimed through VTCT’s external quality assurance process by The Full Spectrum Centre Limited.

Appearance

Candidates are expected to observe personal hygiene and dress in a manner conducive to the profession and working environment.

Whilst casual wear is allowed during Practical Element sessions, candidates must present an overall smart appearance; no jean wear. Professional attire such as a tunic or polo shirt for sports therapy must be worn when attending exams or assessments.

Professional Etiquette

Candidates are expected to conduct themselves professionally during Practical Element sessions and assessments, especially when VTCT representatives or client models are present.

Candidates must observe all rules of professional conduct when working with client models during Practical Elements. There is no exception to chewing gum, smoking, eating or drinking while working with a client model. In case of difficulties please consult with your tutor/assessor.

Remember candidates are expected to offer a professional service to their client model in a realistic working environment.

You must contact us immediately to advise if you are going to be absent. You may not miss a lecture, class or training day without prior authority from your course tutor. Examination regulations state that you must attend at least 80% of the course to be able to sit an examination.

No food or drink will be allowed in the classrooms. A kitchen and common area/room is provided for food to be consumed and for drinks.

Mobile phones must be switched off and packed away during lessons and practical training except with the prior agreement of the course tutor.

Complaints and Appeals Procedure

Before having recourse to the Complaints Procedure, a candidate should make every effort to resolve a problem with the individual(s) concerned or consult his/her tutor for help and advice. Only when these steps have failed, or when the learner has good cause for not pursuing these means of resolving the issue, should the Complaints Procedure be invoked.

The Complaints Procedure shall not apply to cases in which an individual wishes to appeal against an academic decision by the centre or an awarding organisation; in such instances, the applicant should follow the Appeals Procedure.

No action will be taken in the case of complaints made anonymously.

Candidates shall not be disadvantaged for lodging a complaint in good faith.

Referrals and resubmissions

If you do not pass the first time we will advise you as to what you need to do to amend the work. You will then be allowed to resubmit it for re-assessment.

Working Guidelines during Practical Element sessions and cases study work (summary)

Remove jewellery to ensure that your client model is adequately protected.

Communication is essential between you and your client. When conducting the consultation ensure that you use the appropriate consultation techniques.

Make sure you complete all appropriate consultation forms fully.

Ensure you fully inform your clients of aftercare advice.

Need to know requirements

Know the fire drill.

All accidents must be reported and logged in the accident report book, which is located next to the first aid box.

Health and safety guidelines must be observed.

Familiarise yourself with notices around the centre.

Ensure that all spillages/breakages are reported to your tutor.

Ensure all walkways are free of coats, bags etc. Please hang up in the necessary area.

Preparation of Work Areas

Ensure that equipment is safely set out on the trolley you are working on.

All equipment must be clean and treated with a relevant antiseptic before use.

Under no circumstances must damaged equipment be used.

For every client model a consultation form must be completed.

All practical work must be observed, recorded and assessed by your assessor.

Floor Debris

Any debris left on the surface of the floor is a potential hazard. Please ensure that floors are kept clean and clear. This will reduce the risk of infection and avoid slippage for you, your client model, tutor and other candidates. Always clean up immediately a spillage of any nature and report to the tutor/assessor.

Dermatitis

An occupational hazard for therapists is dermatitis. This is a skin condition usually found on the hands which is irritated by the constant use of water and products. Always dry your hands thoroughly after treating a client model and regularly protect your skin by using a barrier cream to help prevent dryness from occurring. On the first sign of a skin complaint, please inform your tutor and consult your doctor immediately.

Heavy Objects

Please get help if you are unsure of an object's weight. If an object is too heavy or awkward to carry, do not attempt to carry it yourself as you may cause injury to yourself and others by doing so.

Bins

Although the centre carries a non-smoking policy, never place contents of ashtrays, or sharp objects in a general waste bin. If you see sharp objects or ashtray contents in a bin, please alert your tutor immediately prior to emptying the bin. Sharps have a specific bin and are easily recognised by their bright yellow appearance.

Trailing leads

Never leave long leads or wires where they may be tripped over or caught together.

Always ensure that large items are cleared from the path of walkways, aisles, etc.

Please note that under no circumstances should electrical leads come into contact whatsoever with water.

Fire Drill

On hearing the alarm please evacuate the building immediately, if there are client models present please instruct them to leave briskly and in an orderly fashion.

Your tutor will call the fire brigade.

Do not stop to pick up coats or items.

Exit by the marked fire escape.

Assemble at the rear of the premises - designated sign.

Stay in your group.

Tutor to call the register.

Do not enter the building until you are told it is safe to do so, by the fire brigade or tutor.

Preventing Fire Accidents

Ensure that all flammable liquids are kept safe under lock and key.

Do not overload electrical circuits by using multi-socket plugs.

Ensure that all cigarettes are safely extinguished.

All firefighting equipment must be within easy reach and accessible.

All firefighting equipment must be maintained correctly.

Prevention of Accidents

Falling Accidents

The treatment /training room must be well-lit with no dark areas.

The floor must be non-slip.

Any spillage must be wiped or mopped up immediately.

Ensure that there are no trailing leads.

Ensure that any sharp angles or projections are removed from furniture or wall units.

Electrical Accidents

Ensure that all wiring and electrical appliances are maintained or repaired by a qualified Electrical Contractor. Never attempt to repair equipment yourself.

Ensure all appliances are switched off after use.

Check all appliances before use.

If an appliance is fused or does not work, please inform your tutor immediately.

Under no circumstances should you handle any electrical equipment with wet hands.

Hair

Professional appearance, especially where hair is concerned is one of the most important assets to a therapist. It conveys advertisement for the training centre and the individual. Therefore, it is essential that your hair looks and feels good. It does not mean your hair needs to be fashionable, but simply clean, neat and healthy looking. This can be achieved by:Regular cutting and trimming.

Use a good choice of hair products related to your hair type.

Healthy living (diet etc).

Posture

Bad posture can lead to fatigue and possibly ill health. Strain on calf, back and other areas of the body will also be apparent if you do not stand correctly.

Rounding or hunching of shoulders can lead to compression of the chest, which could lead to respiratory and circulation problems.

Appearance will also be affected if posture and composure is not correct.

A good appearance is to stand upright and vertically move by bending your knees slowly whilst keeping your back in flow with your movement.

Breach of rules

For any breach of the Centre rules, we reserve the right to effect an immediate expulsion from the course (with no refund given) and, where appropriate, send a report to the police.

For any breach of the Centre rules that does not result in immediate expulsion, you will receive a verbal warning. When you have received two verbal warnings any further breach not resulting in expulsion will bring a final written warning. If breaches of the rules continue you will be expelled from the course with no refund given.

For any breach of the Centre rules resulting in expulsion from the course, we will not be liable for any consequential loss, damage, expenses or any other consequential compensation whatsoever.

Course Materials

We will make reasonable efforts to ensure all course materials are up-to-date, accurate and of suitable quality. However, we accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

You must inspect the course materials via our Virtual Learning Platform as soon as reasonably practical after they are supplied to you (and no later than 48 hours in any event). You must notify us if you find any errors or omissions.

All copyright and other intellectual property relating to course materials are either owned or licenced to us. Copying, adapting or any other use of the course materials is strictly prohibited, without prior written permission from us.

Insurance, Liability and Accreditation

If you are insured currently please make it your responsibility to check with your insurance provider if they will insure our courses. We are accredited by external organisations, VTCT and IPHM who approve and accredit our courses, other insurance companies will also, but please double check with your own insurance company.

We may at any time (and without prior notification) make changes to the format of the course which are necessary to comply with any applicable safety or statutory requirements, or which do not materially affect the nature or quality of the course. We reserve the right to add to or amend the scheme of work without prior notice and to alter our opening hours.

Paying for and/or attending a course with us does not guarantee a qualification, award, diploma or certificate of achievement. These are gained by successful completion of the course assignments, case studies, assessments and examinations. It is the decision of the assessor / awarding bodies to pass a learner for qualification. We are not responsible for any loss as a result of a student failing to achieve a pass in the course. If you fail to attend the necessary 100% of the course and under examination regulations are not submitted for the examination then we will not be liable for any other consequential loss, damages, expenses or any other consequential compensation whatsoever.

Learning Barriers/Disabilities

We will ask you to complete an enrolment form when joining us for a course. You will be asked to specify any learning barriers/disabilities so we can make sure we offer you appropriate support. If you have a learning difficulty such as dyslexia, we can request 25% extra time for any written exams that you might take. We would require documentation of your learning barrier/disability, which would be submitted to VTCT.

Complaints and Disputes

Complaints Procedure

If you are unhappy about any aspect of our service, please contact The Full Spectrum Centre Limited on 0161 821 0021 or training@thefullspectrumcentrelimited.co.uk

If we believe the matter can be dealt with informally, then we will do our best to resolve the problem immediately. If we don’t believe the matter can be dealt with informally (or informal resolution was unsuccessful), then the following procedure will be used:

We will send you a letter or e-mail acknowledging the complaint within 7 working days of receipt. We will ask you to clarify or confirm any further details we need. We will tell you the name of the person who will deal with your complaint.

We will investigate your complaint thoroughly and aim to send a detailed reply to you within 15 working days of sending the acknowledgement.

Before we send the detailed reply, we may invite you to a meeting to discuss your complaint. The meeting can be held face to face, by phone, Zoom or by Skype call to suit you.

If you are still not satisfied with what we have done, you can contact us again to review our decision. We will aim to send you the outcome of the review within 15 working days of receiving your request for review. This will be our final position on your complaint.