MRC POLICIES

MRC always strives to maintain the highest standards of teaching and learning.

Mont Rose College strives to maintain the highest quality of teaching and learning experience for its students. MRC commits to a process of continual improvements, and to maintaining its achievements through an enthusiastic process of standards and quality assurance.

  • ACADEMIC ETHICS

    Academic Ethics and Integrity Policy of Management Education
    It is Mont Rose College students’ responsibility to ensure all work submitted or presented to them is entirely their own. Serious violation of this rule in cheating or plagiarism may result in dismissal of the student from the college. The Director, senior tutors, and teachers are responsible for clarifying to staff and students items in the Academic Ethics Policy as outlined below.

    Cheating
    Any use of an unfair means to pass an examination or assessment, e.g. attempt to submit an assignment which is not entirely prepared by the student shall constitute cheating. Compliance with this rule requires the students to observe the following points:

    • Students must not take books, notes, or any other devices or materials into an examination without first obtaining the express approval of their tutor.
    • Once the test has begun, the student must not engage in discussion or communicate with any other students in the examination hall for the duration of the exam.
    • Papers, projects, computer programs, and other assessment materials must not be submitted if it is the work of or contains unacknowledged work of any person other than the student concerned.

    Plagiarism

    Incorporation of any text into any assessed material whether intentionally or otherwise without due acknowledgment of its author or source constitutes plagiarism.

    Non-compliance with the following guidelines may constitute plagiarism:

    • All direct quotes must be acknowledged and documented appropriately, and citations must cover all works used.
    • The sources of paraphrased and summarized materials have proper citation and bibliography accordingly.
    • Students must ensure that all citations are correct and not misleading.

    Other violations include:

    • Unauthorized alteration of the College's Ethics and Policy Documents, unless there is express approval by the Director or relevant authorities.
    • Failure to comply with any specific regulation stated by a tutor.
    • Aiding or assisting, knowingly or intentionally, another student to violate any of the above rules.

  • ADMISSIONS POLICY

    1. Policy Statement

    Mont Rose College welcomes applications from all prospective students with the motivation to learn and the potential to succeed. The College review and update the admissions policy and procedures to ensure that it continues to support the mission and strategic objectives of the College. (Indicator – 4, chapter B2). The College is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity for all individuals seeking a place on a programme.

    This admissions policy is made in line with the QAA quality code chapter B2.

    2. Scope

    Mont Rose College will ensure that all applications are dealt with on an individual basis and are considered fairly in line with the College’s Equality and Diversity Policy, Admissions Requirements and Guidelines and any relevant legislation like Data Protection, Competition and Market Authority etc.

    The policy and procedures are clear and are conducted in a professional manner by the trained staff members. (Indicator -1, chapter B2)

    3. Legislation

    The following legislation applies to this policy

    • Equality and Diversity Policy
    • Student Welfare Policy
    • Prevent Policy (Counterterrorism and Security Act 2015)
    • Data Protection Policy (Act -1998)
    • Recognition of Prior learning Policy
    • Equal opportunity Policy.
    • Competition and Market Authority Policy

    4. Responsibilities

    Everyone has a responsibility to give full and active support to the policy by ensuring:-

    4.1 The admission process should be conducted by trained and competent staff members in a professional manner. They should thoroughly check the applications to ensure that the prospective students meet the necessary entry criteria. (Indicator -2, chapter B2)

    4.2 The admissions staff should use different ways to enable prospective students from a range of different backgrounds to demonstrate their potential to succeed in their studies. E.g case studies, diagnostic test and interviews

    4.3 The admission manager should ensure that the information about entry requirements, study mode and teaching and learning should be available on the college website for the students to make informed decisions.

    4.4 The admission process should be clearly explained

    4.5 Any significant change to a programme, e.g. location of the programme, delivery, content, etc. should appear on Mont Rose College website and Facebook page.

    4.6 The admission staff should ensure that prospective students get all pertinent information at the time of the orientation which enables them to make a smooth transition from prospective student to current students (Indicator -10, chapter B2)

    4.7 Detailed course specifications should be developed for each course offered to assist students in making an informed decision. (Indicator -5, chapter -B2)

    5. Actions to Implement and Develop Policy

    5.1 Criteria for Admission

    The Mont Rose College recruits students of outstanding achievement from all educational backgrounds. Proven previous exam results are the main focus towards admission at Mont Rose College. International students also need to show English competency in order to secure admission.

    The following criteria must be met in order to secure admission at Mont Rose College.

    • A level pass or equivalent
    • A BTEC level 3 qualifications in business (the foreign qualification has to be translated into English by a recognised translator)
    • Other relevant level 3 qualifications
    • An access to a higher education certificate awarded by an approved further education institution
    • Relevant work experience
    • a. International students must have a proof of English competency, in the form of an English test approved by UKBA. They should have CEFR B2 level and above in reading, writing, listening and speaking.
      b. Non-native English speakers must have proof of English competency, in the form of a CEFR B2 level or equivalent in English language proficiency.
    • Applicants whose educational qualifications do not meet the entry requirement of Mont Rose College will be considered for admissions if they have two years or more full time work experience.
    • Mature Learners may present a more varied profile of achievement that is likely to include extensive work experience (paid and / or unpaid) and / or achievement of a range of professional qualifications in their work sector.
    • The EU students applying for a tuition and maintenance loan from Student Finance should check the terms and conditions of the Student Loan Company.
    • Admission interviews will be conducted by the academic staff and applications can be refused on the basis of an interview. (Indicator -7, chapter B2).

    5.1.2 Procedure:

    Once the college has received all the above information from the student then the candidates are required to take the initial diagnostic test. The candidate needs to achieve more than 50 % to pass to the next stage which is to be interviewed

    After the interview the final decision is made.

    An unconditional offer letter will be issued to the accepted candidates
    A conditional letter will be issued to students where they have to meet a certain condition of entry. (Indicator -8, chapter B2)

    • Complete Admission Application with the required documents
    • Within 5 working days the student will have to take the initial diagnostic test
    • If a prospective student's score in the initial diagnostic test is more than 50%, an admission interview should be conducted by an academic staff member on the same day
    • Refusal, conditional or unconditional letters to be issued within a week of the interview
    • Successful students will be informed of the Induction day

    (Indicator -6, chapter B2)

    For International Student the criteria of admission are almost same but before issuing the CAS letter the college has to check the student’s English level, which should confirm that student has achieved a CEFR level B2 in English.

    Once an International student arrives at college on enrolment day, then it is the responsibility of the appointed person to check their academic documents along with their Visa and scan them. Once student documents are completed, then he orshe is required to take the initial diagnostic test.

    5.2 Right to Refuse an Application

    The College reserves the right to refuse an application if the applicant fails to fulfil the mentioned criteria.

    5.3. Applicants who do not meet the normal entry requirements for a particular course may be given a place subject to specified conditions. These conditions will be made explicit to the applicant. A decision to admit an applicant under these circumstances will be at the discretion of the Principal or his nominee(s), usually the Admissions Manager.

    6. Colleges require below mentioned documents from student’s admission and if they can’t provide any of these requested information then they must inform college and get extra time to complete their application.

    • Complete Application form
    • Passport /I.D/ Birth Certificate
    • Educational Documents minimum Level 3 (English translation if its foreign language)
    • Personal Statement
    • C.V
    • Work Experience Letter
    • CEFR B2 Level (Non U.K & E.U only)
    • 2 Passport size pictures

    7. The student has a right to appeal against the admission decision and can request a review of a decision concerning the selection or admission. The appeal policy is available on the college website. (Indicator -3, Chapter B2)

    The college does not allow appeals based on academic judgement., An appeal can be filed with regards to procedural grounds only within 2 weeks of the decision

    8. The College will inform the prospective students of any significant changes in the programme they have applied and will advise promptly of the other choices available. (Indicator -9, chapter B2)

    9. Monitoring & Evaluation

    The College’s Senior Management Team will monitor the operation of the policy by receiving an annual report on admissions.

  • EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

    Equal Opportunities

    Mont Rose College commitment to maintaining high standards in the provision of education and other services is coupled with its aim of eliminating discrimination and the promotion of equal opportunities for all as required under the provisions of national legislation.

    Notwithstanding individual differences in needs, MRC asserts its belief that all members of the short courses London college staff and students are to be treated equally regardless of their gender, ethnic origin, age, ability, disability, faith, sexual orientation or any other attribute.

    The working culture in the College in Ilford does not tolerate discrimination, victimisation and harassment in whichever form it occurs. When acting as an employer, provider of education or other services, MRC is committed to implementing its equal opportunities Policy of Management Education. To achieve this aim the college will adhere to the points below:

    • Take all steps necessary to implement all legislation relevant to equality policy.
    • Wherever appropriate, the college will ensure all publicity materials contain an express statement of our commitment to equality of opportunity.
    • Prepare, publish and update literature such as the Student Charter and Student Handbook that describe the facilities, explain service standards and set out complaint procedures and performance indicators to monitor matters relating to equality of opportunity.
    • Write and regularly update a code of conduct describing the types of behaviour which the college considers incompatible with the MRC ethos of promoting equal opportunities and detail all disciplinary actions that can be taken against those acting in violation of the code of conduct.
    • Ensure high levels of awareness of the contents of the code of conduct and the consequences of violating it among students and members of the staff.
    • Take steps regularly to monitor, evaluate and review college policies dealing with equality of opportunity.

  • QUALITY ASSURANCE POLICY

    Quality Assurance Policy

    Mont Rose College always strives to maintain the highest quality of teaching and learning experience for its students. The provisions of this Policy of Management Education commit the college to a continuing process of improvement, and to maintaining its standards through a vigorous process of quality assurance.

    The college shall subject its education and training programmes to continual process of improvement and quality enhancement. The college will update and monitor periodically plans, and policies of education improvement.

    The College in east London will assist students in achieving their full academic potential and, to make progress towards this end possible, will ensure that their academic performance sets a benchmark against the ambitious achievement criteria, and make necessary arrangements to respond effectively to their feedback.

  • APPEALS POLICY

    Student Academic Appeals Policy and Procedure

    1 Purpose and scope of the procedure

    • 1.1 In all cases the college will abide by the QAA Quality Code. The college operates an internal academic appeals Policy of Management Education and procedure for those cases where an awarding body procedure does not apply (e.g. Formative assessment without awarding body involvement). In other cases, the appeals Policy of Management Education and procedure of the awarding body takes precedence, and the college will cooperate with it as required.
    • 1.2 An academic appeal should be made by the student in writing, except in extreme circumstances. The college distinguishes between a student complaint (about any non-assessment service provided by the college and/or awarding body) and a student academic appeal. Academic appeals are concerns or problems raised by a student or students concerning any aspect of the assessment process, including marks given. There is a separate student Complaints Procedure.
    • 1.3 This academic appeals procedure applies to the students, who would like to appeal against the matters which are in the College control. Any matters raised against awarding bodies, New Bucks University, or other Mont Rose College partners, should be submitted directly to the relevant bodies. The College representative will provide full guidance on how to appeal to other relevant bodies.

    2 Principles of the procedure

    2.1 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 academic appeal must be made in writing as soon as possible, even if originally made orally
    • It is only possible for the college to hear academic appeals that are within the power of the college to remedy. In many cases the appeals procedure of the awarding body will apply, and may be operated entirely by the awarding body.
    • All proceedings 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 an academic appeal relating to the same, or substantially the same, issue, the academic appeal may be dealt with together in the interests of fair and consistent decision-making.
    • If the student's academic appeal restates an academic appeal that the college is already dealing with, or that it has dealt with in the past, the student will be asked to explain how the new academic appeal 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 college can reject the academic appeal without a hearing or committee meeting.
    • Deliberately false or malicious academic appeal will be treated as matters of misconduct and will be investigated in line with the Disciplinary Policy of Management Education and procedure
    • An academic appeal raised while a student is subject to disciplinary proceedings will be heard when the disciplinary process has been completed. If the academic appeal has any bearing on the disciplinary proceedings, it can be raised in the course of those proceedings.

    3 Process

    • 3.1 the academic appeal will be heard by a special appeal panel reporting to the Principal and to the assessment committee functions of the college. The student should set out in writing the nature of their academic appeal. The student should explain how they think it should be settled. This must be submitted to the Principal.
    • 3.2 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. The student has to collect and present all required documentation within 14 days before the hearing starts. Discretion can be applied and dates of hearings rescheduled if the student requires more time to obtain evidence. A request for discretion should be
    • 3.3 Should the academic appeal include material lodged against a named or otherwise identifiable individual or individuals, the Principal will give them a copy of the academic appeal at the earliest opportunity. The individual will present their response at the appeal hearing.
    • 3.4 The appeal panel will consist of two nominees of the Principal. Where possible, there should be a gender balance on panels. The college will make every attempt to ensure that the hearing will be held within 14 working days of receipt of the investigating officer's report, or within 14 working days of the academic appeal 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
    • 3.5 The student making the appeal 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 and/or the chair of the panel 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.
    • 3.6 Any relevant written information or evidence must be made available to all parties at the earliest opportunity and, in any case, two working days before the hearing.
    • 3.7 All parties involved will be allowed to attend and make representations at the meeting. Witnesses may be called.
    • 3.8 Refusal of any party to attend shall not invalidate the proceedings.
    • 3.9 The panel, in seeking to resolve the academic appeal, may adjourn the meeting or defer a decision if more information is required.
    • 3.10 The decision of the panel, the reasons for that decision and any redress will be communicated to the student who has made the academic appeal within 14 working days. The college will accept the decision of the appeal panel. Where the academic appeal contains material lodged against an individual, both parties will be given a copy of the decision. This will be handed to the student whenever possible or posted directly by recorded delivery to the student within 14 working days of the hearing and to the student representative, where applicable.

    4 Right of secondary appeal to a decision of the academic appeal panel

    • 4.1 Should the student making the original academic appeal wish to appeal against the decision of the panel they must do so, in writing, to the Principal within five working days of being informed of the decision.
    • 4.2 A request for a secondary 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 or a failure to adhere to the published academic appeal procedure.
    • 4.3 At a hearing of the secondary appeal panel, a member of the original panel will attend to present their findings and reasons for their decision. The student and the management representative presenting the case should use the guidance attached at Annex 1 and Annex 2 as best practice for the presentation of their respective case statements. Witnesses may be called.
    • 4.4 The secondary appeal will be heard by secondary appeal panel members, the student and the management representative. The written cases should be received within five working days after the first appeal decision was released.The format of the appeal hearing will depend upon the nature ofthe appeal. If it is a re-hearing it will follow the format at Annex 1. The student willbe given five working days notice that the hearing is to be held. The student making the secondary appeal 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.
    • 4.5 The student making the secondary appeal 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 if it appears that they have not made sufficient attempts to attend, the hearing may take place in their absence.
    • 4.6 The secondary appeal hearing is not a rehearing of the original academic appeal, but rather a consideration of the specific areas with which the student is dissatisfied in relation to the original academic appeal. The chair of the panel may therefore confine discussion of those specific areas, rather than reconsider the whole matter afresh.
    • 4.7 The secondary appeal panel will hear all or part of the previous hearing depending upon the nature of the appeal. The panel has the scope to: - Uphold all or part of the previous decision - Not uphold the previous decision.
    • 4.8 If the secondary appeal panel decides either to uphold only part of the previous decision or not to uphold the previous decision, it may at its discretion substitute an appropriate remedy of its own choosing.
    • 4.9 Within seven working days of the secondary appeal the panel will record the decision and hand it to the student wherever possible otherwise it will be posted directly by recorded delivery. The college will accept the decision of the secondary appeal panel.
    • 4.10 Any recommendations made by the panel will be notified to the appropriate Individuals and committees.
    • 4.12. The formal "Completion of Procedures Letter" is issued to the student within 21 calendar days after the final decision is made. If the student is still dissatisfied with the outcome, he/ she may apply for a review of the complaint to the Office of the Independent adjudicator (OIA) for higher education.
    • Date of adoption: Date of next planned revision: Annex 1: Format of the formal academic appeal / secondary academic appeal hearing 1.1 The panel shall be responsible for the proper conduct of the hearing, which shall be conducted on a formal basis.
      1.2 The chair of the panel will conduct the introductions of those present and confirm the names of any witnesses who may be called. The chair of the panel will ensure that all parties understand the nature of the academic appeal and ask the student who is bringing the academic appeal to say how they think it should be settled.
      1.3 The panel shall order the proceedings as follows:
      Ask the student to present their case, allowing the investigating officer or respondent to ask questions after the presentation has been completed.
      The student may call witnesses or refer to documents previously circulated and necessary for the hearing
      While the student making the appeal will be given every opportunity to explain their case fully, they should confine their explanation to matters that are directly relevant to the academic appeal.
      The chair of the panel will intervene if he/she thinks that the discussion is straying too far from the key issue(s).
      The chair may also intervene to ensure that the meeting can be completed within a reasonable timeframe, depending on the nature and the complexity of the academic appeal
      Ask the investigating officer or respondent to respond to the case, allowing the student to ask questions after the presentation has been completed.
      The investigating officer or respondent may call witnesses or refer to documents previously circulated and necessary for the hearing.
      The panel may ask questions on points of clarification at any time and may call witnesses. Questions shall be put to each party after it has presented its case.
      If either party wishes to present evidence not previously circulated the hearing may be adjourned to allow the other side to consider it.
      Allow the student and then the investigating officer or respondent the opportunity to sum up their cases. Neither party may introduce new matters in their summing up.
      1.4 The academic appeal panel adjourns to consider its decision, which shall be given as soon as possible after the hearing, but in any case within three working days of the hearing.
      1.5 At the same time the student shall be advised of their right to make a secondary appeal against the original appeal decision.
      Annex 2: Guidance for appeal documentation
      Student
      Management
      Grounds of appeal.
      Response to grounds of appeal
      Case statement, which should include, as appropriate:
      An introduction explaining the reasons for appealing
      Summary of course
      The outcome sought
      Appendices
      Case statement, which should include, as appropriate:
      Introduction, background to the case, processes followed on calling the original hearing, how the decision was arrived at
      Summary of course
      Recommendations
      Appendices
      2.1 If papers are presented in this way it should be possible for the secondary appeal hearing only to hear any specific comments or particular aspects of the case, rather than a repetition of the original hearing.
      You can download our Assessment Appeals Policy here.

  • ATTENDANCE POLICY AND STUDENT COMPLAINT POLICY

    Attendance Policy and Student Complaint Policy

    Introduction

    Mont Rose College of Management and Sciences is very strict about punctuality and regularity of the students. These qualities of punctuality and regularity are highly valued by the employers. Therefore, the college tries to inculcate these qualities among the students.

    The Student Services Department keeps the record of each student’s attendance on a daily basis. The Student’s Disciplinary Policy treats the breach of Attendance Policy as a serious offence.

    Our aim is to be the first choice of the students and to overcome this challenge we not only emphasize on implementing the attendance Policy of Management Education but also on the ways it can be achieved.

    Policy Aim

    This policy applies to all students enrolled in any course offered by the college. The aim of the policy is to ensure that all the students should understand that they need to attend all the classes and tutorials to get the maximum benefit from their course of study.

    Mont Rose College of Management and Sciences encourages 100% attendance. Adjustments can only be made where there is medical evidence or proof of extenuating circumstances.

    Policy Standard

    • If the student has a disability or caring responsibilities etc and it is not possible for him/her to be punctual and regular in class then this should be discussed in advance with the course leader. Once an arrangement has been approved students should adhere to it.
    • Students are allowed to take time off only in case of illness, bereavement or family emergencies.

    Authorised (Planned) and Unauthorised Absences

    It is the student’s responsibility to provide the reason with evidence to the Student Services Administrator for an authorised absence. Absences are unauthorised unless proven otherwise.

    The attendance will be marked by the lecturer no later than 15 minutes after the start of each session.

    The attendance register will be completed by the lecturer at the start of each class, he/she will mark the student either:

    • P - Present (signature of the student)
    • I - Authorised Absence
    • A - Unauthorised Absence
    • SL - Sick
    • T - Tardy (those who appear after the start of the class but within the first 15 minutes of the start of a session)
    • H - Holiday / Annual Leave

    When a student is absent, late authorisation of such absence is only possible if a justified reason is provided.

    Absence due to illness

    If a student is ill and needs to stay at home then they have to inform the Student Services administrator no later than 9:30 am on the first day of their absence otherwise they will be marked as ‘unauthorised’ absence. Medical evidence will only be required if the illness lasts for more than 3 days.

    In case a student falls ill or has an accident while in the college and needs to go home, the student must report the illness or accident to the course tutor or the Student Services department to get an authorised absence.

    Absence due to an appointment

    The students are advised to book any appointments after college hours to avoid interruption in their programme of study. If due to any valid reason they cannot do so then they should inform the Student Services Department or the course tutor at the time of leaving.

    • If a student is unable to provide justifiable reason and evidence of the absence then the absence will be treated as unauthorised.
    • The college will inform the students on the induction day about the standards they need to meet while on their course of study and also about the consequences they will face if they fail to do so. The implementation of the attendance policy will be monitored by the Student Services Department and Course Tutor.

    Non-Compliance with attendance Policy:

    Non-compliance with attendance policy will result in a disciplinary action being taken against the student. If the attendance is below 80% then the college will issue the first warning letter to the student. The student has to contact the Student Services department within 5 working days to provide reasons for unauthorised absence.

    If the student fails to do so then a second warning letter will be issued stating that they have 5 more working days to inform the office of their unauthorised absence. If the student again fails to contact the Student Service department then third letter will be issued to the student stating that the student’s name has been withdrawn from the college record and the college has also informed the UK Border Agency (UKBA). If the student’s attendance for the semester drops below 80% then progression to further study for the next semester will not be permitted.

    Absence due to an appointment

    Attendance and punctuality are not only important for student success and progression in the course of study but are also required to fulfil the condition of their study visa and remain in the UK.

    The College is required by law to inform the UK Border Agency (UKBA) about the attendance of international students, the College will report non-attendance in the following circumstances:

    • Attendance drops below 80%, including absence due to lateness
    • Failure to enrol on a course or withdrawal from a course
    • Change of course
    • Any other significant issues which may affect their visa conditions

    Authorised & Unauthorised Absences

    The following would be considered suitable reasons for an authorised absence:

    • Medical appointments which could not be made outside of College hours
    • Visits to university/College Open Days
    • Funeral or wedding of a close family member
    • Severe travel disruption
    • Genuine family emergencies
    • Religious Holidays

    The following would be considered unacceptable reasons for authorising absence:

    • Holidays during term
    • Part or full-time work which is not part of a programme of study
    • Leisure activities
    • Birthdays or family celebrations
    • Babysitting

    Withdrawing from or suspending study:

    If you are considering withdrawing from the College or interrupting your studies for any reason, please consult your tutor and the Student Services department and seek advice if you have a particular problem. If a student wants to take a prolonged leave due to illness and pregnancy he/she needs to provide medical certificate to get an authorised leave from the college.

    If you decide to suspend or withdraw from your course, you must inform the Student Services department who will complete the appropriate forms on your behalf. It is very important that the correct procedure is followed, should you decide to re-enter higher education at a later stage.

    You must not, under any circumstances, withdraw from the College without notifying the Student Services department, as failure to do so may carry financial implications in terms of tuition fees, repayment of the student loan and visa issues.

    Student complaints policy and procedure

    1 Purpose and scope of the procedure

    • 1.1 In all cases the college will abide by the QAA Quality Code. 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 and 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.
    • 1.2 In appropriate cases the college may offer facilities for mediation.
    • 1.3 This procedure applies to all students.
    • 1.4 This procedure takes account of the ACAS code of practice on complaints procedures and will be reviewed periodically in line with developments in best practice.

    2 Principles of the procedure

    2.1 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, it is only possible to hear complaints that are within the power of the college to remedy
    • 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 a 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 the college is already dealing with, or that it has dealt with in the past, the student will be asked to explain how the new complaints 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 college can reject the complaint without a hearing or committee meeting.
    • Deliberately false or malicious complaints will be treated as matters of misconduct and will be investigated in line with the Disciplinary policy and procedure complaints raised while a student is subject to disciplinary proceedings will be heard when the disciplinary process has been completed. If the complaint has any bearing on the disciplinary proceedings, it can be raised in the course of those proceedings.

    3 Informal stage

    • 3.1 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.
    • 3.2 If the matter remains unresolved, the student may request a meeting with a relevant staff member or in a relevant college committee, 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. Many 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 informally or, more formally but without a complaints panel hearing, in a regular committee meeting of the College and using the normal and routine student voice and student representative processes of the College.
    • 3.3 If, after any action to resolve the complaint taken by staff, the student is still dissatisfied, they may proceed to the formal stage of the procedure.

    4 Formal stage

    • 4.1 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 a panel or in a relevant college committee meeting (e.g. Academic Board, Senior Management Team meeting). 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. Complaints raised against the Principal should be submitted to the company Board. In all cases a copy of the complaint should be sent to the Principal.
    • 4.2 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
    • 4.3 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. Complaints about named individuals will not be dealt with in routine committee meetings of the college.
    • 4.4 The panel will consist of two nominees of the Principal. Where possible, there should be a gender balance on panels. The college will make every attempt to ensure that the hearing will be held within 14 working days of receipt of the investigating officer's report, or within 14 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 an authorised representative (the letter of authorisation should be received prior the meeting), or the hearing may be held in their absence
    • 4.5 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 and/or the chair of the panel if the complaints are against staff, 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
    • 4.6 Any relevant written information or evidence must be made available to all parties at the earliest opportunity and, in any case, two working days before the hearing.
    • 4.7 All parties involved will be allowed to attend and make representations at the meeting. Witnesses may be called.
    • 4.8 Refusal of either party to attend shall not invalidate the proceedings.
    • 4.9 The panel, in seeking to resolve the complaint, may adjourn the meeting or defer a decision if more information is required.
    • 4.10 The decision of the panel, the reasons for that decision and any redress will be communicated to the student who has made the complaint. Where the complaint is against an individual, both parties will be given a copy of the decision. This will be handed to the student whenever possible or posted directly by recorded delivery to the student within ten working days of the hearing and to the student representative, where applicable.
    • 4.11 Failure to meet the requirements of redress, set out by the panel will result in the invocation of the Disciplinary policy and procedure, unless an appeal has been lodged.
    • 4.12 The formal stage should be completed within 30 calendar days and the student is provided with the written outcome of the formal stage.

    5 Right of appeal

    • 5.1 Should the complainant wish to appeal against the decision of the panel they must do so, in writing, to the Principal (or to the Chair of the Board if the complaint was heard by Board members) within five working days of being informed of the decision.
    • 5.2 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.
      - If the material evidence was not provided for valid reasons during the formal stage
    • 5.3 The appeal will be considered within 14 working days and the Completion of Procedure Letter and related correspondence will be issued confirming the summary of the complaint procedure and outcomes.If the settlement is offered,the Completion of Procedures Letter will be issued confirming the settlement.If the student rejects the offer,the Completion of procedures letter will be issued showing a summary of proposals.
    • 5.4. The formal "Completion of Procedures Letter" is issued to the student within 21 calendar days after the final decision is made. If the student is still dissatisfied with the outcome, he/ she may apply for a review of the complaint to the Office of the Independent adjudicator (OIA) for higher education. The complaint should be received by the Office of the Independent adjudicator (OIA) (www.oiahe.org.uk) within twelve months of the date of the "Completion of Procedures Letter"
      Annex 1: Format of the formal complaints / complaints appeal hearing
      1.1 The panel shall be responsible for the proper conduct of the hearing, which
      shall be conducted on a formal basis.
      1.2 The chair of the panel will conduct the introductions of those present and confirm the names of any witnesses who may be called. The chair of the panel will ensure that all parties understand the nature of the complaint and ask the student who is bringing the complaint to say how they think it should be settled.
      1.3 The panel shall order the proceedings as follows:
      Ask the student to present their case allowing the investigating officer or respondent to ask questions after the presentation has been completed.
      The student may call witnesses or refer to documents previously circulated and necessary for the hearing
      While the complainant will be given every opportunity to explain their case fully, they should confine their explanation to matters that are directly relevant to the complaint. The chair of the panel will intervene if he/she thinks that the discussion is straying too far from the key issue.
      The chair may also intervene to ensure that the meeting can be completed within a reasonable timeframe, depending on the nature and the complexity of the complaint
      Ask the investigating officer or respondent to respond to the case, allowing the student to ask questions after the presentation has been completed.
      The investigating officer or respondent may call witnesses or refer to documents previously circulated and necessary for the hearing.
      The panel may ask questions on points of clarification at any time and may call witnesses. Questions shall be put to each party after it has presented its case.
      If either party wishes to present evidence not previously circulated the hearing may be adjourned to allow the other side to consider it.
      Allow the student and then the investigating officer or respondent the opportunity to sum up their cases. Neither party may introduce new matters in their summing up.
      1.4 The panel adjourns to consider its decision, which shall be given as soon aspossible after the hearing, but in any case within three working days of the hearing.
      1.5 At the same time the student shall be advised of their right to appeal against the decision.
      Annex 2: Guidance for appeal documentation Grounds of appeal.
      Response to grounds of appeal
      Case statement, which should
      Include as appropriate:
      An introduction explaining the reasons for appealing
      Summary of course
      The outcome sought
      Appendices
      2 Case statement, which should include as appropriate:
      Introduction, background to the case, the process followed on calling the original hearing, how the decision was arrived at
      Summary of course
      Recommendations
      Appendices
      2.1 If papers are presented in this way it should be possible for the appeal hearing only to hear any specific comments or particular aspects of the case, rather than a repetition of the original hearing.

  • PREVENT POLICY

    2017/2018

    1. This policy has been drawn up and implemented in order to satisfy the Government and regulators such as HEFCE that the College is fulfilling its duty under the Counterterrorism and Security Act 2015 (the Act) to have due regard to the need to prevent people being drawn into terrorism (the Prevent duty).

    2. The College affirms and promotes education as a place of life-enhancing free expression and enquiry. It deplores the expression and cultivation of views and actions which tend to limit or destroy the life of others, however intense or sincere such views or actions may be.

    3. The College regards itself and will sustain itself as a locus of democracy, ethical and rigorous enquiry, social and individual improvement, due process, peace, individual liberty, respect and tolerance.

    4. The College recognises the UK government view that preventing people being drawn into terrorism requires challenging extremist ideologies. This document is drawn up following the current UK official definition of extremism as ‘vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect, and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs’. The college also recognises that the existence of ‘fundamental British values’ may be an essentially contested notion, that UK life has not always aligned with democracy, respect and tolerance, and that the UK does not have a monopoly on such desirable practices and cultures as democracy, the rule of law (including the incorporation of apparently perverse, humane jury decisions), liberty, respect and tolerance. Nevertheless, the college affirms and promotes the UK’s aspiration for these virtues, and abhors terrorism.

    5. College members, and UK citizens more generally, do not have the right not to be offended by the views of others, but they all have the right not to be subject to the threat or acts of terrorism. The college will accordingly operate its Prevent duties with energy and diligence.

    6. All other policies and procedures of the College (e. Equal opportunities, anti-bullying and harassment) should be understood as implicitly if not explicitly embodying and operationalising the Prevent duty.

    7. College’s implementation of this Prevent Policy must not involve covert activity.

    8. Themes to be considered in implementation include necessity and proportionality; consent; the Data Protection Act 1998 and the Human Rights Act 1998.

    9. The college will provide HEFCE and any other relevant regulator with any information required for monitoring compliance with the Prevent duty.

    10. The college will work to the reporting requirements and submission dates set by HEFCE or any successor body.

    11. This policy is linked to the two sets of statutory guidance:

    • Revised Prevent Duty Guidance for England and Wales (which includes general guidance for bodies in all sectors covered by the duty)
    • Prevent Duty Guidance: for higher education institutions in England and Wales.

    12. The College acknowledges that a key element of the UK government’s Prevent strategy is to encourage institutions to address risks of radicalisation. The Counterterrorism and Security Act 2015 (the Act) introduced a package of measures aimed at countering the risk of terrorism and radicalisation. Part 5 of the Act puts hitherto voluntary elements of the Prevent strategy onto a statutory footing. The College became subject to the Prevent duty on 18 September 2015.

    13. The College will respect the freedom of speech duty implicitly applying within higher education. It will respect the importance of academic freedom when issuing guidance. It will implement the two sets of UK government guidance:

    • Revised Prevent Duty Guidance: for England and Wales (which includes general guidance for bodies in all sectors covered by the duty) – the ‘General Guidance’
    • Prevent Duty Guidance: for higher education institutions in England and Wales – the ‘HE Guidance’.

    14. The College will assess the level of risk that College members may be drawn into terrorism, and it will have policies and procedure to mitigate those risks. Partners of the college will need to be acknowledged in its risk assessments in a proportionate way.

    15. The College has taken into account the HEFCE advice note at www.hefce.ac.uk/reg/prevent/framework/. The college will maintain:

    • Prevent risk assessment
    • Action plan
    • Policies and procedures for managing and mitigating the risks around external speakers and events on campus and institution-branded events taking place off campus. Such policies will reflect the institution’s duty to ensure freedom of speech on campus and its arrangements to protect the importance of academic freedom.

    16. The college will pay particular attention to:

    • Senior management and governance oversight of the implementation of its Prevent duty obligations and engagement with Prevent partners.
    • Engaging with and consulting students on the institution’s plans for implementing the Prevent duty.
    • Training appropriate staff about Prevent.
    • Sharing information internally and externally about vulnerable individuals.
    • Sharing information about external speakers with other institutions, where legal and desirable.
    • Ensuring sufficient pastoral support for all students (including arrangements for managing prayer and faith facilities).
    • The use of the institution’s computer facilities (hardware, software, networks, social media), to include consideration of filtering arrangements and of academic activities that might require online access to sensitive or extremism-related material.
    • Engaging with student organizations, which are not subject to the Prevent duty, but are expected to cooperate with the College.
    • The UK ‘Channel’ programme. (‘Channel’ is an early-intervention, multi-agency process designed to safeguard vulnerable people from being drawn into violent extremist or terrorist behaviour. Channel panels chaired by local authorities bring together multi-agency partners to collectively assess the risk for an individual and can decide whether a support package is needed.)

    17. The College will attend to:

    • An annual report from the governing body or proprietor on the implementation of the Prevent duty in the previous operation or academic year, including any significant developments up to the date of the report.
    • Regulatory body assessment on a multi-year cycle.

    18. Any serious incident in the Prevent area will lead the College to review its approach to the Prevent duty: risk assessment, action plans, training, management and governance oversight.

    19. The College will inform HEFCE, or any successor body, of any serious adverse event or serious reportable incident in the Prevent area. The College recognises that reporting an incident to HEFCE is not a substitute for reporting it to the police or other appropriate authority – for example, if criminality is suspected.

    20. External speakers and events on campus will be subject to approval by the Principal, and will not go ahead if the risks cannot be fully mitigated. Information about the speakers will be shared with other institutions where appropriate and legal.

    21. Senior management will engage with partners, including the police, the Prevent coordinators, and students.

    22. Risk assessment will consider how and where students might be drawn into terrorism (including violent and non-violent extremism). It will consider whether student, staff welfare and other similar policies cover these issues. The college will scrutinise whether policies and procedures for events held by staff, students and third parties are effective.

    23. The Prevent action plan will mitigate identified risks.

    24. For the sharing of information about vulnerable people the internal mechanism is immediate report to the Principal. External agreements for the sharing of information about vulnerable people will be drawn up and operated. The default position of the College is that, within the ambit of legislation concerning disclosures, the nodal point for the transfer of information on Prevent themes is the Principal.

    25. In the context of Prevent duties, the college will apply its welfare policies and procedures and its general preference for open-door consultation.

    26. The College set aside a room for prayer, meditation or general thoughtfulness, it upholds the principle that the room should be equally available to those of any or no faith, including for the storage of religious books and other articles. At the same time, it acknowledges that some faiths favour certain days, times and practices, and it asks and expects other members of college to respect such preferences. Any competition for or dispute over the use of such room shall be immediately referred to the Principal, whose decision will immediately apply, pending any further discussion within the formal College processes. The College upholds the principle of transparency in its academic and social life: no person of another or no faith will be excluded at any time from room set aside for prayer, meditation or general thoughtfulness.

    27. Operating that part of the UK tradition which represents tolerance and openness, the College respects the right of college members to express the religious beliefs. However, the expression of belief must not breach UK law, must not amount to bullying or harassment, and should respect the right of other College members to study and learn what they wish and how they wish within the law and within the conventions of UK higher education. Given their position of authority and influence, College staff is required to be particularly careful in their expression of belief of any kind; the expression of political/religious faith, either personal or that of others, within the academic setting requires intensive care.

    28. No part of the College’s estate or equipment may be used for illegal purposes. The College will keep records of student attendance, performance, library use, and use of college IT and other electronic equipment.

    29. The College may choose to designate certain websites as ‘privileged’, meaning that they may be accessed on the College premises and/or using College equipment only with the written permission of the Principal after formal written application by the student/staff member. Permission to use such web sites will normally be given only where the applicant has made a good case that access is required for the purposes of research or other forms of scholarly activity. The College will publish a list of such ‘privileged’ web sites. The general policy of the College is that, on College premises and/or using College equipment, College members should not access without formal permission of the Principal any web site, whether designated or not as ‘privileged’, which may reasonably be considered to be promoting terrorism or promoting any other illegal activity or displaying security-sensitive materials. The college may choose to install automatic IT filtering arrangements.

    30. Student groups and societies may meet on-campus for social and academic purposes with the written permission of the Principal. All such meetings must be arranged with the issue of an invitation to attend as observer for the Principal or the Principal’s representative(s). No meeting shall be held which may reasonably be considered to be promoting terrorism or extremism (as defined in this document) or promoting any illegal activity or any other activity contrary to college rules. The Principal may refuse permission for a meeting.

    31. Any external speaker invited to the college or to college activities by staff or student must be approved in advance by the Principal. Application, with a description of the intended guest, must reach the Principal at least two weeks before the intended visit. The Principal may refuse permission for the inclusion of the intended guest.

    32. The use of non-college bodies of college premises and/or equipment for events and/or activities are subject to the requirements of the two immediately preceding paragraphs.

    33. The use by college-based groups of external premises and/or equipment for events and/or activities is subject to the requirements of the three immediately preceding paragraphs.

    34. The college will evaluate its performance of this policy on an annual basis.

  • EXTERNAL SPEAKER CODE OF CONDUCT

    Mont Rose College of Management and Sciences

    This code of conduct exists to ensure that all speakers taking part in Mont Rose College hosted or run event, act in accordance with the MRC’s External Speaker Code of Conduct.

    The College will assign a person responsible for the event, who will be ensuring that:

    • This Code of Conduct is communicated to all external speakers (once approved and confirmed via the External Speaker Booking Process)
    • That all reasonable steps are taken to ensure that the requirements within it are upheld during the running of the event or activity.

    Freedom of speech

    Free speech is fundamental to the role of Mont Rose College.

    As a matter of law, educational institutions in England and Wales have a statutory duty to secure freedom of speech, reflecting their mission as places where new ideas can be advanced and where open and free debate can take place. The Education Act (No 2) 1986 requires the educational institution to take such steps as are reasonably practicable to ensure that freedom of speech within the law is secured for its employees, students and visiting speakers. The Mont Rose College therefore requires all employees and students to tolerate and protect the expression of opinions within the law.

    However, whilst the law promotes and protects freedom of speech, it also require to ensure the public order and safety. The College recognises that it has a legal responsibility to create a balance between minimising the possibility of extremism or unlawful conduct and ensuring that it meets its legal obligations in relation to securing freedom of speech.

    Legal Context

    • Private Rights - Protection from harassment, defamation and unlawful breach of their human rights, unfair treatment.
    • Criminal Law - harassment, breach of the peace and terrorism all come under criminal law.
    • Public law - Freedom of Speech and some duties under the Equality Act.

    Conduct

    • The Mont Rose College expects external speakers to act in accordance with the law and not to breach the lawful rights of others.
    • Invitations to external speakers play a central role in College’s life, not least in terms of allowing students to be exposed to a range of different beliefs, to challenge other people’s views and to develop their own opinions.
    • During the event at which the speaker participates, no he or she shall:
    • Act in breach of the criminal law.
    • Express hatred or violence or any breach of the criminal law.
    • Promote any acts of terrorism or individuals, groups that support terrorism.
    • Discriminate against or harass any person or group on the grounds of their sex, race, nationality, ethnicity, disability, religious or other similar belief, sexual orientation or age.
    • Defame any person or organisation.
    • Raise funds for any external organisation or cause without express permission of the College

    The MRC reserves the right to not permit an external speaker to speak at or attend an event, to refuse to permit an event at any time if it reasonably considers there may be a breach of the External Speaker Policy or of any legal obligation.

    The External Speakers/Referrers could request the” External Speaker Form” by emailing to: abdi@mrcollege.ac.uk ; or admin.assistant@mrcollege.ac.uk . Alternatively , the form could be downloaded from our website.

    The completed form should be submitted for consideration to: abdi@mrcollege.ac.uk

  • EQUALITY POLICY

    Equality Policy

    Mont Rose College’s commitment to maintaining high standards in education and student support is coupled with its aim of eliminating discrimination and promoting equal opportunities.

    Notwithstanding individual differences in students and their needs, London college asserts its belief that all members of the college staff and students are to be treated equally regardless of their gender, ethnic origin, age, ability, or disability, faith, sexual orientation or any other attribute.

    The working culture in the college does not tolerate any form of discrimination, victimisation or harassment.

    • Take all steps necessary to implement legislation relevant to equality policy.
    • Ensure that publicity materials contain a statement of our commitment to equality of opportunity.
    • Prepare, publish and update literature such as the Student Charter and Student Handbook that describe our facilities.
    • Explain service standards and set our various complaint procedures and performance indicators to monitor matters relating to equality of opportunity.
    • Write and regularly update a code of conduct describing the types of behaviour that the college considers as incompatible with Mont Rose College's ethos of promoting equal opportunities and detail disciplinary actions that can be taken against those acting in violation of the code of conduct.
    • Ensure high levels of awareness of the contents of the code of conduct and the consequences of violating it among students and members of staff.
    • Take steps regularly to monitor and evaluate and review the college policies dealing with equality of opportunity.

    Self-actualisation through striving for higher ideals