Course Rules, Terms and Conditions

1. Introduction

Purpose: This document outlines the rules, regulations, and code of conduct for students enrolled in any training programme offered by the Acupuncture Foundation. These rules are binding and override any previous versions.

Agreement to Terms: By registering for a course, students agree to abide by the terms and conditions, including any updates or amendments.

Applicability: These rules apply to all registered students until formal graduation. Students are also bound by the Professional Code of Ethics and Practice of national professional bodies.

2. Norms of Behaviour

• Students must act responsibly and ethically at all times.
• Civility and courtesy are expected in interactions with peers, lecturers, and staff.
• Actions that could damage the College’s reputation are prohibited.

3. Coursework and Assessments

• Students must meet national practice standards by passing exams and assessments.
• Resits and revisions are available for those who fail. Persistent failure in critical areas, especially those impacting patient safety, may result in dismissal without a fee refund for attended classes.

4. Queries and Complaints

• Complaints can be raised in person, via email, or by phone.
• All complaints are handled promptly in alignment with the Foundation’s commitment to quality assurance.
• Criticism of colleagues, staff, or management is against the ethos of the programme.

5. Practicing Before Certification

• Students are prohibited from advertising or practicing professionally before course completion and certification.
• Breaches may result in dismissal without refund.
• Signed indemnity forms are required for all treatments performed as part of the student clinical programme.
• Student professional indemnity insurance is mandatory for treating family and friends.

6. Fee Payment

• Fees must be pre-paid according to the schedule. Non-payment may lead to suspension or dismissal.
• Fees are non-refundable unless the course is cancelled.
• Outstanding fees must be settled before results are released.

7. Attendance and Online Engagement

• Attendance at all modules is mandatory. Absences must be communicated in advance.
• Online engagement is required, with a minimum of five hours per week.
• Practical and clinical training must meet safety and competency standards. Failure to do so may result in dismissal.

8. Study Materials

• Students are responsible for purchasing required textbooks and clinical kits.
• Course notes and materials are copyrighted and cannot be reproduced.
• Digital coursework must be submitted by email, with copies retained by students.

9. Copyright and Online Access

• Students must safeguard their website login credentials.
• Breaches of copyright or misuse of online materials will result in suspension or dismissal without refund.

10. Withdrawal from the Course

• Withdrawals must be submitted in writing, stating the reason.
• Fees are non-refundable for withdrawals at any stage.
• Disruptive behaviour, non-compliance with terms, or patient safety risks may result in dismissal.

11. Examination Regulations

• Arrive 10 minutes early for examinations.
• Only approved materials are allowed during exams.
• Online exams are timed to prevent external resource usage.
• Plagiarism or misconduct during examinations may result in dismissal.

Rechecking Results:

• Requests for rechecks must be submitted in writing within 10 days of results publication. A fee applies.

12. Complaints and National Standards

• Complaints against a student will be investigated by the Academic Board.
• Students unable to meet national standards of practice after multiple warnings may be dismissed without a refund.

13. Website Use

Prohibited Actions:

• Posting harmful, defamatory, or illegal content.
• Interfering with website functionality.
• Sharing or distributing materials without permission.

Liability:

• The Foundation disclaims responsibility for damages arising from website usage.
• Users must verify critical information directly with the Foundation.

14. Copyright and Logo Usage

• All course materials and the Foundation logo are protected by copyright.
• Unauthorized use of the logo or materials may result in dismissal.

15. Policy Amendments

• The Academic Board reserves the right to amend rules, terms, and course structures as needed to maintain professional standards.

16. Transfer and Background Verification

• Students transferring from another course must provide verifiable details of previous studies, assessments, training duration, and exams/tests passed.
• The College reserves the right to contact previous institutions if information is insufficient.
• Incorrect or unverifiable information may lead to dismissal from the course.
• Transfer students must also complete an entrance examination at the related level of transfer application.

This document serves as the official guide for student conduct and operational policies during training at the Acupuncture Foundation.