C o lleg e H an dbook

Transcription

College Handbook
Introduction
6
The College
8
The Student Charter
17
Teaching, Learning &
Assessment
24
Academic Progress
39
Equality and Dignity
51
Supporting Students to
Succeed
60
Finance
88
Rights and Responsibilities 97
Student Life
138
Alumni
140
BPP Locations
141
Useful Contacts
170
Glossary of Terms
171
Abbreviations
177
1
Authority
This College Handbook seeks to provide you with an accessible summary of
information relating to BPP University College. However, please note that for any
regulatory or disciplinary matters, it is the General Academic Regulations,
supported by the Manual of Policies and Procedures, that take precedence and
constitute the ultimate authority. In instances of ambiguity, inconsistency or
disagreement in interpretation between the General Academic Regulations and
this College Handbook, the General Academic Regulations prevail.
2
College Handbook
Contents
Page
Introduction
6
Welcome and Purpose of this Handbook
Our Students' Views Matter
6
7
The College
8
Brief History of BPP University College
Mission
BPP Employability Statement
College Structure
Governance and Management
College Contact Details
8
9
10
12
13
16
The Student Charter
17
Teaching, Learning & Assessment
24
Teaching and Learning Delivery Strategy
Assessment Strategy
Examination and Assessment
Rigour of Assessment Regimes
Absence from or Failure at Assessments
Extensions, Deferrals, Concessions, 'Fit to Sit' Policy
Unfair Practices
Academic Appeals
Academic Supervision
24
26
28
29
30
31
34
36
38
Academic Progress
39
Attendance and Workload
Student Progress in Jeopardy
Suspension of Registration and the Granting of Intermission
Withdrawal of Registration
Termination of Registration
Principal's Emergency Powers
Graduation
Fitness to Practice
Certificates and Transcripts
40
42
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
Equal Opportunities
BPP's Action
Harassment and Bullying
52
52
54
Students with Disabilities and/or Special Needs
Admissions
Disclosure
Learning Support
55
55
56
57
Data Protection
59
College Handbook
3
Supporting Students to Succeed
Library and Information Services
Study Resources
Study Environments
Library Services
Services for Students with Special Needs
BPP Libraries Contact Details
IT and Computing Services
61
61
63
64
66
69
70
Career Development
Careers Service
72
72
Pro Bono Service
Pro Bono Centre Leeds
Pro Bono Centre London
Pro Bono Centre Manchester
75
76
78
80
Student Support
82
Accommodation
83
International Students
84
Part-time Students
86
Staff Student Liaison Committee
87
Finance
Fees
Funding
BPP Business School Scholarships
BPP Law School Scholarships
Rights and Responsibilities
4
60
88
88
90
91
92
97
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Student Discipline
Student Complaints
Learning Support Policy
Copyright
97
97
103
107
110
Use of Facilities
Library and Information Service Regulations
IT Regulations
Virtual Learning Environment Code of Conduct
Virtual Learning Environment Terms and Conditions
112
112
115
118
120
BPP University College Corporate Social Responsibility
Ethics Policy
Equal Opportunities and Diversity Policy
Health and Safety Policy
Environmental Policy
123
123
125
135
137
College Handbook
Student Life
Social Events
Student Clubs and Societies
138
138
139
Alumni
140
BPP Locations
141
Buildings and Facilities
141
Health and Safety
143
Local Useful Information
Birmingham
Leeds
London
Manchester
144
144
145
146
148
City Guides
Birmingham City Guide
Leeds City Guide
London City Guide
Manchester City Guide
149
149
155
159
165
Useful Contacts
170
Glossary of Terms
171
Abbreviations
177
Handbook Evaluation Form
179
Modification History
180
College Handbook
5
Introduction
Welcome and Purpose of this Handbook
I am delighted to welcome you to BPP University College of Professional Studies.
We intend to make sure that the time you spend with us is a valuable investment
that will provide you with the knowledge, skills and professional values to enable
you to succeed in your chosen career.
We are committed to creating a learning environment, which is not only
stimulating and supportive, but also offers you memorable and rewarding student
experiences. We recognise that your time at BPP University College will be a
unique period in your life and we want to work with you to make it all the more
special.
We hope that your studies with us will be both successful and enjoyable. We want
you to benefit from the academic and pastoral guidance we offer, to take
advantage of our comprehensive library and IT resources, as well as make the
most of our specialised Careers Service. You also need to be aware of our policies
and regulations with regard to examinations, assessment, academic progress and
general student conduct in order to participate fully and responsibly in the life of
the College.
The purpose of this handbook is to help you make the most of your time at BPP
University College by providing you with a summary guide of how the College
works, what it can provide for you and the obligations it places on you. The
College Handbook aims to introduce you to the support and resources available,
outline career development opportunities, and signpost you to student social
activities. It also seeks to inform you of your rights and responsibilities, and make
you aware of the key regulations applicable to you and where you can find them
in full.
This College Handbook is intended as a useful reference to key information and to
other relevant sources. It complements your Programme Handbook and is
underpinned by the General Academic Regulation and the Manual of Policies and
Procedures. Detailed and current information on all topics is available on BPP
University College's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
Professor Carl Lygo
Chief Executive, BPP Holdings plc and Principal, BPP University College
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College Handbook
Our Students' Views Matter
At BPP University College, we are committed to creating a high-quality, flexible
and engaging learning environment which enables our students to achieve their
goals. We constantly seek to enhance the student experience and are keen to
hear your views on the various aspects of College life.
We actively seek feedback through:
●
Comments and Suggestions boxes within student areas
●
Feedback opportunities within individual programmes

Feedback facility on the Virtual Learning Environment
●
Student representation on key College committees, including the Academic
Council, which constitutes the highest academic authority within BPP
University College
●
Staff Student Liaison Committees
●
Student Opinion Surveys
We seek to promote open, friendly, and respectful relations between our students
and College staff and we hope that you will not hesitate to share your views with
us using informal, as well as formal channels.
We value your opinion. Work with us to help us improve your student experience
and the experience of future students.
College Handbook
7
The College
Brief History of BPP University College of
Professional Studies
BPP University College (BPPUC) encompasses BPP Business School and BPP Law
School.
Launched in 1976 BPP Holdings PLC specialised in training for the Accountancy,
Tax and Actuarial professions, and grew to be an international leader in these
areas. In 1992 BPP Law School was established and validated by the Bar
Standards Board and the Solicitor‟s Regulation Authority to offer a range of
programmes leading to professional qualification. In 2005 the Business School
was established and also began to offer professional qualifications.
In September 2007, BPP College made education history by becoming the first
private company in the UK to obtain degree-awarding powers. This was followed
in July 2010 by permission to use the title University College. This approval from
the Privy Council is recognition of our dedication to educational excellence and
recognition of our standing as a leading professional education provider.
Our undergraduate, postgraduate and professional programmes focus on
preparing students for the realities of business and legal practice either in the UK
or overseas. To ensure our programmes are relevant to the current needs of firms
and businesses they are designed in conjunction with leading organisations and
are taught by experienced practitioners and eminent academics using high-quality
materials.
In July 2009, BPP was acquired by Apollo Global, Inc. a joint venture between
Apollo Group, Inc. and private equity firm, The Carlyle Group. Apollo Global‟s
vision is to broaden student opportunity, grow the knowledge base of the
communities it serves and advance the educational landscape worldwide. Today,
the Apollo Global network includes BPP University College; UNIACC, a leading arts
and communications university in Chile; ULA, a renowned communications,
business, and medical university in Mexico and Western International University
(WIU), a U.S. accredited university specializing in business and technology
education with online delivery worldwide. Apollo Global is consolidated subsidiary
of Apollo Group, Inc., Nasdaq: APOL.
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College Handbook
Mission
Our goal is to empower students to succeed through our unwavering commitment
to quality, supported by flexible learning solutions and outstanding educational
material.
The Mission of BPP University College of Professional Studies is:
To be the leading provider of business and legal professional education and
training.
●
Delivered by passionate and well-qualified staff who are professional,
friendly, highly motivated and reflect the rich diversity of UK‟s population.
●
Supported by outstanding facilities, first class services, exploiting the latest
technology and e-learning opportunities.
●
Providing a dynamic portfolio of excellent undergraduate, postgraduate and
professional programmes which are innovative, highly respected and the
best preparation for a future career in professional disciplines such as:
accountancy, actuarial practice, banking, business, finance, insolvency,
human resources, law, marketing and tax.
●
Anticipating and responding to clients' requirements and exceeding their
expectations.
●
To be the best at all we do.
College Handbook
9
Employability Statement
BPP University College has made its reputation on the basis of its professionallyfocussed, practice-facing programmes. It goes without saying, therefore, that
employability is at the heart of BPP‟s approach to higher education. We aim to go
beyond the provision of generic life skills in our programmes to enable students
either to enter the profession or career of their choice or to enable them to
accelerate upwards in their existing career.
We do this through the following mechanisms:
10
1.
Applicants‟ aptitudes for the programme to which they have applied is
evaluated, the evaluation is often supported by a diagnostic test. Students
with additional needs have a learning contract put in place to ensure their
progress is appropriately supported.
2.
All BPP‟s programmes have outcomes relating to professional skills and
attitudes built into them as well as outcomes relating to general transferable
skills. Many have clinical components involving „live client‟, clinical
simulation, placements and work-based learning elements. Programmes
incorporate, where relevant, the use of practice-specific IT resources such
as Bloomberg and trading floor simulation software. In particular BPP:
●
operates an award-wining Pro Bono centre, in multiple sites, running
numerous projects, which offers free legal advice to members of the
community who might not otherwise have access to legal services;
●
runs a diversity scheme which offers summer placements to law
students from unconventional background;
●
offers an Access to Practice Scheme to students with limited access to
the legal profession.
3.
Many of BPP‟s programmes are accredited for entry to the professions or
carry exemptions from professional body requirements;
4.
BPP‟s programmes are designed following consultation with employers and
professional bodies and have employers and/or professional body
representatives on the programme validation panel. Following approval
programmes benefit from oversight by an advisory board which comprises
employers and professional body representatives;
5.
BPP‟s programmes are delivered by highly qualified staff, the vast majority
of whom are qualified practitioners, who bring their experience to bear in
the delivery of the programme and their support to students;
College Handbook
6.
BPP provides a first-class, professional careers advice service geared to the
specific careers its students are seeking to enter:
●
the careers team comprises officers who are knowledgeable in the
areas of employment in to which BPP‟s programmes are designed to
lead.
●
the careers officers are supported by academic staff who are able to
provide real-life, practice experience;
the service offers detailed and specific advice on career entry and
development, self presentation in writing and in interview;
●
7.
BPP has close and active relationships with the professional bodies, practice
and companies, and uses these relationships to continually inform and
improve the currency and value of its programmes.
This focussed and tailored blend of practice-related learning facilities and
opportunities will help develop students‟ professional awareness, aptitudes and
skills to enter, succeed and develop in the career of their choice.
College Handbook
11
College Structure
BPP University College of Professional Studies encompasses BPP Business School
and BPP Law School. The schools:
●
employ well-qualified and passionate staff
●
are equipped with the latest resources and technology
●
have close links with the business and legal professions
●
are situated in convenient city centre locations in Birmingham, Bristol,
Leeds, London (City, Holborn and Waterloo) and Manchester
BPP Business School
At BPP Business School, we are committed to providing the highest standard of
professional education to all our students. Our tutors are a dynamic mix of
academics and practitioners from diverse professional backgrounds.
We offer a range of programmes in accountancy, tax, banking, financial services,
insolvency, human resources and marketing - undergraduate and postgraduate
diplomas and degrees, bespoke corporate programmes, and professional
practitioner courses.
BPP Law School
BPP Law School has an international reputation as a leading provider of
professional legal education with six law schools in Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds,
London (Holborn and Waterloo) and Manchester.
We offer a full range of courses covering all areas of legal education including:
undergraduate and law conversion, postgraduate degrees and diplomas for those
wishing to pursue a legal career, and practitioner courses which provide further
training and professional development for practising lawyers.
More than 5,500 students choose to study at BPP Law School every year and 19
leading law firms send their trainees exclusively to us. BPP Law School has been
designated by the Securities and Institute (SII) as a „Centre of Excellence‟ in the
field of investment regulation and compliance.
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College Handbook
Governance & Management
The College is governed and managed through three main vehicles:
●
●
●
The General Academic Regulations and sub-regulatory instruments
The Committee Structure
The Executive
Together these mechanisms provide clear principles on which to act and effective
mechanisms through which to communicate and agree those actions.
The General Academic Regulations
The General Academic Regulations are the most senior written authority within
BPP University College. They are supported by four further levels of regulation
and guidance which make up the regulatory framework:
●
●
●
●
●
the General Academic Regulations
the Manual of Policies and Procedures
the College Handbook
the Programme Handbooks
forms and guidance
The regulatory framework is intended to ensure that:
1.
the aims set out in the mission statement are pursued effectively;
2.
there can be public confidence in the quality of the College's programmes
and scholarship, and in the standards of its academic awards and other
distinctions;
3.
students and staff have a rigorous and robust framework for the
management of programmes leading to academic awards.
The framework has been designed to combine enough flexibility to encourage
responsiveness to the changing needs of society with the necessary safeguards
for the management of the College as an academic community.
Committee Structure
BPP‟s committee structure is designed to facilitate the efficient expedition of
business and the facilitation and introduction of innovation and best practice. The
committee process seeks to encourage innovation, build on initiatives and good
practice, monitor standards and quality and support the work that is happening
on the ground. Elected student representatives are members of various
committees and make an invaluable contribution to their work.
The main committees are as follows:
The Academic Council is the most senior authority responsible for academic
policy and standards within BPP and is responsible for strategic academic
direction and governance. The Council is chaired by an independent, external
member. It comprises six independent members, who are external to BPP and
hold high office in public life, the Principal, the Deans of the College and the
Academic Registrar, two elected members of staff and two elected members from
the student body.
College Handbook
13
The Board of Directors operates in partnership with the Academic Council on
matters relating to academic provision. Its function is to ensure that the College
operates legally and effectively. It and the Academic Council act as
counterbalances to each other in ensuring that programmes are academically
rigorous, commercially viable, and well-resourced
The Education and Training Committee is the College‟s most senior internal
academic committee. It reports to the Academic Council and is the engine room
for academic matters within the College. Below the Education and Training
Committee are the Learning and Teaching Committee and the School Boards.
The Learning and Teaching Committee's major focus is to act as a crossCollege forum for capturing, developing and disseminating best practice in
delivery and for supporting staff to be able to do so.
School Boards. There is a School Board for each of the Business and Law
Schools. The School Boards are the main conduit for the academic voice and are
central in monitoring standards and quality. As well as reviewing policy and
providing advice to the Education and Training Committee, the School Boards are
responsible for considering feedback from students, external examiners and the
College's other internal processes, for compiling an action plan and for ensuring
that agreed actions are executed.
Programme Committee, Module Teams, Staff Student Liaison Committee.
At ground level there is an important triumvirate of programme management
teams, module teams and student staff liaison committees. The module teams
meet frequently to review and preview delivery and act upon any immediate
initiatives or issues. There is a staff student liaison committee for each
programme which meets at least termly to discuss the student experience of the
programme and the College more generally. Both of these bodies report to the
programme management committee on the functioning of the programme and
initiative for change.
The terms of reference and composition of each committee is set out in the first
section of the General Academic Regulations (available from the Registry section
of the VLE, bpp.blackboard.com).
14
College Handbook
The Committee Structure is represented as follows:
Academic Council
Board of Directors
Independent Reviewer
Advisory Committees
(as required):
Academic Appeals
Board
e.g. Joint Staff
Consultative
Committee
Boards of Examiners
Education and Training
Committee
Concessions Panel
Promotions Boards
Advisory Committees
(as required)
e.g. College Validation
Panels.
Academic Review
Panels
Learning & Teaching
Committee
School Boards
Ethics Committee
Advisory Panels
(as required)
e.g. Unfair Practices Panel
Special Circumstances
Panel
Advisory Working
Groups
(as required)
e.g. Equality and
Diversity,
Research and
Enterprise
Programme Committees
Module Teams
Staff / Student Liaison
Committees
Executive Operation
The operation of the committee structure is supported by a carefully designed
network of executive officers. These are led by the Principal, and include the
Deans of Schools, the Dean of Learning and Teaching, the Dean of Academic
Affairs and the Academic Registrar. These officers are supported by academic
managers and support staff including resource and pedagogy experts as well as
external examiners, advisers and consultants. The executive officers operate
through and outside the committee structure to ensure the efficient and timely
execution of operational business, the development of strategy and the
implementation of enhancements.
Within the Schools the Dean is supported by directors of programmes who are
responsible for all the programmes for a particular award such as the LLB. The
director of programmes will be supported by programme leaders for each mode of
a programme and they in turn are supported by module leaders and personal
tutors.
College Handbook
15
College Contact Details
BPP Birmingham
BPP Bristol
32-34 Colmore Circus
Queensway
Birmingham
B4 6BN
BPP House
Grove Avenue
Queen Square
Bristol BS1 4QY
Tel. 0845 678 6868
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 0845 678 6868
Nearest train: Snow Hill/ Birmingham New
Street
Nearest train: Bristol Temple Meads
BPP Business School London City
BPP Business School
2 St Mary Axe
London
EC3A 8BF
Tel: +44 (0)845 077 55 66
Nearest tube: Bank Station, Liverpool Street Station
Opening Hours:
7am-9.30pm Monday-Friday
8-5pm Saturday
16
BPP Law School London (Holborn)
BPP Law School London (Waterloo)
BPP Law School
68-70 Red Lion Street
London WC1R 4NY
BPP Law School
137 Stamford Street
London SE1 9NN
Tel: +44 (0)845 678 6868
Tel: +44 (0)845 678 6868
Nearest tube : Holborn, Chancery Lane
Opening Hours:
7am-11pm Monday-Thursday
7am-10pm Friday
8-8pm Saturday-Sunday
Nearest tube: Waterloo station
Opening Hours :
7am-10pm Friday
BPP Leeds
BPP Manchester
BPP Law School
2 Whitehall Quays
Leeds LS1 4HG
BPP Law School
St. James Building
79 Oxford Street
Manchester M1 6FQ
Tel: +44 (0)845 678 6868
Tel: +44 (0)845 678 6868
Nearest train: Leeds Central
Opening Hours:
7am-10pm Friday
Nearest train: Manchester Oxford Road,
Manchester Piccadilly (from London)
Opening Hours:
College Handbook
7am-10pm Friday; 8-8pm Saturday-Sunday
The Student Charter
Introduction
BPP University College aims to provide you with a high quality programme within
a professional, stimulating and caring community. Our aspirations are that you
will have every opportunity to succeed and that you will enjoy your time with us
at the College.
We strive to promote good practice in a spirit of partnership and constructive
relationships. The Student Charter provides a framework for us to develop and
improve our services in the light of experience and with the co-operation of both staff
and students. The following information gives an outline of what we will aim to provide
and, in return, what we will expect of you as members of the College community.
The views of students are canvassed regularly and subsequent changes in the
way our services are delivered will be reflected in future revisions of the Charter.
The Charter is operative from the date of publication and, whilst it is believed to
be accurate at the time of publication, it is to be used for information only and
does not form part of any contract with the College.
Admissions
We receive thousands of applications each year; many more than there are places
available. Not all applicants are successful but you may be sure that the College is
committed to a fair system in which your application is given full consideration.
You can expect:
1.
clear information on our programme of study and services;
2.
information relating to entry criteria, learning methods, assessments and
student support;
3.
information to be available regarding charges to be levied for fees and
compulsory costs associated with your programme;
4.
selection procedures to be monitored to ensure that we operate a fair
system;
5.
the opportunity to visit us and obtain first-hand experience of the College
and its staff.
You are expected to:
1.
provide full and accurate information as and when required;
2.
keep your appointment for interview or open day, if invited, or rearrange the
date with us if you are unable to attend;
3.
bring with you any information requested;
College Handbook
17
4.
respond to an offer of a place within the specified time period to ensure that
the offer is not withdrawn;
5.
enrol as requested, be aware of the conditions of enrolment and provide all
the information required.
On arrival you can expect:
1.
an induction programme which introduces you to the pace of college life,
details of your course, clarifies the College‟s expectations and explains
procedures. You will also meet representatives from the student support
services;
2.
a programme handbook which gives further detail on your programme
including a schedule of assessments and dates for the return of results
1.
learn as much as you can about the programme you are embarking on and
the services and facilities available in the College
2.
talk to tutors, your personal tutor or Programme Leader if you have
problems or concerns during these early days
3.
consult the Programme Leader if you are thinking of withdrawing from your
programme
Teaching and learning
The College is committed to ensuring high standards in the way you are taught
and how we enable you to learn. We want you to realise your full potential and
believe that in order to do this you need expert and enthusiastic teachers,
resources such as books and computers, space in which to work and clear
information about what is expected of you.
You can expect:
1.
teaching that is well planned, which uses different methods so as to reflect
the disciplines and the different ways in which people learn and is designed
to help you think and work for yourself
2.
reasonable access to books, computers and other equipment which will
support the particular ways in which you are expected to study
3.
guidance and support on how to use the learning resources and facilities
available to you
4.
to be assigned a personal tutor to whom you can turn for advice and study
support during your time on the programme
5.
access to the College building during term time at the advertised hours
18
1.
treat tutors and staff employed by the College with respect and courtesy
2.
participate in timetabled classes
College Handbook
3.
attend all timetabled classes for your group and, in the event of your
inability to do so, inform your personal tutor of the reason for your absence
as soon as possible
4.
spend sufficient time in preparation and completion of assignments
5.
make appropriate use of the educational facilities provided and the time setaside for self-directed learning
6.
keep appointments and give as much notice as possible in the event of
having to cancel
7.
make use of learning resources and facilities in a responsible and
considerate way that respects the needs of fellow students
8.
observe codes of conduct for the use of IT facilities.
Assessment
We believe that assessment has a major influence on what is learned, how the
staff teach, how students organise their studies and how individuals are able to
progress in the future.
You can expect that:
1.
the purposes of assessment are clear
2.
the methods of assessment are valid and clear
3.
you are aware of which assessments contribute to the overall final
assessment of your programme
4.
assessment is an integral part of the course design process
5.
assessment criteria are open, transparent and free from bias
6.
you take responsibility for your own learning by being encouraged to engage
in self and peer evaluation
7.
all students are entitled to feedback on assessments which will take the
following formats:
(a)
Formative assessments (other than MCTs) - you will receive written
feedback indicating the general areas where there is a need to
improve. If you fail to pass a formative assessment you will also be
entitled to feedback for that assessment.
(b)
Summative assessments (other than MCTs) - If you fail to pass your
assessment you will be entitled to feedback for that examination
8.
feedback is given to you within a reasonable time frame
9.
assessment dates, where possible, give due regard to your workload;
10.
students are provided with guidance
opportunities to pass assessment failures.
and
counselling
concerning
College Handbook
19
1.
hand in work on time, attend all assessment activities and adhere to the
assessment timetable
2.
notify your personal tutor promptly if you are having difficulties which affect
your performance
3.
acknowledge the work of others where appropriate and never engage in
cheating, plagiarism or other designated academic irregularities
4.
take the appropriate course of action if you are advised that your progress is
causing concern.
Student feedback
The College believes in the value of student feedback because learning is a
partnership between tutors and students. It is important to staff to know how you
have found the programme, not simply in order to improve things in the future,
but in order to help establish and promote this wider idea of the training
partnership.
The College will therefore:
1.
give students specific opportunities to provide feedback during their
programme
2.
ensure that you can speak freely and that your views are treated with due
seriousness
1.
take a lively and constructive
arrangements on your programme
part
in
the
teaching
and
learning
2.
take the feedback process seriously and to complete questionnaires with
candour and objectivity
Students with disabilities
The College is committed to improving provision for students with disabilities,
specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia or those with medical conditions
which affect their studies. Provision includes guidance and support for students
with dyslexia and provision of special lockers for disabled students. Other services
are being continually developed.
You can expect:
20
1.
clear and accessible information regarding the College‟s provision for
students with disabilities
2.
the opportunity to discuss specific requirements including appropriate
presentation of course material, modes of examination and course
assessment, prior to admission and throughout your course
College Handbook
3.
the opportunity (subject to agreement with the College) to enter into a
learning contract which sets out clearly the facilities, additional support and
any appropriate provision that you require in order to meet your identified
needs
4.
a confidential advice and information service followed by action or referral
as appropriate
5.
advice about additional funding and assistance with application for the
Disabled Student Allowances.
1.
inform the Law school of your disability and any specific support
requirements at the earliest opportunity so that proper consideration may be
given
2.
comply with any learning contract entered into with the College
Equal opportunities
The College is actively seeking to implement equal opportunities policies for both
staff and students. We aim for a College community that is free from intimidation
and discrimination.
You can expect a policy to be applied in respect of:
1.
a culture in which behaviour reflects a high level of awareness of equal
opportunities issues
2.
equality of opportunity regardless of gender, age, race, colour, nationality,
ethnic or national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, home
responsibility, disability, political or religious belief. This commitment also
extends to students known to be HIV positive
3.
clear information about processes and procedures
4.
any complaint of harassment to be treated seriously and dealt with fairly
and efficiently
1.
2.
comply with the College‟s policies on equal opportunities and harassment
respect and treat with dignity all members of the college community.
Health and safety
Our aim is for a „safety conscious‟ Law School and we are working to create and
maintain a safe environment. Safety awareness is an integral part of your course
of study and we give a high priority to instruction, training and supervision
associated with such matters.
College Handbook
21
We will provide:
1.
2.
3.
a safety code of practice for the College
a safety induction
clearly identified smoking areas.
1.
eat and drink in the specified areas
2.
not smoke on the premises
3.
help maintain standards of health and safety in the interests of all students,
staff and visitors to the College
Complaints procedure
There may be times when you feel that the system is unfair or treatment unjust.
In most instances concerns such as these are discussed with the people involved
and the matter resolved. If you feel that issues have not been addressed to your
satisfaction, or that the quality of a service is inadequate, you have the right to
proceed further. In this case the College will:
1.
provide a complaints procedure which is simple and clear
2.
ensure that the complaints procedure is freely available
3
deal with the complaint in confidence and without recrimination
4.
ensure that the complaints are dealt with in a way that complies with the
College‟s equal opportunities policy for students and staff
5.
ensure that the procedure complies with the College‟s equal opportunities
policy for students and staff.
be fully aware of and follow agreed procedures.
Disciplinary procedure
There may be other occasions when the College has reason to complain about the
conduct of a student on one of its courses. Our experience is that this happens
infrequently and in any event when there is a problem it is usually dealt with
informally. However where it is considered necessary the College will invoke a
formal procedure. In this event the College will:
22
1.
provide a disciplinary procedure which is simple and clear and which
provides a full opportunity for the student to state their case
2.
ensure that the disciplinary procedure is freely available
3.
deal with the matter in confidence and without recrimination
4.
ensure that the matter is dealt with in a way that complies with the
College‟s equal opportunities policy for students and staff
College Handbook
1 Copy as needed
5.
ensure that the procedure complies with the College‟s equal opportunities
policy for students and staff
be familiar with and follow agreed procedures.
Academic appeals
The College has an appeals procedure which allows students to appeal against
decision by the Assessments Board.
The College will seek to provide that:
1.
the procedure is known by all students
2.
the procedure is clear and advice about the appeals system is accessible
3.
the procedure outlines the basis on which students may appeal
4.
the appeal will be dealt with as promptly as possible and within any time
scale set out by the College
5.
the appeal is dealt with fairly and in a confidential manner.
1.
seek advice about the reasons for the academic decision prior to considering
making an appeal
2.
submit your appeal within the deadline indicated by the College
3.
be familiar with and follow agreed procedures.
College Handbook
23
Teaching, Learning & Assessment
Teaching and Learning Delivery Strategy
BPP University College is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of
teaching and learning delivery, continuously reviewing and enhancing its provision
in line with best practice and the latest innovations in teaching and learning
approaches and technologies. At the heart of BPP's Teaching and Learning Delivery
Strategy lies a commitment to encourage and enable our students to realise their
potential and achieve their learning and professional goals.
We aim to provide our students with a stimulating, demanding and engaging
learning environment, which is aligned with the demands and aspirations of
individual programmes. Our teaching and learning delivery methods are intended
to offer students fair and appropriate opportunities to achieve the intended
learning outcomes of individual modules and programmes, as well as to
demonstrate the requisite standard of achievement through a varied diet of
assessment.
Across programmes, intended learning outcomes fall in to one of four categories:
●
●
●
●
Knowledge and Understanding;
Cognitive Skills
Professional Skills and Attitudes
General Transferable Skills
Programme learning and teaching strategies strive to ensure integrity and
credibility in relation to the learning outcomes to be achieved, class size and
pedagogical methods.
The College‟s standard delivery methods include but are not limited to:
24
Method
Lecture
Class Size
Whole Group
Revision Clinic
Whole Group
Tutorials
1-6
Seminars
7 - 18
Workshops
12 - 36
Harvard
Seminars
18-50
Asynchronous
Seminars
-
Skills Class
2-16
College Handbook
Key Activities
Demonstration, Overview,
Mapping, Explanation of Key
Issues
Review & Elucidation
Pastoral & Remedial supervision
Student Led papers and
presentations
Peer and tutor feedback
Tutor Led Elucidation
Socratic exploration
Case analysis
Presentations
Problem based learning
Case analysis
Pod working, presentation &
feedback
Case analysis
Problem Based Learning
Predetermined sub group work
Discussion & exploration
Demonstration, practice, peer
review, tutor feedback
Generic Outcomes
Knowledge &
Understanding
Knowledge &
Understanding,
Reflection
Knowledge &
Understanding,
Cognitive Skills, Verbal
Communication
Knowledge &
Understanding,
Cognitive Skills, Verbal
Communication
Knowledge &
Understanding,
Cognitive Skills,
Knowledge &
Understanding,
Cognitive Skills,
Knowledge &
Understanding, General
Transferable Skills (IT)
Professional Skills and
Attitudes, General
Transferable Skills
Wherever feasible online versions of on-ground delivery will be made available to
students. Many of the above formats may be replicated through online provision,
e.g. lectures may be delivered through MP3 downloads, achieving additional
benefits to the live delivery method. Tutorials and seminars may be delivered
through WIMBA and other online methods. Where visual interaction is necessary
or where interactive skills are being delivered online, necessary provisions will be
detailed in the programme's teaching and learning strategy.
We intend that both online and on-ground delivery methods will provide an
equivalent learning experience and demonstrate integrity and credibility.
College Handbook
25
Assessment Strategy
We believe that examination and assessment play a vital part in student learning,
progress and achievement.
Our assessment strategy is guided by a set of overarching principles and aims to:
●
provide students with fair and appropriate opportunities to achieve all
intended learning outcomes for a programme of study and reliably
demonstrate that achievement;
●
ensure validity, reliability and authenticity of assessments;
●
provide feedback to students to aid their learning and progress;
●
provide a basis for decisions on students' learning needs and readiness to
progress;
●
offer a varied assessment diet which is aligned with the needs of modules
and programmes, while at the same time employs as broad a range of
assessment instruments as possible with as few assessments as possible.
The aim is to avoid repetition in assessing individual outcomes, assess
common outcomes by a single assessment, and where appropriate, to
employ capstone assessments to demonstrate the integration of learning
outcomes and meta-learning;
●
provide a basis for a decision whether a student qualifies for an award and
on the grading of their achievement.
Most BPP programmes are comprised of a series of modules, which in turn carry
credit and have defined learning outcomes. Intended learning objectives detail
what students are expected to achieve in the respective modules. Assessments
are usually designed to enable students to achieve all learning outcomes in a
programme.
Normally, the award of a qualification is contingent upon students achieving all
modules in a programme, having reached at least a pass standard in every
assessment task of every module.
At BPP University College, we recognise three types of examination and
assessment:
26
(a)
Diagnostic examinations and assessments provide indicators of learners‟
aptitude and readiness for a programme of study.
(b)
Formative examinations and assessments offer learners feedback on their
performance and give guidance on areas for improvement. They do not
count toward the overall result on a module or programme of study.
(c)
Summative examinations and assessments provide a measure of learners‟
achievement or failure in relation to the intended learning outcomes of a
programme of study. They do count towards the overall result on a module
and programme.
College Handbook
Standard types of assessment instrument include, but are not limited to:
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
unseen written examinations
part-seen written examinations
essays
technical reports
projects
oral presentation
research questions
group-work reports
in-tray exercises
learning logs and portfolios
evidence portfolios
case studies
Please refer to your Programme Handbook for a detailed overview of the
assessment instruments pertinent to the individual modules of your programme
of study.
You will additionally receive details of the marking criteria which will be applied in
the assessment of your work. Please note that individual programmes may have
their own marking criteria, aligned with the specific outcomes of the programme
and the requirements of professional bodies and standards agencies. You should
use this information to help plan your work.
College Handbook
27
Examination and Assessment
Examinations and assessments are largely for your benefit. Not only do they aid
your learning through considered and consistent feedback on your progress and
performance, but they also help you to reflect on your achievement and plan
activities to improve your knowledge, understanding and skills.
Examination and assessment also gives you the opportunity to demonstrate the
standard you have reached; it is the means by which your achievement is
measured, in relation to the aims of your programme and national benchmarks.
Assessment tasks and processes are designed to provide you with additional
learning opportunities.
For each programme there will be a schedule of the examination and assessment
elements for each module along with information on the form and weighting of
each assessed element. The deadline dates for the submission of course work and
the dates of examinations will be published on the VLE (bpp.blackboard.com)
prior to the first term in the academic year and in the Programme Handbook for
every individual scheme.
You are strongly advised to attend all scheduled examinations for your
programme, adhere stringently to assessment deadlines, familiarise yourself with
our Regulations on Unfair Practices in order to ensure their avoidance, and
generally abide by the examination and assessment regulations and requirements
set by the College, your programme and specific examination and assessment
events.
Please note that in some programmes, specific assessment provisions may apply.
For instance, certain assessments may allow for the use of permitted materials.
You are advised to refer to your programme handbook and your programme
regulations for guidance on permitted materials for individual modules.
Please note that in certain Law programmes, like the Bar Professional Training
Course, the 'fatal flaw' rule applies in assessment decisions. The 'fatal flaw' rule is
in place where legal or other analysis by the student is so clearly incorrect that it
would:
•
•
put the client(s) interests at risk, and/or
put the [potential] barrister at risk of negligence.
This is an overarching discretion to fail, operating outside the assessment criteria
for a particular assessment.
For regulatory information on Examination and Assessment, please consult your
Programme Handbook, the General Academic Regulations and the Manual of
Policies and Procedures (available under Regulatory Framework, under Registry
on the VLE at bpp.blackboard.com).
28
College Handbook
Rigour of Assessment Regimes
At BPP University College, we are committed to deploying assessment regimes
which are fair, consistent and offer guarantees as to the integrity and credibility
of programmes. Our General Academic Regulations consequently make provisions
for a comprehensive and rigorous process of marking and regulating students'
assessments.
Firstly, the parameters of each assessment are agreed at a markers' meeting,
convened by the Module Leader, prior to the commencement of marking. Written
scripts are 'blind' marked, wherever possible, to conceal the identity of the
student and ensure anonymity. Further markers' meetings ensure consistency
and standardisation of marking decisions and criteria. 'Borderline' exam scripts
and all fails are additionally second marked to ensure the accuracy of assessment
decisions. In the case of differences between the first and the second marker, the
scripts are re-evaluated, usually in the student's favour. Following an Examiner's
Report to the Director of Programmes, scripts are sent to the External Examiner.
Finally, before the release of assessment results, a Board of Examiners considers
the results of all assessments and makes any necessary decisions relating to the
conduct of the examination and the results achieved by students.
External Examiners are independent from BPP University College and are
appointed to that role for individual modules and programmes. They are drawn
from other higher education institutions or professional organisations and are
specialists in their field with extensive expertise and experience in both the
subject area and in examination practices. External examiners are in a position to
make independent and impartial judgements and they play a key role in the
quality assurance and enhancement processes at BPP University College. They
scrutinise the academic standards of each award and the standards of student
performance, the measurement of student achievement, and the rigour and
fairness of the assessment process. In addition, external examiners approve all
summative assessments, review all fails and grade boundaries, and participate
actively in relevant Board(s) of Examiners.
The Board of Examiners has oversight over all examinations and assessments,
and allied regulations and processes for a programme. A Board of Examiners
comprises the Dean of the School, internal and external examiners, and is chaired
by an independent senior academic approved by the Academic Council. The
Boards of Examiners have a duty to uphold the academic standards and integrity
of awards.
College Handbook
29
Absence from or Failure at Assessments
Students are expected to attend examinations as required by their programme
and to adhere to the required formats and published deadlines for compulsory
course work, as specified in individual Programme Handbooks.
If you fail to attend an examination or submit work for an assessment without
good cause, the examiners can deem that to be a failed assessment attempt and
record a mark of zero (0) for such component(s).
You will be permitted two attempts to retake a failed assessment component.
However, unless a concession has been granted, re-sit marks will be capped at
the pass mark for the assessment and this will be reflected on your transcript. If
you can provide evidence of illness or other good cause, you may be entitled to a
concession. You are therefore advised to familiarise yourself with the Rules on
Concessions (Manual of Policies and Procedures, under Registry/ Regulatory
Framework of the VLE, bpp.blackboard.com).
Absence from and failure at assessments are governed and regulated by the
General Academic Regulations and the Manual of Policies and Procedures
(available under Regulatory Framework, under Registry on the VLE at
bpp.blackboard.com).
30
College Handbook
Extensions, Deferrals and Concessions
We recognise that unforeseen circumstances and unfortunate events like illness,
bereavement or being a victim of crime may impact on your ability to undertake or
perform well in examinations and assessments. Our General Academic Regulations
therefore make provisions for mitigating circumstances which may be deemed to
have impaired your ability to prepare for an assessment or sit an examination.
Extensions
If you can provide evidence of an illness or other good cause, you may apply for
an extension to the deadline for handing in a coursework assessment.
The request for an extension, together with relevant evidence, must be received
by the Programme Leader by 5pm on the last working day before the deadline,
and the Programme Leader must be satisfied that the period of time affected by
illness or other good cause, would have prevented you from submitting the
assessment on time.
Deferrals
If you can provide objective and authoritative evidence that illness or other good
cause has impaired you ability to prepare for an examination or assessment, you
may apply to sit the examination or undertake the coursework assessment at the
next available opportunity. A deferral is different from an extension as you will
not undertake the same coursework task or examination as students undertaking
the assessment at the current sitting.
The request for a deferral, together with all relevant evidence, must be received
by 5pm on the last working day before the deadline or date of examination,
and the Programme Leader must be satisfied that the illness or other good cause
would render you unfit to undertake the examination or coursework assessment.
Please Note: Deferrals do not extend the permitted maximum period for
completing your degree.
Concessions
Where you can provide evidence that your performance or attendance at an
examination or assessment has been impaired by unforeseen illness or some other
unforeseeable circumstance which was outside your control, during or immediately
before an assessment or examination, you can apply for a concession to have your
examination or assessment result or attempt disregarded. This means that your
results are processed as if the assessment or examination has never been taken. If
your concession application is granted and the Board of Examiners allows you to
re-take the examination or assessment, it will be treated as a first sit and the mark
awarded will not be capped. However, should your application for a concession be
rejected and you are offered another opportunity to re-sit, the mark will be capped
at the pass rate for the assessment in question.
College Handbook
31
The application for a concession must be completed and submitted to the
Concessions Officer no later than 10 working days after the assessment was due
or you sat the examination. The Concessions Officer is available to advise you on
completing your concession application. He can also act as your advocate before
the Concessions Board of the College which will consider your application.
You are required to provide authoritative and objective evidence of the
circumstances which you consider to have affected your performance. You should
aim to collect any medical or other evidence either on the day itself or as close to
as possible to the examination or assessment date.
Please note that Concessions are subject to the following caveats:
●
The granting of a concession will not automatically result in any increase in
the marks.
●
Where you could have been reasonably expected to apply for an extension
or deferral, an application for concession will not usually be granted by the
Concessions Board.
●
Pre-existing or chronic medical conditions are not usually considered as valid
mitigating circumstances in themselves since these are known of beforehand
and can be addressed by means of a Learning Support Agreement or special
arrangements including enhanced pastoral support. The onus is on students
to disclose in advance of examinations or assessments any ongoing
conditions they feel may impact on their performance and take the
appropriate course of action to address the situation.
'Fit to Sit' Policy
Before taking an examination or submitting an assessment, BPP University
College requires students to sign a 'Fit to Sit' declaration. If you do not feel fit to
sit an examination or complete an assessment due to an illness or other
unforeseen circumstances, you should consider applying for a deferral of the
assessment or an extension of the submission deadline. When submitting
assessments online, the very act of online submission constitutes a declaration of
„fitness to sit‟.
If you have committed to a 'Fit to Sit' declaration, you may not subsequently
submit a concession application unless:
1.
you are affected by unforeseen circumstances beyond your control during
the examination; or
2.
you are subsequently diagnosed as having been suffering from a condition
at the time of the assessment of which you were unaware; or
3.
at the time of signing the 'Fit to Sit' declaration your ability to make a
rational judgement as to your 'fitness' to take the assessment had been
impaired.
In all the above cases you must believe that these circumstances have aversely
affected your performance in the assessment and in each case you must provide
objective, contemporaneous and authoritative evidence of your condition.
32
College Handbook
For full information and detailed guidance on BPP University College's
Regulations, Procedures and relevant Application Forms for Extensions, Deferrals
and Concessions, please consult the Regulatory Framework section of the
Registry area of the VLE (bpp.blackboard.com). Please refer to the General
Academic Regulations (Part H), the Manual of Policies and Procedures (Part H,
specifically, the Extension of Deadline Date for Assessments Procedure, the
Deferral of Examination Procedure and the Rules on Concessions), as well as the
Guide to Deferrals and Concessions. In all instances, please do not delay to
contact your Programme Leader.
College Handbook
33
Unfair Practices
At BPP University College, we take a strong stance against unfair practices which
jeopardise the integrity and reputation of the College and its examination and
assessment processes. In addition, as a leading provider of professional education
in Law, Finance and Business we believe in the education and training of
professionals who are guided in all matters by strong moral principles and values
of professional integrity. We therefore encourage you to abide by our Unfair
Practices Regulations and refrain from any actions that would breach our code.
Unfair Practice is defined as an act leading to circumstances whereby a student or
another may gain unfair or unpermitted advantage in an examination or
assessment. Examples of unfair practices include but are not limited to plagiarism
(copying or imitating text or material from another author or source, including the
Internet, without proper acknowledgment or referencing); collusion (unauthorised
collaboration in assessments); fabrication of data or results from empirical study;
impersonation
of another person's identity, e.g. in order to undertake an
examination on their behalf; academic misconduct which includes acts such as
utilising prohibited or unauthorised material in assessments, attempts to
influence a BPP official by bribery or other unfair means, untruthful claims of
mitigating circumstances, false declarations of word count, failure to observe
examination and assessment requirements of timing and principled conduct
among others. For precise definitions of unfair practice, please consult the
Glossary at the end of this Handbook, as well as the Manual of Policies and
Procedures, Part H, Section 8, available from the VLE (bpp.blackboard.com).
In addressing cases of unfair practice, BPP University College distinguishes
between infringements and violations, depending on the severity of the
breach,
considerations
of
intention,
premeditation,
recklessness
and
circumstances, as well as aggravating factors like previous breaches, concealment
of evidence, financial gain, acting under the influence of alcohol or drugs, among
others.
All members of BPP staff have a professional obligation to report instances of
unfair practice. Alleged cases are investigated and acted upon by the Programme
Leader in conjunction with the Academic Registrar. Instances of alleged violations
are investigated and addressed by an Unfair Practice Panel, convened by the
Academic Registrar.
Proven acts of unfair practice entail penalties, which depend on the gravity of the
breach and the circumstances of the individual case. Mitigation is considered if
the student(s) admits the offence at the first available opportunity and/or
cooperates with the College's investigation.
In the case of an infringement, the primary aim of any penalty is to improve the
student's understanding of what constitutes unfair practice. Therefore, the
penalties imposed for an infringement are limited to: an activity with educational
benefit designed to address the form of unfair practice; the negation of any
assessment advantage gained from the infringement; a written warning in the
student's file.
Penalties imposed for a violation include but are not limited to: a written warning
in the student's file; deduction of marks from an assessment to negate any
advantage gained by the violation; voiding the assessment/ examination or entire
module, or assigning a mark of zero; capping the award classification available to
the student; termination of the student's registration, among others.
34
College Handbook
In addition, where a programme leads to the award of a statutory or professional
body, any identified violation of the Unfair Practice Regulations may be reported
to that body.
Please refer to the Unfair Practice Procedures of the Manual of Policies and
Procedures (Part H, Section 8) for detailed information and guidance. You are
strongly encouraged to familiarise yourself with the College's regulations in
relation to unfair practice, as ignorance will not be deemed an acceptable excuse
in claims of unintentional offences.
College Handbook
35
Appeals
At BPP University College, we are committed to acting in the best interest of our
students while abiding by principles of fairness and integrity in all matters. The
General Academic Regulations make comprehensive provisions for the review of
and appeals against College decisions, in order to ensure that all students are
treated in a fair and reasonable manner. We shall make every effort to hear and
determine all applications and appeals from students as expeditiously as
reasonably possible, having regard to the circumstances of each individual case
and the requirements of natural justice and fairness.
Appeals procedures apply to:
(a)
Verification of examination/assessment results. These are led by the
Academic Registrar following the Administrative Verification Regulations and
Procedures.
(b)
Appeal against a decision of a School Board which requires a student to
change their pathway or final award, or to withdraw temporarily or
permanently from the College. These are reviewed by a Student Progress
Appeals Panel, under the Student Progress Appeals Procedures.
(c)
Appeals against decisions of a Board of Examiners. These are considered by
an Academic Appeals Board under BPP University College‟s Examination and
Assessment Appeals Regulations.
(d)
Allegations of Unfair Practices. These are reviewed by an Academic Appeals
Board and are covered by BPP University College‟s Unfair Practices
Regulations and Procedures.
(e)
Student attendance or disciplinary issues raised by BPP University College.
These are heard by a Disciplinary Hearing Panel and are covered by BPP
University College‟s Student Discipline Code.
Please note that:
●
No appeal or request for an independent review will be entertained against
the academic judgment of the examiners.
●
No appeal will be entertained against a judgment made on concessions
where mitigating circumstances have been submitted and considered by the
Concessions Panel.
The Office of the Independent Reviewer
BPP University College has established the Office of the Independent Reviewer in
order to provide an external and independent review of the efficacy of the
operation of its examination and assessment verification and appeals regulations
and procedures. The Independent Reviewer is a person who is independent of the
College and who holds or has held a judicial appointment or is a professor or
other senior academic with experience in dealing with student appeals and
complaints.
A student who has exhausted the College‟s internal appeals procedures may refer
the matter to the Independent Reviewer where they feel that the College has
36
College Handbook
failed to follow correct procedures, or the procedure followed is unfair, or the
decision consequent on the student‟s appeal is manifestly unfair.
A student wishing to refer for review by the Independent Reviewer the procedures
and outcome in respect of a specific appeal must contact the Secretary to the
Independent Review to discuss the scope of a reference, the information and
evidence to be provided and the fee and terms of payment.
Please note that the reference to the Independent Reviewer is subject to a fee,
which may be reimbursed, fully or in part, at the discretion of the Independent
Reviewer.
Detailed information and guidance on BPP University College's Regulatory
Framework with regard to Verification, Appeals and Review can be found in the
General Academic Regulations (Part K) and the Manual of Policies and Procedures
(Part K), available from the VLE (bpp.blackboard.com).
College Handbook
37
Academic Supervision
We are highly committed not only to the academic development of every student
but also to their general welfare. We aim to make your stay at BPP an enjoyable
one and pride ourselves on all our staff being approachable and supportive.
As a student you will be assigned a personal tutor who will be your first point of
contact. The personal tutor is there to offer you advice, assistance and support
with any academic and personal difficulties that may arise, ensuring that where
appropriate, any problems are known to the programme management.
The role of your personal tutor is to provide the main point of contact between
you and your School, as well as to support you through what can be a very
demanding programme of study. Your personal tutor will monitor the academic
and personal welfare of the students in his or her tutor group, and will provide
general advice on students‟ progress. Advice might relate to study and revision
techniques, the results of assessments or a student‟s future career. Your personal
tutor will arrange to meet you individually, where appropriate, during the first
term, and will then remain in contact for the duration of your study with BPP
University College in order to discuss your progress on the programme and any
other issues arising.
You may also raise any problem (either academic or personal), with the Director
of Programmes, Programme Leader or any member of the programme team if it
is not appropriate to discuss the matter with your assigned personal tutor.
As a student, you are expected to take responsibility for both your performance
on the programme and your personal life. However, in case of any difficulty, it is
advisable to ask for help from your personal tutor or another appropriate source,
as soon as possible, in order to resolve the issue at the earliest opportunity.
Routine matters should initially be referred informally to your personal tutor. If
you experience any problem which is affecting your studies, you should see your
personal tutor without delay. There are few difficulties that have not already
happened to someone else before and there are usually solutions. Addressing
matters early will help their resolution.
References
Personal tutors are happy to supply references to students. The tutor should be
provided with details of the requesting organisation (chambers, academic
institution, etc.) including phone and fax numbers and e-mail address. Although
students are welcome to discuss the areas which the reference will cover, the
students will not be given copies of references and tutors will not supply „open‟
references directly to students. All references are given in confidence and will
contain the words „This reference is given in confidence and without liability on
the part of BPP University College of Professional Studies Ltd, the Law School or
its author‟.
38
College Handbook
Academic Progress
At BPP University College, we are committed to enabling all our students to
successfully achieve their chosen programme of study. We consequently monitor
the academic progress of our students in order to aid their programme
completion, as well as to safeguard the integrity of College's academic standards.
We expect our students to show reasonable diligence in the pursuit of their
studies, complying with all requirements for their programme, as set out in each
individual Programme Handbook.
Where a student's progress is deemed in jeopardy, the College has mechanisms
to address and seek to remedy any deficiencies. The process is intended to be
supportive and constructive, and is aimed at enabling students to achieve their
intended award.
Awards are formally conferred at graduation ceremonies where we celebrate the
achievement of our students in the company of their families and friends.
College Handbook
39
Attendance and Workload
As a student you are required to maintain high levels of attendance and show
commitment to your programme of study. You are expected to attend all
timetabled classes for your group and be punctual, prepared and engaged in
class. You will need to take initiative and responsibility for managing your
workload effectively in order to fulfil all attendance requirements and complete all
set assignments with diligence and within defined timescales. You are encouraged
to plan your time and your learning carefully, and make extensive use of the
educational resources and facilities made available to you by the College.
Students are required to attend such academic and practical work and to perform
such academic engagements as may be prescribed by their programme of study.
Full-time students are expected to be in attendance at the College during the
weeks of each term and whatever additional time is required by the programme
of study for which they are registered. Students on part time programmes are
required to meet the attendance requirements specified in the programme
handbook for the programme of study for which they are registered.
If you are unable attend a scheduled class or are falling behind on assignments, it
is important to contact your personal tutor as soon as possible in order to address
any issues and receive guidance on how to remedy the situation.
Please refer to your individual Programme Handbook and the VLE for details on
specific attendance requirements. Please note that many of our programmes are
linked to professional body standards and accreditation, and have stringent
attendance requirements. Failure to attend all scheduled classes for your course
without good cause and formal authorisation, may result in termination of your
registration or a „Not Yet Competent‟ classification. If you cannot attend class due
to illness, you should inform the relevant tutor prior to the class and provide a
completed certificate of absence accompanied by supporting evidence. It is likely
that you will still be expected to complete the work for that class and maintain
good progress.
In case of absence from examinations and/ or compulsory components of the
programme, you will need to notify the Registry and submit medical evidence or
other evidence of extenuating circumstances, as provided in the Examination and
Assessment regulations and supporting rules, policies and procedures.
Please note that if you are absent from a term without prior approval for a period
of 15 working days, your student status may be classified as 'withdrawn'. In the
case of international students on Study Visas, the College is required to report all
students in this position to the UK Border Agency.
Dress Code
On certain programmes and for certain occasions, there may be a dress code. For
example, on the Bar Professional Training Course, you are be required to dress
appropriately for court visits, as well as for Advocacy small group sessions, and
for Advocacy and Conference assessments (formative and summative). Please
refer to the information provided for your individual programme for guidance on
what constitutes appropriate dress and when it applies.
40
College Handbook
Jury Service
We recognise that you may be summoned for jury service during you time at the
College. If this happens, you must contact the relevant programme leader or
director of programmes to discuss the impact of this on your study.
If attending jury service is incompatible with your study, you may seek to be
excused by contacting the Registry, which will normally provide a letter
supporting an application to be excused. However, excusal is not a right. You
should contact the Registry and submit your application to the relevant court at
the earliest opportunity.
College Handbook
41
Student Progress in Jeopardy
At BPP University College, we are committed to enabling the progress of our
students towards the successful achievement of their intended award, and we
seek to take constructive and responsible action to support students whose
academic progress is in jeopardy.
As a student, it is important that you keep your personal tutor or Programme
Director informed of any circumstances and/ or developments that may affect
your progress towards the award of the qualification for which you are registered.
A student‟s progress is deemed to be in jeopardy where:
(a)
during a term, there are repeated instances of failures to satisfy programme
requirements;
(b)
the student is considered unlikely to be able to sustain the academic
workload and/or assessment burden necessary to regain satisfactory
progress towards the award;
(c)
the student has notified the college of a change in work, or personal,
circumstances that significantly affects the study arrangement or
commitment that the student is enrolled or registered to undertake.
When a student's progress is first suspected to be in jeopardy, the nature of the
progress issue is investigated and clarified, and then reported formally to the
programme or module leader, or the Academic Registrar. At this stage, the
module or programme leader, or the personal tutor would discuss with the
student concerned a course of action designed to rectify the situation
immediately, additionally setting a formal review date.
The matter is then reported to the School Board who on evaluating the case, may
dismiss it or may alternatively place the student on the At Risk Register. A
student placed on the Register will be informed in writing of:
(a)
the reasons why they have been placed on the At Risk Register;
(b)
the requirements they must meet to be removed from the Register;
(c)
any specific assistance that might be available to them;
(d)
the timescales within which these requirements must be met;
(e)
the consequences of not meeting the requirements or otherwise maintaining
satisfactory academic progress;
(f)
an invitation to bring to the attention of the school or sub-board any matters
that may affect the board‟s view of the student‟s progress and their ability
to meet the requirements specified.
The progress of students on the register will be monitored by a personal tutor.
The School Review Board will review the student‟s situation within a maximum of
8 weeks from the date of the student's placement on the register. On reviewing a
student‟s case the School Board may decide to:
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College Handbook
(a)
remove a student from the Register where it considers that the student‟s
academic progress has been retrieved;
(b)
extend the student‟s placement on the Register, specifying the length of the
extended period and the conditions that the student is expected to meet;
(c)
transfer the student from their mode of study on the programme to another
mode, or from their current programme of study to another award, where
the Board considers that the student will have a fair and reasonable chance
of success;
(d)
suspend the student registration for a specified period of intermission,
specifying the length of the intermission period and the conditions for reentry;
(e)
require the student to withdraw from the College where the student‟s ability
to achieve the award has been irretrievably jeopardised.
Depending on the outcome of the School Board's review of an 'at risk' case, the
student concerned may be invited to a meeting at which a final decision will be
taken. Students can appeal against such a decision through the Student Progress
Appeals Panel (see Appeals).
Detailed information on BPP University College's Regulations and Procedures in
relation to Academic Progress and the At Risk Register is contained in the General
Academic Regulations (Part G) and the Manual of Policies and Procedures (Part
G), available from the Registry pages of the VLE (bpp.blackboard.com).
College Handbook
43
Suspension of Registration and the Granting of
Intermission
If circumstances arise which seriously impact on your ability to continue and
progress in your programme of study, you may consider applying for a temporary
suspension of registration. You are entitled to apply for an intermission of your
studies for a defined period up to 12 months, (provided the maximum permitted
length for your programme is not thereby exceeded).
An intermission constitutes a formally approved absence and may be granted on
grounds of:
(a)
ill-health of a serious or extended nature;
(b)
financial hardship where the student is unable to meet his or her fee
payments or otherwise needs to return to employment;
(c)
maternity and paternity leave or parental duties of a similarly demanding
kind;
(d)
significant compassionate grounds;
(e)
changes of a significant nature to the employment commitment of part-time
students.
A student who intermits will be allowed to carry forward all assessment results
that he or she has obtained prior to the commencement of the period of
intermission. Where a student has completed the academic year or term, together
with all associated assessments, they will be permitted to progress to the next
level of the programme. If a student has been granted approval to suspend
registration within the academic year or term, they may be required to repeat all
that academic year or term. Students will normally be charged the fees pro rata
for any part of the programme that is repeated. The Academic Registrar has the
discretion to waive fees where they find strong reasons to do so.
If you have serious grounds for suspending your registration and are considering
applying for an intermission, you should consult with your personal tutor as soon
as possible. Your personal tutor will be able to advise you on making an
application for intermission, as well as on the likely impact of a suspension on
repeating or recovering learning and assessment opportunities, appropriate times
for re-entering the programme, the impact of changes in the syllabus, curriculum
and assessment instruments of the programme, ability to complete the
programme in the timescales specified in the General Academic Regulations, fees
and any other financial matters.
Please note that persons whose registration has been suspended are not deemed
College students and are not entitled to College services, unless expressly authorised.
In addition, where an international student on a Study Visa interrupts their
study or changes to a part-time mode, we are required to inform the Home Office
of their change of circumstances.
For detailed information on BPP University College's Regulations and Procedures
in relation to Suspension of Registration, please consult the General Academic
Regulations (Part F) and the Manual of Policies and Procedures (Part G, Section
2), available from the Registry pages of the VLE (bpp.blackboard.com).
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College Handbook
Withdrawal of Registration
It is our commitment to you to support you to gain the qualification for which you
have enrolled and to help you embark on your chosen career. However, if for
some reason you wish to withdraw from your programme, we advise you to
consult with your personal tutor or programme director as soon as possible.
If you wish to withdraw and terminate your registration before completing your
programme, you must give notice in writing to the Dean of your School. Fees
already paid will not normally be refunded and any monies due will be charged
notwithstanding the withdrawal.
Please note that if you do not re-register within the specified registration period
at the start of a programme, or are absent from a term without prior approval for
a period of 15 working days, you may be presumed 'withdrawn'.
Persons who are classified as withdrawn are not regarded as College students and
have no right to avail themselves of the College services, unless expressly
authorised.
In the case of international students on Study Visas who become classified as
'withdrawn', the College is required to inform the Home Office.
College Handbook
45
Termination of Registration
The College reserves the right to terminate a student‟s registration, temporarily
or permanently (which may involve, inter alia, exclusion from sitting or re-sitting
assessments) who:
(a)
is in arrears with the payment of fees or any other dues to the College or to
an affiliated institution; or
(b)
has failed to satisfy the academic requirements necessary to continuing on
the programme of studies concerned; or
(c)
has temporarily withdrawn from the College and has failed to meet the
conditions laid down for the resumption of study; or
(d)
has been disciplined in so far as the disciplinary action taken by the College
relates to registration or re-registration; or
(e)
has provided materially inaccurate information in support of his/her
application, or
(f)
has acquired a criminal conviction of sufficient seriousness or has failed to
declare a police caution or a criminal conviction occurring during the course
of his/her studies.
In determining the grounds for termination of registration, different College
regulations and procedures will apply, depending on the particular circumstances
of the case. The consideration of a case may fall under the Admissions and
Registration, Academic Progress, or Examination and Assessment Regulations and
Procedures of BPP University College of Professional Studies. The provisions for
appeals under these regulations are detailed in Verification, Appeals and Review.
For detailed information, please consult the General Academic Regulations and
the
Manual
of
Policies
and
Procedures,
available
from
the
VLE
(bpp.blackboard.com).
Disciplinary Offences will be subject to the regulations and procedures of the
Student Discipline Code (See Student Discipline Code in the Rights and
Responsibilities section of the College Handbook).
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College Handbook
Principal's Emergency Powers
In extreme circumstances and in cases of great urgency, the Principal has the
authority to suspend a student with immediate effect. Under these powers, a
student may be barred completely or partially from College premises and
activities. Such drastic measures are not intended as a penalty but as a
mechanism to protect the College community.
The Principal's Emergency Powers may be exercised to suspend students who are
in serious breach of health, safety and environmental protection and are
considered a danger to themselves or others; or students against whom a
criminal charge is pending or who are the subject of police investigation.
A student suspended under these provisions will be given the opportunity to
make representations in person or in writing to the Principal or his/her nominee
within 5 working days from the suspension date. Decisions to suspend students
under the Principal's Emergency Powers will be reviewed by the Principal and two
other members of the Academic Council (one internal member and one external
member) every 28 days in the light of any developments and of any
representations made by the students or anyone else on their behalf.
Where a student is expelled from the College they will not be entitled to any
refund of fees already paid; or be admitted to any other College course. In
addition, they will remain liable to pay any fees which are still outstanding.
A student who has exhausted the College's internal appeals procedures may refer
the matter to the Office of the Independent Reviewer for an external and
independent evaluation of the case. Please consult the section on Appeals in the
College Handbook for more information on the Office of the Independent
Reviewer (as well as the General Academic Regulations and the Manual of Policies
and Procedures, Part K of both, available from the Registry webpage of the VLE,
bpp.blackboard.com).
College Handbook
47
Graduation
Conferment of Awards
Awards will be conferred upon students who have successfully completed an
approved programme of study leading to a stated College award.
Where a student fails at a higher level or stage of a programme of study they
may be conferred an interim exit award, provided they have demonstrated the
achievement of the specified learning outcomes for that interim award (e.g.
(Post-graduate) Diploma or (Post-graduate) Certificate).
Conditions of awards
An award of the College or an award under delegated authority may be conferred
when the following conditions are met:
(a)
the candidate is a registered student of the College or was registered at the
time of assessment for an award;
(b)
the candidate has paid all appropriate fees and is not in debt to the College;
(c)
confirmation is provided by the Academic Registrar that the candidate has
completed an approved programme of studies leading to an award;
(d)
an award has been recommended by the appropriate board of examiners in
accordance with the regulations and the result on the award has been
approved by the Academic Council;
(e)
the recommendation of the award has been signed by the chair of the
relevant board of examiners and by the external examiners;
(f)
in respect of awards conferred under delegated authority, such other
requirements as may be specified by the awarding body.
For a list of approved awards under the authority of BPP University College of
Professional Studies, please consult Schedules B and C of the General Academic
Regulations (VLE, bpp.blackboard.com).
Graduation Ceremonies
Student awards will be conferred formally at a Graduation Ceremony. The
graduation ceremonies are important and memorable occasions in the life of the
College, celebrating the achievement of BPP University College graduates in the
presence of their family and friends, fellow students, and the College community.
In anticipation of their formal certificates, students will receive an official
transcript of their results, which is proof of their qualification.
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College Handbook
Fitness for Practice
BPP University College of Professional Studies has particular responsibilities with
regard to students who are studying towards a professionally recognised
qualification under the aegis of a statutory regulatory body.
The College recognises that in addition to achieving academic success, students
need to meet the professional standards of conduct required by their specific
award.
Therefore in addition to conferring the appropriate qualification, the College must
be satisfied that the student would be a safe and suitable entrant to the given
profession, and can be confidently classified as 'fit for practice'.
College Handbook
49
Certificates and Transcripts
Certification
Upon successfully achieving your intended qualification, you will receive an award
certificate which will record:
(a)
the name of the College;
(b)
the full name of the student;
(c)
the award;
(d)
the title of the programme of studies;
(e)
the class of award or other indication of performance;
(f)
an endorsement, where appropriate, signifying the mode of study;
(g)
a designation, where appropriate, that the award was approved under the
regulations for aegrotat awards;
(h)
the date of conferment;
(i)
the signature of the Principal of the College.
Transcripts
A transcript will be issued to all students on completion of an award of the
College, including an interim award associated with an approved part of a
programme where the full programme has not been successfully completed.
Results will be presented on students' transcripts in the form of classification and
percentage mark for the programme award and for each module.
The transcript provided will satisfy, as far as reasonably possible, the information
requirements of the Joint European-Council of Europe-UNESCO Diploma
Supplement.
For programmes leading to the awards of other awarding bodies transcripts will
also be provided in the same form as for award programmes of the College,
unless the terms of agreement with the awarding body provide otherwise.
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College Handbook
BPP University College of Professional Studies is dedicated to creating and
maintaining a positive, supportive and respectful environment, where everyone
feels valued and encouraged to thrive. We cherish the diversity of our staff and
students and proactively seek to ensure that no person receives less favourable
treatment on the grounds of gender, age, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or
national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, home responsibility, disability,
or political or religious belief. We believe that the cultural and social diversity of
our staff and students contributes to a vibrant and stimulating environment, and
plays a key role in the success of the College.
We are therefore committed to upholding and promoting ideals and practices of
equality and diversity, and to actively eliminating intolerance of 'otherness' and
unlawful discrimination.
As a member of our community you have a major part to play in helping us
uphold these values.
College Handbook
51
Equal Opportunities
BPP University College is strongly committed to equality of opportunity in its
provision for all students and staff. BPP University College recognises that
working towards equality of opportunity is not additional or marginal to its
activities, but central to the efficiency and development of the institution as a
provider of education and as an employer. We therefore take positive action to
ensure and promote good equal opportunities principles and practice.
BPP's Action
In upholding our values of equality, dignity, integrity, honesty and fairness, we:
52
●
Ensure that all students and staff are treated fairly and with respect;
●
Acknowledge individuality and take account of individual student needs,
experience and interests in programme organisation, teaching and
assessment materials;
●
Take positive steps to counter stereotyping and prejudice, and ensure that
teaching and assessment materials are non-discriminatory and positively
reflect the diversity of BPP;
●
Provide a suitable environment for working and studying for people with
disabilities, and offer adequate and effective support for students and staff
in order to remove barriers to participation;
●
Adopt and monitor policies and procedures to provide equality of opportunity
in the recruitment, selection and promotion of staff. Appoint, train, develop,
reward and promote on the basis of merit and ability;
●
Establish grievance and disciplinary procedures to protect staff and students
from discriminatory behaviour based on racist, sexist and other prejudiced
attitudes;
●
Exercise zero tolerance for acts of harassment and/or unfair discrimination;
●
Promote an environment where our students feel empowered and included
in the life of the College and are well informed of learning, developmental
and career opportunities;
●
Give equitable consideration to all applicants during the admission process;
●
Offer learning support contracts to students with disabilities and/or special
needs, which outline any reasonable adjustments and support arrangements
that have been put in place for them;
●
Offer funding advice and generous scholarships to assist talented students in
overcoming financial hardship;
●
Donate numerous places annually to support the Law Society's Access
Diversity Scheme which assists individuals who must overcome exceptional
obstacles to qualify as a solicitor;
College Handbook
●
Organise a free place competition;
●
Operate an award-winning Pro Bono centre in multiple sites, running
numerous projects, which offers free legal advice and guidance to members
of the community who might not have otherwise had access to legal
services;
●
Run a Diversity Scheme in partnership with Addleshaw Goddard which offers
summer placements to law students without training contracts from
unconventional educational backgrounds;
●
Offer an Access to Practice Scheme to students with limited access to the
legal profession by arranging for a 'practice adviser' to guide them through
any career related queries.
College Handbook
53
BPP is committed to providing an environment which ensures that staff and
students are free from any form of harassment, intimidation, bullying constituting
unacceptable behaviour which is personally offensive.
BPP will not condone harassment, which involves abusive or offensive behaviour
with regard to gender, race, political or religious belief, ethnic or national origin,
part-time status, sexual orientation, colour, age or disability, or bullying.
Similarly BPP will not condone victimisation due to an employee or student having
made a complaint or allegation of harassment or discrimination, bullying or
having acted as a witness in such cases.
Discriminatory conduct or remarks are not acceptable whatever the intention. It is
the impact of the behaviour that is important rather than the intention of the
perpetrator.
Harassment and bullying can create an intimidating, hostile or offensive
atmosphere, interfere with an individual‟s work performance, cause loss of
confidence or poor attendance.
BPP recognises the seriousness of harassment and bullying, and has a
responsibility to take appropriate action against all incidents of harassment and
bullying.
For more detailed information, please refer to BPP University College's Equal
Opportunities Policy in the Rights and Responsibilities section of the College
Handbook.
54
College Handbook
Students with Disabilities and/or Special Needs
BPP University College welcomes applications from students with disabilities and
special needs and aims to provide the widest possible access to those who wish to
benefit from its educational activities. BPP is committed to removing barriers
which already exist to students with special needs arising from disabilities, illness
or any other cause, offering support and adjustments within the parameters of its
facilities and funds.
BPP University College will endeavour to ensure that its policies and provisions in
relation to students with disabilities and/or special needs exemplify the best
possible practice, in order to help students with special needs to achieve a highquality experience of professional education at BPP University College.
BPP's Disability and Special Needs Policy relates to all categories of disability and
special needs referred to in relevant professional body guidelines. These include:
dyslexia; blind/partially sight; deaf/hearing impairment; wheelchair user/mobility
impairment; personal care support requirement; mental health difficulties;
unseen disability (e.g. asthma, epilepsy, multiple disability) or any disability not
listed.
Admissions
As part of our commitment, BPP University College believes that admissions
processes should be as equitable as possible for all students. All applications from
candidates who have disclosed a disability will be considered in the same way as
any other application and a decision will be made that is based upon the
candidate‟s academic merit and potential.
From experience, we know that some students or prospective students are
reluctant to disclose a disability because they fear that it might prejudice their
application or result in them being treated differently by university staff. This is
particularly the case for students with mental health difficulties and those with
sensitive personal care issues. However, if you choose not to disclose a disability
to BPP we would be unable (and we would not be legally obliged) to make
adjustments to support you.
In selecting students equitable consideration is given to all applicants. On being
made an offer, a student with a disability shall be invited to discuss with a
Learning Support Officer the suitability of the campus, the programme and the
equipment and/or support available. This is in order to ensure that the student is
fully aware of the demands of the programme; to identify any resources or
arrangements that the student requires; and to determine whether BPP University
College can reasonably provide these and to ascertain that in the case of
programmes leading to awards accredited or recognised by professional or
statutory bodies, they do not contravene professional or statutory bodies‟
requirements.
College Handbook
55
Disclosure
A student with a disability or a form of special need is strongly advised to make a
disclosure as early as possible in order to enable BPP University College to
formalise in a 'learning contract' the reasonable adjustments and support
arrangements that we will provide to assist the student in their programme of
study.
If a student chooses not to disclose a disability or special need prior to the start
of their programme, it may result in a delay in accommodating any requirements
they may have once the programme has commenced. If a student wishes to
discuss the implications of disclosing a disability before making a decision about
whether to formally disclose, they can speak in complete confidence to a Learning
Support Officer who will be able to offer advice. Although we would normally
encourage students to disclose so that they can access the additional support that
they are entitled to, we fully respect any student‟s right not to do so.
Where a student does not reveal any disability or special needs until after
registration, BPP University College is not obliged to provide additional support or
to take account of adverse performance that resulted from the absence of
additional support mechanisms. However, BPP University College will take
endeavour to take steps to provide reasonable support and establish a learning
support contract.
All applicants will need to provide supporting, up-to-date medical and/or other
evidence identifying the nature of their disability and/or special need. In the case
of applicants with Specific Learning Difficulties (e.g. Dyslexia, Asperger
Syndrome) this will need to be in the form of a psychological assessment from an
appropriately qualified professional. Such evidence should not normally be more
than 12 months' old. If an External Examiner requires additional evidence, the
student will have to provide such evidence. If there is any doubt as to the specific
nature of the evidence required, applicants should contact the Learning Support
Office who will be able to advise.
BPP treats all information and evidence provided in the strictest confidence. We
do not disclose details of any disability or special need without the written
consent of the student concerned. If you want to discuss the matter further
before submitting evidence, please contact [email protected].
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College Handbook
Learning Support
Once a student with a disability or a special need is accepted on one of our
programmes, BPP University College will ensure, as far as possible, that they are
provided with the resources and facilities necessary to take full part in the
educational and social life of the College in ways comparable to those of students
without special needs.
Support services will be put in place and reasonable adjustments made at BPP
University College to address barriers which disabled students may encounter in
the learning, teaching and assessment environment and which affect
performance.
Some of the available support arrangements are as follows:
(a)
A Learning Support Officer with special responsibility for students with
disabilities and special needs will be available for advice and guidance. The
Learning Support Officer will be a dedicated pointed of contact and will aim
to provide a flexible service that is tailored to each student's individual
needs.
(b)
BPP University College enters into a Learning Contract with every student
with a declared disability or form of special need which sets out the specific
adjustments, as well as the support arrangements which will be provided by
the College, subject to any relevant constraints. The Learning Contract may
be amended, if required, during the student's programme of study. BPP
University College expects that a student with a disability and/or special
needs will keep the College reasonably and expeditiously informed as to any
alterations in their disability/ special needs and the effects on their study.
(c)
Special examination arrangements can be agreed such as extra time, an
amanuensis or scribe, enlarged fonts, use of a word processor. We can also
provide other support such as (but not limited to) the provision of materials
in electronic format (for use with Jaws software).
(d)
Extensive library and online resources, and specialised library support for
students with disabilities and/or special needs. (For details on specialist
library provisions, please consult Services for Students with Special Needs of
the Library and Information section of the College Handbook.)
(e)
Express notification of the External Examiners for the programme, as well as
where appropriate the relevant professional body, of the terms of the
student's Learning Contract.
(f)
Accessibility. BPP University College will ensure, as far as reasonably
possible, that its physical, social and recreational facilities are available and
readily accessible to students with special needs in order to ensure their
optimum integration in the BPP community.
Disclaimer. Please note that while BPP University College will make every
reasonable effort to provide additional services and support to meet the needs of
students with disabilities and/or special needs, there may be occasions where
such needs cannot be met due to financial constraints and other constraints
outside of our control. BPP University College will give students early notice of
any such limitations pertaining to their Learning Contract.
College Handbook
57
For more detailed information, please consult BPP University College's Learning
Support Policy in the Rights and Responsibilities section of the College
Handbook, also available from the VLE (Registry). If you would like to seek
advice and consult with a Learning Support Officer, please contact
[email protected].
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College Handbook
Data Protection
Any personal information on students, staff or other individuals gathered by BPP
University College, will be processed and kept in accordance with the Data
Protection Act 1998. Personal data will be fairly and lawfully processed in
accordance with an individual's rights, be maintained accurate, adequate and
relevant, be used for pre-defined purposes, and be handled securely by
appropriately trained members of staff.
The information will be used for maintaining the quality of a programme, for
monitoring attendance across the course, and for keeping records of individual
attendance and absence, in order to meet the College‟s obligations to the relevant
Statutory Authorities. Relevant information gathered may be released to the
programme team or Statutory Authorities to help meet the College‟s obligations
to ensure the health, safety and welfare of its students and the on-going quality
of its programmes.
It is your responsibility to ensure that all personal data that BPP University
College maintains on you are accurate and up-to-date. It is vital that you notify
the Registry of any changes to your contact details or other personal information.
Failure to do so may result in you not receiving important information such as
examination dates or results. If you have a disability and/or a special need, you
need to inform the College of any changes that affect your learning performance
and that may require amendments to your Learning Contract.
Confidentiality
Information regarding your attendance and performance on a BPP programme will
be kept confidential, unless you agree otherwise, save for information required by
the regulatory or professional body for your programme, or the UK Border Agency
if you are studying on a student visa. If you request a reference from BPP you will
be taken to have waived your right to confidentiality for the purposes of giving
the reference. If you are sponsored you will be asked to waive your right to
confidentiality for the purposes of giving information to your sponsor. BPP
reserves the right to inform your sponsors that you have refused to waive the
right to confidentiality.
In addition to seeking to responsibly, confidentially and lawfully maintain and
process accurate records with your details and academic performance, BPP
University College is further committed to treating all personal information that
you share with us in the strictest confidence. We have particular regard for
protecting the privacy and confidentiality of information relating to disability
and/or special needs, appeals and disciplinary, careers, as well as any personal
information disclosed during private tutorials or student support guidance.
You cannot use the Data Protection Act to obtain examination results any earlier
than their official release date. Please also note that BPP University College may
withhold results or certificates in the event that a student has not paid all
appropriate fees and is in debt to the College.
College Handbook
59
Supporting Students to Succeed
BPP University College prides itself on its outstanding facilities, high quality
student services, flexible learning solutions, innovative teaching and learning
materials and technologies, rich and specialised library resources. We are
dedicated to providing a first-class learning environment and to enable our
students to thrive and succeed personally, academically and professionally.
We strongly encourage you to make the most of our library and e-learning
resources, as well as to take active part in all other opportunities and activities
that we offer to our students. All our services, from Library and Information
through IT and Careers to Student Support, have been developed with our
students' best interest at heart, and strive to continuously improve and enhance
the student experience.
Do not hesitate to offer us feedback on the facilities and services we provide. We
want to work with you to make your experience at BPP University College not
only intellectually stimulating and academically rewarding, but also professionally
enriching, and personally fulfilling and enjoyable.
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College Handbook
Library and Information Service
BPP University College‟s Library & Information Service (LIS) is dedicated to
providing students with access to online and print materials to support
programmes across the Business and the Law School, and to enable students to
succeed and excel in their studies. Convenient access to a large and well-stocked
library, whether print or online, is vital for anyone studying for a professional
higher education qualification.
The LIS accommodates and continues to invest in the library collections, and
offers students access to extensive hardcopy and electronic resources,
computers, photocopying facilities and audio-video facilities. The service also
aims to provide spacious, comfortable and attractive environments conducive to
studying.
LIS staff are available, either onsite or remotely, to answer any questions
students may have about library services.
Students have access to their School‟s comprehensive online library through the
networked computers across BPP sites, through the wireless network using
laptops, or from home via remote access.
Study Resources
The Library and Information Service aims to make as many resources available
online as possible. This allows us to provide access to all of our students wherever
you are located at all times.
Our Business School resources are entirely online, with a wide range of e-books
and extensive journal collections available. We are developing our collection of ebooks in law, but in the meantime each of our law school sites has an impressive
collection of print books available for reference use and for borrowing. Almost all
law journals and reports are available online.
A small selection of the key online resources available to students are:
Law
Lawtel
LexisLibrary
PLC
Westlaw
Business
Bloomberg (onsite only)
Datastream
Mintel
Osiris
Journals
Business Source Complete
Emerald
HeinOnline
JSTOR
E-books
DawsonERA
MyiLibrary
Oxford Scholarship Online
College Handbook
61
Provision of study materials
The LIS is responsible for providing you with copies of materials to support your
studies. Depending on your programme you may receive these as e-books
through the VLE, they may be dispatched direct to your home address, or you
may be given copies when you are at the College. If you have any questions
about materials, you can ask library staff in person or by phone, or email as
below.
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College Handbook
Study environments
Within the libraries students can find a variety of different study spaces, including
silent study areas, group study rooms and relaxed reading areas for students to
read newspapers or other periodicals.
Laptops are available for loan at most sites, and students can use their own
laptops to link to the network through the wireless internet access at all BPP
University College sites.
At our Business School site (Fitzwilliam House), we have a focus on group work,
which we support with an array of seating arrangements, including our popular
booths with large-screen monitors and wireless keyboards and mice. We
encourage laptop use – all furniture has integral power supply and the wireless
network operates throughout the school. We also have a number of fixed PCs,
including an IT training room often used for training in specialist databases.
Our Law School sites offer:
●
Numerous PCs (on average, more than one PC or laptop for every 4
students);
●
Generous study space (on average, more than one for every 3 students);
●
Laptops for loan – these and your own laptops can use the wireless network
throughout the buildings;
●
Designated silent study areas;
●
Designated group study areas – or where this is not possible, rooms are
made available when not being used for classes.
College Handbook
63
Library services
The Library and Information Service provides a wide range of services, intended
to facilitate the use of our resources and to make the student experience pleasant
as well as rewarding.
Loan services
All Law sites offer print materials for loan to students, either through self-issue
units or from staff at an issue desk;
Finding a book
●
Books and loose-leaf works are arranged by subject.
●
The library catalogue is available through the online library on the VLE
●
The catalogue will list the item‟s classmark (e.g. 346.066 B) which will assist
you in finding the item on the shelves.
Borrowing
●
To borrow an item, you can either use the self-issue terminals or take it to
staff at the issue desk. Please note: borrowing is not possible without
a valid ID card.
●
Students may borrow a range of loans, including up to 4 normal loan items,
and 2 short loan items.
●
Full-time and part-time evening/day students may borrow normal loan
items for one-week. Part-time weekend students who attend less than
once a week may borrow for longer periods (with no renewal).
Overdues
●
There is a charge of £1.00 for each day that an item is overdue; short loans
are charged at the rate of £1.00 per hour. The maximum fine per item is
£5.00. Thereafter, the fine will become a disciplinary matter and results
may be withheld as a consequence. Charges are in place in order to ensure
items are returned for other students to borrow – if you have any concerns
about being able to return them on time please speak to staff before the due
date.
Renewing
●
One-week loans may be renewed once; overdue items cannot be
renewed. To renew an item, take it to the issue desk with your ID card.
Items may also be renewed over the phone or email, or using the My Account
section of the library catalogue, found on the online library on the VLE.
Returning
64
●
Return all loans to the self-issue unit or issue desk.
●
Sites without a self-issue unit have a Returns Box which can be used when
staff are not available.
College Handbook
Enquiry services
Professional librarians are usually available Monday to Friday during term time for
assistance with legal and/or business research enquiries. Staff are available to
answer basic enquiries at other times.
Training Services
Professional librarians with extensive experience in law and/or business offer
training both at Induction stage and throughout your programmes. You should
look out for advertised sessions or contact staff to request additional training.
Student Printing and Photocopying
At the beginning of the academic year, students receive an account with 500 free
printing/copying credits. More credit can be purchased online using a credit or
debit card.
Printing and photocopying are charged at 5p per A4 sheet.
Photocopying
To photocopy, you need to enter your IT user ID into the readers located by each
copier. This allows you to copy to the extent of your remaining credit.
Printing
Choose the most convenient printer from the drop down list on the Print dialogue
box. Printer names are displayed on the printers. Some of the printers will
provide a duplex (back-to-back) printing facility discounted from 10p to 8p.
Please inform Library & Information Service staff if printers run out of paper.
Stationery Services
A wide range of stationery items such as pens, paper, highlighters, post-it notes,
folders, USB sticks, and envelopes are available for purchase from the issue desk
of the Holborn, Leeds, Manchester and Waterloo libraries during service hours.
IT queries
Library staff are able to respond to basic questions if you have problems
accessing the online resources or using on-site PCs. If unable to help, our staff
will refer you on to IT.
College Handbook
65
Services for students with special needs
This statement is intended as a resource for students. It provides information on
library services available for students with disabilities and the library will be
pleased to make it available in other formats on request. The statement is
accurate at time of writing, but there may have been changes in facilities since
then. It is advisable to check facilities by contacting your library.
General principles
The Library and Information Service is committed to complying with the Disability
Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) and the Special Educational Needs and Disability
Act 2001 by:
●
Recognising that all users have a right to know what library services are
available and how access to those services can be supported;
●
Working from the premise that accessibility and appropriate provision is not
additional, but a core element of the overall service that the library makes
available;
●
Developing an environment within which individuals feel able to discuss
disability should they wish to do so, and to discuss reasonable adjustments
in order to promote equal participation in the library services;
●
Introducing systems to monitor the effectiveness of provision for those with
disabilities, evaluate progress and identify opportunities for enhancement.
Information and advice
A dedicated librarian with responsibility for students with special needs is
available to give information and advice on specific library issues.
Useful information can also be obtained from Learning Support and Concessions
within the Registry.
Current provision
The library aims to ensure that disabled students have equal access to
information services and that materials are accessible and give accurate
information to disabled people.
All aspects of the service are covered by guides, which have been made available
electronically and in print. Guides may be provided in alternative formats upon
request.
Additional support
The library is concerned that students with a disability are offered appropriate
support and guidance to enable them to benefit fully from the BPP Library and
Information services.
In order to achieve this all students will be offered the opportunity to discuss any
special requirements with College staff. With your permission, requests for
assistance may be passed onto the library and dealt with on an individual basis in
consultation with the Head of Learning Support and Concessions if appropriate.
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College Handbook
The kinds of provision that may be discussed include:
●
●
●
●
Individualized inductions so that needs may be discussed
Support to get texts out into Braille/audiotape
Priority access
Purchase of assistive aids.
Accessibility and Facilities
Where possible, aisle widths have been altered in line with current
recommendations to allow for wheelchair access. However, if you are a
wheelchair user and have difficulty manoeuvring within the library, are visually
impaired and have difficulty in seeing the books on the shelves, or have a
condition which makes reaching up or bending down difficult then staff can assist
by collecting items for you.
Loan service
It is recognised that some students may have difficulty using items within the
required time, and students with visual impairments and specific learning
difficulties may be able to borrow loan items for longer periods. It might also be
possible for another student to withdraw books on your behalf.
If you would like to discuss any specific requirements related to borrowing please
contact the Library Manager for your site.
IT facilities
A designated space with priority access is available in a convenient location near
the library entrance at all locations. Further spaces may be made available on
request.
In addition the library aims to offer remote access to as many of its services as
possible (for further information see the Remote Access Guide, available from
the VLE).
The Library & Information Service is able to provide reading equipment such as
JAWs, screen magnifiers or CCTV magnifiers as required.
Photocopiers
All the photocopiers have an enlarging function, which may be of particular
benefit to some visually impaired or dyslexic students. If you find it helpful to
copy onto coloured paper please ask staff at the issue desk for supplies.
Staff training in disability awareness
The library and information service recognizes the importance of having well
trained staff in disability awareness, and that investment in staff training is
essential to underpin investments made in other areas.
The library aims to ensure that all staff are briefed on the requirements of SENDA
and are familiar with the facilities and services that the library is available to
offer.
College Handbook
67
The library induction programme has been modified to include disability
awareness training and the importance of a rolling disability equality programme
is recognised.
Review
The library and information service recognizes that it is essential to review
services periodically to take into account any changes in good practice or
advances in technology, and will seek to ensure that the views of disabled
students are sought and taken into account whenever possible when policies
affecting such students are reviewed.
If you have any suggestions for how we can improve our service to you, please
contact the Library Manager at your site.
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College Handbook
BPP Libraries Initial Contact Details
Business school students: [email protected]
Law school students – Birmingham: [email protected]
Law school students – Bristol: [email protected]
Law school students – Holborn: [email protected]
Law school students – Leeds: [email protected]
Law school students – Manchester: [email protected]
Law school students – Waterloo: [email protected]
Materials queries: [email protected]
College Handbook
69
IT and Computing Services
At BPP University College of Professional Studies we pride ourselves on our
flexible learning solutions and excellent educational materials, supported by
innovative e-learning technologies. We invest generously in continuously
developing and improving our learning and teaching resources, aiming to
maximise the accessibility, interactivity and flexibility of online solutions, while
enhancing the quality of our learning materials. We tirelessly review our provision
and explore the latest e-learning opportunities in seeking to create innovative,
high quality and educationally stimulating and effective learning resources.
BPP’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is our online platform for students.
The VLE offers a secure and safe place for communication and collaboration
between students, tutors and support services from any location. From within the
VLE students can have access to:
●
A repository of programme-relevant, student-related and College-wide
information and guidance;
●
High-quality learning materials including a wide range of programme notes,
presentations (including recordings of live lectures), eBooks, podcasts,
computer-based tests and interactive tutorials;
●
Online library with access to the library catalogue, legal and business
research resources, online books and e-journals;
●
Online „virtual‟ classrooms (using „Wimba' Classroom‟ technology).
BPP University College employs a range of cutting-edge technologies such as
Camtasia and Wimba Classroom to enhance the learning experience of our
students.
Camtasia is a „screen capture‟ application used extensively at BPP University
College to record all lectures given by our tutors. The software records the tutor‟s
voice along with any computer screen activity such as PowerPoint presentations,
web sites and documents being shared with the class. The recordings are then
made available for students to watch online or transfer to their iPods or MP3
players to review as many times as they wish at their own pace and convenience.
Wimba Classroom is BPP‟s „virtual‟ classroom of choice, enabling tutors and
students to collaborate in real-time classroom activities from wherever they are in
the world. Participants enter the classroom via the Internet and are able to
interact via voice and text message. Tutors are able to show PowerPoint
presentations and other learning resources to the class, and can even allocate
students to separate „break out‟ rooms for group work.
Network access
Wireless access is available throughout the libraries and the rest of the buildings
providing you with convenient access to the Internet, the Virtual Learning
Environment (VLE) and the library resources on your laptop.
You can also access the network, VLE and online resources remotely from home
or from work 24/7 allowing you to study when and where you want.
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College Handbook
IT Support
IT Services can be contacted Monday to Friday, 08:30 - 19:00 and Saturday and
Sunday, 09:30 - 17:00, during term time.
The College IT Services
[email protected]
Team
For
online
assistance
and
http://bpphelp.wordpress.com
(ITS)
can
common
be
contacted
IT
FAQ's,
by
e-mail
please
at
visit
You can also telephone IT Support on 0845 075 3335.
Please note that you can call IT Support free of charge from the telephones made
available to students at BPP University College sites.
College Handbook
71
Career Development
The mission of BPP University College of Professional Studies is to educate and
train the business and legal professionals of tomorrow. We aim to offer our
students the best preparation for a future career in professional disciplines. In
this endeavour, our first-rate and dedicated Careers Service and award-winning
Pro Bono Centre form an integral part of the services we provide.
Careers service
At BPP University College of Professional Studies, it is not just about excellent
tuition and internationally recognised qualifications – our specialist Careers
Service provides the support you need to achieve the career you want, whether
you are already established or starting out. We offer extensive face-to-face and
online specialist career resources to all our students, regardless of your
programme of study or location. To help you get ahead of the competition, our
support is available to you as soon as you accept your place, and up to six
months before you begin your studies – and because we know it can take time to
secure the perfect role, our Careers Service‟s resources are available to you for
up to a year after you leave BPP.
Our Careers Service offers specialist careers advice and guidance for students
intending
to
work
in
law,
business
and
financial
services.
The Careers Service offers the following services free to current students and
graduates up to 1 year after graduation.
72
●
Individual guidance appointments with a careers consultant lasting 45
or 20 minutes, bookable in advance and available throughout the week,
evenings and at the weekend, in person, by telephone or via e-mail.
●
‘Mock’ interviews with a Careers Consultant to help you prepare
effectively for “real-life” interviews.
●
E-mail guidance consultations for careers queries and review of
individual CVs and application forms.
●
Comprehensive programme of careers workshops on planning your
career, researching potential employers, appropriate CV formats and cover
letters, interview success, skills development, etc.
●
Careers information in both print and electronic formats relating to
occupations, employers, finding work experience, further study and training.
●
An online vacancy service for students looking for part-time, placement,
voluntary and full-time opportunities.
●
Careers Intranet and Specific advice offering profession-specific advice,
as well as interview feedback from students‟ experiences in firms and
chambers.
●
Weekly Careers
vacancies.
College Handbook
Newsletter
detailing
events,
workshops
and
new
●
Presentations by employers and professional bodies within relevant
sectors.
●
Psychometric (aptitude) testing with individual feedback
Our careers service is designed to help you define your career aspirations, keep
you fully informed of the steps necessary to pursue these and to provide
assistance in achieving these goals. Our careers consultants, advisers and other
staff maintain close links with the profession and can pass the best advice and
assistance on to you.
We recognise that each of our students has different strengths and backgrounds
and may be interested in different areas of practice or types of firm or chambers.
Your careers service is tailored to meet the needs of you as an individual
whatever your interests are.
Law Specific Careers Support
Our Careers Service offers specialist schemes to our Law students.
●
BPP buddy scheme whereby a student who has secured a training contract
or pupillage acts as a buddy giving advice and guidance to their fellow
students who are going for interviews at the particular firm or chambers
with which the buddy has a training contract or pupillage.
●
BPP law fair organised in Leeds, London and Manchester annually offering
excellent opportunities to network with representatives from a range of law
firms.
●
BPP Alternative Fair / Paralegal Fair organised in Leeds, London and
Manchester on an annual basis, offering excellent opportunities to
investigate career options if you are undecided about qualifying as a solicitor
or barrister.
●
Diversity Schemes - Addleshaw Goddard partnership with BPP Law School
runs a Diversity Access Scheme offering summer placements students
without training contracts who come from unconventional educational
backgrounds. It aims to fast track students onto the Addleshaw Goddard
vacation scheme who might otherwise be excluded because of the nontraditional nature of their education. Based on the success of this scheme,
further access schemes have now been launched with Reynolds Porter
Chamberlain and Olswang.
●
Access to Practice Scheme aimed at students with limited access to the
legal profession. Successful students are matched with a practitioner from a
range of volunteer organisations. The lawyer, known as a 'Practice Adviser'
assists their allocated student from November to July (for a minimum of 5
hours during this time) with any careers related queries they may have
which may include looking over a CV, application form or giving interview
advice (open to LPC only in London).
College Handbook
73
Careers Service Contact Details
74
Leeds
0113 386 8295
[email protected]
London City
0207 430 5301
[email protected]
London Holborn
0207 430 5306
[email protected]
London Waterloo
0207 633 4539
[email protected]
Manchester
0161 235 7172
[email protected]
Birmingham
0161 235 7172
[email protected]
Bristol
0207 430 5306
[email protected]
College Handbook
Pro Bono Centre
BPP‟s Award Winning Pro Bono Centre was established in February 2004 and
operates a wide variety of pro bono projects in the local community in Leeds,
London and Manchester (and, from September 2010, in Birmingham and
Bristol). The Centre recognises the inequality and injustice inherent in our
society‟s unmet legal needs and aims to enhance access to justice by encouraging
law students and lawyers to provide pro bono legal services to the community.
Our diverse range of projects provide our students with the opportunity to put
their legal knowledge and skills into practice in a way that benefits members of
the community who may not otherwise have access to legal services. It provides
the perfect opportunity to demonstrate their legal professionalism and help others
whilst building experience that will prepare them for their career in law. BPP Law
School lecturers and practicing solicitors and barristers volunteer to supervise the
students‟ work, maximising both the educational and professional benefits to the
students as well as ensuring that the quality of work for our clients is of high
quality.
The Centre‟s projects have won several awards including:
●
The Lawyer's award for pro bono activity of the year 2005
●
Finalist status for the same award in 2004, 2007 and 2009
●
Two high commendations in the Attorney General‟s student and law school
pro bono awards 2007 and 2009
●
The LawWorks pro bono award for best contribution by a partnership 2009
Our aim is to provide the opportunity for every BPP law student, whether
studying an LLB, a GDL, an LPC, a BPTC or an LLM, full-time, part-time or via
distance learning, to take part in pro bono work that matches their interests and
level of commitment. Our goals include:
●
helping the local and broader community by volunteering the legal services
of our students and staff
●
expressing the commitment of BPP Law School's students and staff to the
pro bono ethic
●
contributing to the legal profession in the UK and abroad by developing and
publicising pro bono initiatives
Our projects include the BPP Legal Advice Clinic, Human Rights Unit and
Streetlaw, as well as such innovative projects as the Intellectual Property Pro
Bono Group, Environmental Law Pro Bono Group, Legal Translation Service and
Mediation Friends Project.
Some projects operate in all Law School sites, whilst others are site-specific.
Most of the projects are run in a way to allow for flexible levels of participation.
Most projects are open to all students, though some opportunities are coursespecific.
College Handbook
75
Once you start your studies at BPP Law School you will be able to register for and
get more information about all of our projects. Once registered, you will receive
emails detailing the opportunities available on your chosen projects. We hope you
will be interested in joining us to contribute your time and legal skills to the public
good through the Pro Bono Centre‟s initiatives.
Pro Bono Projects in Leeds
BPP Legal Advice Clinic (BLAC)
BLAC's aims are to offer free legal advice to the community and to provide our
students with the opportunity to gain practical legal experience. With the
assistance of our clinic manager and case supervisors (volunteer lecturers and
practitioners), our law students interview and advise clients on their legal
problems.
Human Rights Unit
The Human Rights Unit includes a variety of student human rights initiatives,
through which our students provide supporting legal research to various human
rights organisations. Through the BPP Liberty Letters Clinic, our students draft
replies to human rights queries from the public. This project is co-ordinated
through our pro bono centre in London, with the support of a Leeds-based
student director for each human rights initiative.
Speaker series
The centre hosts speakers from various law firms, chambers and non-profit
organisations who come to discuss their pro bono work with our law students.
Recent speakers include representatives from the International Bar Association,
LawWorks and the Bar Pro Bono Unit.
Research initiatives
The centre's staff and students are engaged in researching national and
international pro bono policy and practice. The aim is to promote pro bono
awareness and efforts both locally and globally.
Internship placements
Students provide pro bono services while at the same time gaining practical
experience (and possibly travel) by undertaking internships with national and
international non-profit organisations. The centre provides research resources,
advice and individual counselling to help students find such opportunities.
Immigration
Our students work with volunteers on the Manuel Bravo project providing
assistance to asylum seekers in the local area with their appeals. This assistance
includes conducting country research, been involved in the interview process,
assisting with reviewing documentation and preparing appeal bundles.
Intellectual Property Pro Bono Group
The group's aims are to promote interested students' understanding of the field of
intellectual property (IP) law while facilitating IP lawyers' provision of pro bono
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College Handbook
services to the community. The group has three main branches of activity providing interviews and letters of legal advice to a small number of individuals
and charities; designing and delivering presentations on IP law to music, film and
art students; and replying to IP queries submitted to the online advice service of
our partner organisation Own It, a non-profit group providing free intellectual
property advice to London's creative industries.
Leeds Cares
Leeds Cares is a Business in the Community initiative. It provides opportunities
for businesses to make a commitment to local community involvement, bringing
vital resources to address community needs. Addleshaw Goddard, DLA Piper and
Eversheds are all key supporters of the project. Throughout the year our students
have the opportunity to get involved in organising and managing individual and
team challenges in the community. These range from the Right to Read and
Numbers Partners projects which assist children between 7-11 years with their
reading or maths, to assisting community groups and charities with painting and
decorating or gardening.
Mediation Friends project
We are hoping to develop an initiative pioneered by the pro bono centre in
London in which our students, who are trained in mediation, will provide free
support to otherwise unrepresented parties to mediation. The project's goals are
to provide assistance to the unrepresented parties and to promote the use of
mediation as a form of alternative dispute resolution.
Parent Partnership project
Run in conjunction with Education Leeds, this project provides our students with
the opportunity to assist families whose children have been permanently excluded
from school to appeal that decision. Our students are fully trained by Education
Leeds and provided with the opportunity to enhance their interviewing, research
and advocacy skills, as well as giving an excellent support service for the families
involved.
Streetlaw
The Streetlaw project is based on the philosophies of the US-based Street Law
Program and Streetlaw UK to promote education about the law, democracy and
human rights to citizens who would not otherwise have access to legal knowledge
or education. Our students provide interactive learning presentations on the law
to various groups, including primary and secondary school pupils, prison inmates,
community groups and the homeless. Our Bar students also assist school children
to prepare for the Citizenship Foundation's mock trial competitions and help
organise the mock trials.
Marie Dhanendran, who completed her LPC at BPP Law School, Leeds in June
2008, was named 'pro bono hero' as a result of her work on the Streetlaw project
by the Attorney General at a reception at the House of Commons during National
Pro Bono Week 2008.
College Handbook
77
Pro Bono Projects in London (Holborn and Waterloo)
assistance of our clinic manager and case supervisors (volunteer lecturers and
practitioners), our students interview and advise clients on their legal problems.
Employment Law Pro Bono Projects
Legal advisers (volunteer barristers and solicitors) with the help of our students
provide members of the public with initial advice over the telephone on
employment law issues. The advice line is open to individuals referred from a
number of organisations including the Apex Trust and Prisoners' Families and
Friends Service.
Environmental Law Pro Bono Group
The group's goals are to promote your understanding of the legal aspects of
environmental issues and to assist environmental non-profit organisations
including the Environmental Law Foundation and Friends of the Earth, with their
legal work. The group invites speakers on a range of environmental issues and
volunteers its members to conduct pro bono legal research in this area.
Human Rights Unit
through which our students provide supporting legal research to organisations
such as Amicus, Amnesty International, Interights, the Solicitors International
Human Rights Group, the European Human Rights Advocacy Centre, Reprieve and
the International Bar Association's Human Rights Institute. Through the BPP
Liberty Letters Clinic, our students draft replies to human rights queries from the
public.
The BPP Human Rights Law Journal publishes an annual volume of studentwritten articles on topical human rights issues. To view these, please use the links
below:
BPP Human Rights Law Journal Volume 1 (2008)
BPP Human Rights Law Journal Volume 2 (2009)
Innocence project
Through the Innocence project, our students work under a barrister's or solicitor's
supervision investigating cases of convicted persons who maintain innocence but
have exhausted the initial appeals process. Our students seek evidence that will
assist them in making applications for such cases to be reviewed by the Criminal
Cases Review Commission, for referral back to the Court of Appeal. The project is
part of the Innocence Network UK.
The group's aims are to promote our students' understanding of the field of
intellectual property (IP) law while facilitating IP lawyers' provision of pro bono
services to the community. The group has three main branches of activity providing interviews and letters of legal advice to a small number of individuals
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College Handbook
and charities; designing and delivering presentations on IP law to music, film and
art students; and replying to IP queries submitted to the online advice service of
our partner organisation Own It, a not-for-profit group providing free intellectual
property advice to the creative industries.
Law firm pro bono shadowing project
In this project, the centre teams our students with law firms to assist solicitors
with their pro bono assignments. In one model, our students accompany Norton
Rose solicitors to their advice sessions at Tooting Law Centre and then assist with
the follow-up work. This project benefits our students by offering them practical
legal experience as well as contact with practising solicitors; it benefits the firms
by providing assistance in conducting their pro bono work and promoting their
reputation in the law school; most importantly, it benefits the pro bono clients.
Legal Translation Service (LTS)
The LTS is suitable for our students who have native or fluent foreign language
abilities, and who are willing to be trained in basic interpretation and translation
technique. The project's goal is to provide legal advice centres with interpreters
to assist the provision of legal advice to clients with limited English language
abilities. The group also offers translation services to non-profit organisations.
Mediation Friends project
This is a pioneering initiative in which our students are trained in mediation and
then provide free support to otherwise unrepresented parties in mediation. The
project's goals are to provide assistance to the unrepresented parties and to
promote the use of mediation as a form of alternative dispute resolution.
Personal Support Unit's volunteering project
Our BPTC students can work as volunteers in the Personal Support Unit (PSU) at
the Royal Courts of Justice and the Principal Registry of the Family Division. As
PSU Volunteers, the students provide practical and moral support to litigants-inperson (LiPs). The volunteers meet LiPs to talk through their cases informally and
to accompany them around the courts and in hearings.
School Exclusions Project
The School Exclusions Project will provide free representation for parents of
permanently excluded school pupils at Governors Disciplinary Committee and
Independent Appeal Panel hearings. All the representatives will be BPP law
students who have undertaken specific training in exclusions law and will be
mentored by Doughty Street barristers.
Streetlaw
to various groups, including primary and secondary school pupils, prison inmates,
community groups and the homeless. Our BPTC students also assist school
children to prepare for the Citizenship Foundation's mock trial competitions and
help organise the mock trials.
College Handbook
79
Pro bono projects in Manchester
BPP Community Challenge
BPP Community Challenge provides students with the opportunity to volunteer in
the local community addressing local social and economic needs. Our students
organise, manage and participate in both individual and team challenges which
may range from helping children with their reading or maths skills to assisting
local community groups with painting and decorating their facilities or gardening.
assistance of BLAC‟s staff and supervisors (volunteer lecturers and practitioners),
our law students interview and advise clients on their legal problems.
Employment Law Telephone Advice Line (ELTAL)
ELTAL operates through external solicitors from local firms providing initial
telephone advice to employment law clients on a rota basis. BPP students call
potential clients to interview the clients in order to obtain full details of their case,
then send the attendance notes on to solicitors in practice who provide the client
with telephone advice.
Human Rights Unit
through which our students provide supporting legal research to various human
rights organisations. Through our Liberty Letters Clinic, our students draft replies
to human rights queries from the public.
The Group‟s aims are to promote interested students‟ understanding of the field
of intellectual property law while facilitating IP lawyers‟ provision of pro bono
services to the community. The Group has two main branches of activity.
BPP Intellectual Property Legal Advice Service (BIPLAS)
Through BIPLAS, we provide interviews and letters of legal advice to a small
number of individuals and charities.
Own-it is a publicly funded organisation which offers free intellectual property
advice tocreative industries. Over the past few years, BPP students have worked
alongside Own-it to help educate people about their IP rights and how to protect
them. Students get involved on a practical level by drafting responses to queries
from members of the public.
Legal Translation Service (LTS)
The LTS comprises students with native or fluent foreign language abilities. The
project‟s goal is to provide legal advice centres with interpreters to assist the
provision of legal advice to clients with limited English language abilities. The LTS
also offers translation services to non-profit organisations. If you would like to
contact the service, please email: [email protected]
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Mediation Friends
This is a pioneering initiative in which our students trained in mediation provide
free support to otherwise unrepresented parties to mediation. The project‟s goals
are to provide assistance to the unrepresented parties and to promote the use of
mediation as a form of alternative dispute resolution.
Personal Support Unit's volunteering project
The Personal Support Unit (PSU) is a charity that gives practical and emotional
support to litigants in person as they represent themselves through the courts.
A team of law students work as volunteers for PSU Manchester, meeting litigants
in person to talk through their cases informally and to accompany them around
the courts and in hearings.
Streetlaw
to various groups, including secondary school pupils, community groups and
charities.
Tribunal Friends
This project provides ad hoc opportunities for students to accompany suitable
clients to their Employment or Residential Property Tribunal hearings as "Tribunal
Friends", whether or not they are represented. Tribunal Friends are able to assist
the client to manage the tribunal proceedings as a litigant in person by taking
notes of the proceedings for the client, helping them to do necessary
photocopying or put paperwork in order, and providing much needed moral
support. Tribunal Friends are not authorised to represent or advise the client.
College Handbook
81
Student Support
At BPP University College, we are not only committed to the academic and
professional development of our students, but are also concerned with the overall
student experience and the general welfare of our students. The College's
Student Support Team is dedicated to providing high levels of student support to
all BPP University College students in the following areas:
●
●
●
●
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General information and advice
Accommodation
Student Advantage discount scheme
Clubs and Societies
International students' support
For accommodation, the Student Support Team are able to provide assistance
to all students in finding long- or short-term accommodation. The team also offer
advice on local areas and transport networks.
Student Support is also responsible for proactively managing the College‟s
Student Clubs and Societies, alongside the students. They offer financial
assistance, guidance and information to our student-led Clubs and Societies.
The team also liaise with local businesses to secure discounts for BPP University
College's Student Advantage Discount Scheme. Being a BPP student entitles
you to a range of discounted products and services - from bars and restaurants
through gyms to hair and beauty salons. These are offered by a diverse collection
of organisations from small local businesses to national and international
companies. If you would like to suggest a business for inclusion just inform
Student Support and they will try and negotiate a discount.
Student Support also assist London students with their applications for the
Oyster Scheme. Full-time BPP students qualify for 30% savings from the cost of
adult Travelcards and Buss & Tram Pass season tickets. For details, terms and
conditions and how to apply, please visit www.tfl.gov.uk. If you decide to apply
online, please choose BPP University College of Professional Studies Ltd (Red Lion
Street) as your institution, even if you are based at a different location. Some
part-time students may be eligible for the scheme, however, you are strongly
advised to consult the terms and conditions on the TFL website before submitting
an application.
The Student Support team also offer support, information and advice to BPP's
international students. With regard to visa queries, you are advised to check the
Home Office website regularly for updates and amendments to the regulations
regarding student visas. If you have a specific query regarding your student visa
please email [email protected]
For detailed and current information on Student Support services, including
available accommodation, student discounts, Clubs and Societies, sports and
entertainment events, please consult the Blackboard VLE (bpp.blackboard.com).
If you wish to contact Student Support, please e-mail [email protected]
or telephone 0845 074 3506.
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Accommodation
Accommodation Office
Whether you are a full-time student looking for a place to stay for the whole of
your programme of study, or a part-time student simply looking for a hotel for a
day or two, we will be able to provide information to help you find suitable
accommodation in Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, London or Manchester.
We can offer information regarding short and long-term places to stay in private
halls of residence, flat-share or hotels.
The Accommodation Office will be able to provide you with information on the
following areas:
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●
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●
●
the best areas in which to look for accommodation
temporary/short-term accommodation for students and relatives
long-term accommodation including private halls of residence
accommodation for both undergraduates and postgraduates
host families for international students
information on living in Leeds, Manchester or London
travel information e.g. London Oystercard, Underground, buses and trains
Accommodation mixing events
Each year we hold an accommodation mixing event at each centre where you can
meet fellow students and find potential housemates.
Noticeboards
We have noticeboards in our Schools where you can advertise and look for
accommodation vacancies.
Housemate finder
We have a housemate finder group on Facebook which you can join once you
have enrolled.
Further advice
The Accommodation Office will be able to provide you with advice and assistance
on the following areas:
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Council Tax
Utilities such as gas, electricity and telephones
Return of deposits
Insurance
Travel from your accommodation to BPP Law School
College Handbook
83
International Students
BPP is a truly international community and values international students for the
diverse cultural experiences they bring with them. Whichever programme you
choose to study, we aim to provide high quality support throughout your time
with us.
We understand that for students choosing to study in the UK, relocation can be a
stressful time. We are dedicated to helping you however we can: from advice on
the best programme for you, through to guidance on visas, accommodation and
financial issues. BPP University College of Professional Studies provides degrees
recognised by the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills.
We also realise that as an international student you will be keen to experience the
UK culture. Our campuses are centrally located in Leeds, London (City, Holborn &
Waterloo) and Manchester, ideal starting points to explore all the UK has to offer.
We also have a regular programme of social events, many of which are held
specifically for international students and also a great many student societies that
will make you feel part of the ever-growing BPP community.
The Student Support team ensures that all international students receive the
support and advice needed to make their time with BPP as enjoyable and
rewarding as possible. Our Student Support comprises welcoming and
approachable staff, many of whom have experienced being an international
student themselves.
Our aim is to support and assist you at every step of your time at BPP, we give
advice and assistance from the initial stages of the application process, pre-arrival
information, guidance and advice to help you adjust to studying at BPP and settle
into your new life in the UK. Our team of dedicated staff will be pleased to assist
you with any enquiries you may have, or refer you to people who can help.
In addition to the support and advice to our prospective and current international
students, the Student Support Team also provide a wide range of services to help
you fulfil your potential and get the most out of your student experience.
Advice and Services for International Students
84
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Advice and guidance for all international students, prospective and current
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Pre-departure information
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Immigration advice
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International student guide with pre-arrival information pack
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Accommodation information and assistance
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Assistance on arranging your arrival
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UK life information – living costs, transport, culture, health care, banking,
social activities, welfare benefits, etc
College Handbook
●
Orientation programme
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Information session at the beginning of the academic year
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Student social events
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Online community (VLE) with all aspects of information that international
students concern
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English Language Support
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Free Mandarin course
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Student societies and clubs
Student Support
Student Support
BPP University College of Professional Studies
London
WC1R 4NY
Tel: +44(0)20 7430 7065
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85
Part-Time Students
More students than ever are choosing to study part-time for a wide variety of
reasons - from financial and family commitments to career development
opportunities and the desire for commercial exposure. We recognise that parttime students have to balance complex pressures in their personal and
professional lives; and we also recognise that the needs and requirements of
every part-time student are different.
Our commitment to you is that as a part-time student at BPP, you will receive:
●
Same high quality of teaching as on our full-time programmes;
●
A wide range of books and materials included within the programme fees to
save you the time and expense of searching for the right texts;
●
Specialist careers advice from careers experts at times convenient for busy
part-time students;
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Access to four libraries with long opening hours;
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24 hour access to one of the UK‟s largest on-line law libraries;
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Lecture PowerPoint slides or self-study materials available remotely via the
virtual campus 24 hours a day;
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Notices, announcements and information about your programme and
careers sent directly to your home or office e-mail address (optional);
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DVDs, audio files (for your MP3 player) and self-study materials which
supplement face-to-face lectures and enable you to study at your
convenience;
●
Key dates for your diary at the start of programmes to allow you to plan in
advance;
●
Weekly study schedule guiding you through the programme materials;
●
High-level of tutor and personal tutor support through telephone, email and
face-to-face contact;
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Support and encouragement to assist part-time students to make the most
of pro bono opportunities.
Returning to Learning
Returning to being a student can be a daunting and difficult transition. For the
benefit of our „returning-to-education‟ students, we have developed a series of
additional support programmes, designed to help students develop personal study
skills and learn to balance a demanding course of study with work demands and
other commitments.
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College Handbook
Staff Student Liaison Committee (SSLC)
Each credit-bearing programme at BPP University College has a Staff Student
Liaison Committee (SSLC). The aim of the SSLC is to provide a regular forum for
report and discussion between programme management and students regarding
the strengths and weaknesses of the student experience including the quality of
programme provision, student support and facilities. The SSLC can be further
used as a staff-student forum to discuss current and emerging initiatives.
The Staff Student Liaison Committee is a formal way for BPP to canvas students'
views and obtain feedback on individual programmes and Schools. It is important
for BPP University College to know what it is doing right and if there any areas
that can be improved. We therefore welcome both the positive and the
constructively critical comments from our students.
Membership
The SSLC is comprised of a representative from each tutor group for each mode
of study and a senior manager (or managers) on your programme. The
representatives are elected at the beginning of the year by each tutorial
group. The purpose of the meetings is to provide students with a forum in which
to raise any general issues which arise from your student experience with BPP.
Staff Student Liaison Committee Representative
Responsibilities
If you choose to become a SSLC representative, you will be responsible for
collecting the views from your tutor group and to take these to the SSLC forum
for discussion. Comments and opinions can include anything from issues involving
resources such as the building or the library, to the content of the programme
itself. Training is provided for you to maximize this opportunity to meet with the
programme management team and influence change. This is your chance to be
involved in influencing the future design of the programme. The meeting
outcomes are recorded by the Programme Leader and fed back to the students,
via you for your group. Minutes are always available to all via the student intranet
and you should remember to follow up any longer term issues from one meeting
to the next.
SSLC meetings are usually held once per term.
Personal Benefit
Being a SSLC representative is a good opportunity for your personal
development. It is a useful addition to your CV due to the skills that you will use
and develop whilst carrying out your role as a SSLC representative. You can also
ask us for feedback on your performance at and contributions to the SSLC
meetings. And, there will be a free breakfast, lunch or supper (depending on your
mode of study)!
And if you are still not convinced why you should get involved, what could be
more rewarding than the chance to influence the future of your programme for
the benefit of future students?
College Handbook
87
Finance
For your convenience we offer a number of options to assist you with paying your
fees.
●
We offer a wide range of scholarships for many of our programmes (See
Scholarships below);
●
We offer instalment options of payment for many of our programmes.
(Please consult the payment plans available for your chosen programme);
●
All programme fees include an extensive range of books and materials;
●
Please note that in addition to our programme fees, in certain programmes
we are required to collect an administration fee and/or an application fee on
behalf of the professional bodies regulating those programmes.
The Student Finance Office look after all financial enquiries that students may
have, from programme fees to instalment plans to refunds. The Student Finance
Office also issue invoices and receipts to students and sponsors, as well as
process all fee payments and ensure that payments are met within the agreed
guidelines.
The Student Finance Office is open between the hours of 9.00am to 5.30pm
Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can e-mail [email protected] or
telephone +44 (0)20 7061 1301.
Please note that you can call the Student Finance Office free of charge from the
telephones made available to students at BPP University College sites.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have questions regarding the payment
of fees.
Fees
Please note that there is a high student demand for most of our programmes, and
your place on the programme is not guaranteed until due payments are received
by the Student Finance Office. Payments must be received by the specified
payment date, which will differ depending on whether you start in January, May
or September.
Payment
For your convenience, the Student Finance Office accepts payments by standing
order, credit/debit card, cheque, or direct payment by BACS transfer.
Please note that BPP cannot accept fees paid by cash payments of £1,000 or
more.
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College Handbook
Online payments by credit/debit cards
If you wish to pay your fees online, please go to www.bppcollegepayments.com
If you wish to pay your fees by credit/debit card please note that a 1.3% fee to
cover bank charges will apply to payments by credit card (no charge for debit
cards).
Cheques
Cheques should be made payable to "BPP University College of Professional
Studies Ltd" and sent to:
Student Finance Office
BPP Law School
London
WC1R 4NY
quoting your full name and BPP student reference number (SRN) on the back of
the cheque. Your student reference number can be found on all correspondence
we send out. An administration fee of £15 will be charged for any cheques that
are not met when presented.
Monthly Payments
If monthly payments are offered on the programme you are studying a standing
order must be set up directly with your bank.
For the avoidance of doubt all instalments and deposit are required to be cleared
funds by the date specified; in the event that a cheque is returned or a credit
card transaction declined by the account holding bank, funds will not be deemed
cleared. BPP shall not be liable for any bank forfeiture charges incurred.
Bank charges
Please note that you will be liable to pay for any extra handling charges levied by
banks when processing payments made from outside the UK.
Sponsored students
Please ensure that you inform the student finance office should there be any
change in your sponsored student status. We recommend that you advise your
sponsor of the payment deadline.
Cancellations and deferrals
Please contact the Student Records Office who will be able to advise you on the
cancellation or deferral policy for your programme.
College Handbook
89
Funding
Research has shown that an individual‟s gender, ethnicity and class greatly affect
the number of obstacles they are likely to face in achieving a professional
qualification. With this in mind, BPP University College of Professional Studies
offers a number of Scholarship places for exceptional individuals demonstrating a
strong desire and level of commitment to qualifying within the business arena or
the legal field, but who, without support, would find it difficult to attain their
dream.
It is our hope that these scholarships will assist talented individuals to overcome
the odds, whether they are social, educational, financial, a disability or unusual
family circumstances, in order to increase the diversity within the business and
legal fields, enhancing the professions as a whole.
BPP University College of Professional Studies offers a wide range of generous
scholarship opportunities to its Business and Law students. In addition to BPP‟s
scholarships, there are other potential sources of funding. You may be able to
apply for financial support for your studies through Local Authority Grants,
College Access Scheme, Charities and Grant making trusts, Disabled Student
Allowances, British Council Overseas Support, Employer Scholarships.
Please refer to the BPP Business School and BPP Law School Scholarships sections
of the College Handbook for a detailed overview of the funding schemes on offer.
For most current information on Scholarships, eligibility criteria and application
processes, please consult BPP University College‟s website.
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College Handbook
BPP Business School Scholarships
While making the decision to undertake a business Master's programme is a
worthwhile investment in your future career, there is often limited information
available about how you may be able to help fund your studies.
There are in fact a number of ways to help fund your Master‟s study:
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Local authority grants
College access scheme
Charities and grant making trusts
Disabled student allowances
British Council overseas support
Employer sponsorship
To assist with funding BPP Business School offer a number of scholarships to
provide financial assistance throughout your studies.
Scholarships currently available:
BPP Business School Generous part fees scholarships awarded to UK and
Annual Scholarships Overseas students on all our BPP Business School
Master‟s programmes (including MBA).
For more information on BPP Business School scholarships and how to apply,
please consult the School‟s website on
http://www.bppbusiness.com/programmes/scholarships.aspx
College Handbook
91
BPP Law School Scholarships
According to a recent study on UK universities, law students see the highest
return on their educational investment out of all professions in the UK. In spite of
this, the prospect of funding your legal education can be a daunting one and an
area in which limited information appears to be available. At BPP we understand
this and we contribute in a number of ways to assist with your funding.
BPP Law School offers a number of generous scholarships to provide financial
assistance throughout your studies. Potential sources of funding for your legal
studies at BPP could be:
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BPP Law School scholarships;
A free place competition on the GDL and on the LPC
Law Society's Access Diversity Scheme
Other scholarship opportunities
BPP Law School Scholarships include:
Scholarship
Number
available
Details
Principal's scholarship
1
Full fees scholarship awarded to a student
following any of our programmes at any of
our six law schools.
Dean's scholarship
1
£5,000 scholarship awarded to a student
following any of our programmes at any of
our six law schools.
Director of LLB programmes'
scholarship/s
1+
Scholarship/s up to the value of the full
fees awarded to a student/s following our
LLB or LLB (Business Law) programme in
London (Waterloo) or via distance learning.
Director of GDL programmes'
scholarship
1
following our GDL programme.
Several
Up to £400 awarded to students following
the LLB (GDL Conversion).
Director of LPC programmes'
scholarship
1
following our LPC programme at any of our
six law schools.
Director of BPTC programmes'
scholarship
1
following our BPTC programme in either
Leeds or London (Holborn).
Several
Up to £2,000 for students following the
LLM (Commercial Law), the LLM (Financial
Regulation and Compliance) or the LLM
(International Business Law).
Director of LLB (GDL
Conversion) programmes'
scholarships
Director of LLM programmes'
scholarships
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College Handbook
LLM (Professional Legal
Practice) scholarship
The Cohen scholarship
programme
(Leeds/Manchester)
Several
Up to £1,000 awarded to students following
the LLM (Professional Legal Practice).
5 or more £5,000 scholarship awarded to prospective
GDL students comprising £2,500 towards
the GDL and £2,500 towards the LPC/BPTC
(provided students obtain at least a
Commendation for their GDL i.e. 60% or
more. This is the most extensive meritbased scholarship for GDL students in
the UK.
Senior academic’s scholarship
(Birmingham)
1
following any of our programmes in
Birmingham.
(Bristol)
1
following any of our programmes in Bristol.
(Leeds)
1
following any of our programmes in Leeds.
(Manchester)
1
following any of our programmes in
Manchester.
BPP Free Place Competition
BPP Law School, in conjunction with Lawyer2B, runs an annual essay competition
with the fantastic prize of a free place on the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)
conversion programme for non-law graduates and a free place on the Legal
Practice Course (LPC) for law graduates at BPP Law School.
The competition is launched in the October issue of the Lawyer 2B and invites the
submission of a 1,500-word essay on a subject that is close to the legal
profession – giving something back for the good of the community. The term that
is commonly used is „pro bono‟, and we are looking for an article on any
community, voluntary or charitable work projects that you, your school or
university has been involved with during the past 12 months. Or you could write
about an initiative that you may not have worked on, but one that inspires you.
Not only will the two winners see their articles in print, but they will also receive a
free place on either the GDL or LPC for September 2010 at any of our centres in
Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, London or Manchester. The prize scholarships cover
all programme fees, examination fees and a range of books and materials.
Law Society's Access Diversity Scheme
In addition to the above scholarships, BPP Law School donates numerous places
annually to support the Law Society's Access Diversity Scheme. The Scheme
supports individuals who must overcome exceptional obstacles to qualify as a
solicitor. Obstacles may be of a social or personal nature, relate to difficult family
circumstances or to a disability that makes the goal of qualifying as a solicitor a
College Handbook
93
particularly challenging one. The scheme provides scholarships to cover LPC
course fees and successful applicants will also automatically qualify for support
through the Law Society‟s mentoring scheme.
Other Scholarship Opportunities
In addition to what BPP University College can offer, there are a number of other
ways to fund your legal study:
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British Council Overseas Support
Chevening scholarships
Disabled student allowances
Employer (firms) sponsorship
Law Society bursary scheme
Inns of Court sponsorship
The Inderpal Rahal Memorial Trust (chambers' grants)
Local Authority grants
Natwest bank loan
Postgrad Solutions' global LLM study bursaries
Snowdon Award Scheme
British Council overseas support
Students from outside the European Community are usually not eligible for LEA
funding but can apply for various scholarships. Please visit the British Council
www.britishcouncil.org and look in the section called Funding your studies.
Please contact your local authority for information about local charities and grantmaking trusts. It might also be useful to consult charity registers. Please bear in
mind that normally awards consist of small amounts of money so you are advised
not to rely on them to provide financial support for your full programme fees or
living costs.
Chevening scholarships (international students)
You may also want to visit: www.chevening.com for further information on a
variety of scholarships for overseas students wanting to study in the UK. These
scholarships are funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and
administered by the British Council.
The FCO has one joint BPP/Chevening award for a Russian graduate or
professional wishing to study the LLM in Commercial Law or LLM in
International Business Law at BPP Law School.
Disabled Students' Allowances
Disabled students' allowances (DSA's) are awarded by local education authorities.
The allowance is to help you pay for extra costs that arise as a direct result of
your disability.
Please contact your local education authority for further information. You may
also want to visit www.skill.org.uk and www.dfes.gov.uk for additional
information.
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College Handbook
Student Disability Assistance Fund
The British Association of Health Services in Higher Education runs the Student
Disability Assistance Fund to help students with disabilities to keep up with their
studies. The maximum amount of each award is £500 and students must be
involved in higher education on a full-time or nearly full-time basis. For further
information please visit their website: www.bahshe.co.uk or call 020 8482 2412.
Employer sponsorship and training contracts (for future solicitors)
Many law firms sponsor students through the GDL and LPC programmes and offer
help towards living costs if you have secured a training contract with them. You
will need to check the application deadlines and criteria with each firm and bear in
mind that you may need to apply by the summer two years in advance. However,
if you secure your training contract after having started the programme, some
firms may reimburse you. For further information, please check the websites of
your chosen law firms and also visit www.lawcareers.net.
Law Society bursaries and scholarships (for future solicitors)
The Law Society offers a number of scholarships for GDL and LPC students who
must overcome particular obstacles to qualify as a solicitor. Please visit the Law
Society website for further information.
Inns of Court sponsorship (for future barristers)
The four Inns provide varies funding to assist students with funding their GDL and
BPTC.
Gray's Inn
Gray's Inn offers a number of scholarships and awards
for students undertaking GDL and BPTC. Please visit their
website www.graysinn.org.uk for further information and
how to apply.
Inner Temple
Inner Temple offers a variety of scholarships and awards
for both GDL and BPTC students. Please visit their
website www.innertemple.org.uk for further information
and how to apply. You can also contact the Scholarship
officer by e-mail [email protected] or by
telephone 020 7797 8210.
Lincoln's Inn
Lincoln's Inn offers awards for both GDL and BPTC
students. Enquiries regarding scholarships for the
2007/2008 academic year, please contact Judith Fox,
Students' Administrator at the Treasury Office on the
number below or email [email protected]. You
can also visit their website www.lincolnsinn.org.uk.
Middle Temple
Middle Temple offers a variety of scholarships and awards
for both GDL and BPTC students. Please visit their
website www.middletemple.org.uk for further information
and how to apply.
The Inderpal Rahal Memorial Trust (for future barristers)
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95
The Inderpal Rahal Memorial Trust offers one or occasionally two grants per year
to women from immigrant and refugee background who intend to teach or
practise law in the UK. Applicants must complete and submit an application form
and may be called for an interview. For further information please contact the
Inderpal Rahal Memorial Trust by e-mail [email protected] or write to the
following address:
The Administrator
Inderpal Rahal Memorial Trust
c/o Garden Court Chambers
57-60 Lincoln's Inn Fields
London, WC2A 3LS
Local Education Authorities
Many Local Authorities do not provide funding for postgraduate programmes but
criteria may vary. Please contact your local authority for further information.
You may also want to look at the Department for Education and Skills website for
general guidance on the availability of funding www.dfes.gov.uk/studentsupport
NatWest loan
BPP Law School works in partnership with NatWest who offer a special
Professional Trainee Loan Scheme. The scheme has been specifically tailored with
BPP Law School students in mind. As a full-time student you can apply to borrow
up to £25,000 and as a part-time student you could borrow up to your
programme fees. You will have nothing to repay whilst you are studying. For
more information, check their website at www.natwest.com/bpp. You are advised
that July and August are peak times for appointments with NatWest Graduate
Managers so book your appointment early.
Postgrad Solutions' global LLM study bursaries
Postgrad Solutions are offering two x LLM bursaries worth £500 each. The
deadline for entry is the 18th August 2010. For further information, please visit:
llmstudy.com
Snowdon Award Scheme
The Snowdon Award Scheme is a charity that provides grants to students with
physical disabilities to help them complete further or higher education or training.
To find out
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College Handbook
Rights and Responsibilities
We encourage you to familiarise yourself with the following section which outlines
your rights and responsibilities as a student at BPP University College of
Professional Studies. We kindly ask that you abide by our regulations and policies
for student discipline, copyright, library and information services, IT and VLE
conduct, equal opportunities, health and safety, ethics and environmental
protection.
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Student Discipline
The Code of Conduct
1.
The College is committed to providing a learning and teaching environment
in which all students can achieve their full potential and in which they can
study safely and without being adversely affected by the conduct of other
students.
2.
Each student therefore has a duty to his/her fellow students to maintain
appropriate standards of behaviour.
3.
In addition to the duty to fellow students, every student has a duty to the
College not to damage, in any way, its property or reputation, or to impede
or harm the effective operation of the College or its staff. Any breach of
these duties will constitute a disciplinary offence.
Disciplinary offences
4.
A failure to maintain an appropriate standard of behaviour will be treated as
a disciplinary offence.
5.
Disciplinary offences include:
(a) criminal offences
(b) matters which endanger the health or safety of others
(c) matters which may bring the College into disrepute
(d) matters which interfere with the effective operation of the College
(e) insulting and disrespectful treatment of staff or students
(f) behaviour disruptive of other students‟ study. Examples include but are
not limited to:
(i)
racial or sexual harassment
(ii) disregard of safety regulations
(iii) deliberate damage to College property
(iv) serious incapacity through alcohol or illegal drugs
(v) disruption of examinations and assessments or disregard of
examination or
(vi) assessment rules
(vii) behaviour incompatible with relevant codes of professional
conduct
(viii) failure to comply with Library and Information Services
Regulations
(ix) disruption of College hearings
College Handbook
97
The Procedure to be followed
6.
Disciplinary offences will be subject to the procedures set out in this code
save that:
(a) Any allegation of unfair practice in examinations and assessment must
be made and investigated in accordance with the College‟s Unfair
Practice Regulations.
(b) Where a student wishes to complain of a disciplinary offence
committed by another student he/she should do so in accordance with
the Student Complaints Code.
(c) Where the College believes that a criminal offence may have been
committed it may at any time refer the matter to the police instead of,
or in addition to, the initiation of disciplinary proceedings.
Disciplinary procedure
Initial allegation
7.
An allegation that a student has committed a disciplinary offence should
normally be made to the relevant Director of Programmes who will
undertake a preliminary investigation, as soon as possible and normally
within 5 working days, to determine whether there is a case to answer. If
they decide that there is a case to answer they will require the student to
attend a hearing, normally within a further 5 working days. The Director of
Programmes will outline the allegation in writing to the student at least
three working days before the hearing.
8.
At the hearing the Director of Programmes will put the allegation to the
student in the presence of their personal tutor and/or another tutor
unconnected with the allegation.
9.
The student may be accompanied at the meeting by a friend or
representative. The hearing will be videotaped and the recording may be
made available in any later proceedings.
Decision
10.
98
The Director of Programmes will, normally within 48 hours of the hearing
with the student, notify the student in writing of his/her decision. The
Director of Programmes may decide:
(a) that the matter should not be the subject of further action;
(b) that the student should be given a Written Warning or, where they
have previously received a Written Warning or the seriousness of the
offence justifies only one warning, a Final Written Warning that any
further disciplinary offence will result in expulsion;
(c) that the student should be excluded from all or specified parts of BPP‟s
premises or activities;
(d) that the matter justifies immediate expulsion from the College;
(e) that the matter should be reported to the student‟s relevant
professional body.
(f) A Written Warning will form part of the student‟s College record.
College Handbook
Appeal against decision
11.
Where the student admitted the offence and the Director of Programmes
decides that c or d above, or some other penalty of similar severity, should
be imposed, the student may appeal against that decision to a Disciplinary
Hearing Panel. The appeal must be made in writing within 10 working days
of the date of the notification of the Director of Programmes decision.
12.
Where the student did not admit the offence but the Director of Programmes
decides that the offence is proved, the student may appeal to a Disciplinary
Hearing Panel against the finding of guilt and/or against the penalty
imposed. The appeal must be made in writing within 10 working days of the
date of the notification of the Director of Programmes decision.
13.
The Dean will convene a Disciplinary Hearing Panel meeting, normally within
10 working days.
Appeal to Disciplinary Hearing Panel
Composition of panel
14.
A Disciplinary Hearing Panel will comprise:
(a) the Dean of the School or his or her nominee in the chair; and
(b) at least one other member who is either a Director of BPP University
College, a member of the Academic Council, a member of the
Education and Training Committee or a member of one of the school
boards.
15.
The members of the Disciplinary Hearing Panel must not previously have
been involved in alleging or investigating the offence in question.
16.
The proceedings will be recorded.
Purpose of the hearing
17.
Where the student is appealing against a finding by the Director of
Programmes that the offence is proved, the purpose of the hearing is to
determine whether the student is guilty of a disciplinary offence and, if so,
to decide the appropriate penalty. The Disciplinary Hearing Panel may, at its
discretion, increase or vary the penalty imposed by the Director of
Programmes.
18.
Where the student is appealing against the penalty imposed by the Director
of Programmes, the purpose of the hearing is to decide whether the penalty
imposed by the Director of Programmes is appropriate. The Disciplinary
Hearing Panel may, at its discretion, increase or vary the penalty imposed
by the Director of Programmes.
Procedure
19.
Both the College and the student may call witnesses. Copies of any
documents, which have not previously been provided to the other side, and
the names of witnesses on which either the College or the student intends to
rely, should be provided to the other side at least 24 hours prior to the
hearing.
College Handbook
99
20.
The Chair will commence the hearing by outlining the procedure which the
Disciplinary Hearing Panel proposes to follow and by ensuring that the
student understands the procedure.
21.
The case against the student will normally be presented by the Director of
Programmes.
22.
The rules of natural justice will apply and, in particular, the student will be
entitled to cross-examine anyone giving evidence against him/her.
23.
The student may be accompanied by a friend or representative who may
speak on his/her behalf. Members of the panel will be entitled to question
the Director of Programmes, the student and any witnesses.
Panel decision
24.
The Disciplinary Hearing Panel may reserve its decision. In that event, the
Chair will, normally within 3 working days, notify the student in writing of
the Panel‟s decision and the reasons for it.
25.
Where the Disciplinary Hearing Panel does not reserve its decision and an
oral decision is given, the decision will be confirmed in writing, normally
within 3 working days.
Suspension
100
26.
A student may be suspended by the Dean or any Director of Programmes:
(a) pending the outcome of proceedings under this Code; and/or
(b) where a criminal charge has been brought against the student or they
are the subject of a police investigation.
27.
Suspension may be total or partial.
(a) Total suspension bars the student from the course and from College
premises and activities. It may be qualified by allowing the student to
attend for specific purposes such as assessment.
(b) Partial suspension bars the student from specified classes or activities
or from parts of the premises.
28.
A suspension order may place a ban or restriction on contact with a named
person or persons.
29.
Suspension will only be ordered where it is necessary in order to protect a
member of the College or to prevent serious disruption to the effective
running of the College.
30.
Normally a suspension order will not be made without the student concerned
having an opportunity to make representations. Where in cases of extreme
emergency they have not had that opportunity, they will be entitled to make
representations within the next 5 working days of making the suspension
order.
31.
Where a student is suspended, they will be given written reasons for the
suspension.
College Handbook
Effect of expulsion
32.
Where a student is expelled from the College they will not be entitled to:
(a) any refund of fees already paid; or
(b) be admitted to any other College course,
(c) and will remain liable to pay any fees which are still outstanding.
Independent Review
The Office of the Independent Reviewer
33.
To provide an external and independent review of the efficacy of the
operation of its Student Discipline Code, BPP has established the Office of
the Independent Reviewer.
34.
The Independent Reviewer is a person who is independent of BPP and who
holds or has held a judicial appointment or is a professor or other senior
academic with experience in dealing with student appeals and complaints.
35.
A candidate who has exhausted BPP‟s internal appeals procedures may refer
the matter to the Independent Reviewer where:
(a) BPP has failed to follow the procedure laid down in the Code; or
(b) the procedure followed is manifestly unfair; or
(c) the decision consequent on the candidate‟s appeal is manifestly
unreasonable.
Making the reference
36.
A candidate wishing to refer for review by the Independent Reviewer the
procedures and outcome in respect of a specific appeal must contact the
Secretary to the Independent Review to discuss the scope of a reference,
the information and evidence to be provided and the fee and terms of
payment.
37.
The reference must be lodged with the Secretary to the Independent Review
within 20 working days of the date of the written notification of the
Disciplinary Hearing Panel‟s decision.
38.
The reference must be made in writing specifying in detail:
(a) what is being referred for review and under which of the criteria
specified under clause 35 above;
(b) the ground(s) on which the reference is made;
(c) the evidence relied on;
(d) whether the appellant requests an oral hearing by the Independent
Reviewer or would wish the reference to be considered solely on the
strength of the written submission and supporting evidence.
39.
The Secretary to the Independent Review will, within 20 working days of
receipt of the written submission, forward the reference to an Independent
Reviewer.
40.
Conduct of the Reference
41.
The Independent Reviewer will have discretion to decide how to conduct the
review subject to the candidate‟s case being based upon one or more of the
criteria set out in clause 35 above.
College Handbook
101
42.
Where an oral hearing is to be held the Secretary to the Independent
Review will arrange the hearing at a time convenient to the candidate, BPP
and the Independent Reviewer. Once a hearing has been fixed, it cannot be
postponed except by agreement between the candidate and BPP or on the
instructions of the Independent Reviewer.
The Independent Reviewer’s decision
43.
Where the Independent Reviewer concludes that:
(a) BPP has failed to follow the procedure laid down in the Code; or
(b) the procedure followed is manifestly unfair; or
(c) the decision consequent on the candidate‟s appeal is manifestly
unreasonable,
44.
the Independent Reviewer may refer the matter back to BPP with such
recommendations as he/she considers appropriate.
45.
The Independent Reviewer will normally seek to complete the investigations
and deliver his/her conclusions and recommendations in writing to the
candidate and to BPP within 3 months of the reference being made.
Cost of the reference
46.
BPP will provide a venue for the hearing, if any, and will pay a fee to and
cover the expenses of the Independent Reviewer.
47.
The candidate must, when lodging the application for the matter to be
referred to an Independent Reviewer, pay to BPP the sum of £250 towards
BPP‟s other costs in connection with the reference.
48.
The Independent Reviewer will have discretion, when delivering his/her
conclusions, to order the return, in whole or in part, of this £250 to the
candidate.
Monitoring of the Process of Independent Review
49.
102
The effectiveness of the process of Independent Review and of the outcomes
of any cases undertaken shall be considered by the Secretary to the
Independent Review, and included within his or her annual report.
College Handbook
Student Complaints
The Code of Conduct
1.
BPP University College provides a comprehensive procedure for investigating
and acting upon student complaints and undertakes to ensure that all
complaints are taken seriously and are properly handled in accordance with
the procedures set out in this Code.
2.
In return for this commitment every student undertakes that where they
have a complaint they will make it in accordance with the procedures set out
in this Code.
The procedure to be followed
4.
Where a student, or group of students, has a complaint or grievance
(referred to in this code as a complaint) regarding:
(a) the delivery or administration of the programme on which they are
enrolled,
(b) the conduct of a member of the academic or support staff of BPP
University College,
(c) the conduct of another student enrolled on a course at BPP University
College,
(d) any other matter concerning the operation of BPP University College
which affects the student,
the student and BPP University College will follow the procedures set out in this
Code.
5.
These procedures do not apply to:
(a) Verification of examination/assessment results. These are considered
under the
(b) Examination and Assessment Verification and Appeals Regulations.
(c) Appeals against the decisions of Board of Examiners. These are
covered by BPP University College‟s Assessment Appeal Regulations.
(d) Allegations of cheating. These are covered by BPP University College‟s
Unfair Practices and Assessment Irregularities Code.
(e) 4. Student attendance or disciplinary issues raised by BPP University
College. These are covered by BPP University College‟s Student
Attendance and Discipline Code.
6.
Where a student complains of poor attendance or a disciplinary offence
committed by another student and BPP University College decides to initiate
proceedings under the Student Attendance or Discipline Code against the
other student, the initiation of such proceedings will normally constitute a
resolution of the complaint.
Informal complaint
Making the complaint
7.
Before making a complaint the student should consider whether it is a
matter which could be resolved by discussion with the person concerned,
e.g. where the complaint relates to a tutor‟s teaching methods the matter
might be most effectively resolved by discussion with that tutor.
College Handbook
103
8.
Normally a complaint should in the first instance be raised informally with
either:
(f) the class representative for them to raise it at the next staff-student
liaison meeting; or
(g) the student‟s personal tutor; or
(h) the Director of Programmes, Programme Leader or Deputy Programme
Leader.
9.
The complainant must decide with whom to raise the matter, depending on
the nature of the complaint and the urgency of the matter.
10.
The following guidelines should be followed:
(a) Complaints against individuals should not be raised at the staff-student
liaison meeting.
(b) Where the complaint concerns the conduct of a member of the
academic or support staff the complaint should normally be made to
the Programme Leader.
(c) Where the complaint concerns a Programme Leader it should normally
be made to another Programme Leader (for example, the Director of
Programmes or Deputy Programme Leader).
(d) Exceptionally, the serious nature of the complaint may justify making a
formal complaint (see regulation 4 below) without first making an
informal complaint.
11.
The complaint should be made promptly. This means that, save in
exceptional circumstances it should be raised as an informal or formal
complaint within 10 working days of the date of the circumstances giving
rise to the complaint.
Responding to the complaint
12.
The person to whom the complaint is made will seek to resolve the matter
informally as soon as possible and normally within 5 working days of the
complaint being made. In seeking to resolve the matter they may liaise with
other members of staff.
13.
Where the complaint is made to a personal tutor, they may decide that it is
appropriate that the matter should be referred to and dealt with by the
Programme Leader.
14.
Where the complaint is against a member of staff or another student, the
member of staff or student concerned will be told of the complaint against
them and given the opportunity to respond to it. In exceptionally serious
cases, and in particular where disciplinary action against a member of staff
or student may be necessary, the complainant may be asked to lodge a
formal complaint.
15.
If the complainant is not satisfied that the matter has been resolved by the
informal process he/she may make a formal complaint.
Formal complaint
Making the complaint
16.
104
A formal complaint must be made in writing on the prescribed form (copies
of the form are available at the Registry and on the student intranet) and
must be emailed to the Complaint‟s Officer.
College Handbook
17.
The complaint should be made promptly. This means that, save in
exceptional circumstances it should be raised as an informal or formal
complaint within 10 working days of the date of the circumstances giving
rise to the complaint.
18.
A formal complaint may be made to the BPP University College‟s Complaints‟
Officer:
(a) where the complainant is not satisfied that the matter has been
resolved by the informal process;
(b) where the complainant is asked to lodge a formal complaint because of
the possibility of disciplinary action being taken against a member of
staff or student;
(c) where, because of the serious nature of the complaint, the complainant
elects to make a formal complaint without first making an informal
complaint.
19.
The
Complaints‟
Officer
[email protected].
may
be
contacted
by
email
at
Responding to the complaint
20.
The Complaints‟ Officer or a person appointed by him/her will investigate
the complaint.
21.
Any person appointed will have no material interest in the complaint.
22.
The Complaints‟ Officer will decide the most appropriate procedure to
investigate the complaint. Where the complaint is against a member of staff
or another student, he/she will be given the opportunity to respond to the
complaint.
23.
A person appointed by the Complaints‟ Officer to investigate the complaint
will report his/her findings and recommendations as to the action, if any, to
be taken to resolve the complaint to the Complaints‟ Officer. The
Complaints‟ Officer will notify the complainant in writing of the findings and
the action, if any, to be taken.
Complaints appeals
24.
A complainant who considers that their formal complaint has not been
properly investigated under regulation 4 above may appeal to the Academic
Registrar of BPP University College.
25.
The appeal must be lodged with the Academic Registrar within 10 working
days of the notification of the outcome of the formal complaint. The appeal
must be made in writing and emailed to the Academic Registrar. There is no
prescribed form. It must specify in detail the grounds on which the
complainant alleges that the complaint has not been properly investigated
and the remedy sought.
26.
The Academic Registrar may be contacted at [email protected]
27.
The Academic Registrar will investigate how the formal complaint has been
investigated and will have complete discretion to determine what form his
investigation will take.
College Handbook
105
28.
106
The Academic Registrar may, as a result of his investigation, substitute his
own decision for that of the original investigator or may order a new
investigation. There is no appeal against the decision of the Academic
Registrar of BPP University College.
College Handbook
Learning Support Policy
The Policy
1.
Introduction
BPP University College aims to provide the widest possible access to those who
wish to benefit from its educational activities and to remove any barriers which
already exist to students with special needs arising from disabilities, illness or any
other cause, at the same time bearing in mind the constraints imposed by the
building, finance and other matters outside our control.
Once accepted on one of its programmes, BPP University College will ensure, as
far as possible, that students with special needs are provided with the resources
and facilities necessary to take a full part in its educational and social life and
comparable to that of students without special needs.
BPP University College will endeavour to ensure that its policies and provisions in
relation to special needs exemplify the best possible practice, as defined in 1999
by the Quality Assurance Agency for the Provision of Services to Disabled
Students in Institutions of Higher Education, and that it continues to develop and
improve.
The Disability and Special Needs Policy relates to all categories of disability and
special needs included in any relevant professional body guidelines. These are:
dyslexia;
blind/partially
sighted;
deaf/hearing
impairment;
wheelchair
user/mobility problem; personal care support needed; mental health difficulties;
unseen disability (e.g., asthma, epilepsy, multiple disability) or any disability not
listed.
It is the view of BPP University College that a positive approach is essential. Staff
training and development in understanding and meeting the needs of those with
special needs along with regular monitoring is carried out to ensure we follow the
best possible practice. A positive approach is required to ensure that, wherever
possible, special needs should not be a barrier to the course of study. Once
matriculated, the student with special needs should receive the appropriate
support.
This policy aims to inform the best practice in order to help students with special
needs to achieve a high quality experience of professional education at BPP
University College.
2.
Admissions procedure
No account will be taken of any special need identified by a student in his or her
application form in the initial selection process of students to be offered a place at
BPP University College.
On offer of a place at BPP University College, all students will be sent a letter and
form requesting details of any special needs. Students will be asked to return the
form along with their letter of acceptance. Students identified, as having a special
need will be asked to contact the Learning Support Officer to ensure that the
student is fully aware of the demands of the relevant programme; to identify any
additional facilities, arrangements and/or resources required by the student; and
to determine whether these can reasonably be provided by BPP University
College.
College Handbook
107
3.
Identification
Identification of, and support for, students with special needs arising from
disability, illness or any other problem BPP University College acknowledges that
it is important that students with special needs arising from disability, illness or
any other problem, are identified as early as possible, so that necessary
arrangements may be made to meet and support these needs. Early identification
is arranged in a number of ways:
1.
On acceptance of a place at BPP University College, students self-identify
through a Learning Support Form, which has been sent out to them
requesting details of special needs. The forms are then dealt with as
described in the Operation Procedures (please see 7 below).
2.
At registration all students are invited to complete a Learning Support Form,
if they have not already done so.
3.
Access to the Learning Support Officer during the registration process.
Information obtained in 1, 2 and 3 above will be used solely to ensure that
students are not disadvantaged when studying on their programme.
4.
Support
BPP University College will ensure that students with special needs have
appropriate support
throughout their course of study at BPP University College. This will be achieved
by the following means:
1.
BPP University College will designate a member of staff - the Learning
Support Officer – to have special responsibility for students with special
needs.
2.
Staff training and development. Such programmes aim to facilitate
exchange of information and raise awareness of the requirements of special
needs students.
3.
Specialist equipment and facilities will be provided, subject to any relevant
constraints.
4.
Accessibility. BPP University College will ensure that, as far as it is
reasonably possible, its physical, social and recreational facilities are
available and readily accessible to students with special needs in order to
ensure their fullest possible integration.
5.
Disclaimer in relation to Support Services
BPP University College will make every reasonable effort to provide the student
with services that meet that student‟s needs. However, there may be occasions
where such needs cannot be met due to financial constraints and other
constraints outside our control. This disclaimer is an express condition of any
contract or agreement that the student may have with BPP University College for
the provision of services. BPP University College will give the student as much
notice of any limitation that has to be put on the above.
108
College Handbook
6.
Monitoring
The Learning Support Officer will monitor and report to the Academic Registrar on
provision for disabled or special needs students on an annual basis.
7.
Operational Procedures
N.B. Throughout this procedure student confidentiality will where possible be
maintained.
1.
Students identified, as having a special need will be asked to contact the
Learning Support Officer to ensure that the student is fully aware of the
demands of the relevant course; to identify any additional facilities,
arrangements and/or resources required by the student; and to determine
whether these can reasonably be provided by BPP University College.
2.
All special needs students will be required to provide supporting, up-to-date
medical and/or other evidence identifying the nature of their special need.
Such evidence should not normally be more than 12 months old. If an
External Examiner requires additional evidence the student will have to
provide such evidence.
3.
In order to be considered as a special needs student at BPP University
College, a Learning Contract needs to be agreed. Such a contract will state
the nature of the special need, the agreed level of support and any other
relevant considerations.
4.
External Examiners for the relevant programme will be notified of the terms
of the Learning Contract and, in certain cases, asked to agree the terms of
the Learning Contract. In addition, in some cases it may be necessary to
notify the relevant professional body.
5.
The Learning Support Officer is responsible for ensuring that detailed
records are kept of all Learning Support Contracts.
6.
If a student requires additional support during the programme and/or a
variation of their Learning Contract and/or a Learning Contract they should
contact the Learning Support Officer as soon as possible to discuss their
request.
College Handbook
109
Copyright : A Students' Guide
During your course, you may sometimes wish to copy material, e.g. journal
articles, web pages etc. This material will almost certainly be protected by
copyright and this limits what you can do.
Making a single copy for private study or research for a non-commercial
purpose
If you wish to make a single copy only of an extract of copyright material for your
own, or for another individual‟s private study or research for a non-commercial
purpose, this may be possible under the statutory defence of fair dealing. The
copying may be done by using a photocopier or other means of copying, e.g.
scanner or mobile „phone. The amount of material you may copy from a single
publication is not specified but will depend on the circumstances in each case. You
must decide for yourself whether your copying is likely to be considered fair.
Sound recordings, e.g. music CDs; films and broadcasts are not covered by fair
dealing for private study or research and so may not be copied.
Although you may make your single copy by using a scanner or other means of
electronic copying, you must not re-publish or distribute the material in any way,
e.g. by adding it to a web page or mailing it to friends; nor must you edit or make
multiple copies of the item.
Photocopied material distributed by your lecturers, including that contained in BPP
Manuals, should not be further photocopied as this may be a serious breach of
BPP University College‟s copyright licence.
Making multiple copies
If you need to make multiple copies of extracts of copyright works for the
purposes of your course, this may be possible under the Licence BPP University
College has with the Copyright Licensing Agency (CLA).
110
●
The Licence covers works published in the UK and in a range of other
countries – further details of these are available from the CLA.
●
The amount of material you may copy under the Licence is limited: the
limits are the same as set out above for copying for private study or
research for a non-commercial purpose.
●
The number of copies which can be made of each extract must not be
greater than the number needed to ensure that each student on that
module, e.g. BLP or tort, and the module tutor(s) are supplied with their
own copy.
●
The Licence does not cover newspapers, unpublished works and in-house
publications not produced by BPP University College. Works which are listed
on the CLA‟s List of excluded categories and works may also not be multiple
copied.
College Handbook
The web
Unless otherwise stated, ALL material on the internet is protected by copyright.
●
You may download and/or print material from BPP University College‟s
online databases, e.g. LexisNexis Butterworths, Westlaw UK, for the
purposes of your course.
●
If you wish to copy material from the web, i.e. to print or download it, check
first whether the page indicates what you can and cannot do.
●
If no guidance is provided, then you may make ONE copy (on disk etc. or on
paper) of the material you need for your own private study or research for a
non-commercial purpose. The limits as to how much you may copy are set
out above.
●
You must not download music from the web, unless the web page permits
it; nor must you take part in file-sharing with others. These are very serious
breaches of copyright and can have grave consequences both for you and
for BPP University College.
Blackboard
Copyright material, e.g. a section from a book or a journal article, may be
provided for you in your module materials on the VLE, in the form of a PDF
document. The PDF document will begin with a Copyright Notice which contains
important information that you should read and observe. The Copyright Notice
must not at any time be detached from the document.
As a student registered on that module, you may access, download and print out
a copy of the document, together with the Copyright Notice. You may not make
further copies of the document, or store or distribute it in any way, e.g. by email. At the end of the module, you may retain your copy of the document but
strictly for your own personal use.
College Handbook
111
Use of Facilities
Library & Information Service Regulations
Introduction
BPP University College of Professional Studies (BPP) aims to keep rules to a
minimum while ensuring that as many facilities as possible are available to all our
users, and that we are able to maintain and improve the quality of our library and
information service.
The following regulations therefore set out what we expect from you when you
use the library and information service, and also what you can expect from us.
Further information may be found in our guides to services, available through
BPP‟s Virtual Learning Environment and in hard copy in most of our libraries.
Some regulations relating to behaviour within the library vary according to site.
In particular, the business school and law school sites have very different study
environments. Please ensure you comply with the guidance of the site you are
using at any time
If you are unable to comply with any regulation, please contact a member of
library staff immediately to discuss the problem.
Definitions
1.
„Library‟ refers to any or all of the libraries which form BPP‟s Library and
Information Service (LIS), including all areas under the remit of the LIS.
2.
„Director‟ refers to the Director of Library and Information Services and
includes anyone authorised to act in the Director‟s place.
Compliance
3.
Use of the Library is restricted under regulations 5-6 below, and is
conditional on the observance of the LIS Regulations. All members of Library
staff are empowered to enforce these Regulations, and we expect any
enforcement to be accepted with good grace by all users.
4.
Failure to comply with the Regulations may result in the suspension of
services, the imposition of penalty charges, and action under the Student
Discipline Code.
Admission
112
5.
All currently registered students and staff of BPP University College of
Professional Studies may make use of the Library and its services.
6.
Other users may occasionally be permitted restricted access as guests, as
determined by the Director.
7.
Services may be restricted at any time at the discretion of the Director.
8.
The Director has the right to search bags brought into the Library.
College Handbook
Conduct within the Library
9.
Users must provide identification on request. In the case of staff and
students, this must be a valid BPP identification card.
10.
Users are expected to behave with consideration to fellow users of the
Library, and must observe guidance relating to noise in designated areas of
the Library.
11.
Conversations, unless brief, may only be held in group study areas (where
available). No conversations at all may take place in silent study areas.
12.
Mobile phones must be switched to silent mode, and users must leave the
Library to take a call.
13.
Any audio equipment used must not disturb other users.
14.
The reservation of seats is not permitted. Any articles left unattended may
be removed by the Library staff.
15.
Food may not be consumed within the Library. Care must be taken with
drinks to avoid spillages, and lids are strongly recommended.
16.
Users must not mark, deface or damage any Library material or property.
Borrowing materials
17.
No material may be removed from the Library until its loan has been
properly recorded at the Issue Desk or self-issue terminal.
18.
Users are required to show their BPP identification card to borrow material,
and remain responsible for items until they are returned (see regulation 19
below).
19.
On return, all material must be checked in at the Issue Desk or using a selfissue terminal.
20.
Users who fail to return material by the time advised will be liable to pay an
overdue charge.
21.
Users may not borrow material if they have overdue items or unpaid
overdue charges.
22.
Users with overdue materials and/or unpaid charges on their account at the
end of their programme of studies may not graduate until items are
returned and charges paid.
23.
Users should report any lost materials immediately. The cost of replacing
the item along with a £10 administration fee will be charged.
24.
Students who have taken their final examinations cease to have borrowing
privileges.
College Handbook
113
Copyright
25.
Photocopying or scanning of any Library materials may only be carried out in
accordance with copyright legislation and any copyright licences held by
BPP.
Using online services
26.
The use of electronic publications provided by the Library is subject to BPP‟s
IT regulations, to copyright legislation, and to the licence agreements of
each product.
Use by authorised guests
27.
114
All guests allowed access under regulation 6 must abide by these
regulations. If a breach of the regulations or other misconduct occurs, BPP
has the right to inform any organisation or scheme by virtue of which use of
the Library has been allowed.
College Handbook
IT Regulations
1.
Definitions
In these Regulations the following words shall have the following meanings:
1.1
“BPP IT facilities” means all IT facilities, including all computer equipment,
peripherals, networks, the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), software and
data owned by or licensed to BPP University College of Professional Studies
Limited.
1.2
“The IT Manager” means the manager of BPP University College of
Professional Studies Limited IT department and includes anyone authorised
to act on the IT Manager‟s behalf.
2.
Scope
2.1
These Regulations apply to the use of all BPP IT facilities and the use of
other IT facilities to communicate with or otherwise use BPP IT facilities.
2.2
By logging on to the BPP IT facilities you accept the requirements of these
Regulations and any legal requirements. Breach of these Regulations
constitutes a disciplinary offence and could lead to action being taken under
the Student Performance and Discipline Code.
3.
Resource allocation and charging
3.1
The following persons may use the BPP IT facilities:
●
staff employed at BPP University College of Professional Studies
Limited
●
registered students of BPP University College of Professional Studies
Limited
●
others registered as users at the discretion of the IT Manager subject
to additional conditions.
3.2
Except as otherwise agreed by the IT Manager, you may only use the BPP IT
facilities for academic and administrative purposes, and for limited and
reasonable personal use.
3.3
BPP reserves the right to charge for use of any IT facilities for any purpose
other than those defined in 3.2.
3.4
BPP makes no guarantee that all information available through the VLE,
website and other sources is entirely up-to-date and accurate.
4.
Use of BPP IT facilities
4.1
You must use the BPP IT facilities responsibly and in a safe manner at all
times. Other equipment may be connected to BPP‟s IT facilities only with the
authorisation of the IT Manager.
4.2
You may send electronic mail only by an approved program configured in an
approved manner. BPP reserves the right to monitor use of electronic mail
and the Internet.
College Handbook
115
4.3
The IT Manager may specify precautions to be taken from time to time
against the spread of computer viruses. All files transferred between
computers and, where appropriate, executable files copied over networks,
must be virus checked.
4.4
You must not leave logged-in public workstations unattended for more than
twenty minutes.
4.5
Regular back up copies will be made of files held on the servers and the
VLE, but recovery of lost data cannot be guaranteed. It is your responsibility
to ensure that your data is backed up onto external media.
4.6
Reasonable precautions will be taken to ensure the reliability of the service, but
no guarantee of the correct functioning of a program or equipment is given.
4.7
You may not install or uninstall any program without prior authorisation
from the IT Manager.
5.
116
Unacceptable Use
5.1
You must not use the BPP IT facilities to engage in any unlawful activity. You
must not send any „mass emails‟ without the prior express permission of
your programme director. Mass emails include emails to more than one
tutor group or to more than 20 individuals.
5.2
In using any of the BPP IT facilities you must not access or attempt to
access any programs, data or resources which belong to any other user. You
must not make any modification to computer programs or data without
previous authorisation. In particular, it is illegal to:
●
use another person‟s ID and / or password in order to access a
computer, to copy or use data or to run a program without
authorisation;
●
alter, delete, or move a program or data,
●
access unauthorised data; or
●
ignore intellectual property rights.
5.3
You must not make copies of software supplied by, or through, the BPP
computer network without authorisation from the IT Manager.
5.4
You must not download any software from the Internet, including games,
films and music, other than for incidental inclusion of material for academic
purposes.
5.5
Unacceptable use of the BPP IT facilities includes, but is not limited to, the
following activities. Any such use will be considered a disciplinary offence.
●
creating or transmitting any offensive, racist, obscene or indecent
images, data or other material, or any data capable of being resolved
into such images or material;
●
creating or transmitting defamatory materials, commercial materials
(such as advertising), chain letters, or messages in which the author‟s
identity is disguised;
●
transmitting material knowing that this infringes the copyright of
another person;
●
deliberately attempting to gain access, or posting links to websites
containing offensive material, including pornographic, racist or
gambling materials;
●
violating the privacy of other users.
College Handbook
6.
Penalties for Contravention
If you breach any of these Regulations you may be immediately suspended from
using the BPP IT facilities and be held liable for any cost incurred or damage
caused. A breach may also result in action under BPP‟s Student Performance and
Discipline Code.
College Handbook
117
Virtual Learning Environment Code of Conduct
Introduction
BPP University College of Professional Studies („The College”)‟s Virtual Learning
Environment („VLE‟) is part of the College‟s information systems. This Code of
Conduct is applied in conjunction with the College‟s IT Regulations, Copyright
policy, Data Protection policy, and General Academic Regulations. Staff use is
governed by the Employment Handbook.
General Principles
This code of conduct refers specifically to the College's Virtual Learning
Environment ("VLE") but the general principles involved apply to all electronic
communications systems supplied by the College and apply to staff and students
alike.
The College's general rules and regulations, as well as the IT Regulations apply to
all VLE users.
Using the VLE
1.
The College‟s VLE not only contains learning and teaching materials and
links to outside resources, but is also a communication system. These
communication facilities include discussion boards for asynchronous
communication as well as chat for synchronous communication.
2.
All VLE users should be aware that comments made in any of the interactive
areas reflect not only on themselves but also on BPP University College of
Professional Studies as an institution. The VLE's communication facilities
should not be used to bring the College into disrepute.
3.
Virtual communication and discussion are taking place in a social
environment. Normal rules of social interaction apply and the remoteness of
the recipients must not be used as an excuse to behave in an anti-social
manner and post unacceptable messages.
Examples of such anti-social behaviour include:
i.
ii.
118
Harassment or intimidation of another user.
Person to person aggression in asynchronous
communication (e.g. discussion boards or chat).
or
synchronous
4.
Contributions to discussion boards and synchronous chat are regarded as
the intellectual property of the authors. If they are to be quoted by another
person in a publication (electronic or printed) acknowledgment must be
given. Work undertaken by members of staff in the course of employment
are owned by the College.
5.
Where the contribution of any user of a discussion board or synchronous
chat incorporates material of which that user is not the author, proper
acknowledgement to the author of that material shall be given in the
contribution.
College Handbook
6.
Users should not contribute to a synchronous or asynchronous discourse
unless their contribution furthers the aims of that particular discussion
forum or chat session and is in the spirit of the discourse.
7.
Personal comments about other users and their views should not be placed
in any synchronous or asynchronous communication areas that are viewable
by other users.
8.
Copying private messages to another person without the author's explicit
permission is a breach of confidentiality.
Code of Conduct
When using the VLE's communication facilities you should:
•
Respect other people's views and beliefs.
•
Post comments appropriate to the particular discussion.
•
Remember that you are conversing with real people.
•
Enjoy your interaction with fellow students and your tutors in a friendly and
intellectually stimulating environment.
When using the communication facilities you should not:
•
•
•
Post anything illegal, obscene or offensive.
Copy or forward email or any other private messages without permission.
Behave in an impolite manner.
Comments and enquiries
The College aims to make the VLE accessible to as many people as possible,
including people with disabilities. If you have any comments or suggestions as to
how we may improve the VLE to make it more accessible to you, please contact
the Knowledge Services team.
College Handbook
119
Virtual Learning Environment Terms and Conditions
of Use
Introduction
BPP University College of Professional Studies (The College) Virtual Learning
Environment („VLE‟) is part of the College‟s information systems. These terms and
conditions are applied in conjunction with the College‟s IT Regulations, Copyright
policy, Data Protection policy, VLE Code of Conduct and General Academic
Regulations. Staff use is governed by the Employment Handbook.
Conditions of Use
1.
By registering on the VLE, each user accepts and agrees to abide by the
conditions set out below. The College, through the Director of Knowledge
Services, reserves the right to exclude anyone from the VLE who fails to
comply. Use of the VLE is subject to the College‟s rules relating to the use of
computers as described in the IT regulations.
2.
The VLE is provided for education, research, and administration. Users are
personally responsible for their contributions to the system and shall
indemnify the College against any liability incurred by the College (including
liability in defamation and for breach of copyright and any other intellectual
property rights), which arises out of any such contribution.
Copyright
3.
Unless otherwise indicated, this VLE and its contents are the property of the
College.
4.
The College maintains the VLE for learning and teaching purposes. You may
access those parts ("modules") of the VLE that you are enrolled in and you
may download or copy the available learning and teaching material for
private study that constitutes as non-commercial use. Without prior
approval, copying, distributing or use of the materials contained on the VLE
for any commercial purpose is not permitted.
5.
Any copyright in the material contained on the VLE belongs to the copyright
holders.
Disclaimers
120
6.
The College makes no warranty that information contained on the VLE is
complete, accurate or up-to-date. The College takes no responsibility for the
results of reliance on any such information.
7.
The College reserves the right to vary, change, alter, amend, add to or
remove any material on the VLE.
8.
The College makes no warranty that use of the VLE will be uninterrupted,
virus-free or error-free; or that use will not affect other software or
operating systems used to access the VLE.
College Handbook
9.
The College makes no warranty that use of VLE will not infringe the rights of
any other person or organisation; or that it is of reasonable quality or fit for
any particular purpose, even if the College received notice of an intention to
use the VLE for that purpose.
10.
The College accepts no liability for any loss or damage suffered by other
parties as a direct or indirect result of using the VLE , including loss of profit,
loss of opportunity, loss of business, and consequential loss, to the extent
permitted in law.
11.
You may contribute to any communication facilities (e.g. discussion boards
or chat sessions) that you have access to on the VLE, provided you follow
the Code of Conduct for the College's Virtual Learning Environment; your
use is only authorised on that basis. Persons submitting material other than
members of staff of the College to this V LE are solely responsible for the
material and any claims relating to its content, whether made against the
College or otherwise. The opinions of such persons are those of the
individuals making them, and not of the College. The College accepts no
responsibility for such opinions or any claims resulting from them.
12.
While the College does not exercise editorial control over any content posted
to the VLE by users, the College reserves the right at its sole discretion to
remove any content that it considers objectionable. The College shall be the
sole arbiter as to whether content is objectionable. In addition, the College
reserves the right to review, edit or delete any comments posted by users
deemed defamatory, unlawful, threatening or otherwise objectionable. The
College accepts no responsibility or liability for any material communicated
by third parties by means of the VLE, to the extent permitted in law.
13.
Contributions must not consist of, or contain, illegal or offensive material;
any material which is considered by the College to be illegal or offensive
may be removed from the system. For this purpose the expressions illegal
and offensive include (without limitation) material the publication of which is
defamatory or would infringe copyright of a third party or which contravenes
Data Protection legislation or the Telecommunications Act and material
which constitutes incitement to racial hatred or which is offensive or
obscene.
14.
Each user of the College's VLE confirms that he or she will not hold the
College liable for any material contributed to a discussion board or
synchronous chat by another person, which is defamatory of that user.
Prohibitions and Regulation of Use
15.
Subject to the above, those gaining access to this VLE are authorised to
make use of the VLE and of any interactive facilities available through it, for
any lawful purposes. The following is a non-exclusive list of uses which are
expressly prohibited:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
using the VLE to commit or encourage unlawful acts;
misrepresenting the user's identity or authority;
distributing any virus or other device intended to cause nuisance, loss
or corruption of any information on the VLE or accessed through it, or
of any systems used to operate the VLE or any systems accessed
through it;
tampering with communications that are not the user's, or making any
alteration to any information on the VLE;
College Handbook
121
v.
vi.
accessing or attempting to access other user accounts;
any misuse, including hacking, or attempting to hack, any part of the
VLE, system used to run it, or system accessed through the VLE;
vii. disrupting the flow of communications in interactive areas (this
includes making contributions that are, or can be seen as, either
harassment, defamatory, abusive, threatening, harmful, obscene,
profane, sexually orientated, racially offensive, or otherwise
objectionable or links to such material);
viii. storing personal data derived from the VLE;
ix. posting material that is deemed objectionable for one of the reasons in
the nonexclusive list under point vii.
16.
Use of the VLE by members of the College is subject to the College‟s IT
Regulations.
General
17.
Nothing in these Terms and Conditions of Use is intended to, nor shall it,
confer any benefit on any third party.
18.
No failure or delay by the College to enforce any right against you shall
operate as a waiver of such right or preclude its further exercise at any
time.
Jurisdiction
19.
These Terms and Conditions of Use are governed by and interpreted in
accordance with the Laws of England & Wales.
20.
If a court having competent jurisdiction finds any of these terms illegal or
unenforceable, the invalidity of that provision will not affect the validity,
legality, and enforceability of the remaining terms.
Comments and Enquiries
21.
122
The College aims to make the VLE accessible to as many people as possible,
including people with special needs. If you have any comments or
suggestions as to how we may improve the VLE to make it more accessible
to you, please contact the Knowledge Services team.
College Handbook
BPP University College Corporate Social
Responsibility
The policy of BPP University College of Professional Studies is to act as a good
corporate citizen and to uphold BPP‟s mission to be the leading provider of
professional business and legal education and training, anticipating and
responding to clients‟ requirements and exceeding their expectations. We aim to
achieve best practice in employee relations, workplace standards, training and
development, human rights, diversity and disability, as well as environmental
policies for staff and students alike, and to contribute to economic, social and
environmental progress to achieve sustainable development.
We aim to be a good neighbour and are committed to being a responsible
corporate citizen through support for appropriate non-political and non-sectarian
projects, organisations and charities. We will continue to actively engage in a
wide number of local community projects including pro bono and support for local
schools.
Corporate responsibility is about ensuring that we take into account the social,
community and environmental consequences of our activities and for this reason
we have introduced policies on:
●
●
●
●
Ethics
Equal opportunities and diversity
Health and safety
Environmental protection
Ethics policy
BPP University College of Professional Studies recognises its obligations to
students, clients, partners, staff and the communities in which it operates to
observe and maintain the highest ethical standards. These standards are to be
upheld in the day-to-day activities of all members of the College. They include
and embrace the principles of selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability,
openness, honesty and leadership.
In addition, helping students to acquire a sense of professional and personal
ethics in their work is an important part of the educational process offered by BPP
University College of Professional Studies. In particular:
Students - we seek to offer a rewarding experience to all our students to support
their future careers, on programmes clearly described and outlined in the College
prospectus. Programmes are based on the transmission of up-to-date knowledge
on fundamentals and their application;
Employers - we seek to offer a rewarding experience for all our employees, to
promote personal development and to support, encourage and motivate people to
reach their full potential and the opportunity to contribute swiftly to the improved
performance of their organisation, and rapidly rise to senior positions. In addition
BPP University College of Professional Studies offer all employees a competitive
benefits package including optional pension and share participation schemes and
benefits aimed at safeguarding the health and well being of employees;
College Handbook
123
Teaching staff - we seek to bring all our knowledge and experience to the
design, delivery and assessment of our teaching programmes;
Academic community - we seek to fulfil our responsibility to the wider
academic community, both undertaking all academic work to the highest
professional standards, and contributing wherever possible to the development of
that community worldwide;
Suppliers - we seek to trade productively with all our suppliers, who have also
committed to reducing their environmental impact. We expect value for money,
good service and fair treatment from all suppliers and recognise suppliers' needs
for fair terms of trade, including prompt payment and clear briefings.
BPP University College's policies and values are underpinned by the BPP Code of
Business Ethics, which can be consulted on our website www.bpp.com.
124
College Handbook
Equal Opportunities Policy
1.
Policy Statement
General Principles
●
BPP University College is committed to the elimination of unlawful
discrimination.
●
BPP aims to ensure that no person receives less favourable treatment on the
grounds of gender, age, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin,
marital status, part-time status, sexual orientation, home responsibility,
disability, and political or religious belief. This commitment extends to all
persons known to be HIV positive.
●
BPP recognises that working towards equality of opportunity is not additional
or marginal to its activities, but central to the efficiency and development of
the institution as an employer and as a provider of education.
●
BPP will take positive action, including seeking and delivering adequate
resources to implement this Policy and evaluate its development.
Policy objectives
●
To appoint, train, develop, reward and promote on the basis of merit and
ability.
●
To identify practices, procedures and customs in all areas of BPP life, which
unfairly discriminate, directly or indirectly, and to replace them with
practices and procedures, which ensure equality of opportunity.
●
To establish agreed grievance and disciplinary procedures to protect staff
and students from discriminatory behaviour based on racist, sexist and
other prejudiced attitudes.
●
To adopt and monitor policies and procedures to provide equality of
opportunity in the recruitment, selection and promotion of staff. BPP
recognises the importance in promoting its Policy through the whole
recruitment process. It aims to apply non-discriminatory treatment to all
potential and actual applicants and to comply with the relevant legislative
requirements.
●
To provide a suitable environment for working and studying for people with
disabilities.
●
To take account of the needs, experience and interests of students and to
take positive steps to counter stereotyping and prejudice.
●
Programme organisation, teaching and assessment materials will take
account of the needs of different groups, and care will be taken to ensure
that teaching and assessment materials are non-discriminatory and
positively reflect the diversity of BPP.
●
To provide adequate and effective support for students and staff.
College Handbook
125
●
To develop and establish a comprehensive system of monitoring to provide
sufficient accurate, recent and specific data to inform planning and to
enhance the process of effective evaluation and review. This monitoring will
be carried out by the Equality and Diversity Officer.
2.
The Codes of Practice
2.1
Sexual Equality Code
●
The term „sexism/sexist‟ used below, involves the implication (direct or
indirect) of inferiority on grounds of gender. Sexist stereotyping suggests
that women and girls, men and boys should or should not, can or cannot do
certain tasks, jobs or activities, or display certain abilities or lack of them,
solely on the grounds of gender.
●
As an educational establishment, BPP intends to resist sexual discrimination
positively and is wholly opposed to sexist attitudes and their manifestations.
●
BPP will establish and maintain non-discriminatory practices within it and
will take positive steps to combat sexism. Actions to be considered
unacceptable include:
●
The use of sexist language or innuendo, including comments made in
the course of large or small group sessions, meetings or interviews.
●
Verbal sexist comment or innuendo, including comments made in the
course of large or small group sessions, meetings or interviews.
●
The display of sexist posters, pin ups or advertisements.
●
Unwelcome physical contact.
2.2
Sexual Orientation Code
The term „heterosexist‟ used below involves the implication (direct or indirect) of
inferiority on grounds of homosexuality or bisexuality.
126
●
BPP intends to take positive steps to resist discrimination on grounds of
sexual orientation and is wholly opposed to heterosexist attitudes and their
manifestations.
●
BPP will establish and maintain non-discriminatory practices within the
organisation and will take positive steps to combat expressions or acts which
disparage or undermine a person on grounds of their sexual orientation.
Actions considered to be unacceptable include:
●
the use of anti-gay, anti-lesbian or anti-heterosexual language whether
oral or written.
●
verbal heterosexist comment or innuendo, including comments made
in the course of large or small group sessions, meetings or interviews.
●
harassment of gays, lesbians, bisexuals or heterosexuals.
College Handbook
2.3
Disabilities Equality Code
●
The term „ableism/ableist‟ used below involves the implication (direct or
indirect) of inferiority due to any form of disability; physical, psychological
or mental; permanent or temporary.
●
BPP intends to resist discrimination against people with disabilities and is
wholly opposed to ableist attitudes and their manifestations.
●
BPP will establish and maintain non-discriminatory practices within it and
will take positive steps to combat ableism. Action to be considered to be
●
the use of ableist language.
●
ableist comments or innuendos, including comments made in the
course of large or small group sessions, meeting or interviews.
●
harassment of individual members of the staff or student body who
have a disability.
●
non-consultation with a disabled person about whom any decision
regarding his/her needs is being discussed.
2.4
Racial Equality Code
●
The term „racism/racist‟ used below involves the implication (direct or
indirect) of inferiority on grounds of race, colour, nationality or ethnic or
national origin.
●
BPP intends to resist racial discrimination positively and is wholly opposed to
racist attitudes and their manifestations.
●
BPP will establish and maintain non-discriminatory practices within it. BPP is
opposed to all expressions or acts of a racist nature. Actions considered
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
2.
verbal racist comment or innuendo, including comments made in the course
of large and small group sessions, meetings or interviews.
derogatory name-calling, insults and racist jokes.
written racist comments by staff or students.
racist graffiti or any other written insults.
bringing racist materials such as leaflets or magazines into BPP.
making threats against a person or group because of colour or ethnicity.
provocative behaviour such as wearing racist badges or insignia.
attempts to recruit students or staff to racist organisations or groups.
BPP is committed to providing an environment which ensures that staff and
students are free from any form of harassment, intimidation, bullying constituting
unacceptable behaviour which is personally offensive.
BPP will not condone harassment, which involves abusive or offensive behaviour
with regard to gender, race, political or religious belief, ethnic or national origin,
part-time status, sexual orientation, colour, age or disability, or bullying. Similarly
College Handbook
127
BPP will not condone victimisation due to an employee or student having made a
complaint or allegation of harassment or discrimination, bullying or having acted
as a witness in such cases.
Discriminatory conduct or remarks are not acceptable whatever the intention. It is
the impact of the behaviour that is important rather than the intention of the
perpetrator. Harassment and bullying can create an intimidating, hostile or
offensive atmosphere, interfere with an individual‟s work performance, cause loss
of confidence or poor attendance.
BPP recognises the seriousness of harassment and bullying, and has a
responsibility to take appropriate action against all incidents of harassment and
bullying. These incidents will be dealt with in line with this Policy.
3.1
Introduction
It is in the interest of all employees to create and maintain a harassment and
bullying free environment. Any incidents of failure to comply with this Policy will
be grounds for disciplinary action. Where harassment or bullying arises the
complaint will be fully investigated.
3.2
Defining Harassment
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, or other conduct
based on sex affecting the dignity of women and men at work. This can include
unwelcome physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct. The key factor to harassment
is that it is unwanted and unreciprocated. It is likely to have an adverse effect on
a person's work and it usually involves the display and abuse of power, victims
are often made to feel that they are to blame. It is the impact of the behaviour
that is important rather than the intention of the perpetrator and it is the
recipient who determines whether something is acceptable or not.
The above definitions cover behaviour such as:
●
●
●
●
●
●
Comments about a person‟s appearance,
Lewd remarks or glances,
Questions about a person‟s sex life,
Requests for sexual favours,
Intimate physical contact,
Sexual assault.
Racial Harassment
Racist behaviour can be defined as any hostile or offensive act or expression by a
person of one racial group against a person of another racial group, or incitement
to commit such an act, where there is an indication that the motivation is racial
dislike or hatred.
Incidents of racist behaviour may be physical or verbal, they may involve a large
or small number of people and their victims are almost always from the minority
communities.
128
College Handbook
Examples:
●
Physical assault or threat of it.
●
Racist name-calling, joke making or gestures.
●
Expressions of racial prejudice or deliberate misinformation on racial or
ethnic distinctions.
●
Racist graffiti, written insults or distributing or displaying racist literature
and racially offensive material.
●
Racist innuendo or statements that ridicule or offend.
●
Attempts to stir up hatred against an individual or ethnic group.
●
Encouragement to others to isolate or ignore an employee or student of
another racial group.
●
Continually undermining and devaluing the work of an employee or student
of another racial group.
The use of the computer network to forward or to download material of an
offensive nature, such as pornographic or suggestive pictures, objects or written
materials is strictly not permitted and will result in disciplinary action being taken
against the individual.
See the Computer Network and Internet Access Policy for further information.
Legal Implications
BPP‟s Equal Opportunity Policy is intended to prevent all forms of offensive
behaviour, but it should be particularly noted that sexual harassment is a form of
sex discrimination, and is therefore unlawful behaviour contrary to the Sex
Discrimination Act. Likewise, racial harassment is a form of racial discrimination
and is therefore unlawful behaviour contrary to the Race Relations Act.
The Public Order Act 1986 makes intentional sexual or racial harassment a
criminal offence punishable by imprisonment or a fine. Intentional harassment
includes:
●
Using threatening, insulting or abusive words or behaviour towards another
Individual;
●
Displaying threatening, insulting or abusive writing or pictures.
You must understand that sexual or racial harassment towards another member
of staff or student might, therefore, not only result in dismissal, or removal from
the Programme, but also a criminal conviction.
3.3
Bullying
Bullying is any persistent behaviour, directed against an individual, which is
intimidating, offensive or malicious and which undermines the confidence and
self-esteem of the recipient. Bullying is largely identified not so much by what has
actually been done but rather by the effect that it has on its target.
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Examples include:
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3.4
Verbal or physical threats and intimidation
Humiliating someone in front of others
Offensive or abusive personal remarks
Ostracism
Bullying by e-mail
Dealing with Harassment
It is important that BPP‟s Equal Opportunity Policy is fully implemented and works
in practice. You have a responsibility to eliminate harassment from BPP whether
you are affected directly by it or if you are a witness to an act of harassment.
Initially claims of harassment will be dealt with under the procedure below but
where the results are proven harassment or bullying, it will then be dealt with
under BPP‟s Disciplinary Procedure.
If you are dissatisfied with the outcome of a complaint, the matter should be
pursued through BPP‟s Grievance Procedure.
3.4.1 Advice and guidance
If you need to talk to someone about harassment or bullying advice and guidance
can be obtained from the Equality and Diversity Officer. Employees or students
are encouraged to seek support and advice at an early stage and arrangements
can be made in work time. All discussions will be dealt with in confidence.
3.4.2 Informal Procedure
What to do if you see, hear, or witness an act of harassment.
Challenge it by making clear that it is unwelcome and ask the harasser/bully to
stop. Simple statements are enough, for example:
„Such remarks/behaviour/materials are unwelcome and offensive‟.
„Please do not repeat such remarks/actions‟.
„Remove this unwelcome material‟.
There is no need to justify or explain the statement. The fact that you have found
it offensive is sufficient.
Report the incident verbally or in writing to a senior member of the Programme
team if you have witnessed an incident.
Make a note of what has happened:
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details of the incident;
date of the incident;
name of the alleged perpetrator; and
name of any other witnesses.
The person you have reported it to will then decide how best to deal with the
matter.
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What to do if you experience harassment/bullying
The perception of harassment or bullying can vary from individual to individual
and in the first instance you should aim to resolve the problem by making it clear
to the harasser or bully that such behaviour is unwelcome, and that the person is
asked to stop. In some cases this may be sufficient and the harasser or bully will
recognise that the behaviour is offensive. In circumstances where it is difficult or
embarrassing for you, the initial approach may be made by a member of the
Programme team.
Keep a written record of the incident:
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the time, date and place
what happened and the nature of the incident
the response of the alleged harasser
any witnesses
It is important that you keep a written record of events, whether or not you
intend to raise the issue further. This may not be an isolated incident and
evidence may need to be provided at a later date.
3.4.3 Formal Complaints Procedure
If you are unhappy with the outcome of the informal procedure or wish to make a
formal complaint, the following steps should be taken:
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Complaints of harassment can be made orally or in writing to the Equality
and Diversity Officer. All complaints will be dealt with in the strictest of
confidence.
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Complaints should then be confirmed as soon as possible, giving:
- details of the incident
- date of the incident
- name of the alleged perpetrator
- name of any witnesses
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The complaint will be investigated and assistance will be given to decide how
best to deal with the matter to ensure the harassment/bullying stops.
3.4.4 Guidelines for the Equality and Diversity Officer receiving a
complaint
When a complaint is made to the Equality and Diversity Officer, they should:
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Take the matter seriously.
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Receive the complainant‟s statement concerning the incident.
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Acknowledge the complaint in writing within 48 hours.
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Consider granting special leave.
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Notify the alleged perpetrator of the complaint against them.
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Request statements from all the parties involved and any witnesses.
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Investigate the complaint
sensitivity and tact.
objectively, dealing
with
the parties with
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Seek further advice if necessary.
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Decide whether there is a prima facie evidence to suggest that harassment
has taken place.
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If appropriate, formally investigate the incident under BPP‟s Disciplinary
Procedure.
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Take appropriate disciplinary action if harassment has occurred.
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Inform those involved of the action taken.
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Monitor the situation and arrange for provision of appropriate advice and
training to make sure that it does not happen again.
3.4.5 Harassment by Third Parties
If you report harassment regarding someone who is not a student or employee
(e.g. outside contractors, supplier or customer) such cases should be treated with
the same sensitivity and confidentiality.
In such cases, the Equality and Diversity Officer should raise the problem with the
person responsible for the relationship with the third person. That person then
has the responsibility for making contact with the harasser regarding the incident.
3.4.6 Victimisation
Intimidation, victimisation or discrimination against anyone who has made under
a complaint under this Policy will not be tolerated and will be viewed as a
disciplinary offence.
3.5.7 Legal Action
None of these procedures prevent you from pursuing a complaint of any form of
harassment based upon discrimination through the normal channels. Nor does it
prevent an act of indecent assault or abuse being referred to the police.
4. Notes
Responsibility of BPP
It is the responsibility of BPP‟s Board of Directors to implement and uphold this
Policy and abide by the law.
Responsibility of BPP’s Board of Directors
The above have a responsibility to:
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Ensure that BPP is free from harassment and bullying.
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Act positively to prevent harassment or bullying taking place by interpreting
the Policy and challenging openly any instances, demonstrating that it is
unacceptable behaviour.
College Handbook
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Support employees or students, who are experiencing harassment or
bullying and investigate any such complaints.
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Respond promptly to complaints and take steps to ensure harassment or
bullying does not recur.
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Behave in a manner, which is not offensive to other employees or students.
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Be aware of situations where there is potential for harassment or bullying
and guard against it.
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Subject those found to be in breach of the Policy to disciplinary action.
Responsibilities of Individual Employees/Students
Staff and students should:
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Co-operate with the Board of Directors in the implementation of the Policy,
to ensure that harassment or bullying does not take place.
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Behave in a manner, which is not offensive to other employees or students.
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Not victimise or attempt to victimise individuals on the grounds that they
made complaints regarding harassment or bullying.
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Report any instances of harassment or bullying, which they witness.
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Be aware that employees found to be in breach of the Policy will be subject
to disciplinary action.
Explanatory note
The Equal Opportunities Policy and Codes of Practice follow the relevant
legislation.
Advice and Procedure
If you have any concerns about the operation of the BPP‟s Equal Opportunities
Policy, please contact BPP‟s Group Equality and Diversity Officer. They will be
happy to discuss any aspect of the Policy with you and give advice on its
application.
Complaints on equal opportunities issues
For any complaints regarding this Policy please refer to BPP‟s Grievance
Procedure and/or Student‟s Complaints Code as relevant.
Monitoring the Policy
Monitoring will be carried out to measure the effectiveness of the Policy, to check
that the Policy is working and to act as a basis for future revision. A written
record will be kept by the Equality and Diversity Officer to monitor complaints and
their resolution.
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The results of the monitoring will be reviewed annually by the Chief Executive and
the Board of Directors to ensure continued compliance with the law and good
practice. Any necessary adjustments will be made to the Policy to assure its
continued effectiveness.
The Equality and Diversity Officer will ensure that information collated and
analysed is collected for the sole purpose of this Policy. Confidentiality will be
strictly maintained and data will be protected from misuse under the Data
Protection Act.
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Health and Safety Policy
BPP University College of Professional Studies takes all reasonably practicable
measures to ensure the health, safety and welfare at work of all its employees,
students and all others who may be affected by its activities.
In addition to compliance with current applicable legislation, the aim of the
College is to continually improve its health and safety performance and to
minimise accidents and work-related ill health.
It is the duty of BPP University College of Professional Studies to ensure that
health and safety matters are seen as an integral part of its operations with the
aim of developing and maintaining a positive health and safety culture. To ensure
effective control over workplace hazards an equal commitment will be made to
achieving the highest standards for health and safety as well as for other aspects
of management.
We are committed to:
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providing appropriate resources, information, instruction, training and
supervision to employees and students, so that they can perform their work
safely;
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ensuring that adequate resources, information, training and advice are
provided to enable managers and other holders of health and safety duties
to fulfil their roles;
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using effective means of consultation and communication on health and
safety matters with employees, including safety representatives, students
and others who may be affected by its activities;
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systematically assessing the risks involved in its activities;
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allocating resources and implementing measures to minimise the effects of
unplanned events and to reduce risk to health and safety to as low a level as
is reasonably practicable;
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measuring health and safety performance, establishing objectives and
targets, and progressing improvements via management review;
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implementing programmes for continual improvement of its management of
health and safety.
It is the duty of all employees, students, visitors and others working in, for or on
behalf of BPP University College of Professional Studies to act responsibly, and to
co-operate with the College in the implementation of this policy by:
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taking reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others
who may be affected by what they do or do not do;
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following the procedures adopted for, and using protective equipment
provided for, securing safety in the workplace;
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taking proper care of equipment and protective clothing provided;
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reporting accidents or incidents that have, or could have, led to injury or
damage, and assisting in their investigation with the aim of introducing
measures to prevent recurrence;
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reporting any shortcomings in the health and safety arrangements, even
when no immediate danger exists, so the College can take remedial action if
needed.
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Environmental Protection Policy
BPP University College of Professional Studies recognises the responsibility for
reducing the environmental impact of our operations.
Where practicable BPP will contribute to sustainable development by integrating
environmental considerations into the design and management of our academic,
research and professional services, the procurement of goods and services and
the development, operation and maintenance of sites and facilities.
We are committed to:
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collecting and evaluating information on environmental and health and
safety issues;
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using environmentally friendly procedures wherever possible;
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continual improvement of our contribution to the
enhancement of both the local and global environment;
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the reduction and prevention of pollution and waste;
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positive action to recycling, reducing or reusing wherever possible;
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conserving water, energy and other resources (particularly where nonrenewable);
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ensuring waste disposal and effluent treatment are dealt with in a
responsible manner;
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promotion of environmental awareness and appreciation through our
academic, research and professional services.
protection
and
BPP University College of Professional Studies will:
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ensure compliance with all applicable environmental legislation and other
environmental requirements to which the College subscribes and which
relate to the College‟s environmental aspects;
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co-operate with environmental regulatory bodies;
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provide information and training necessary for employees and students
involvement in meeting the objectives of this policy;
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assess and monitor the environmental impacts of our activities and maintain
contingency plans to minimalise the impact of foreseeable environmental
incidents and for preventing, mitigating and controlling serious
environmental and health damage including accidents and emergencies;
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Student Life
Your studies are just one part of your life at BPP. Not only are you joining the
vibrant academic community of BPP University College and embarking on a
stimulating and challenging course of study, but you are also invited to take
advantage of a wide range of activities that can enrich your time as a student
with BPP University College.
From organised BPP events to student-led Sports Teams and Societies, there is
something for everyone. And, even if you cannot see anything that you would
like, we can offer support in getting your society off the ground.
Studying on a professional, undergraduate or Master's programme is hard work,
but there is still time to have some fun while you are studying.
Social events
BPP students enjoy a rich social life. During the year, each programme has a
number of parties to celebrate the end of teaching or exams.
Of course these are only the organised events – Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds,
London and Manchester are some of the most exciting cities to live in, with rich
and varied nightlife. For those who want to wind down at the end of the week
there are plenty of great bars and restaurants to explore.
On our Student Support pages, we also keep a running list of events. These may
student parties, quiz nights, charity events, social activities, student-advertised
events. Please let us know of any event you wish us to publicise to students.
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Student Clubs and Societies
Joining a student society or sports club is a good way to make friends and to have
some fun. Every year, BPP University College students form and run a wide range
of clubs and societies, which the College is keen to support.
There are a number of well-established sports clubs and societies such as the
football club and debating society, which are very popular and run each year.
These resident clubs are usually handed over by the students at the end of the
year to the next intake.
Some of the student societies and clubs that have been formed at BPP have
included:
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Tennis Club
Language and Cultural Society
Men‟s / Women‟s Football Clubs
Lawyer‟s Christian Fellowship
Debating Society
Urban Dance Society
Classical Music Performance Society
International Student Society
LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual or Transgender) Society
Mandarin Classes (free of charge)
Obiter student law review
Spanish Language Tuition Classes
Japanese Society
A “contemporary” Choir
BPP Polo Club
Netball Club
Jewish Students
Rugby Club
Climbing Club
Basketball Club
Mixed Hockey Club
A full list of all Clubs and Societies can be found under Student Support on the
VLE. In addition to the above clubs and societies, we are always interested to
hear fresh suggestions. Funding and support may be available to assist with the
set up of clubs and societies.
If you feel strongly about a Club/ Society idea that has not already been catered
for, all you need to do is find four like-minded individuals and email
[email protected] for further instruction.
Please note that BPP is only prepared to support societies that are free from
unlawful discrimination and are open to all students at BPP University College. To
ensure that your society is open to all BPP students, you will be expected to
advertise your events on the BPP Student Intranet. Adverts can be placed by
emailing them to: [email protected].
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Alumni
BPP University College takes great pride in the achievements and progress of its
graduates and we seek to maintain and nurture strong links with our alumni at
home and abroad. We welcome all former BPP Students.
Whether you studied at BPP Law School or BPP Business School, completing your
programme with us was just the first step – BPP is committed to providing you
with information and support as you progress in your career.
Graduates of the BPP Law and Business Schools automatically become members
of xBPP - BPP's Alumni Association. xBPP provides members with a range of
benefits including:
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Social events and reunions
Professional and networking events
Discounts on further study at BPP
Careers advice
In addition, you will receive the quarterly xBPP e-newsletter emailed directly to
your inbox. This will keep you up-to-date with the latest news both from BPP and
from some of our notable alumni. The e-newsletter also features details about
some of the ways in which you can contribute to the life of BPP even after your
programme has finished (such as through the Law School's innovative 'Access to
Practice' Scheme).
To view the latest issue of the xBPP Law and Business e-newsletters, or for more
information on forthcoming events and other services offered by xBPP, please
contact Theresa Dzendrowskyj, Head of Alumni, or visit
www.bpplawschool.com/alumni or www.bppbuisness.com/alumni
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BPP Locations
Buildings and Facilities
We pride ourselves on our attractive, centrally-located buildings and excellent
facilities.
BPP Buildings
We kindly ask you to observe a few basic house rules and procedures.
Reception is staffed from early morning to early evening on weekdays. You will
find that the reception staff are pleased to help if you have a query. Our security
officers are on patrol around the building and can be located at other times at the
reception desk. Security officers are in the building from opening to closing every
day.
The Facilities Manager, is responsible for the smooth running of the building. If
you have any queries or complaints about the building, please refer the matter to
the Facilities Manager through reception or the Student Record‟s Office.
Alternatively, you can raise the matter at your Student Liaison Committee
meetings through your representatives.
Guests
Please note that in the interest of safety and security, you are not allowed to
bring guests into the building. Visitors are welcome to the main Reception area.
Visits for family members can be arranged with prior notice.
No Smoking Premises
All BPP University College premises are no smoking premises. This is to ensure
the safety of the premises, health of students and staff and to comply with our
statutory obligations. The no smoking policy applies to all entrances to the
buildings. If you wish to smoke outside please do not smoke near the entrance.
Recycling and Corporate Responsibility
BPP University College encourages you to recycle paper and other materials which
can be recycled. BPP University College takes corporate responsibility seriously
and is working to reduce the carbon footprint created by the Law School. Any
suggestions you may have in this respect are welcomed.
Cafés and Common Rooms
BPP University College sites provide common rooms for students where students
can interact, relax, work or read.
Drinks and snack-vending machines are available at BPP University College sites.
There is also a coffee shop inside each BPP building for students to use.
In addition, there are a great many cafes, pubs, sandwich bars and inexpensive
restaurants in the vicinity of any BPP University College site.
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Personal belongings and security
Personal belongings must be kept with you at all times and are not to be left in
the library, lecture theatre, corridors or with reception. BPP University College
will not be responsible for the safety of your possessions. Should you lose an
item all lost property is taken and stored at the main reception desk on the
ground floor.
Lockers may provided for full time student (subject to availability). We are not
responsible for your personal belongings and will not accept liability in the event
of theft, loss or damage. A £15 fee is payable for a lost locker key.
Security within BPP University College buildings is important. We will issue you
with a BPP identity card bearing your photograph and course details. Please
carry this card with you at all times when in the building. You may be asked to
produce your identity card to the security officers and authorised members of
staff. Access will be denied to any student who cannot produce an identity card
when asked. Should you forget your card on a particular occasion you must
report to reception for a temporary pass. Should you lose your card please see
your programme registrar for a new one, a new photograph will be required and a
charge may be levied.
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Health and safety
Fire procedure notices are posted on the main notice boards in the building.
Please ensure that you are familiar with the procedures to be followed in the
event of a fire.
Do not use the lifts in the event of an emergency evacuation.
Instructions in case of fire
Immediately operate the nearest fire alarm point.
Reception will telephone the Fire Brigade on hearing the fire alarm. The lifts will
automatically go to the ground floor where the doors will remain open.
Fire alarm and evacuation procedures
The alarm comprises a continuous bell signal. Please leave the building by the
nearest exit.
You should then proceed to the designated assembly point.
DO NOT USE THE LIFTS
The fire wardens will take charge of any evacuation and will ensure that no one is
left in the area.
DO NOT stop to collect personal belongings.
DO NOT call the fire brigade.
DO NOT re-enter the building until told to do so.
First Aid
There are members of the teaching and administrative staff qualified in First Aid.
In case of such an emergency please contact Reception.
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Location Useful Information
Birmingham
If you require access to a Prayer Room, please contact the Facilities Team on
Reception.
The Facilities Team will deal with all lost property; just contact them directly,
0121 237 3800 or ask at the Centre‟s Reception desk.
Travel Information
Network West Midlands, www.networkwestmidlands.com, operates a bus service
around Birmingham. Check the website for offers or alternatively ask one of the
members of our Customer Service team.
For those opting to travel by car we have a discounted rate with NCP. It is only
specific to the Albert Street Car Park, B4 7LN, and is only a 5 minute walk away.
For full location details please visit their website www.ncp.co.uk. Once you have
completed your day‟s study make sure that you get your ticket validated at our
Front Desk and you will only pay £3.50 for a full day‟s parking.
Healthcare
It is important that you register with a local doctor. For information on registering
and to find out the location of your nearest doctor's surgery check
http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk. We recommend that you register with a GP within
two weeks of the start date of your programme. The Department of Health
Guidance states that you should register with a GP near to where you spend most
of the year to ensure that you receive prompt treatment. Your hometown doctor
will still be able to see you as a temporary patient during your vacations.
If you need to see a doctor quickly and are not registered you can go to an NHS
Walk-In Centre. A 5-minute walk from BPP you will find the closet, located at 66
High Street, B4 7TA, Tel:0121 255 4500. If it‟s an emergency and you need A &
E, the nearest is City Hospital, Dudley Road, Birmingham, B18 7QH, 0121 554
3801.
Post Office
Being in the City Centre it is easy to find a number of large post offices, from BPP
you will find 131 Corporation Street literally around the corner and 1 Pinfold
Street 5 minutes walk away, both are equipped with ATM‟s.
Police Station
Hopefully you will never need one, but the nearest is Steelhouse Lane, B4 6NW
Tel: 0845 113 5000.
General information about Birmingham can be found from a variety of sources,
including our Birmingham City Guide. In addition, there are various websites to
keep you up to date with what is happening around town, including
www.visitbirmingham.co.uk, www.birmingham.org.uk.
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Leeds
If you require access to a Prayer Room, please contact the Facilities Team on
Reception. The Facilities Team will deal with all lost property; just contact them
directly or ask at the Centre‟s Reception desk. Alternatively, you may ask at the
Registry reception next to the library.
Travel Information
West Yorkshire Metro, www.wymetro.co.uk, operates a bus service around Leeds.
Full Time Students can apply for discounted travel with a Student Plus Metro card.
However Metro also operates a free City Centre service linking all rail and bus
stations with the shopping and business districts.
Healthcare
http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
We recommend that you register with a GP within two weeks of the start date of
your programme. Department of Health Guidance states that you should register
with a GP near to where you spend most of the year to ensure that you receive
prompt treatment. Your hometown doctor will still be able to see you as a
temporary patient during your vacations.
Walk In Centre, there are two within 0.5 miles of the Law School, Leeds General
Infirmary, Great George Street, Leeds, LS1 3EX. Tel: 0113 243 2799 or The
Headrow HNS Walk in Centre, The Light, The Headrow, Leeds LS1 8TL, Tel: 0870
818 0003 If it‟s an emergency and you need A & E, the nearest is Leeds General
Infirmary, Great George St, as above, 0113 242 799.
Post Office
Being in the City Centre it is easy to find a number of large post offices, St Johns,
116 Albion Street and The Markets, 6-16 New York Street are the nearest to the
Law School, however the library sells books of stamps if that is all you need.
Police Station
Hopefully you will never need one, but the nearest is Millgarth Street, 0113
2413059 (open Mon-Sat 8am- 8pm).
Places of worship
Many places of worship can be found on our Blackboard VLE under the Student
Services Section.
General information about Leeds can be found from a variety of sources, including
our Leeds City Guide. In addition, there are always various websites to keep you
up to date with what is happening around town, including www.leeds-cityguide.com www.vrleeds.co.uk, www.itchyleeds.co.uk.
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London
Each BPP University College Centre has a Prayer Room. At our Waterloo
campus, meeting room next to room 4.1 (on the fourth floor) is available for a
prayer room. At our Holborn site, the prayer room is also located on the 4th
Floor. Fitzwilliam House will provide a dedicated room if you ask the team at
Reception.
The Facilities Team will deal with all lost property; just contact them directly or
ask at your Centre‟s reception.
Travel Information
Transport for London www.tfl.gov.uk is the most comprehensive site for all your
London transport needs, enabling you to plan your journeys efficiently and safely.
Oyster card is a scheme which generally offers the cheapest travel fares around
London. As a full-time BPP student you may be entitled to a further 30% discount
on travel cards through the Oyster scheme by applying on line.
Healthcare
Walk In Centre, the nearest one to both Holborn and Waterloo being, Soho NHS
Walk in, 1 Frith Street, W1D 3HZ. For those attending our Business School the
nearest is Exchange Arcade, Bishopsgate, London, EC2M 3WA, Tel: 0845
8801242. If it is an emergency and you need A & E, the nearest is University
College Hospital 235 Euston Road NW1 2BU, 0845 155 5000 (for Holborn) or St
Thomas‟ Westminster Bridge Road SE1 7EH for Waterloo. For Fitzwilliam House,
you will find that the Moorfields Eye Hospital on 162 City Road has an A & E dept.
Tel: 0207 253 3411.
Post Office
Being in the City Centre it is easy to find a number of large post offices. Grays
Inn, 19-20 High Holborn is the most convenient for Holborn, and 52 Blackfriars
Road is the nearest to Waterloo Law School. In addition,the library sells books of
stamps if that is all you require. From Fitzwilliam House you will find the post
office literally around the corner at Houndsditch, 11 White Kennet Street, open
9.00 -5.30 on weekdays.
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Police Station
Hopefully you will never need one, but the nearest to Holborn is 10 Lambs
Conduit Street, WC1N 3NR Tel: 0300 123 1212 and to Waterloo - it is Southwark
Station, 323 Borough High Street, London, SE1 1JR Tel: 0300 123 1212. Literally
around the corner from Fitzwilliam House, you will find Snow Hill Police Station 5
Snow Hill, EC1A 2DP, Tel: 0207 601 2452.
Places of worship
Services Section.
General information about London can be found from a variety of sources,
including our London City Guide. In addition, there are numerous websites to
keep you up to date with what is happening around town, www.visitlondon.com
and www.timeout.com/london.
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Manchester
Each BPP University College Centre has a Prayer Room. At Manchester this is
located opposite room 2:10.
The Facilities Team will deal with all lost property; just contact them directly or
ask at you centre‟s reception.
Travel Information
GMPTE, Greater Manchester Public Transport has an office at Piccadilly Gardens or
you can go the website www.gmpte.com. Manchester is serviced by a fantastic
train/tram and bus network. Competition for bus passengers drives prices down
for students and train travel concessions are also available.
Healthcare
Walk In Centre, the nearest one being, 1st Floor Gateway House, Station
Approach, Piccadilly South, Manchester M1 2GH. Tel: 0161 233 2525. If it is an
emergency and you need A & E, the nearest is MRI, Oxford Rd, M13 9WL.
Post Office
Being in the City Centre it is easy to find a number of large post offices,
Brazennose Street and Spring Gardens are the nearest to the Law School. In
addition, the library sells books of stamps if that is all you require.
Police Station
Hopefully you will never need one, but the nearest is Bootle Street, 0161 856
3129/3057 (open 24 hours).
Places of worship
Services Section.
General information about London can be found from a variety of sources,
including our London City Guide. In addition, there are numerous websites to
keep you up to date with what is happening around town, www.citylife.co.uk
www.manchester.com www.itchymanchester.co.uk.
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City Guides
Birmingham City Guide
Introduction
Birmingham is Britain‟s second city and is situated right in the heart of England.
Called „the city of a thousand trades‟ because of its rich manufacturing history,
Birmingham remains an important manufacturing city even today, producing cars,
jewellery, chocolate and many other items.
The city centre is compact and relatively easy to explore on foot. The city‟s
extensive bus, train and tram network will take visitors further a-field to explore
the surrounding towns and attractions.
There are a wide range of things to do and see in and around the city - pubs, bars
and restaurants to suit all tastes (and budgets!) as well as sporting events, art
galleries, theatres and internationally renowned concert venues. Everyone who
visits Birmingham can find something to enjoy.
Exploring Birmingham on foot
Leave New Street Station via the Victoria Square exit. Cross the road and walk up
the hill to Victoria Square. Originally named „Victoria Square‟ in honour of Queen
Victoria, the square was re-developed in the early 1990‟s and subsequently reopened by Diana, Princess of Wales in 1994. The square is dominated by one of
the largest fountains in Europe, officially known as „The River‟ but affectionately
referred to by locals as „the floozie in the jacuzzi‟! A statue by Antony Gormley
entitled „The Iron Man‟ and a statue of Queen Victoria unveiled in 1901 also
feature in the square.
Victoria Square is bordered by the Council House and the Town Hall. Built in the
1830‟s the Town Hall is a fantastic example of Victorian architecture. It was
inspired by classical Roman temples and has 40 Corinthian columns made of
Anglesey marble.
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Walk between the Town Hall and the Council House and you enter Chamberlain
Square, named after Joseph Chamberlain. On the right is Birmingham Museum
and Art Gallery (see later) and in front of you is the Birmingham Central Library.
The library is the city‟s busiest building, lending approximately 8 million books
each year, and will be relocating to a new purpose-built site in Centenary Square
in 2013.
From the library, go through Paradise Forum and out the other side, crossing the
wide footbridge into Centenary Square. The square itself is made up of more
than half a million individual bricks, all hand laid and is where you will find The
Hall of Memory (the city‟s war memorial), the Repertory Theatre and the site of
the new library. Walk to the other side of the square and into the International
Convention Centre (ICC).
The ICC was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1990 and has hosted many high
profile party political conferences, including the G8 summit in 1998. Within the
ICC you will also find Symphony Hall, home to the City of Birmingham Symphony
Orchestra.
Walk through the ICC and out the other side. Cross the canal using the footbridge
and walk up the steps into Brindley Place. Here you will find a wide range of bars
and restaurants as well as the Sea-Life Centre and, nearby, the National Indoor
Arena (NIA) which hosts top sporting events, concerts and shows.
From the Sea-Life Centre, cross the canal towards the NIA and head down onto
the canal towpath. With the NIA on your left follow the towpath past the flight of
locks, heading towards the Jewellery Quarter. When you see a white footbridge,
use it to cross the canal and exit the towpath onto Fleet Street. Follow Fleet
Street downhill to the junction with Newhall Street and turn right then left onto
Lionel Street. At the crossroads, turn left and walk up Ludgate Hill to St Paul‟s
Square.
St Paul‟s Square is a Georgian square in the city‟s world famous Jewellery
Quarter, named after the 18th century church in its centre. Surrounded by many
listed buildings, as well as cafes and restaurants, this is an ideal place to sit
outside and enjoy the floral displays regularly seen in and around the square.
From the far side of the square you can follow the signs to the Jewellery Quarter,
and perhaps visit the museum or even some of the hundreds of jewellers located
there!
Walk back down Ludgate Hill towards the Queensway and cross the main road
using the red footbridge. When you reach the far side, turn right and immediately
right again and walk up Church Street towards Colmore Row and St Philip‟s
Cathedral. As you walk towards Colmore Row you will see Hotel du Vin on your
left hand side, on the site of the former Birmingham Eye Hospital. Viewers of the
BBC television series „Hustle‟ will probably recognise this area as it is regularly
used in filming episodes of the programme!
When you reach Colmore Row, cross over the road towards the cathedral. St
Philip‟s Cathedral was built in the early 18 th century and is particularly well known
for its magnificent stained-glass windows designed by Edward Coley Burne-Jones.
Walk round the cathedral and exit the square on the opposite side towards Lloyds
Bank (Cherry Street).
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Walk down Cherry Street towards Corporation Street and you are now in the
heart of the shopping area. Cross over Corporation Street and continue through
the pedestrian area towards Marks and Spencer. Turn right and walk towards the
Bullring Shopping Centre.
There has been a market on the site of the Bullring for over 800 years and the
centre itself was entirely rebuilt 5 years ago. The shopping centre itself is a very
eye-catching building and has over 160 shops including Selfridges and
Debenhams as well as places to eat. Behind the shopping centre you will find the
markets and also St Martin‟s Church – Birmingham‟s oldest church dating from
the 13th century and restored in 1870.
Exit the Bullring by the iconic statue of the Bull and turn left onto New Street.
Walk along New Street, past the Odeon Cinema and back towards Victoria Square
and the starting point of our walk.
Entertainment
There is a diverse range of night-life and other arts and entertainment venues in
Birmingham, including theatres, concert venues and art galleries.
Theatres
Hippodrome Theatre, Hurst Street (www.birminghamhippodrome.com)
Features - West-End musicals, touring productions, opera and ballet, as well as
an annual pantomime during the Christmas season. The Hippodrome is also
home to Birmingham Royal Ballet.
Repertory Theatre, Centenary Square (www.birmingham-rep.co.uk)
Features – A wide range of new domestic and foreign plays, both on the main
stage and in a smaller auditorium called The Door.
Alexandra Theatre, Station Street (www.alexandratheatre.org.uk)
Features – Touring theatrical and musical productions and concerts.
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Concert Venues
LG Arena and National Indoor Arena (NIA) (www.necgroup.co.uk)
Both part of the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) group, the LG Arena is based
near Birmingham Airport and the NIA is based in the city centre near Brindley
Place. Both venues host concerts and shows by world famous artists as well as
international sporting events.
Symphony Hall, Centenary Square
Town Hall, Victoria Square
(www.thsh.co.uk)
Both venues feature concerts by classical and contemporary artists and
orchestras. Symphony Hall is home to the City of Birmingham Symphony
Orchestra and also includes a 6000 pipe organ installed in 2001.
O2 Academy, Bristol Street (www.o2academybirmingham.co.uk)
Recently opened in Birmingham, the venue holds up to 3000 people and features
concerts by both up and coming and well established bands.
Art Galleries
Ikon Gallery, Oozells Stret, Brindley Place (www.ikon-gallery.co.uk)
Housed in a neo-gothic former school building, the Ikon gallery features
exhibitions showcasing a wide range of media. Admission is free and the gallery
also contains a café/tapas bar.
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Chamberlain Square (www.bmag.org.uk)
The museum was opened in 1885 and is considered one of the finest outside of
London, with 40 galleries and 2 major exhibition spaces. It houses one of the
finest collections of Pre-Raphaelite art as well as exhibitions relating to the city
and, most recently, artefacts from the Staffordshire Hoard.
Barber Institute of Fine Arts, University of Birmingham (www.barber.org.uk)
Called „one of the finest small art galleries in Europe‟ by the Observer, the Barber
Institute is located on the site of the University of Birmingham in Edgbaston,
approximately 2 miles from the city centre. The collection includes works by a
range of world famous artists including Degas, Gainsborough, Monet and Turner.
Nightlife
Birmingham has more students than any other UK city outside of London so it
should be no surprise that there is an eclectic mix of bars, clubs and restaurants
to suit a wide range of tastes.
Nightclubs
The city is home to world-famous club nights, including Gatecrasher Birmingham
on Broad Street and Cream and Atomic Jam at the Q-Club on Corporation Street.
If your tastes are a little more mainstream then head to Flares or Reflex on Broad
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Street for 70‟s and 80‟s retro sounds or for a more luxurious evening head to
Mechu on Summer Row.
If you prefer live music, the Jam House on St Paul‟s Square will be just the thing
– musical director Jools Holland sets the tone for duelling pianists and special
guest artists to showcase their talents.
Bars
Whether you are looking for cocktail bar chic, or hitting the real-ale trail, you will
find a bar in Birmingham to suit your taste
Overlooking the canal, the Mailbox has many up-market bars including
Pennyblacks and Bar Room Bar or head to Malmaison for fine wines and excellent
cocktails.
For bar-hopping head to Broad Street and Brindley Place - plenty of well known
bars such as All Bar One, Slug and Lettuce, Walkabout, Lloyds No 1 Bar and
Revolution. Broad Street is also home to Risa, incorporating a bar, a comedy club
and a retro nightclub all in one venue.
If you prefer real-ale then try The Old Joint Stock on Temple Row (near the
Cathedral). This Fullers pub serves ales, wines and quality food including their
trade-mark pies. Alternatively try Edmund‟s on Newhall Street for a wide range of
guest beers – more details can be found in CAMRA‟s Good Beer Guide.
Finally, make sure you visit BPP‟s local! The Jekyll and Hyde is just round the
corner from BPP on Steelhouse Lane and has a selection of wines, ales, cocktails
plus a gin parlour with over 40 different gins to try!
Eating out
As you would expect from a cosmopolitan city such as Birmingham, there are
hundreds of different restaurants and cafes to enjoy in and around the city,
ranging from Michelin-star establishments to family run diners.
Turners in Harborne and Purnell‟s in the city centre have both been recently
awarded Michelin stars, and Jessica‟s in Edgbaston has retained its star for five
consecutive years. The city is probably more famous, however, for its Indian
restaurants and more specifically the „Balti Triangle‟.
Declared by Rough Guide as a „must-do‟ UK experience, the Balti Triangle is a
collection of Asian and Indian restaurants condensed around Sparkbrook, Balsall
Heath and Moseley. Many of them are unlicensed, but are happy for you to bring
your own beer and wine to wash down their famous baltis and naan breads.
For food with a more Chinese or Thai flavour, Birmingham‟s Chinatown can be
found near the Hippodrome Theatre with a wide range of restaurants catering for
all budgets. Some of them even include karaoke!
Broad Street and The Mailbox also feature a wide range of restaurants, including
well known chains such as Café Rouge and Pizza Express plus other more
independent restaurants such as Shogun Teppanyaki, Handmade Burger
Company and The Mash House.
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Sports
Sport lovers will find a wide range of venues where they can either watch or
participate in various sporting activities, including football, cricket, rugby, golf and
other sports.
There are many municipal parks with tennis courts available for public hire,
bowling greens, public swimming pools, municipal golf courses and other similar
activities. See www.birmingham.gov.uk for more details. Community Hall at the
NIA also has a wide range of activities available.
If you would prefer to watch rather than participate in sport, you are also well
catered for. Local sports venues include Villa Park (home of Aston Villa FC) St
Andrews (home of Birmingham City FC) both of which are located on the edge of
the city. Cricket fans will find Edgbaston cricket Club just a mile outside the city,
home to Warwickshire County Cricket Club and also an international cricket
venue. Rugby fans should head to Billesley Common (again just a couple of miles
outside the city centre) where Moseley Rugby Club play Championship rugby.
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Leeds City Guide
Introduction
Leeds, West Yorkshire, is the biggest city in the north of England (though some of
the locals may give the impression that Yorkshire should be a separate country in
its own right), and recently has been doing very well for itself. It is very much a
thriving and vibrant city.
The city centre is compact, devoid of hills, and easy to walk around;
redevelopments over the past decade have made it a much more pedestrianfriendly place to navigate, as well as generally sprucing up the city and giving it a
look that, at least at first glance, belies its industrial heritage.
Leeds is awash with activities to partake in,
places to visit and new experiences to enjoy.
With a student population of over 50,000, the
city is geared towards the needs of students and
you will find a plethora of pubs, bars and clubs
to cater for all tastes. It‟s excellent transport
system allows easy access to the city, and
slightly further afield to the beautiful Yorkshire
Dales and the nearby historic city of York!
Whatever the weather, you‟ll
something extra special in Leeds.
always
find
A Stroll Around Leeds
Leave the train Station through the front
entrance and turn left towards City Square.
Walk along Infirmary Street towards King
Street. Notice the Yorkshire Penny Bank which opened in 1859 and occupies the
site of the city‟s first hospital (1771) founded by Edwin Lascelles, the First Lord
Harewood.
Cross King Street onto St Paul‟s Street and turn into the elegant Georgian Park
Square. Observe the converted warehouse, St Paul‟s House, built in ArabicSaracenic style in 1878 for clothier John Barran. This building was the first factory
to mass produce ready-made clothing. Leave the square at the far right hand
corner onto the Headrow towards the Town Hall. Walk around the side of the
Town Hall noticing on your right the Central Library, City Museum, City Art
Gallery and the Henry Moore Institute (1982).
Continue along Calverley Street to Leeds General Infirmary and
across to the Portland Stone built Civic Hall. The golden owls
perched on the columns at the front of the building are the
symbols of Leeds. Across the car park is the Civic Theatre,
originally the Mechanics‟ Institute. Turn south down Cookridge
Street, across Great George Street and you will reach St Anne‟s
Roman Catholic Cathedral. (From this point you can return to
City Station by walking along Cookridge Street and Park Row.)
Continue along Cookridge Street and turn left onto the Headrow. As you walk
along the Headrow look out for the statue of the brewer in Dortmund Square
which was presented by the people of Dortmund and celebrates the links between
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Leeds and its German twin city. Cross the road and walk down Lands Lane to
Swan Street on your left. This alleyway was the yard of the White Swan Coaching
Inn. The building which later became the City Varieties.
Turn into Briggate, which dates back to 1207 and around which the borough of
Leeds grew. If you turn left you will reach the Grand Theatre and Opera House.
Across from the theatre is St John‟s Parish Church. Return to the shopping
arcades on Briggate. To your right is the oldest of the arcades, Thornton‟s Arcade
built in 1878 by Charles Thornton. To your left is the recently refurbished Victoria
Quarter. Look out for the Harvey Nichols store and walk through the arcade
admiring the largest secular stained glass roof in Europe.
Cross the road to Kirkgate Market. Over 800 traders ply their wares in this
Edwardian building famous for its impressive dragons. Outside is the lively openair market. Continue past the market to the Corn Exchange, with a magnificent
dome 75 feet high. Opened in 1863, it has now been converted into a speciality
shopping area. On leaving the Corn Exchange cross the road and walk down
Duncan Street. As you continue back to City Station along Boar Lane, notice the
Griffin Hotel (1877) once a coaching inn and the Queen‟s Hotel built in 1863 for
the Midland Railway Company, one of the first hotels to have central heating and
air conditioning in every room.
Entertainment
City Varieties
Features: celebrates its music hall heritage twice a year (April and October), has
a range of entertainment. Box office: 0113 243 0808
Getting there from the law school: Head towards the city square (turn left at the
train station and head over the road). Cross City Square towards the Plaza and
Boar Lane. Continue along Boar Lane until you reach Briggate (there‟s a
McDonald‟s on the corner). Walk up Briggate and turn left onto Swan Street
(opposite Borders and another McDonald‟s).
Civic Theatre
Features: has a range of entertainment, lunchtime bar and buffet.
Box office: 0113 214 5315
Getting there from the law school: From the law school, go to the traffic lights on
Whitehall Road and cross over both sets off lights to get to Wellington Street.
Take the first left onto King Street, and continue ahead until The Headrow. Turn
right onto the Headrow and walk past The Light, up to the junction, then turn left
onto Woodhouse Lane (the road up to the Universities). From Woodhouse Lane,
turn left onto Vernon Street (just after Yates and before the College of
Technology).
Grand Theatre
Features: has a range of entertainment, including West End and Broadway
musicals, ballet and opera.
Box office: 0113 245 6014
Boar Lane. Continue along Boar Lane until you reach Briggate (there‟s a
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McDonald‟s on the corner). Walk up Briggate, crossing The Headrow to New
Briggate (with Allders on your left). Turn right onto Harrison Street.
The West Yorkshire Playhouse
Features: a modern theatre with several auditoriums and award winning shows.
Backstage tours can also be booked.
Box office: 0113 213 7700
Boar Lane; continue along Boar Lane to the Corn Exchange. Turn left, past the
BSM centre and head along New Market Street/ Vicar Lane; then turn right onto
Eastgate and head towards the roundabout. Use the traffic lights near the bus
station to cross over to the Playhouse.
There are regular concerts/gigs in Leeds at Roundhay Park which recently held a
Robbie Williams concert. The live band scene is very much alive in Leeds with
plenty of pubs/clubs hosting live music. For sport lovers they can visit Elland Road
to watch Leeds United AFC, or visit Headingley to watch the Leed Rhinos or Leeds
Tykes rugby teams. Headingley also is home to Yorkshire cricket hosting county
and test match cricket.
Places to visit
Otley
Otley lies about 10 miles north of Leeds. The town and surrounding countryside
are often featured as backdrops in both “Emmerdale” and “Heartbeat”. As well as
stunning countryside, the town has a park with boating facilities and contains
stunning architecture from Victorian and Georgian times. Thomas Chippendale
was born and trained in Otley.
Market days are Fridays and Saturdays (as well as Tuesdays in summer).
For ramblers, picnickers, horse riders and climbers, Otley Chevin is a perfect
place to visit.
Events: Otley Show (Spring Bank holiday), Otley Carnival (3rd weekend of June),
Victorian Fayre (December).
Getting there: regular bus service from Leeds: takes 45 minutes.
Train to Menston and regular bus from Menston to Otley.
Wetherby
Wetherby lies in the centre of the York - Harrogate - Leeds triangle. Wetherby is
a picturesque market town, offering glorious scenery and well preserved
architecture. The Wetherby Weir was once a water mill and chapel used by the
Knights Templar.
Market days are Thursdays. In addition, Wetherby has many specialist shops.
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Haworth and Bronte Country
Bronte Country is a region of diverse and outstanding scenic beauty, with
picturesque villages and towns. The Bronte sisters were from Haworth and the
Bronte Parsonage Museum is the parsonage where they used to live. Haworth has
plenty of galleries, tea rooms (including the infamous Betty‟s) and gift shops.
Getting there: It takes less than an hour to get to Bronte Country. The best way
to get there is to travel to Keighley, then travel the Keighley and Worth Valley
line on a steam train through Ingrow, Damems and Oakworth (the setting for the
“Railway Children”). The line runs special themed events throughout the year; the
best of which include the “Santa Special” or “Mince Pie Special” at Christmas.
Alternatively, there is a regular bus service from Keighley to Haworth.
National Museum of Photography Film and Television
The NMPFT is home to an IMAX cinema as well as two other cinemas, and a
collection of exhibitions (mostly interactive). There is also a research and
collections centre, open to the public. Admission to the museum is free, although
admission charges do apply to special exhibitions and the IMAX theatre. Getting
there: From the M62, take junction 26, joining the M606 which will bring you to
Bradford. Then follow directions to the city centre where brown heritage signs will
direct you to the Museum. Bradford Interchange is five minutes walk away and
Bradford Forster Square station offers direct GNER intercity rail services only ten
minutes away from the Museum.
The Settle - Carlisle Railway
Probably the most famous landmark along the railway is Ribblehead Viaduct with
its 24 arches. The line offers a variety of things to do. Not only is the journey
itself a worthwhile way to while away an afternoon, there are plenty of little
villages and towns, including Settle to visit. Some of the most popular walks can
be found along the line, whether it is from one station to another or from one pub
to the next. There are also a series of guided walks, organised by volunteers.
Getting there: Trains leave from Leeds City Station. Please follow this link to find
out more.
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London City Guide
Introduction
London is the place where the historic past and the vibrant present come alive. A
blend of history, ground-breaking architecture and multi-cultural diversity has
created an amazing and constantly evolving city. With countless museums,
galleries and entertainment options throughout the city you will never find
yourself lost for something to do.
London can be a daunting place for many people and as a new student who will
be spending a lot of time in the capital you may find this brief overview a useful
start to exploring the multiplicity of attractions London has to offer.
London is one of the world‟s most remarkable and exciting cities. This vibrant
metropolis embraces the diverse cultures of its population, reflected through
cuisine, shops, music and colourful festivals.
London is a very accessible city; it has five international airports, an efficient road
network and extensive Underground, train, bus, and taxi services. The city is
famous for a wealth of history and culture. Home to Britain‟s national art
collections, the Royal family and a host of major attractions, London‟s rich
history, striking architecture and over 200 museums offer a unique cultural
experience.
Despite a population of over seven million, more than 30% of London is made up
of parks and green space, greater than any other city of its size in the world. This
space provides the perfect opportunity for walks, relaxation or sporting activities.
London also offers some of the best shopping opportunities in the world. From
major department stores to designer boutiques and street markets - the choice is
immense. As if that wasn‟t enough, London is hard to beat when it comes to
nightlife. There are huge numbers of restaurants, pubs, cinemas, theatres and
nightclubs plus live music and comedy venues. So, at any time of day, whatever
the weather, you‟ll always find something extra special in London.
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Culture
If you are interested in culture, then you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to
London. There are numerous museums in central London most of which are worth
visiting at some point. The greatest concentration of these, including the Natural
History Museum, the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum, are
situated in Exhibition Road SW7. However, the pick of London museums has to be
the British Museum which is located in Russell Square, a 10 minute walk from the
Law School in Holborn. It is very easy to spend a whole day wandering around
the galleries looking at such treasures as the Rosetta Stone and the historic
Reading Room situated in the stunning glass-covered Great Court.
The British Library in St Pancras is also worth a visit. Home to such treasures as
the Magna Carta and Leonardo Da Vinci‟s notebook the building was the largest
public building constructed in the 20th Century. If you looked at 5 items every
day it would take you 80,000 years to see the whole of the collection.
For an introduction to art galleries, head over to Trafalgar Square. On the North
Side you will find the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery, both of
which contain a prolific body of
work. The National Gallery houses
over 2,300 works of art some of
which date back to 1235. Heading
towards Piccadilly you will find the
Royal Academy. This gallery has an
extensive collection including work
by some of today‟s contemporary
artists. Other galleries of note are
the Tate Britain which can be found
in Pimlico and the Tate Modern
which is situated on the South
Bank and is home to a huge
collection of modern art. It is worth
visiting the Tate Modern purely for
the breathtaking scale of the
building
and
the
enormous
installations
situated
in
the
entrance hall.
Historically, London has a multitude of great buildings, many of which have been
kept in their original state. The Tower of London, St Paul‟s Cathedral, the Houses
of Parliament and Buckingham Palace are all obvious places to see during your
time in London. Less obvious places include the Royal Observatory in Greenwich
and for a trip outside of the city why not visit Hampton Court Palace on the banks
of the Thames.
You will also find a wide variety of interesting markets dotted across the capital.
Borough Market is located just by London Bridge Station and is a large covered
market featuring fresh produce and some of the more unusual food stuffs you‟ll
find in London. Here you purchase anything from olives to ostrich. There are
numerous antique markets, the most notable being the Portobello Road market.
Eclectic tastes will be best catered for with a trip to Camden Market where the
blend of cultures and lifestyles produce a vibrant mix of clothing, jewellery and
art stalls. These are just a few suggestions on places of cultural interest. As you
get to know the city, you will no doubt come across many more places which you
find yourself returning to time and time again.
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Entertainment
If you want to entertain yourself, London is a perfect place to be. The city is
bursting with all kinds of cultural activity, so whether you are a classical music
lover or a big Hollywood productions fan, you‟re sure to find the perfect event.
Home to some of the most famous theatres in the world, there are a huge range
of plays and musicals to suit all tastes on throughout the year, most of which are
situated mainly in the area of London known as the West End. All of these
theatres are within walking distance of both Holborn and Waterloo law schools.
Indeed, Waterloo Law School on the South Bank of the Thames is just a stone‟s
throw from the renowned National Theatre and only a short, picturesque stroll
away from Shakespeare‟s Globe Theatre.
For those students who are into dance productions, Saddlers Wells Theatre is a
short bus journey up to Islington and The Peacock Theatre is on Kingsway,
between both Holborn and Waterloo Law Schools locations. For opera lovers the
Royal Opera House, home to the English National Opera is conveniently located in
Covent Garden.
There are many music venues in the capital reflecting the rising popularity of live
music. For popular music gigs, The Brixton Academy, The Hammersmith Apollo
and The Shepherds Bush Empire are 3 good mid-sized venues. For those of you
who enjoy you music on a larger scale, the newly built Wembley Stadium will
regularly play host to international superstars. There are also lots of small venues
in pubs and clubs around the city where you could try and spot the next big thing.
Finally, for all you jazz aficionados out there, you must visit Ronnie Scott‟s Jazz
Club in Camden.
There
are
many
cinemas
showing the latest releases all
over the capital. Of particular
interest are the London IMAX
cinema, located on the South
Bank by the Waterloo Law
School and the Prince Charles
Cinema in Leicester Square
which screens films a short
time after they finish general
release for a very reasonable
price. Pick of the art-house
cinemas for limited releases
and foreign films are The
Electric Cinema in Portobello Road and The Chelsea Cinema in Kings Road.
Remember, the Odeon Cinema in Leicester Square has many premiers throughout
the year – why not join the crowds and see if you can shake the hand of a
Hollywood star!
The BBC regularly offers free tickets to recordings of TV and radio shows. This
makes an excellent alternative to the usual forms of entertainment found in the
capital. A great tip is to pick up copies of the free London papers, such as Metro,
which have all the latest entertainment listings. For those of you who are more
serious about entertainment, Time Out magazine, published monthly, is an
invaluable source of what is going on in London.
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Eating and Drinking
London‟s restaurant scene continues to mature at a heady rate. Broadly speaking,
a couple of decades ago Londoners and visitors alike were faced with a choice
between forking out astronomic amounts for haute cuisine in luxury surroundings
or settling for a curry or chips. Nowadays, the range of excellent food on offer in
almost every setting and price bracket can be equally baffling. A good meal has
become an essential part of a top night on the town. That said, the city does
remain a notoriously expensive place in which to eat out compared to the British
regions, much of Europe and North America. Compensation of a kind can be
found in the sheer variety of different cuisines available – from Africa to Yemen
via Poland and New Zealand; in the quality of the fresh ingredients appearing on
menus across the capital; and in the extraordinary array of different places they
can be enjoyed – from snack bars, burger joints and pubs via cafés and
brasseries to silver-service fine dining restaurants.
Some trends are worth noting. The late 1990s witnessed a boom in Japanese
noodle bars and more formal restaurants, now well- established. They joined a
healthy spate of Thai food joints, many of them very good value. Turkish, Spanish
and Lebanese cooking have also enjoyed a renaissance. And then there‟s the
continuing Anglo-Italian love affair, demonstrated in first-rate performances
almost every night from kitchens all over the city. Traditional British fare can still
be found too, now elevated to heights way beyond boiled cabbage and bully beef.
So where do you start looking for this exciting cultural turnaround? Arguably it all
began in Soho, where you can still find some of the best cooking in the capital.
Elsewhere in the West End, Mayfair and St James‟s are the gourmets‟ favourite
destination. Clerkenwell is another, with several superb restaurants capitalizing
on their proximity to Smithfield meat market. In the end though, with a little
care, it‟s true to say that even the fussiest eaters are unlikely to be disappointed
in almost every part of London.
Clubs and bars are spread liberally spread all over the capital and it‟s worth
asking around to find out what other students recommend. The biggest
concentration can be found in the West End, which is worth experiencing at some
point during your time in London, although we wouldn‟t recommend you do it on
a school night!
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Open Spaces
While London is undoubtedly a busy, bustling metropolis, there are numerous
calm and tranquil places of retreat in the form of its many parks and squares.
From a few minutes time out during the day to a summer‟s day out, there are
plenty of places to go.
Designed by architect John Nash in 1811, Regents Park is located just north of
Baker Street and also contains the London Zoological Gardens. Over 410 acres in
size, Regents Park is one of the largest royal parks in London. On a nice day why
not hire a boat and mess around on the water or wander around the stunning
rose gardens which contain over 30,000 roses.
When King Henry VIII and his court were thundering across Hyde Park in 1536 in
pursuit of deer and wild boar, it would have been difficult to visualise that years
later the noble art of tai chi would be peacefully performed among the trees in
the early morning, and the sounds of bands ranging from Simon and Garfunkle to
the Red Hot Chilli Peppers would echo around this green oasis.
Squares are one of the defining features of London. Like other European cities,
London has its grand civic spaces, but no other city has developed the garden
square in quite the same way.
London squares are different because they were built for people to live in. The
layout of Georgian and Victorian squares created an ordered, spacious
arrangement of streets and leafy open spaces which has made an enduring
contribution to the quality of life in London.
Today, London‟s squares are a vital part of the city‟s fabric: a focus for local
communities, attractive to tourists, and pleasant places for Londoners in which to
live, work and relax. They can also be a haven for wildlife, important links in the
green chain between the city‟s parks and back gardens, and occasional oases in
built-up areas.
Local to Holborn you will find Red Lion Square, which in summertime holds
regular music events, Bloomsbury Square and Russell Square. The South Bank of
the Thames is itself a magnificent open space, with spectacular views of the City
and pleasant walks whether you decide to go east towards Tower Bridge or west
towards the Houses of Parliament.
Travel
London is served by an extensive network of tubes, trains, buses and even trams.
As ticket prices for individual journeys are expensive, it is best to invest in either
a Pre-Pay Oyster card or Season Ticket. Pre-Pay can be topped up online or at a
tube station, it offers discounted rates on simple journeys such as single bus or
tube journeys. Season Tickets can be bought for a week, month or annual period;
they offer unlimited journeys and are available either exclusively for buses or as a
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163
travel card for buses, tubes, trams, DLR and
some train services. Full time students can
apply for a student rate Oyster Season ticket
from the Registry, which gives them discounted
travel. Transport for London also has Oyster
promotional offers including 2for1 entry to
some museums, theatre tickets and meals in
selected restaurants.
Our Holborn campus is ideally situated within 5
minutes‟ walk of Holborn tube station, which is served by the Central and
Piccadilly lines, offering connections to most of London and its mainline stations.
Holborn is directly served by 13 bus routes and is within easy reach of many
more. It is also popular with cyclists; there are facilities within the building itself
for bike storage and extensive on-street storage only 5 minutes from the
building.
Our Waterloo campus is within 5 minutes‟
walk of Waterloo underground station,
which is served by the Bakerloo, Jubilee,
Northern and Waterloo & City Lines. The
mainline Waterloo and Waterloo East
stations offer connections to destinations
across the South of England. There is also
the Eurostar to Lille, Paris and Brussels for
those fancying a break on the continent!
The campus is within reach of over 20 bus
routes making it easily accessible from destinations across London. There are also
river boat services available from Waterloo Millennium Pier, travelling to
destinations including the Cutty Sark in Greenwich. Waterloo offers good cycling
facilities, including scenic routes along the banks of the Thames; there are secure
bike racks within the campus for bike storage.
For further general travel information please visit http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/
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Manchester City Guide
As Manchester has a student population of approximately 60,
000, it goes without saying that this is a city which has
plenty to offer you as a student and a young professional.
Manchester is a vibrant, exciting and surprising city which
constantly adapts itself to our ever changing society, from
the newly erected Beethams Tower dominating the sky line
and the regenerated Northern Quarter.
For the city dweller, the endless cafes, bars, restaurants,
shops, galleries, and museums will keep you so occupied you
may never want to leave but do not feel committed as if you
are someone who likes their green space, why not jump on a train to the nearby
Peak District or venture further to the infamous Lake District. Or quite simply sit
in Cathedral Gardens or stroll along the Bridgewater Canal to Castlefield.
Manchester is so diverse; there really is something for every taste, preference
and occasion.
Culture
Manchester has over 6 theatres, 3 cinemas and 9 museums.
The theatres range from the old to the new with one of the latest additions being
the Lowry Theatre in Salford Quays, (0161 876 2000), www.thelowrycom,
attracting some well known acts from the comedy circuit. Sharing the same
street as the Law School is the Palace Theatre which plays host to some huge
shows and musicals such as Mamma Mia, many often touring from the West End.
The Palace Theatre attracts some big names with stars sometimes being spotted
in the vicinity. One of the more unusual theatres in Manchester is the Royal
Exchange theatre on St Ann‟s Square, 0161 833 9833, founded in 1976, the
Royal Exchange was badly damaged by the „Manchester bomb‟ however with
lottery funding and the dedication of the staff the theatre was restored to its
former glory. Watching a production at the exchange is an interesting experience
with performances held in the „round‟ whilst the audience sits all around the stage
at very close proximity, with the actors breezing up and
down the many aisles past the audience. The theatre itself a
huge module, grounded in the middle of the former Cotton
Exchange once one of the largest trading floors in the world.
Definitely an experience worth trying. If you want to see
one of your favourite actors as such close range then book
an aisle seat, sit back and leave the opera glasses at home.
Other theatres in Manchester include the Library Theatre situated inside the
spectacular Central Library, the only theatre to be situated inside a library in the
UK. The Opera House on Quay Street is another pantomime, musical venue and
the smaller Contact Theatre which productions
generally being aimed at younger audiences.
If watching stand up comedy is more your scene,
then visit The Comedy Store on Deansgate Locks
or if you fancy your chances at doing it yourself the
„Beat the Frog‟ by staying on stage for a full five
minutes without being „croaked off‟, (sorry their
pun not mine), at the Frog and Bucket, Oldham
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Street, (0161 236 9805), five minutes can feel like a very long time!
For a more interactive experience you may want to visit one of Manchester‟s
many museums or buildings of interest, again mixing the new with the old. Urbis
is a brand new impressively shaped building with four floors of interactive, state
of the art displays. (Urbis Cathedral Gardens, 0161 907 9099, www.urbis.org.uk).
Urbis is also the home of Channel M, Manchester‟s very own television channel.
You can expect a least one vox pop during your time in Manchester, if it‟s not the
local Channel M, it could be the BBC, TV or Radio or even Granada News. Urbis
overlooks two interesting areas in their own right, Exchange Square and
Cathedral Gardens see both from the fourth floor restaurant accessible by the
glass elevator.
Also worth a visit are the Museum of Science and Industry
0161 832 1830, which hosts permanent and temporary
exhibitions, is free to everyone as well as offering something
for everyone. If you fancy travelling down a Victorian Sewer
then this is the museum for you.
As with many of the great visitor attractions in Manchester
such as the City Art Gallery on Mosley Street, Whitworth
Gallery on Oxford Road and the Chinese Arts Centre on
Thomas Street, admission is free!
If watching the silver screen is one of your favourite past times then you can visit
the Corner House, Oxford Road, opposite the Law School offering BPP members a
10% discount. The Cornerhouse is an independent venue showing art house films
and foreign releases. With two bars and a restaurant this is a pleasant venue to
visit even if only for a drink. AMC on Deansgate and Filmworks in the Printworks
entertainment centre are large screen multiplexes if it‟s the size that matters.
Bars and Restaurants
Although Manchester is an easy enough city to travel
around on foot, all the walking will undoubtedly make
you hungry and thirsty. However the choice available
will only wet your appetite further. From the low budget
to the pure indulgent there is a venue for you.
If that old career loan is still looming over you like black
cloud then sample one of the many all you can eat Chinese, Thai and Indian
buffet restaurants which have exploded into the city all very close to St James‟s
Building, with one price for a never ending amount of food, it‟s definitely worth a
try if you are dining on a budget.
The Northern Quarter area of Manchester offers the consumer a much more
eclectic mix of eateries, as long as you don‟t mind
the eclectic mix of people the area attracts then
the restaurants are worth a look.
The Northern Quarter Bar and Restaurant serves
fresh local produce and is situated on the High
Street. (0161 832 7115)
In Matt and Phreds, you can tap your feet to the
live jazz band whilst tucking into a hearty pizza or
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College Handbook
nibbling on tapas, either way an enjoyable experience with their musical
reputation.
Bluu will also provide your palate with delicious tastes, follow this with cocktails at
Rodeo or Socio Rehab, and then maybe a glass of fine wine or European lager at
Odd and you will soon be contemplating the origin of all these unusual names. Or
maybe not.
Talking of Pizza, good ones can also be found in Croma, another home grown
restaurant, Felicinis, (and another), and Don Giovannis. For an early bird offer
don‟t miss Grinch.
For that truly special evening, push the boat out at Obsidian on Princess Street,
Lounge 10 on Tib Street or even Stock on Norfolk Street, or to completely break
the bank with Choice Bar and Restaurant in Castlefield.
Travel outside the city centre and you could stumble across the infamous curry
mile in Rusholme or venture to the trendy and popular West Didsbury area,
accessible by the 111 bus to experience the awarding winning Greens or sample
the delights of The Lime Tree, Bistro 156, The Great Katmandu and many more.
For a lunchtime snack you need not stick to the usual sandwich, with the award
winning Barburrito in Piccadilly Gardens you can experience fast food with a
difference. Inspired by Mexican street stalls the food is hot, healthy and very
very fast AND it will taste even better with a 20% on all food and drink whilst you
are a BPP student.
For something incredibly „hearty‟ and superb value for
money then you cannot miss the stews, casseroles or pies
available at „On the Eight Day‟, vegetarian café, Oxford
Street.
If you cannot be bothered to go anywhere then look no
further than our very own Happy Café situated in the Law
School itself where are very own Laura provides hot and
cold snacks with a cheery smile all day long.
Drinking, Music and more…
There are far too many bars to mention them all, (I am sure you will be pleased
to know), however for a bit of star spotting try Panacea on John Dalton Street or
the newly opened Cloud 23 inside the Hilton Hotel on Deansgate. If its footballers
you want to see the try Deansgate Locks.
There is no shortage of Traditional pubs in amongst the city, try Peveril of the
Peak, Britons Protection or the Vine to name but a few. As with all cities there
are the usual „chain‟ favourites such a Varsity, various Wetherspoons, Revolution
all within walking distance of the Law School. For something completely different
but just as close try Odder, Oxford street, the younger sister of Odd bar but with
the same quirky style. With some of the bars in town there is an opportunity to
see unsigned bands for little or no money, try Night and Day on Oldham Street,
The Ruby Lounge High Street, or The Castle Hotel also on Oldham Street.
It‟s easy to watch bands rise through the ranks in Manchester as the venues
reflect their status, after various pub gigs the ladder of success leads the
successful ones onto the Academy, the Apollo and the Manchester Evening News
Arena and occasionally the Manchester International Convention Centre.
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The Academy on Oxford Street is a lively and sometimes humid venue, cheap
pints in plastic pots, very accessible by bus and tickets always cheap. The Apollo
in Ardwick is a bit of an institution in Manchester, again you will find reasonably
priced tickets for big name artists and the graduated floor allows good views for
everyone. For those who have made it to the top of the musical career ladder the
Manchester Evening News Arena is the epitome of success. Seating some 30,000
fans the Arena is a must for top names. Tickets are obviously more expensive
and for some they sell out fast!
Kylie, Take That, The Beautiful South, Keane, Sugababes, Razorlight, Dolly
Parton, Roger Waters reflect the diverse musical tastes all catered for at the MEN.
Sport in Manchester
In 2002 Manchester was home to the Commonwealth games, the benefits of the
event are still advantageous to us all with the use of the Aquatics Centre and the
Velodrome.
The Aquatics houses two 50 metre swimming pools, flumes and a new fitness
studio and is open until 10pm most evenings. Booth Street East, 0161 275 0450
The Manchester Velodrome is home to the Great Britain Cycling Team with
Britain‟s primary indoor Olympic track, it is regarded as one of the worlds finest.
Don‟t however be put off, as the Velodrome is open to all regardless of their
ability. Manchester Velodrome, Stuart Street, 0161 223 2244.
A neighbour of the Law School is GL-14 an award winning Health Club housed in a
grade two listed building.
The facilities are state of the art whilst the
surroundings are relaxing, serene and outstanding well kept. Members are
encouraged to try the TechnoGym key system, a personalised programme kept
on your own memory stick. There are two studios with conveniently timed
classes to fit in with the
working week in the Law
School and a luxury pool and
spa area. With a deli, gent‟s
hairdressers and comfortable
seating areas with Wi-Fi
access GL-14 can make you
feel quite welcome.
BPP
students can enjoy exclusive
rates at GL-14 and you don‟t
have to wait to be a
registered
student
just
contact us for more details.
Did we mention football….
…..boasting two of the Country‟s biggest football clubs, the city is never short of a
debate or two when it comes to United and City matches. Both clubs have 1st
class stadiums and both only a bus ride away from the city centre. For those of
you with alternative views of pampered millionaires will be interested to know
that the like of Oldham Athletic, Stockport County and Bury are all also within
easy reach of the city. Buying tickets for the latter will also be a little easier!
Not forgetting Lancashire County Cricket Club based in Old
www.lccc.co.uk and Sale Sharks Rugby Team www.salesharks.com
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College Handbook
Trafford
Public Transport
Public Transport Links to the Law School are excellent due to our central location.
Buses frequently run up and down Oxford Road which then turns into Oxford
Street. Buses are most frequent coming into the city from the South and the
prices for students are very reasonable, particularly due to the competition
between bus companies. Oxford Road Train Station and St Peters Square Tram
stop are both within 1 minutes walk of the Law School. Other train stations in
Manchester are Piccadilly, Victoria, and Deansgate.
All Manchester Public
Transport information can be found at www.gmpte.com or by phoning the
information line 0871 200 22 33 open between 7am and 8pm Mondays to Fridays
and 8am and 8pm on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays.
Manchester also enjoys a free bus service, the Metro shuttle, with three different
routes taking you to every corner of the city, a route map can be found at the
above website.
Manchester Activities and Events
Here is a selection of useful links for activities and events in the Manchester area.
For varied information on Manchester including guides, club listings, restaurants
and tourist information see:
http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/today/
http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/entertainment/
http://www.destinationmanchester.com/
http://www.manchester.com/
http://www.theprintworks.com/ (Cinema and Entertainment Complex)
http://www.traffordcentre.co.uk (Shopping Centre)
http://www.englandsnorthwest.com/
http://www.manchester.world-guides.com/index.html
http://www.citikey.com/local/city/Manchester
For information on some of Manchester’s sporting activities, museums and
galleries see:
http://www.manutd.com (Manchester United Football Club)
http://www.mcfc.co.uk/ (Manchester City Football Club)
http://www.manchestergalleries.org/
http://www.msim.org.uk/ (Museum of Science and Industry)
http://www.thelowry.com/ (The Lowry Gallery & Theatre)
http://www.urbis.org.uk (Urbis Museum/Gallery)
For some of Manchester’s music and theatre events see:
http://www.men-arena.com/ (Manchester Evening News Concert Arena)
http://www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk/ (Halle Orchestra, Manchester)
http://www.manchestertheatres.co.uk/
http://www.royalexchange.co.uk/index.asp (Royal Exchange Theatre)
http://www.ticketline.co.uk (Tickets for music events)
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169
Useful Contacts
Admissions - responsible for managing the offer and acceptance process
0845 077 5566
[email protected]
Concessions Officer - responsible for advising on and processing concessions
applications
[email protected]
Examinations & Assessments Office - coordinates examinations and the
publication of results
0845 075 3504
[email protected]
IT Services Team - advise on IT and Computing-related queries
0845 075 3335
[email protected]
Learning Support Officers - offer guidance, support and advice to students
with disabilities and/or learning difficulties
[email protected]
Student Records Office - maintains student records and coordinates
registration
0845 075 3505
[email protected]
Study Visas [email protected]
Student Support Office - Liaison with clubs and societies, international
students, accommodation, Student Advantage Scheme etc.
0845 075 3506
[email protected]
Student Finance Office - manages student payments and payment plans
0845 075 3501
020 7061 1301
[email protected]
Please note that if you wish to telephone any of the above BPP offices, you could
do so free of charge using the telephones made available to students at each BPP
University College site.
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College Handbook
Glossary of Terms
Academic Misconduct
Academic Misconduct: is the act by which a person attempts to gain an
unfair advantage by means which undermine the academic integrity of the
College, for example:
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


being in possession of any prohibited material or item within an
examination or assessment room unless expressly permitted by
the examination and assessment regulations;
using unauthorised material or item in an examination or unseen
assessment;
consulting or trying to consult any books, notes or similar material
or item while temporarily outside the examination room during the
period of the examination;
gaining access to a copy of an examination paper or assessment
material(s) in advance of its authorised release;
commencing a time-constrained examination or assessment before
being instructed by an invigilator to do so or continuing with an
examination or assessment after being instructed by an invigilator
to stop;
attempting to influence by bribery or other unfair means an official
of BPP with the aim of affecting a student‟s results;
presenting a claim for mitigating circumstances, or supporting
evidence, which is misleading, untrue or false;
exceeding the word limit specified for an assessment and declaring
a lower word count than the assessment contains.
Academic Year
An academic year is a period of twelve months running from October to
September.
Aegrotat Award
An aegrotat award may be recommended by a board of examiners where a
student has been unable to provide sufficient evidence for the board to
recommend an award but where the board is satisfied that except for
illness, or other valid cause, the student would have reached the standard
required for the award.
Anonymous Marking
The identity of students is not revealed to markers and/or to the
assessment panel or examination board. There may be a point towards the
end of the assessment process where anonymity ends.
Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning refers to the recognition of
prior certified learning or non-accredited experience, usually designed to
allow a candidate entry onto a programme without the traditional
admissions qualifications or to permit exemptions from certain programme
modules.
A broad term used to refer to all methods whereby a student's work may
be assessed. Assessment can be Diagnostic, Formative or Summative.
Based on the intended learning outcomes for the work being assessed, the
knowledge, understanding and skills markers expect a student to display in
the assessment task and which are taken into account in marking the work.
An online class which students and tutors attend asynchronously, i.e. not at
the same time. A particular asyncronous online seminar is typically open for
5 days a week and students are expected to participate in the learning
activity in their own time. This is the most flexible version of seminar
attendance and is especially good for students who cannot attend the
timetabled classes for any reason.
Authenticity also applies to the certainty of the submitted work being that
of the student. In such cases an assessment that has a high level of
security enhances authenticity, or the assessment instrument matrix has
been designed in such a way to ensure that the overall result is based on a
diet of assessments which provides reassurance that the student achieved
the outcomes.
A qualification or certificated credit conferred upon a student who has
achieved the intended learning outcomes and passed the assessments
required to meet the academic standards set by an institution for the
award. Awards may be divided into modules, units or elements at various
levels and with different volumes of study, each of which has attached to it
intended learning outcomes and academic standards to be achieved by
students in order to receive the final award.
AP(E)L
Assessment
Assessment Criteria
Asynchronous Online
Seminar
Authenticity
Award
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171
Blind Marking
Blind marking occurs where an assessment is marked by two markers
without their identities being known to each other. For example, the second
marker would not know who first-marked the work. This is designed to
increase the objectivity of marking judgements.
Calendar Year
A calendar year is a period of twelve months running from January to
December.
Candidate
A student of the College who is being considered under regulations or
procedures relating to assessment or the granting of an award.
Certificates and
Diplomas
A certificate or diploma may be awarded at undergraduate or postgraduate
level, either as a planned exit point from a Bachelor's or Master's degree
programme, or as a stand alone award such as the Graduate Diploma in
Law or the Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice. Certificates are usually
specified at a lower level and duration of study than diplomas.
The College
Unless expressly provided to the contrary, the College means BPP
University College of Professional Studies Limited.
College Centre
College Centre describes the distributed locations at which teaching
programmes are delivered. The College Centres are in Leeds, London City,
London Holborn, London Waterloo and Manchester.
Collusion
Collusion is the act of aiding, or being aided by, one or more others in the
preparation of an assessment for submission where the assessment brief or
invigilation instructions do not expressly permit collaboration. Collaboration
within, for example, a moot or a group project that is explicitly permitted
by the examination or assessment regulations does not constitute collusion.
Un-permitted collusion includes:

Concession
Core Module
A student working with another person on an assessment and
submitting or otherwise presenting the resulting assessment
as an individual student‟s own work.

Un-permitted collaboration in the preparation for submission
of a seen assessment or communication with another student
within an unseen examination.
A concession is the disregarding of an examination or assessment result or
attempt, and means that a student's results are processed as if the
assessment or examination had never been taken by the student.
A programme module that a student must both take and pass in order to
progress.
Co-requisite Modules
Co-requisite modules are two, or more, modules which must be taken
together.
Credit
A quantified means of expressing units of learning. Credit is awarded where
there has been a verified achievement of stated learning outcomes at a
specified level. Credit is quantified so that learning achieved in different
programmes and modules can be broadly compared in terms of intellectual
demand and relative volume. Modules carry a credit value and there are
common credit values for different award programmes across higher
education in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
As a rule of thumb, one credit is deemed to correspond to 10 notional
learning hours - these may include direct contact time, self-study and
assessment).
Deferral
A deferral is the approval for a student to defer sitting an examination or
undertaking a coursework assessment until the next available opportunity.
A deferral is different from an extension as the student will not undertake
the same coursework task or examination as students undertaking the
assessment at the current sitting.
Diagnostic
Assessment
Diagnostic assessment is used to show a learner's preparedness for a
module or programme and identifies, for the learner and the teacher, any
strengths and potential gaps in knowledge, understanding and skills
expected at the start of the programme, or other possible problems.
Particular strengths may lead to a formal consideration of accreditation of
prior learning.
Double/second marking (also referred to as 'internal verification') occurs
where student work is independently assessed by more than one marker.
Each marker normally keeps a record of all marks awarded, together with
his/her rationale for awarding each mark. In some cases, second markers
have the first marker's comments and/or marks/grades. Where this is not
Double/ second
Marking
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College Handbook
the case, the use of marking sheets or similar procedures for written work
is sometimes used to ensure that the marks given by the first marker do
not influence the second marker's judgement. Markers' notes enable
discussions to take place, after initial marking, about the reasons for
individual decisions if there is a significant difference between the markers'
judgements.
Enrolment
Enrolment takes place when the College records a student‟s formal
communication of acceptance of an offer of admission on conditions
attaching to the offer.
Examination
An examination is an assessment of any duration which is subject to
continuous invigilation. In the case of a skill performance the examination
script may include visual material such as a video recording as well as
written materials such as a plan.
Excluded
Combinations
Excluded combinations of modules are pools of two or more modules from
which a student is permitted to choose only one.
Exclusion
Exclusion means that a student has been required to withdraw from the
College either temporarily and for a specified period of time, or
permanently.
Exit Award
An interim award which is available to a student who is unable to meet the
credit requirements for a higher level award, but who has nevertheless
completed a significant period of study and achieved the specified learning
outcomes for that interim award.
Extension
An extension is the approval for a student to submit a coursework
assessment later than the given deadline.
An External Examiner is an independent senior academic or professional,
who is a specialist in a particular field with extensive expertise and
experience, and who has been appointed to a particular BPP progarmme in
order to scrutinise the academic standards of the award and the standards
of student performance, the measurement of student achievement, and the
rigour and fairness of the assessment process.
Fabrication is the presentation of data or such other results in reports
intended to be based on empirical work which has either not been
undertaken or fully completed and where the data or results have, in whole
or part, been deliberately invented or falsified.
External Examiner
Fabrication
Flexi-Mode
Flexi-mode provides students with the opportunity to switch between
modes of study for different modules within a programme (but not within a
module) and to increase or decrease the number of modules taken in any
particular term. The modes of study may be face-to-face, online
synchronous or online a-synchronous.
Formative
Assessment
Formative assessment has a developmental purpose and is designed to
help learners learn more effectively by giving them feedback on their
performance and on how it can be improved and/or maintained. Reflective
practice by students sometimes contributes to formative assessment.
Grade descriptors encapsulate a level of achievement in relation to bands
of marks. For individual assignments they indicate how well the assessment
criteria have been met; for award classifications they indicate the level of
achievement across a programme of study as a whole.
Impersonation is the act of one person assuming the identity of another
with the intent to gain an unfair advantage for the person being
impersonated, for example, by undertaking an examination on the other‟s
behalf. Both parties, the impersonator and the person being impersonated,
shall be considered culpable of unfair practice.
Intermission is defined as a period of approved absence from the
programme of study where a date for re-entering the programme at an
appropriate point has been approved by the programme group director .
Grade Descriptors
Impersonation
Intermission
Reasons for granting intermission may include:
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ill-health of a serious or extended nature;
financial hardship where the student is unable to meet his or her
fee payments or otherwise needs to return to employment;
maternity and paternity leave or parental duties of a similarly
demanding kind;
significant compassionate grounds;
changes of a significant nature to the employment commitment of
part-time students.
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Intermit
To intermit means to voluntarily and temporarily suspend registration by a
student with the approval of the school board.
Learning Outcomes
The expected outcomes from a process of learning. Statements of learning
outcomes indicate what learners should have gained as a result of their
learning on a module or on a programme.
Level
A broad indicator to the relative demand, complexity, depth of study and
autonomy or independence of learning. Within the Framework for Higher
Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland there are
descriptors for five higher education levels.
Linked Modules
Two or more modules formally connected with overall learning outcomes
and co-ordinated assessment leading to a single result status for the
connected modules.
Matriculation
The process of matriculation involves a student providing evidence as
required both of the qualifications claimed in the student‟s application for
admission and also of other requirements imposed as a condition of
admission being met.
Marking Scheme
A detailed framework for assigning marks, where a specific number of
marks is given to individual components of the answer.
Mode of Study
Mode of study describes the way a module or programme is studied. Approved
modes are full-time, part-time day, part-time evening and part-time weekend.
A programme comprises the study of an approved sequence of modules each
by a specified mode leading to stated learning outcomes and awards whether
of the College or a validating body for which a student is registered.
Model Answer
Model answer is the assessor's explicit view of what an answer to an
assessment task should contain. Model answers are more commonly used
where the right answer can be defined precisely.
Moderation is a process intended to assure that an assessment outcome is
fair and reliable and that assessment criteria have been applied
consistently. Forms of moderation include:
Moderation
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Module
A module is a coherent and self-contained unit of learning and teaching
with specified aims and defined learning outcomes. Modules may have
different credit weightings in accordance with their content and duration. A
module may be taught and assessed within one or more than one semester
provided that the module is set in a single stage and at a single level and,
where this is applicable, single sub-level. Marks for completed items of
module assessment must be aggregated and a result status determined for
the module.
Pathway of Study
A pathway of study is an approved suite of modules with disciplinary, interdisciplinary or multi-disciplinary coherence forming one part of a
programme leading to a designated award and having a credit value of at
least 60 credit point in an honours degree at level H.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism: is derived from the Latin term “plagiarius” meaning kidnapper,
and is defined in the OED as “the wrongful appropriation or purloining, and
publication as one‟s own, of the ideas, or expression of the ideas (literary,
artistic, musical, mechanical, etc.) of another.” and includes:




174
sampling, either by an internal or external examiner
additional marking, for example of borderlines, firsts and fails, or
where there is significant difference between the marks of
different markers that cannot be resolved without the opinion of
another marker
review of marks: where there is a significant difference between
several assessment marks, within or between parts of a programme,
which indicate the marks may need to be reconsidered.
College Handbook
copying the work of another without proper acknowledgement;
copying from text books without proper acknowledgement;
downloading and incorporating material from the internet within
one‟s work without proper acknowledgement;
paraphrasing or imitating the work of another without proper
acknowledgement. Proper acknowledgement requires the identification
of material being used, and explicit attribution to the author and the
source using referencing acceptable to the subject discipline.
Pre-requisite
Modules
A pre-requisite module is a specified module that must be taken before a
student may take a second specified module which deals with related
material but usually at a higher level.
Programme
Programme, or programme of studies, is used to describe an approved
curriculum, studied through formally designated modules, leading to stated
learning outcomes and awards, whether of the College or of another
awarding body, for which a student is registered.
Programme
Specifications
Programme specifications set out detailed information about a programme
at the core of which is a concise description of the intended outcomes of
learning from a higher education programme and the means by which
these outcomes are to be achieved and demonstrated.
Prohibited
combination
Prohibited combination is used to describe two modules which may not
both be included in the same approved programme.
Registration
The process of registering an applicant who has been enrolled and
matriculated as a student of the College, in a named School and on a
named programme and, if appropriate, pathway of study, and specified
modules.
Repeat
To study for another time a whole stage, module or component part of a
module.
Resubmit
Resubmission applies to programmes where the examiners may require a
dissertation or project to be corrected or improved and to be re-examined.
Retake
To take for a second or third time one or more items of coursework
assessment or an examination, for a mark capped at the pass mark,
without having to repeat the associated study.
Sampling
Sampling is most commonly used in the process of moderation (see
above). It normally involves internal or external examiners scrutinising a
sample of work from a student cohort. Sampling may be based on the
desirability of checking borderline marks of any kind, or to test that
assessment criteria have been applied consistently across the assessment
of students in the cohort.
School Board
For the purpose of these regulations the use of the term is deemed to also
mean a student progress sub-board of the school board where one has
been established.
Seen Examination
A „seen‟ examination is one where the examination questions are released
to the students in advance of the examination date. Students then have the
opportunity to prepare their answers before writing them under formal
invigilated examination conditions.
Short Course
A programme of studies that does not of itself lead to an award of the
College and does not attract a value of more than 30 credit points.
Stage
A stage is a sub-division of a programme where a programme has a credit
value of more than 120 credit points. The completion of a stage is an
identified step in student progress towards the completion of a programme.
Student
A student is a person registered on an approved programme of study.
Summative
Assessment
Summative assessment is used to indicate the extent of a learner's success
in meeting the assessment criteria used to gauge the intended learning
outcomes of a module or programme.
An online classroom where students and tutor attend at the same time in
weekly timetabled slots; physically they may be located anywhere. These
are known as synchronous or realtime online classes. Depending on the
software used, participants can speak with each other, see and hear each
other and/ or the tutor, use instant messaging, share documents and
visuals, work in groups, as well as archive the class.
An assessment that encourages students to combine elements of their
learning from different parts of a programme and to show their
accumulated knowledge and understanding of a topic or subject area. A
synoptic assessment normally enables students to show their ability to
integrate and apply their skills, knowledge and understanding with breadth
and depth in the subject. It can help to test a student's capability of
applying the knowledge and understanding gained in one part of a
programme to increase their understanding in other parts of the
programme, or across the programme as a whole.
Synchronous Online
Seminar
Synoptic Assessment
College Handbook
175
Taught Degree
A taught degree includes any degree that is not awarded solely or largely
on the basis of independent or supervised research. Taught degrees include
all bachelor's degrees and those master's degrees where the first two
semesters at least comprise a programme of study and where any
dissertation component does not count for more than 33% of the marks
counting towards the award.
Trimester (term)
A trimester is a subdivision of the academic year. Each triemester
comprises 15 study weeks and, subject to the programme regulations, may
attract 60 credits. There are up to three trimesters in a calendar year.
Unfair Practices
Unfair Practice is defined as any act, or attempted act, leading to
circumstances whereby a student, or another, might gain an unpermitted
or unfair advantage in an examination or an assessment or in the
determination of results, whether by advantaging the alleged offender or
by advantaging or disadvantaging another or others, or which might
otherwise undermine the integrity or reputation of the College and its
examination and assessment process.
Unseen Examination
Validity
Viva Voce
(Examination)
Examples of unfair practices include but are not limited to plagiarim,
collusion, fabrication, impersonation, acts of academic misconduct.
An „unseen‟ examination is one where the students have had no sight of
the examination paper content prior to the start of the examination itself.
Validity in assessment refers to the extent to which an assessment
instrument, an examination, essay or oral presentation for example,
accurately measures the achievement by students of the intended
outcomes of a programme of study or other learning experience.
Viva voce - from Medieval Latin, literally meaning 'with/by the living voice',
is a form of oral examination or academic discussion with senior academic
colleagues. A Viva voce examination is often used in the context of
research dissertations where it constitutes the verbal defence of the written
thesis.
A viva voce examination may be used a supplementary form of assessment
to determine a student's overall achievement.
176
College Handbook
Abbreviations
BPP UNIVERSITY COLLEGE COMMON INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL ACRONYMS
BPP Committees, Boards, Panels & Departments
AC
BoD
ETC
LTC
SSLC
BS
LS
VSU
PDT
SRB
CVP
KS
LIS
IDD
-
Academic Council
Board of Directors
Education and Training Committee
Learning and Teaching Committee
Staff Student Liaison Committee
Business School
Law School
Validation Support Unit
Programme Development Team
School Review Board
College Validation Panel
Knowledge Services
Library & Information Services
Instructional Design & Development
Educational Delivery Methods and Processes
DL
OLL
BL
VLE
CPD
APCL
APEL
-
Distance Learning (Out of date)
Online Learning
Blended Learning
Virtual Learning Environment
Continuing Professional Development
Accreditation of Certificated Learning
Accreditation of Experiential Learning
Regulatory & Reporting Instruments
APMR
GARs
MoPP
-
Annual Programme Monitoring Report
General Academic regulations
Manual of Policy & Procedures
BPP Programmes
BPTC
LPC
GDL
PLP
-
Bar Professional Training Course (Barristers)
Legal Practice Course (Solicitors)
Graduate Diploma in Law
Professional Legal Practice
BPP Functionary Titles
EE
DoP
PL
SME
ML
-
External Examiner
Director of Programmes
Programme Leader or Principal Lecturer
Subject Matter Expert
Module Leader
College Handbook
177
External Professional and Statutory Bodies, and Learned Associations
178
PSBs
-
Professional & Statutory Bodies
ACCA
BSB
SRA
AMBA CIMA
Accountants
CIPD
Development
CIM
-
Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
Bar Standards Board
Solicitors‟ regulation Authority
Association of MBAs
Chartered Institute of Management
-
Chartered Institute of Professional
-
Chartered Institute of Marketing
ALT
SLS
SLSA
UKCLE -
-
Association of Law Teachers
Society of Legal Scholars
Socio-Legal Studies Association
UK Centre for Legal Education
QAA
FHEQ
HEFCE OIA
DIUS
BIS
HEPI
HESA
HEA
-
Quality Assurance Agency
Framework for Higher Education Qualifications
Higher Education Funding Council for England
Office of the Independent Adjudicator
Dept of Innovation, Universities and Skills
Dept of Business Innovation & Skills
Higher Education Policy Institute
Higher Education Statistics Agency
Higher Education Academy
-
College Handbook
Please help us improve the College Handbook. We continually seek to revise and
enhance our College Handbook and your views on its content, structure and
outlook will be greatly appreciated. We kindly ask you to take a few moments to
consider the following questions:
1. What other information would you like to see included in the College
Handbook?
2. What has been useful?
3. Comments on any aspect
Please kindly return your comments to Boryana Peevska-Cutting, Director of
Quality and Academic Policy, BPP University College of Professional Studies, 6870 Red Lion St, London WC1R 4NY, Tel: 0207 430 2304, DDI: 0207 7633
4738, e-mail: [email protected]
College Handbook
179
Modification History
180
Date
Section
Source
Details
29/07/2010
All
Academic
Council
Approval as Version
College Handbook.
College Handbook
1.0 of the

C o lleg e H an dbook

Transcription

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