International Student Handbook - scsb.nsw.edu.au

RTO ID: 41253 CRICOS Code: 03523D CRICOS – Student Handbook for International Students V1.4 July 2016

1

International

Student Handbook


2

Contents

Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 4 Student Handbook .................................................................................................................... 4 Our mission .............................................................................................................................. 4 Our objectives .......................................................................................................................... 4 Safety and equality. .................................................................................................................. 5 International Student 24 Hour Emergency Contact ................................................................... 5 Emergency Telephone Numbers .............................................................................................. 5 Electrical equipment ................................................................................................................. 5 Fire safety ................................................................................................................................ 5 First aid .................................................................................................................................... 6 Precautions while using computer facilities............................................................................... 6 Lifting ....................................................................................................................................... 6 Work and study areas .............................................................................................................. 6 Student equity .......................................................................................................................... 7 Student Privacy ........................................................................................................................ 7 Changes to terms, conditions and agreed services .................................................................. 8 List of Useful Contacts - CBD Sydney ...................................................................................... 8 List of Useful Contacts - Parramatta ......................................................................................... 9 NSW Public Holidays 2016 ..................................................................................................... 10 Living and Studying in Australia .............................................................................................. 11 Living and studying in Parramatta: ......................................................................................... 12 Climate ................................................................................................................................... 12 Transport ................................................................................................................................ 12 Accommodation while living in Australia ................................................................................. 13 Home-stay / Private Board ..................................................................................................... 13 Hostels & Guesthouses .......................................................................................................... 13 Private Leasing / Rentals ........................................................................................................ 13 Living Costs ............................................................................................................................ 13 Accommodation Costs:........................................................................................................... 14 General Costs: ....................................................................................................................... 14 Registration and Orientation ................................................................................................... 15 Student Support Services ....................................................................................................... 15 Learning Resources for VET Students ................................................................................... 16 Educational Resources for ELICOS Students ......................................................................... 16 Access to External Academic Resources- ELICOS and VET Students ................................... 16 Student Welfare Counsellor .................................................................................................... 17 Safe Premises ........................................................................................................................ 18 Student Email Account ........................................................................................................... 18 Southern Cross School of Business Code of Conduct ............................................................ 19 Monitoring attendance policy .................................................................................................. 24 Attendance Monitoring and Warning Letters: .......................................................................... 25 Monitoring Course Progress Policy and Procedure ................................................................ 26 Complaint and Appeal Process .............................................................................................. 30 Complaints and Appeals handling process ............................................................................. 30 Assessment Policy ................................................................................................................. 32 Language, literacy & numeracy skills Policy ........................................................................... 35 Responsibilities ...................................................................................................................... 36 Credit Transfer and Recognition Policy .................................................................................. 38 Credit Transfer ....................................................................................................................... 38


3

Recognition Policy .................................................................................................................. 38 Deferring, Suspending or Cancelling your Enrolment ............................................................. 39 Deferral of enrolment - Student initiated ................................................................................. 40 Deferment of enrolment - SCSB initiated ................................................................................ 40 Suspension of enrolment - Student initiated ........................................................................... 40 Suspension of enrolment – SCSB initiated ............................................................................. 41 Cancellation of enrolment - SCSB initiated ............................................................................. 42 Cancellation of enrolment – Student initiated .......................................................................... 42 Transfer to another College .................................................................................................... 43 Transferring from another College to SCSB ........................................................................... 44 Fees and refunds ................................................................................................................... 44 Refund Policy ......................................................................................................................... 44 Payment method .................................................................................................................... 46 Student Access to Records Policy .......................................................................................... 46 What records can be accessed? ............................................................................................ 47 How are records accessed? ................................................................................................... 47 Continuous improvement ........................................................................................................ 48 Learner satisfaction survey ..................................................................................................... 48 Southern Cross School of Business Equity Commitment ........................................................ 48 Legislation and Regulatory Responsibilities ............................................................................ 48 Additional Information for International Students .................................................................... 51 ESOS Framework .................................................................................................................. 51 VISA CONDITIONS ................................................................................................................... 51 Protection for overseas students ............................................................................................ 52 Your rights based on ESOS ................................................................................................... 52 Your Responsibilities .............................................................................................................. 52


4

Introduction

Welcome to Southern Cross School of Business!

Thank you for choosing Southern Cross School of Business to deliver your next learning

experience.

Southern Cross School of Business (known as SCSB) is a Registered Training Organisation

(RTO), ID Number 41253 that is the trading name of SDL Academy Pty Ltd, which meets

administrative, delivery, staffing, facility, marketing, financial, quality assurance and assessment

standards regulated by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) which monitors & subjects

Southern Cross School of Business to regular external audits to verify its adherence to those

standards.

SCSB is responsible for the quality of the training and assessment that students will receive in

compliance with Standards for RTOs 2015, and for the issuance of the Australian Qualifications

Framework (AQF) certification documentation. The Standards set out the requirements that an

organisation must meet in order to be an RTO and ensure the integrity of nationally recognised

training provided by registered training organisations.

SCSB aims to provide a fresh approach to delivering practical hands-on business and

management training for people who are seeking to enhance their work skills and career

prospects.

Student Handbook

This Student Handbook is designed to provide you with information about the services provided

by SCSB and our approach to providing you a safe, fair and supported environment to participate

in training and assessment. This booklet does not provide you with specific information about a

particular course offered by SCSB. This information is contained in the Course Brochure or

Course Information Booklet supplied separately.

Our mission

The mission of SCSB is to deliver quality training and assessment that meets the needs of

learners and industry.

Our objectives

In recognition of SCSB’s mission, our objectives are:

“To strive to attract, recruit and retain talented, competent and committed people. We promote excellent performance through leadership and professional development”


5

Safety and equality. At SCSB we are committed to providing an environment to ensure the students safety by the following actions;

1. Smoking is not allowed at the training and assessment facilities or offices at any time.;

2. All potential hazards, accidents and near misses are to be reported to the SCSB staff; Incident report form to be completed and signed by staff, witness and student with date and time.

3. No consumption of alcohol is allowed within training and assessment facilities or during the conduct of training and assessment;

4. Training and assessment areas to be kept neat and tidy at all times; 5. Assistance to be sought if the student volunteers to lift items e.g. move furniture in a

training area. 6. Hygiene standards to be observed particularly in eating and bathroom areas. 7. Our campuses are monitored by security alarm systems after hours. The access to

campuses via lifts is restricted as lifts are kept locked after 5:00pm. 8. Campus fire alarms are regularly tested and emergency evacuation drills are done

every term.

International Student 24 Hour Emergency Contact

Contact: Mr. Khalil Allahwalla: 0414887354

Emergency Telephone Numbers

Police, Fire, Ambulance – 000

Electrical equipment

On campus electrical equipment that is not in working order should be reported to SCSB staff.

Electrical work should only be performed by appropriately licensed or trained personnel. Students, trainers and assessors should not undertake any task related to fixing electrical equipment such as lighting or electrical training aids.

Fire safety

SCSB will undertake every effort to communicate the procedures involved in evacuation and the location of fire equipment to students at each facility for each training and assessment event; and to users of the off ice at least twice each year.

All students need to be familiar with the location of all EXITS and fire extinguishers. Students would need to consult available evacuation maps to determine location in case the fire wardens are not available.


6

First aid

There is at least 1 first aid trained staff at each campus at any one time. All accidents must be reported to reception staff who will direct the student to the first aid trained staff. The accident & any aid administered must be recorded by staff involved.

Precautions while using computer facilities

To avoid general fatigue, eye strain, consistent aches and pains due to extended periods of work with computers students should refrain from repetitive tasks and incorrect posture.

Students should organise their work so as to allow a five to ten-minute rest every hour which should include a change of positions and stretching exercises as appropriate.

Students can improve posture by adjusting chair height so that their feet are comfortably placed on the floor (or footrest) and their arms are at an approximately 90-degree angle.

The screens are positioned to avoid reflection from lights and windows and at a suitable distance so that they can be easily read.

Lifting

Students, trainers and assessors are encouraged not to lift anything related to the training and assessment provided by SCSB unless they do so voluntarily and taking all responsibility for any injury caused.

Lifting should not be done beyond the student’s capacity.

Always bend your knees and keep your back straight when picking up items.

If you have experienced back problems in the past do not attempt to lift heavy objects at all and ask someone else to do it for you.

Work and study areas

Always ensure that all work areas are clean and clear of clutter so as to avoid the danger

of accident by tripping or falling over.

Place all rubbish in the bins provided.

Ensure that kitchen bench spaces are left clean and tidy and that all dishes are washed.

Do not leave tea towels or any cleaning cloths in a bundle on the bench tops or draped

near any bin.

Do not sit or climb on any desks or tables.


7

Student equity

SCSB is committed to ensuring that the training and assessment environment is free from

discrimination and harassment. All SCSB staff members (including contractors) are aware that

discrimination and harassment will not be tolerated under any circumstances. In the event that

discrimination and harassment is found to have occurred disciplinary action will be taken against

any staff member who breaches this policy. Suspected criminal behaviour will be reported to

police authorities immediately. Students should expect fair and friendly behaviour from SCSB

staff members and we apply complaint handling procedures advocated by the Australian Human

Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (HREOC).

Students who feel that they have been discriminated against or harassed should report this

information to a staff member of SCSB that they feel they can trust. This will initiate a complaints

handling procedure which will be fair and transparent and will protect their rights as a

complainant. Alternatively, if a student wishes to report an instance of discrimination or

harassment to an agency external to SCSB, they are advised to contact the HREOC Complaints

Info-line on 1300 656 419.

Student Privacy

SSCB takes the privacy of students very seriously and complies with all legislative requirements.

These include the Privacy Act 1988 and Australian Privacy Principles (2014).

Here’s what you need to know:

SCSB will retain personal information about you relating to your enrolment with us. This includes

your personal details, your ethnicity and individual needs, and your education background. We

will also retain records of your training activity and are required to do this in accordance with the

National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Act 2011.

Your personal information is retained within our hard copy filling system and our computer

systems. This information is collected via the Enrolment Application Form and through your

completion of administrative related forms and based on your training outcomes. Hard copy files

are secured in lockable filing cabinets which are monitored throughout the day and secured in

the evening. Electronic data retained on our computer systems are protected via virus protection

software and firewall protection. Our data is backed up continuously to our server which is

secure.

SCSB is required by the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Act 2011 to

securely retain your personal details for a period of 30 years from the date your enrolment has

completed. The purpose of this is to enable your participation in accredited training to be

recorded for future reference and to allow you to obtain a record of your outcome if required.


8

In some cases, we are required by law to make student information available to Government

agencies such as the National Centre for Vocational Education and Research or the Australian

Skills Quality Authority. In all other cases SCSB will seek the written permission of the student

for such disclosure. SCSB will not disclose your information to any person or organisation unless

we have written instructions from you to do so. If you require your records to be accessed by

persons such as parents, you need to authorise this access otherwise this access will be denied.

You have the right to access information that SCSB is retaining that relates to you. Further

instructions are provided on how to access records within the section titled “Access to your

records”.

If you have concerns about how Southern Cross School of Business is managing your personal

information, we encourage you to inform our staff and discuss your concerns. You are also

encouraged to make a complaint directly to us using our internal complaint handling

arrangements outlined in this handbook. Under the Privacy Act 1988 you also have the right to

make a complaint to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) about the

handling of your personal information. You can find more information about making a privacy

complaint at the website of the OAIC located at: http://www.oaic.gov.au/ privacy/privacy-

complaints.

Changes to terms, conditions and agreed services

Southern Cross School of Business reserves the right to amend the conditions of the student’s

enrolment at any time. If amendments are made that effect the student’s enrolment the student

will be informed 7 days prior to changes taking effect.

SCSB will also advise the student as soon as practicable, should there be any new third party

arrangements or a change in ownership or changes to existing third party arrangements.

List of Useful Contacts - CBD Sydney Academic Matters

Speak to your Trainers. If you need additional assistance, ask the Academic Manager for information

Accommodation Ask the Administration Manager for information

Access & Equity Ask the Administration Manager for information.

Banking ANZ: 365 George St, Sydney NSW 2000. Phone 13 13 14. Commonwealth Bank: 546 George St, SYDNEY NSW 2000. Phone 13 22 21 National Australia Bank (NAB): 292 Pitt SYDNEY NSW 2000. Phone 13 22 65 Westpac Bank: 591 George Street, SYDNEY NSW 2000. Phone 13 20 30

Counselling Ask the Administration Manager for information.

Disability Support

Ask the Administration Manager for information.

Emergency services

000 (police, fire and ambulance)

http://www.oaic.gov.au/%20privacy/privacy-complaints

http://www.oaic.gov.au/%20privacy/privacy-complaints


9

Health Sydney Medical Centre 580 George Street, SYDNEY NSW 2000. Phone (02) 9261 9200

International Students

Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) 26 Lee Street, SYDNEY NSW 2000 (next to Central Station) Phone: 131 881 http://www.immi.gov.au

Legal Please ask the Administration Manager for information.

Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS)

Provides 24hour telephone translation and interpreting services Phone: 131 450

List of Useful Contacts - Parramatta Parramatta Police

Parramatta Police, 95 Marsden Street PARRAMATTA NSW 2150. Phone: (02) 9633 0799

Doctor Shop 2 Entrada Building 20 Victoria Rd, PARRAMATTA (Corner Victoria Rd & Church St) Opposite McDonalds. Phone: (02) 9762 1041

Hospital Westmead Hospital. Hawkesbury Rd & Darcy Road,

WESTMEAD NSW 2145. Phone: (02) 9845 5555

Cumberland Hospital. 1/11 Hainsworth Street, WESTMEAD,

NSW 2145. Phone: (02) 9840 3000

Community

Health Centre

Parramatta Community Health Centre-Jeffrey House, 162

Marsden Street, PARAMMATA NSW 2150. Phone: (02) 9843

3222

Auburn Community Health Centre- Norval Street AUBURN

NSW 2144. Phone: (02) 8759 4000

Legal

Assistance

Law Partners. Shop-1136/1137, Level 1, Westfield Parramatta,159-175

Church Street, PARAMMATA NSW 2150. Phone: (02) 9891 6650

Life Line 24

hour

Counselling

Advice and

Referral

Services

Life Line- Saving Life, Crisis Support, Suicide Prevention. Phone: 131114

Counselling,

Advice and

Referral

Services

Bridges Counselling. Shop 7, Burnside Shopping Village, 1 Blackwood

Place Oatlands North PARRAMATTA NSW 2117. Phone: (02) 9683 1444

Translating and

Interpreting

Service (TIS

National)

24 hours Online Service

Phone: 131 450

For External

Appeals

Overseas Students Ombudsman Website: www.oso.gov.au

Phone: 1300 362 072

Security

Measures

All international students have access to Overseas Student Contact Officer

(OSCO) 24 hours. Emergency contact number of OSCO is provided to

students to contact him/her whenever required.

http://www.immi.gov.au/

http://www.oso.gov.au/


10

Religious

Institutions

Anglican-St John Anglican Cathedral Church-195 Church St

PARRAMATTA NSW 2150. Phone: (02) 9630 1115

Catholic-St Patrick’s Catholic Church-1 Marist Pl PARRAMATTA,

NSW 2150. Phone: 0418218676, 0402247683.

Islamic-Parramatta Mosque- 150 Marsden Street,

PARRAMATTA NSW 2150. Phone: (02) 9897 2776

Hindu- Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir (B.A.P.S) 40 Eleanor

Street, ROSEHILL NSW 2142. Phone: (02) 9893 939

Buddhist- Nan Thien Vihara IBBA Buddhist Centre- 22 Cowper

Street, PARRAMATTA NSW 2150. Phone: (02) 9683 5626

Jewish Parramatta and District Synagogue- 116 Victoria Rd,

PARRAMATTANSW 2150. Phone: (02) 9689 2747

Orthodox Christian-St Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church-

Burnett Street, PARRAMATTA NSW 2150. Phone: (02) 9891

0700

NSW Public Holidays 2016

Holidays for NSW under the Public Holidays Act 2010

2016

New Year's Day Friday, 1 January

2 Australia Day Tuesday, 26 January

Good Friday Friday, 25 March

Easter Saturday - the Saturday following Good Friday

Saturday, 26 March

Easter Sunday Sunday, 27 March

Easter Monday Monday, 28 March

Anzac Day Monday, 25 April

Queen's Birthday Monday, 13 June

1 Bank Holiday Monday, 1 August

Labour Day Monday, 3 October

Christmas Day public holiday Sunday, 25 December

3 Additional Day Tuesday, 27 December

Boxing Day Monday, 26 December

3 Additional Day

1. Applies to banks and certain financial institutions see Retail Trading Act 2008.

2. From 31/12/11 when Australia Day (26 January) falls on a Saturday or Sunday, there will be no public holiday on that day as the following Monday will be declared a public holiday. 3. From 31/12/11, the Holiday Act provides for an extra public holiday to be added when Christmas Day or Boxing Day falls on a weekend.

http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/maintop/view/inforce/act+115+2010+cd+0+N

http://www.industrialrelations.nsw.gov.au/oirwww/NSW_public_holidays/NSW_Public_Holidays_2014-2016.page#2




http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/maintop/view/inforce/act+49+2008+cd+0+N


11

Living and Studying in Australia

Australia is a land of contrasts - sweeping golden beaches, coral reefs rich with marine life,

tropical rainforests, mountain ranges, vast grazing lands and sparse deserts. One of the oldest

continents, Australia is the only country to occupy an entire continent.

Surrounded by the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Australia has many animals and plants that are

unique on the planet. The surface geology is typically old and flat, with a major mountain range

stretching down the eastern coast and another mountain range in the north west of the continent.

Further information can be found from visiting the following website by the Australian

government about living in Australia:

http://www.immi.gov.au/living-in-australia/choose-australia/

http://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/global/live-in-australia

Living and studying in Sydney CBD:

Sydney CBD is a great place to live, study and work.

SCSB is in close proximity to Darling Harbor which

is an amazing area with boats, shopping, clubs,

places to meet people, restaurants and everything

you could want. The other close by features include

Circular Quay and the Opera house, art galleries,

museums, more restaurants, vistas and parks.

There is Pyrmont and the Anzac Bridge which are

incredible viewpoints having their own eateries, food

choices, casinos and artsy little areas. There is easily something for everyone in this place.

There is a lot to do, a lot to like, a lot to see, al lot to experience. Sydney will take you and grow

you as a person. This is an education hub with hundreds of Vocational and Higher Education

institutes.

http://www.immi.gov.au/living-in-australia/choose-australia/

http://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/global/live-in-australia


12

Living and studying in Parramatta:

Parramatta city is predominantly a business centre

because of its ideal location on several major national

highways as well as its close proximity to Sydney.

Parramatta city has some of the finest cafés and

restaurants and offers a rich shopping experience.

There are plenty of social opportunities around Parramatta

such as rugby league, movies, theatre, music or

performing arts. The city is open for business seven days a week. Parramatta is also an

educational hub for schools, vocational training providers and a university.

Parramatta Park is only a few minutes walking distance from the SCSB College where students

can enjoy open space and where visitors can take part in a range of recreational activities along

the banks of Parramatta River or its fields, cycle ways and other facilities such as, picnicking,

walking, cycling, field sports or just exploring the historical monuments and buildings throughout

the park. There are also many other venues for entertainment such as movie cinemas, a bowling

alley and retail outlets.

Climate

Sydney generally has a temperate climate with an average of 240 days of sunshine annually.

The winters are cool and mild, while the summers are warm

Average Summer temperature: 26 degrees Celsius (22 degrees Fahrenheit)

Average Winter temperature: 16 degrees Celsius (61 degrees Fahrenheit)

Transport

The SCSB college in Sydney CBD can be reached by

various state buses and trains. Our local station is

Town Hall.

Parramatta City Council runs a daily free bus service

that loops around the various parts of the Parramatta

to CBD including the Ferry Wharf on Charles Street.

Ferry services run between Circular Quay and

Parramatta every day via the Parramatta River.

Information on transport:

To find out more information on Sydney buses including timetables and fares go to

http://www.sydneybuses.info/routes/timetables-route-maps

http://www.sydneybuses.info/routes/timetables-route-maps


13

Sydney Trains including timetables and fares go to

http://www.sydneytrains.info/timetables/#landingPoint

Sydney water transport, including timetables and fares go to http://www.131500.com.au/

Accommodation while living in Australia

The Student Support officer can provide information,

advice, and guidance on the types of accommodation

services available to students prior to arrival in the

case of a need to change arrangements whilst in

Australia. The types of accommodation available in

Australia are many and varied and brief descriptions of

some of the options are listed below:

Home-stay / Private Board

This is a common form of accommodation is where students live with an Australian family.

Home-stay or private board is where you live with a family, couple or single person/s in their

own home. There are many ‘Home-stay Providers’ operating in Australia and these

arrangements will vary from Full Board, Part board, or Board in Exchange.

Hostels & Guesthouses

Generally, these are temporary accommodation arrangements and are available from $50.00

per day to $600.00 per week. Prices will depend on shared facilities, meals provided, shared

rooms, etc.

Private Leasing / Rentals

The rental market offers a wide range of housing options. Signing a lease on your own for an

apartment, flat or house can offer you an independent lifestyle and privacy. You may also plan

to stay in this property for the duration of your course.

It can however be very expensive if you choose to live by yourself, as you are solely responsible

for the rental payments plus the connection fees for utilities and then ongoing bills. Generally,

tenants are responsible for connection and usage of water, electricity and gas. Tenants are also

responsible for connection and payment of the telephone. Rental prices vary according to the

location and condition of the property. It can be useful to familiarise yourself with the average

price of properties in the various suburbs.

Living Costs

This is only a guide to the living costs in Australia and these expenses will vary depending on

the student’s lifestyle.

http://www.sydneytrains.info/timetables/#landingPoint

http://www.131500.com.au/


14

Accommodation Costs:

Accommodation costs will vary from City to City and suburb to suburb. The following is an estimate of various types of accommodation in the extended Sydney

area.

Accommodation Type No. of weeks Weekly rent Aus $ Estimated Yearly

Rent Aus $

House 3 Bedroom 52 400 - 800 20,800 - 41,600

3 Bedroom shared

with 2 others

52 6,933 - 13,866

Apartment or

Town House

1 Bedroom 52 230 -350 11,960 - 18,200

3 Bedrooms 52 300 - 800 15,600 - 41,600

3 Bedrooms shared

with 2 others

52 5,200 - 13,866

Hostel Shared kitchen,

bathroom and

lounge (* shared

room)

52 189 * - 525 9,828 - 27,300

General Costs:

The below estimates are in Australian dollars (AUD$) and these estimates are subject to

change.

Weekly costs other than rent Establishment costs

Food contribution $ 50.00 - $ 75.00 Bond (usually 1

month rent)

4.333 * weekly rent

Takeaways Lunches

& Drinks Bills/Utilities

$ 30.00 - $ 45.00 Telephone $ 100.00 - $ 150.00

Public Transport

fares

$ 30.00 - $ 60.00 General furniture

items

$ 350 - $ 650

Some additional expenses may incur relating to mobile phones, car or computer usage. In

Australia many internet plans are based on downloads (if you use more than your plan significant

charges are added).


15

It is recommended that students allow a minimum of $18,000.00 per year to cover their living

costs. It is also recommended to allow an extra $2000.00 for costs that you may incur while

settling in – such as food, transport, and any personal items you may require.

Registration and Orientation

Registration and orientation is the essential first step for SCSB students to ensure they clearly

understand their visa conditions for studying in Australia covering what is required for a

successful educational experience, including maintaining course progress and attendance

requirements.

On the first day at SCSB students attend registration and orientation:

Students to complete required SCSB forms for registration

Welcome session including meeting key SCSB staff

Overview of life in Australia

Library Membership Process for students

Academic and general administrative matters

SCSB policies & requirements for satisfactory progress

Student visa conditions overview

Grievance procedures

Maintaining current contact information

SCSB student card issuance

SCSB campus tour

General tour of the area for newly arrived students from overseas

Student Support Services Student Support Services can assist with all matters relating to all academic and welfare issues. You may also request additional support from your Trainer throughout your studies. The Student Support Staff can advise you in all aspects of student life. The Student Support Staff are there to discuss and support you with issues including, but not limited to:

Support in finding accommodation

Learning pathways and possible RPL opportunities

Provision for special learning needs

Provision for special cultural and religious needs

Provision for special dietary needs

Support with creating a resume, interview skills and finding work.

SCSB also offers a free, confidential counselling service. All students are welcome to use this service for support with issues relating to academic, professional or personal issues. Please see your Student Support Staff for more information.


16

Learning Resources for VET Students SCSB will provide its international students with an access to a wide range of learning resources. Some of the resources have been developed in-house whereas some other resources have been purchased from reputable resource providers such as Aspire, RTO materials and Small print. The resources are in the form of Power point slides on each unit, Learner's Guide or Student Workbook, an access to 'Handout' folders in the Student Database part of the ILM board, which will contain handouts under each of the unit's assessment resources. Students will be given the opportunity to obtain the soft copies of these resources, should they desire.

Educational Resources for ELICOS Students SCSB ELICOS maintains a supply of sufficient educational resources that are aimed at achieving course objectives, encourage diversity in learning activities and teaching methodologies, and are appropriately organised and regularly reviewed.

SCSB demonstrates access to educational resources that:

are sufficient to provide for each student at every stage of their course, as appropriate are appropriate for the type and level of courses offered; include access to a range of multimedia, as appropriate; enable varied learning activities and teaching methodologies; are developed for classroom and individual student use and address specific student

needs and course outcomes; reflect new developments in TESOL theory and practice and changes in course

offerings and student profiles.

SCSB has educational facilities with sufficient equipment and support resources for the number of enrolled students, including:

educational and computer technology that supports classroom teaching/learning activities; independent student practice, study and research; and teacher study, research and preparation;

where SCSB makes material available for self-access or self-study, that material is catalogued and presented for easy access;

self-study areas and equipment organised to facilitate access and independent use by students;

SCSB provides its ELICOS teachers with easy access to reference resources that reflect contemporary knowledge of the theory and practice of TESOL in its own facilities or through easily accessible external facilities.

Access to External Academic Resources- ELICOS and VET Students

SCSB course delivery sites are located in close vicinity to major libraries where additional learning material can be accessed with ease. SCSB has established arrangements with the following library for its students:


17

- The State Library of NSW http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/

- Parramatta City Council Library http://www.parracity.nsw.gov.au/play/facilities/library Membership Process

Following facilitated process will be followed for SCSB students’ membership for the above listed libraries:

The membership information and relevant forms will be made available to all students during their orientation session;

SCSB students will receive and complete the membership form for one of the above-listed libraries for access to additional academic resources;

Once the relevant library has processed the membership application, SCSB students will be able to collect their membership cards from SCSB Reception Desk.

Student Welfare Counsellor Judith Bowler is Students’ Welfare Counsellor for Southern Cross School of Business. Her qualification details are hereunder:

Master of Education, Adult and Continuing Education and Training. University of Technology, Sydney

Bachelor of Arts, Education and Psychology. University of Sydney Associate Diploma, Rehabilitation Counselling. University of Sydney Graduate Certificate of Emotionally Focused Counselling. Institute of Emotionally

Focused Therapy VOCATIONAL

– Diploma of Quality Auditing

– Certificate IV in Training and Assessment

– Diploma of Clinical Hypnotherapy

– Advanced Diploma of Business Management

– Diploma of Business (Human Resources)

– Diploma of Business (Quality Auditing)

– Advanced Diploma of Community Services Work

– Advanced Diploma of Community Services Management

– Diploma of Assessment and Workplace Training

– Graduate Certificate in Training (Action Learning)

– Certificate in Competency Based Training

Judith specialises in working with individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship issues and mood based disorders, and has experience in working with students from varied backgrounds and nationalities.

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/

http://www.parracity.nsw.gov.au/play/facilities/library


18

Students who need psychological support, advice on both academic and non-academic matters should make an appointment through Student Support Officer, to see Judith. Alternatively, she is available in the Sydney campus every Wednesday from 10:00 am till 1:00 pm and in the Parramatta Campus from 9:00 am till 1:00 pm.

Safe Premises The premises of SCSB in Sydney CBD and Parramatta provide teaching and learning environments that are appropriately designed and equipped to support the range of VET and English language courses (ELICOS) and student support services offered. SCSB premises comply with all relevant legislation and regulations. SCSB ensures that students are safe and have access to facilities that support their education, including circumstances:

Where SCSB accesses or uses areas that may also be used for other purposes

Where facilities are accessed by people not associated with SCSB’s operations.

The registered ELICOS provider designates areas of its premises sufficient in size to support quality delivery of its ELICOS courses, including:

Rooms of a size appropriate to size of class

Teacher studies/staffrooms

Student recreation areas

Private study areas or areas for related activities, such as library, resource center and language laboratory

Storage areas

Offices for the management of the ELICOS provider and for the confidential counselling of students.

Security Protocols: SCSB CEO/PRINCIPAL, Academic Managers both ELICOS and VET will ensure that:

SCSB course delivery sites are sufficiently staffed at all times the students have to use these premises;

SCSB course delivery sites have security monitoring systems installed and operational;

In addition to teaching staff, a duty staff is assigned to each delivery site who will be present on site to ensure safety of students and staff;

SCSB student and staff security arrangements are regularly reviewed.

Student Email Account

Southern Cross School of Business's official communication method with students is via email. As a student of SCSB, you will be issued with a SCSB College email account on Orientation Day.

Your Southern Cross School of Business email account is the OFFICIAL COMMUNICATION METHOD between you and Southern Cross School of Business.


19

All correspondence will be emailed to your College email address. It is your responsibility to check your email account at least once a day. YOUR College email account can be accessed via our website at

www.scsb.nsw.edu.au Your email account username is: Your Student ID @scsb.nsw.edu.au

Your email account password is: SCSB41253 To protect your privacy, you must change your password after receiving your first login

password from SCSB. Do not let anyone know your password, and change your password at least monthly.

For questions or technical problems relating to your email account, please contact Student Support Services.

DO NOT IGNORE SCSB EMAILS!! Emails sent to your College email account are important and may contain official information crucial to your studies and your stay in Australia. Please note not checking your email account will not stop SCSB from processing disciplinary actions and cancellations.

Southern Cross School of Business Code of Conduct All Colleges want to offer a harmonious learning environment in which each member respects the beliefs, feelings, person and property of others without condition. By enrolling at SCSB, you have agreed to adhere to the SCSB Code of Conduct which is outlined here below. It was also included in your pre-enrolment documentation and is available at www.scsb.nsw.edu.au. Breaches of Southern Cross School of Business’s Code of Conduct and breaches of your student visa requirements may lead to cancellation of your enrolment. All students enrolled at Southern Cross School of Business must uphold the following standards at all times. Students will:

behave honestly and with integrity respect other people’s rights to hold different positions and views; respect other people’s beliefs, nationality, religion, age, associations and gender; not use offensive language; maintain an environment suitable for study and work free of interruption; act with care and diligence on campus and at work-based training organisations; attend a minimum of 80% of all classes; not cheat or plagiarise; allow trainers to deliver their course material without being unnecessarily interrupted

or disturbed; adhere to SCSB Uniform policies where required; respect SCSB’s No Smoking, No Alcohol, No Drugs policy; uphold the reputation of SCSB, provide accurate and timely notification of information required by SCSB to make

appropriate decisions about their continuing enrolment at the college; comply with SCSB’s policies and procedures as stipulated in this student handbook; comply with your student visa requirements

http://www.scsb.nsw.edu.au/



20

This Code of Conduct and the contents of the Student Handbook are reviewed each year. SCSB students are invited to contribute to improvement of our Code of Conduct, policies and procedures. Please contact the Administration Staff to provide SCSB with your recommendations or complete a feedback form or a complaints form.

Breaches of Code of Conduct Students found breaching the SCSB Code of Conduct or their visa requirements will be dealt with as stipulated under ‘Student Discipline’ section of this handbook. Students affected by a breach of the SCSB’s Code of Conduct are encouraged to contact the Student Support Officer immediately to discuss the issues concerned.

Reporting Breaches SCSB staff and students are responsible for maintaining a harmonious learning environment. Therefore, students are encouraged to report any undue pressure, disturbance, or harassment by any member of staff or by any other student as stipulated in the SCSB Code of Conduct. Reports of breaches can be submitted in writing or verbally clearly outlining the details to the Student Support Officer, their Trainer or the Principal. All reports will be viewed by SCSB’s Management. If you are uncertain about your rights and responsibilities, please contact the Student Support Office for clarification. Your rights as a student will always be respected and you are in turn, expected to respect the rights of others.

Process Breaches to the SCSB Code of Conduct will be processed as soon as possible. Involved parties will be informed in writing. Breaches are dealt with by a committee formed to deal with the breach and including the Principal, Student Support Officer and where deemed necessary, selected students and staff. Note: SCSB will review its decisions based on documented compassionate/compelling circumstances. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of any SCSB decision, you may appeal, using the Complaints and Appeals Form available at the front office. Alternatively, you can contact the Overseas Students Ombudsman NSW Australia at (free call) 1800 451 524 to lodge a complaint.

Cancellation resulting from Breaches In cases where we intend to cancel your enrolment because of a breach of the College’s Code of Conduct (including erratic course progress) you will be issued with a “Notice of Intention to


21

Cancel” which will be sent to you via email to your SCSB email account, as a courtesy a COPY may be mailed to your last known postal address. The Notification of our Intention to Cancel will advise you of your breach and inform you that you may be cancelled from SCSB and as a result reported to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP).

Complaints and Appeals Process You may access the Complaints and Appeals Process within 20 working days from the date stated in the Notification of our Intention to Cancel. To access the Complaints and Appeals process you must complete a Complaints and Appeals form available on the SCSB’s web site www.scsb.nsw.edu.au or from the Student Support Office. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of any SCSB decision, you may appeal, using the Complaints and Appeals Form available at the reception desk. Alternatively, you can contact the Overseas Students Ombudsman NSW Australia at (free call) 1800 451 524 to lodge a complaint. Pamphlets are available at the reception

Student discipline SCSB treats all breaches of SCSB’s Code of Conduct seriously. Students are expected to report any breaches of the Code of Conduct to the Student Support Officer. SCSB Student Support Officer or any other staff member MUST report breaches to the Principal. All breaches are automatically substantiated and will be investigated. The repercussion of breaches can be as follows:

Written Warning Suspension from Class Request for apology Counselling Student monitoring Mediation Supervised withdrawal from class Cancellation of enrolment

Depending on the severity of the breach, the College may decide at its discretion to investigate a matter either by itself, or involving students and staff to make informed decisions. No appeal will be offered where a breach of SCSB's Code of Conduct has been identified and the investigation has confirmed that a breach has occurred. Alternatively, you can contact the Overseas Students Ombudsman NSW Australia at (free call) 1800 451 524 to lodge a complaint. Where the breach is perceived as being an immediate risk to the wellbeing of students, staff or the general public, SCSB will report the breach to relevant authorities, including the Police. In cases where we intend to cancel your enrolment because of a breach of the College’s Code of Conduct (including erratic course progress) you will be issued with a Notice of Intention to Cancel which will be sent to you via email to your SCSB email account, as a courtesy a


22

COPY may be mailed to your last known postal address. The Notification of our Intention to Cancel will advise you of your breach and inform you that you are subject to cancellation which may be reported to the Department of Border Protection (DIBP). You may access the Complaints and Appeals Process within 20 working days from the date stated in the Notification of our Intention to Cancel. To access the Complaints and Appeals process you must complete a Complaints and Appeals form available on the SCSB web site www.scsb.nsw.edu.au or from the Student Support Office. If you have not accessed the complaints and appeals process within 20 working days of receipt of the Notification of our Intention to Cancel (NOC) your course enrolment will be terminated for non-compliance with visa and processed as required by the ESOS Act 2000. The Department of Education and the Department of Border Protection (DIBP) will be notified of this action, via PRISMS. A copy of the breach notice will be sent to you to your SCSB email account. It is important for you to seek advice from the Department of Border Protection (DIBP) after receiving the notice of cancellation.

Examples of serious breaches

Low Attendance

Erratic Course Progress

Non-Payment of Fees

Academic Dishonesty (Plagiarism)

Participation (Attendance)

At SCSB, participation (attendance) is monitored in a systematic way to identify erratic course progress. The College advises students if their participation (attendance) falls below 80% to ensure that students complete the course within the timeframe as per Enrolment and as stated on their eCoE for International Students. SCSB has elected to implement the Department of Educations-DIBP Course Progress Policy for vocational education and training (VET), a copy of which can be downloaded from www.scsb.nsw.edu.au or requested at the Student Support Office. At Southern Cross School of Business, we like to ensure that students have maximum exposure to learning. Students arriving late will interrupt the class and disturb other students and would not be marked present for the time they have been away. If student participation (attendance) falls below 80% within 1 study term (10 weeks), the student may be deemed as being at risk of not meeting satisfactory course progress within the duration of their COE. Where low attendance affects your academic progress SCSB will deem your progress as erratic, a result of which your enrolment at SCSB may be cancelled for Breach of the SCSB Code of Conduct.

Erratic Course Progress

According to Standard 13 of the National Code SCSB can cancel a student’s enrolment where it is suspected that a student is not genuine and not a ‘bona fide’ student. As “Erratic Course Progress” is not defined in the National code, for the guidance of SCSB staff and students, the following meaning has been agreed at SCSB.




23

Erratic Course Progress is defined as behaviour that suggests that your primary reason for enrolling at SCSB is for a purpose other than to gain the relevant skill and knowledge required in the course for which you have enrolled, in which case you shall be deemed a ‘non-bona fide’ student at SCSB. Typical signs that may suggest that a student is ‘non-bona fide’ are:

Participation (Attendance) in the course is irregular, unreliable or inconsistent Participation (Attendance) is below 80% Student does not actively participate in class discussions and/or group work Assignments are plagiarised

To avoid cancellation due to erratic course progress, a student must attend a minimum of 80% of all classes, submit their assessments on time and inform SCSB if they cannot attend their class. The face-to-face contact hours for attendance for each week at SCSB is 20 hours. Under the National Code 2007, Southern Cross School of Business may decide not to report the student in the following circumstances:

Evidence of compassionate and compelling circumstances. The student is maintaining satisfactory course progress. The student has in total not missed more than 30% of the scheduled contact

hours. Circumstance 1 & 2 would be part of this reasoning.

Non-payment of fees

Tuition fees must be paid in advance and prior to the commencement of a study period, due dates are as outlined in your Offer Letter (Payment Agreement). Tuition fees do not cover charges for accommodation, living expenses, textbooks, uniforms, stationery, equipment, and external examinations. If fees are not paid by the due date, an administration fee of $250 will be charged. If you fail to pay your fees prior to the commencement of the course, study period you will be issued a NOTIFICATION OF OUR INTENTION TO CANCEL your enrolment. The Notice will be sent to you via email only. You will have 20 working days to pay any outstanding fees in full or to appeal our decision to cancel your enrolment. If SCSB has not received your payment 20 working days after the Notification of our Intention to Cancel has been emailed to you, your enrolment MAY be cancelled. If you are experiencing difficulties paying your fees by the due date, you must speak to the Finance Officer or Student Support Officer at SCSB BEFORE THE FEE BECOMES OVERDUE. SCSB reserves the right to refuse access to training and assessments, if fees have not been paid and/or where no payment plan has been signed.

Academic Dishonesty (Plagiarism)


24

Academic Dishonesty is defined as intentionally using or attempting to use unauthorised materials from the Trainer or others. Using information, or study aids (such as mobile phones, hand written notes) in any assessment; copying another student's work; submitting work for an in-class examination that has been prepared in advance; representing assessments that were prepared by another person as one's own work; violating the rules governing the assessment process. At SCSB, Academic Dishonesty is a serious breach of it’s Code of Conduct. Examples of Academic Dishonesty include:

Word for word copying of sentences or whole paragraphs from one or more sources

Close imitation of a text or idea with or without referencing Downloading of content from the internet and submitting on an ‘as is’ basis

Assessments completed dishonestly or by improper means are considered plagiarised. You must not submit assessments that are not entirely your own work. You must not assist others or accept assistance from others for individual work. Important Note: If your Trainer/Assessor believes that your assessment/ text or any form of assessment has been plagiarised, then he/she must collect all evidence and refer the matter to the Academic Manager. Where plagiarism has occurred, the student will be penalised as follows: 1st offence: Written warning, $50 administration fee, entry into student database, Re-assessment at own cost; 2nd offence: Second written warning, $50 administration fee, entry into student database, Re-assessment at own cost; 3rd offence: Cancellation of enrolment as per Standard 13 of National Code. How to avoid Plagiarism: To avoid Plagiarism, you need to follow the Assessment Agreement handed out by your Trainer. SCSB requires that you reference the source of other people’s ideas, thoughts and expressions in all assessments. Contact your Trainer if you require help.

Monitoring attendance policy At SCSB, participation (attendance) is monitored to identify erratic course progress. The College advises students if their participation (attendance) falls below 80% to ensure that students complete the course within the timeframe as per enrolment and as stated on their COE for International Students.


25

SCSB has elected to implement the Department of Educations-DIBP Course Progress Policy for vocational education and training (VET), a copy of which can be downloaded from www.scsb.nsw.edu.au or requested at the Reception desk. At SCSB, we like to ensure that students have maximum exposure to learning. Students arriving late will interrupt the class and disturb other students. If your participation (attendance) falls below 80% within 1 study term (10 weeks), you may be deemed as being at risk of not meeting satisfactory course progress within the duration of your COE. Where low attendance affects your academic progress SCSB will deem your progress as erratic, a result of which your enrolment at SCSB may be cancelled for Breach of the SCSB Code of Conduct.

Student Holidays Students are expected to take breaks only during the designated term breaks. These dates are provided on the student timetable, website and student handbook. Any other breaks are to be negotiated with the Administration Manager and also with the student's respective Trainer.

Attendance Monitoring and Warning Letters:

When a Student has missed 5 consecutive days of classes without prior approval: The student will be immediately contacted by phone to gain an explanation and inform them of the need to attend and the effect on their projected attendance of they do not attend. If contact by phone is unsuccessful a letter will be immediately sent to the student.

If a student does not comply and does not attend after being contacted or the student’s attendance is irregular the Administration Manager must notify the Academic Manager immediately. The Academic Manager will identify any need for counselling to be provided after contacting and reviewing the student’s situation.

When a student’s projected attendance falls below 90%: A ‘1st Warning Letter’ will be sent to the student informing them of their projected attendance and the need to ensure they maintain an 80% attendance level for the Term.

When a student’s projected attendance falls below 85%: When a student reaches below 85% projected attendance the Administration Manager shall

notify the Academic Manager and a ‘2nd Warning Letter’ shall be sent indicating the student is

required to organize an appointment with the Academic Manager to discuss their poor attendance record and strategies to ensure they stay above 80% for the Term. If the student does not respond within 7 days, the Administration Manager will attempt to contact the student via phone. When a student’s projected attendance falls below 80%: The student shall be sent a ‘Breach Recorded’ letter indicating they are going to be reported to DIAC for unsatisfactory attendance of their course of study. They are also informed of their ability to access the appeals and complaints process and have 20 working days working days to do so.

If the student does not lodge any appeal or complaint within 20 working days, the report shall



26

be submitted via PRISMS. The student shall also be sent a ‘Breach Reported’ letter notifying them of the action taken. A student is only allowed to defer commencement or suspend their course, and not be reported, on medical grounds (with a doctor’s certificate) or other exceptional compassionate circumstances. In these circumstances the student will not be reported until they fall below 70% of the course contact requirements. Where a student defers commencement or suspends studies on any other grounds, the College will report the student to DIAC via PRISMS, as not complying with visa conditions. Reporting ‘Breach of Student Attendance’ Any student who falls below 80% attendance and has no supporting reasons, shall be reported via PRISMS to DIAC for a beach of their visa condition. This process of reporting breaches into PRISMS is the responsibility of the Administration Manager who monitors the projected attendance weekly. A copy of all letters, details of phone calls made, and reports are to be kept in the student files.

Monitoring Course Progress Policy and Procedure The International Students permission to study in Australia is closely linked to the Australian Government Student Visa Program. It is essential for you to comply with the regulations of your student visa at all times. Under the ESOS Act, SCSB is required to notify you AND the Department of Education and DIBP if you have breached your student visa conditions as a result of having failed to maintain satisfactory course progress. SCSB must therefore monitor, record and assess your course progress for each unit of the course for which you are enrolled to help you achieve satisfactory course progress and will intervene if you are at risk of failing to achieve satisfactory course progress.

SCSB has implemented the Department of Education and The Department of Border Protection (DIBP) course progress Policy and Procedure for all of its vocational education and training (VET). SCSB records and assesses the progress of each student for each unit and cumulatively at the end of each study period. To achieve satisfactory course progress, you must participate (attend) in a minimum of 80% of all classes. SCSB monitors your academic progress under the following course framework:

Study Period = 1 term of 10 study weeks and up to three weeks of holidays Each study week has 20 hours of study time (classroom based) per week

Satisfactory progress is achieved when a student successfully completes the assessment requirements for each unit or cluster of units within the timeframes specified in the course timetable/ information.


27

Where a student is identified at risk of not making satisfactory course progress SCSB will contact the student and arrange counselling with the Academic Manager to implement SCSB’s intervention strategies as outlined below. Monitoring Procedure / Intervention Strategies: Student work is assessed by the trainer who then forwards a summary of the outcomes to the Academic Manager. The outcome for each unit is entered into the student management system. The student management system provides a cumulative student record for each unit. A progress report can be run at any time but will be run at the end of each Term. This will identify any student who is failing to successfully complete any unit requirements as specified in the course time table. The Academic Manager will speak with the Trainer and the student in the first instance to identify whether the student is in danger of not achieving satisfactory progress. Any student identified through this process of being at risk of not achieving satisfactory progress will be contacted in writing and called to a counselling session. At the counselling session the Academic Manager will, in consultation with the student and trainer, establish a support/intervention program to help the student achieve satisfactory progress. Strategies will be determined on a case-by-case basis and will take into account the student’s current and previous results, attendance records and any previous implemented intervention/counselling strategies. Strategies may include any of the following:

English language support for technical assignments and comprehension; Assistance with academic skills such as writing essays and report writing; Attending a study group; Attending a ‘make up’ session Developing mutually agreed study plans Referral to external agencies.

The implementation of the support/ intervention strategies may be requested by the Trainer or the student at any time throughout the course if concerns are held about progress. The Academic Manager will consider any such request. A summary of the support/ intervention action to be implemented will be recorded on the Student Support Intervention record and placed in the Student file. Notes on any meetings that occur will also be noted in the student management system and kept on the student’s file. A student will not be reported for unsatisfactory progress until after the support/ intervention strategy has been implemented and enough time has been allowed for the strategy to run its course. Unsatisfactory Course progress: Unsatisfactory course progress is defined as a student failing to successfully complete and achieve competency in at least 50% of the course requirements in that study period. At SCSB of each study period is a Term (10 weeks). 1st Academic Warning Letter:


28

A student will be issued with a 1st Academic Warning Letter if his/her academic records show that current progress may be at risk of falling below the minimum 50% academic progress within a study period. 2nd Academic Warning Letter: A student will be issued with a 2nd Academic Warning Letter if his/her academic records indicate that projected academic progress has fallen below the required 50% within the study period, as per his/her VISA conditions.

Intention to Report – Course Progress: Where a student is assessed as having made unsatisfactory progress for two consecutive study periods even after implementation of the support/intervention strategy, SCSB will report the student to the Secretary of the Department of Education through PRISMS and the student’s Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) will be cancelled. This may also result in the cancellation of the student visa.

Reporting unsatisfactory progress Before making the unsatisfactory course report to the Department of Education, SCSB will notify the student in writing of the intention to report, and advise the student they have 20 working days to access SCSB’s appeals process prior to being reported. During any such period the student’s enrolment is kept current. A student will not be reported until the outcome of any appeal has been finalised and the appeal has been unsuccessful or the student does not access the appeals process during the 20-day period. The student may appeal the decision to report them to the Department of Education on the following grounds:

A competency decision has been inaccurately recorded or calculated. Compassionate or compelling circumstances. The intervention strategy has not been implemented according to SCSB’s own

documented policy and procedure.


30

Complaint and Appeal Process

Complaint in SCSB:

A complaint in SCSB is negative feedback about services or staff which has not been resolved.

A complaint may be received by SCSB in a written form and needs to be formally documented

by the complainant in order to be acted on. Complaints may be made by any person but are

generally made by students and/or employees.

An appeal in SCSB: An appeal is an application by a student for reconsideration of an unfavourable decision or

finding during training and/or assessment. An appeal must be made in writing and specify the

particulars of the decision or finding in dispute. Appeals must be submitted to SCSB within 28

days of the student being informed of the assessment decision or finding.

Resolution of complaints & appeals: In all cases, issues that arise during training and assessment that are the source of frustration

or are in dispute should be resolved at the time, as they occur between the persons involved,

where possible. Sometimes, it will not be possible and in these cases students are encouraged

to come forward and inform SCSB student support staff of their concerns with the confidence

that they will be treated fairly.

SCSB is committed to providing a fair and transparent complaint handling process to enable it

to manage and respond to allegations involving the conduct of:

SCSB trainers, assessors or other admin staff;

a student of SCSB

SCSB applies the principals of natural justice to its complaints and appeals processes. Further

guidance on principles of natural justice and procedural fairness can be accessed at the

following link: Principles of Natural Justice and Procedural Fairness

Complaints and Appeals handling process

SCSB applies the following principles to its complaints and appeals handling:

Complaints and appeals are acknowledged in writing and a written record of all complaints is to

be kept by SCSB including all details of lodgement, response and resolution. SCSB will maintain

a complaints register to be used to record the details of the complaint and to maintain a

chronological journal of events during the complaint handling process. Records relating to

complaint handling are stored securely to prevent access to unauthorised personnel.

A complainant is to be provided an opportunity to formally present his or her case at no cost.

Each complainant may be accompanied and/or assisted by a support person at any relevant

meeting.

http://www.decd.sa.gov.au/docs/documents/1/NaturalJusticeandProcedur.pdf


31

The handling of a complaint is to commence within seven (7) working days of the lodgement of

the complaint and all reasonable measures are taken to finalise the process as soon as

practicable.

The complainant is to be provided a written response to the complaint, including details of the

reasons for the outcome. A written response must be provided to the complainant within fourteen

(14) days of the lodgement of the complaint.

Complaints must be resolved to a final outcome within sixty (60) days of the complaint being

initially received. SCSB will attempt to resolve complaints as soon as possible. A timeframe to

resolve a complaint within thirty (30) days is considered acceptable and in the best interest of

SCSB and the complainant. A complainant should also be provided with regular updates to

inform them of the progress of the complaint handling. Updates should be provided to the

complainant at a minimum of four (4) weekly intervals.

SCSB shall maintain the enrolment of the complainant during the complaint handling process.

Decisions or outcomes of the complaint handling process that find in the favour of the student

shall be implemented immediately.

Complaints are to be handled in the strictest of confidence. No SCSB representative will disclose

information to any person without the permission of SCSB’s Chief Executive Officer. A decision

to release information to third parties can only to be made after the complainant has given

permission for this to occur. This permission should be given using the Information Release

Form.

A complainant can lodge his/her complaint using SCSB’ Complaint Form, Appendix ‘A’

(downloadable from SCSB website: www.scsb.nsw.edu.au).

Complaints are to be considered and handled to ensure the principles of natural justice and

procedural fairness are applied at every stage of the complaint handling process. This means

that the complainant is entitled to be heard with access to all relevant information and with the

right to reply. The complainant is entitled to have their complaint heard by a person that is without

bias and may not be affected by the decision. Finally, the decision must be made based on

logical evidence and the decision-maker must take account of relevant considerations, must act

for a proper purpose and must not take into account irrelevant considerations.

Review by an independent person SCSB provides the opportunity for persons making a complaint or an appeal who are not

satisfied with the outcomes of the complaints and appeals handling process to seek a review by

an independent person. To facilitate this, SCSB will engage a suitably qualified and experienced

VET consultant to provide this review impartially on behalf of the student.



32

Review by external agency There are a number of professional associations that can assist students with an external appeals process. The Institute of Dispute Resolution is retained to provide a mediation service for students to assist in resolving complaints. Address: Level 1, 13 Bridge Street Sydney NSW Phone: (+61 2) 9251 3366 Free call: 1800 651 650 At any time during the grievance or appeals process, the student may have a support person with them.

Refer to the website for Policy for Complaints and Appeals policy.

Unresolved Appeals may be referred to the Office of Fair Trading.

National Training Complaints Hotline also provides an opportunity for students to lodge their grievance with an external agency who will follow up and investigate their complaint. This service can be accessed via the following phone number: 13 38 73.

Assessment Policy At SCSB, we recognise that assessment is a core service offered to our students and is at the centre of our operations as a Registered Training Organisation. Quality assessment ensures that the skills and knowledge of students are assessed using four principal determinants:

That assessment decisions are based on the assessment of skills and knowledge compared with units of competency drawn from nationally endorsed Training Packages or accredited courses.

That the target industry or enterprise requirements are contextualised and integrated within the assessment.

That evidence is gathered that meets the rules of evidence. That assessment is conducted in accordance with the principles of

assessment.

Assessing the Unit of Competency SCSB uses units of competency drawn from nationally endorsed Training Packages as the primary benchmark for assessment. Supporting these sometimes are industry standards or codes of practice. These and other industry specific publications inform the context and standard of performance during assessment. In order to identify the precise assessment criteria, we apply a methodology of unpacking a unit of competency in order to assess the full scope of the unit including elements of competence, performance evidence, knowledge evidence and the requirements of the evidence conditions. This process ensures that our assessment strategies accurately reflect the requirements of the relevant Training Package and are valid. To ensure alignment with all components of a unit of competency, unit mapping must be undertaken during the design and development of assessment. Unit mapping must also be undertaken when carrying out assessment validation. Unit mapping will show the relationship between the planned assessment activities and each component of the unit. This must be conducted at a micro level of detail to allow the mapping to


33

demonstrate the validity of the assessment. An assessment mapping document is available for this purpose.

Assessment Methods At SCSB assessment is conducted using a combination of Written Knowledge Assessment, Research Tasks, Role Plays, and Case Studies. The following provides a brief explanation of the primary assessment methods:

Written Knowledge Assessment: The student is required to provide a written response to a range of questions relating to the knowledge evidence of the units of competency. These would generally be short answer response activities and may include other questioning methods including multiple-choice.

Research Tasks: The student is required to undertake research and provide a written response to each question. These assessment activities usually require short to medium answer responses.

Case Study Response: The student is required to provide a written response to a situation presented in a case study scenario. This will usually require the student to consider carefully the situation presented, undertake some research to inform their response and then to propose their recommended actions.

Role Plays: Role play is a form of experiential learning. The key purpose of this assessment method is to see what competencies students display and how their behaviors match those of the required roles.

Presentation: Presentation skills are considered vital for business students. Keeping this in mind, SCSB assessments are designed so that they provide students with maximum opportunities to improve and enhance this vital skill.

Principles of assessment

In the delivery of assessment services, SCSB applies the principles of assessment. Assessment strategies have been designed to ensure:

Validity. We conduct assessment against the broad range of skills and knowledge identified within each unit of competency and which is integrated with the performance of workplace tasks. We ensure that the assessment is transferable to different context and situations and all components of the unit of competency are being assessed. SCSB also meets this requirement by ensuring our assessments are regularly validated as per our Validation Schedule.

Reliability. We seek to gather and interpret evidence in a consistent manner that provides for reliable assessment both for the student and for assessors. We achieve this by using assessors who have the required competencies in assessment and the relevant vocational competencies. Our assessment resources also provide for standardised outcomes supported by model answers to guide assessors in their judgements. Reliability is also supported by the moderation of assessment judgements across our assessors.

Flexibility. We strive to provide assessment opportunities that reflect a student’s needs. Our chosen assessment strategies provide for recognition of a student’s current competency,


34

employ a range of methods appropriate to the context of the industry, the unit of competency and the student themselves.

Fairness. Our assessment approach encourages fairness in assessment through consideration of the student’s needs and characteristics and through making reasonable adjustments when it is required. Assessors achieve this through clear communication with a student to ensure that the student is fully informed about, understands and is able to participate in, the assessment process, and agrees that the process is appropriate.

Collecting evidence that counts – the rules of evidence

In collecting evidence, SCSB applies the rules of evidence to inform the assessment strategy. Assessment strategies have been designed to ensure:

Sufficiency. We ensure the collection of valid assessment evidence in such quantity to ensure that all aspects of competency have been satisfied and that competency can be demonstrated repeatedly. The collection of sufficient assessment evidence will be supported by using a range of assessment methods which lead to the collection of evidence over time based on a range of performances.

Validity. We collect evidence that directly aligns with the components documented within each unit of competency. The collected assessment evidence must replicate the outputs of the task as though it were being performed within an actual workplace. SCSB meets this requirement by ensuring our assessments are regularly validated as per our Validation Schedule.

Authenticity. We seek evidence that is authentic. To support this, assessors must be assured that the evidence presented for assessment is the student’s own work. At SCSB we value the authenticity of assessment evidence and have embedded this into our Code of Conduct (see pages 14-18), which deems plagiarism as a serious misconduct.

Currency. We must be satisfied that the student currently holds the skills and knowledge relating to a particular unit of competency. Assessment evidence is to be based on the student’s performance either at the time of the assessment decision or in the very recent past. SCSB meets this requirement by requiring students to pay late payment fees for overdue assessment, thereby encouraging the timely submission of assessments.

Re-Assessment Students who are assessed as not competent are to be provided with detailed verbal and written feedback to assist them to identify the gaps in their knowledge and skills to be addressed through further training. These students are to be provided with additional training and learning support to target their specific gaps in knowledge and/or skills and prepare them for additional assessment. It is the policy of SCSB to provide two opportunities for additional training and re-assessment at no additional cost to the student or employer. Students who require additional training and re-assessment after they have exhausted their two opportunities will be required to pay a fee for additional training and re-assessment.

Student’s requiring additional learning support are to be brought to the attention of the Academic Manager so the progress of the student can be monitored closely and additional support


35

services can be applied well before it becomes necessary to impose an additional fee for re-assessment.

Assessment Outcomes The evidence students submit will be assessed and they will be given written and verbal feedback. Each individual assessment task will be marked as either Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. A mark of Competent or Not Competent will be given for the whole unit. If the student is assessed as Not Competent, they will be given some suggestions for improvement & asked to resubmit their material and/or redo their assessment. If the student doesn’t agree with the assessment result or thinks that the assessment process is not valid, or disagrees with the decision once it is made, or believe that they have been treated unfairly, they can appeal. Full details of the Appeals process are contained in this International Student Handbook.

Language, literacy & numeracy skills Policy

Purpose The Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) Policy at SCSB serves to ensure that educational programs developed by the college are in accordance with language, literacy and numeracy requirements, unit descriptors and those students with special learning needs are adequately supported through the completion of their course. The College undertakes to provide language, literacy and numeracy support for students who may require such support as this will also pave the way for compliance with the Government legislation in relation to assess and equity. The College cliental consists of overseas students with English as a second language. All our courses are delivered in English so it is essential that students have adequate language, literacy and numeracy skills to cope with the demands of the course in which they enrol. The aim of this policy and procedure is to ensure that Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) needs identified in each training package are developed into the learner materials and assessment tools. It also aims to give Trainers and Assessors information on how to identify students with special learning needs and the resources to adequately support them through the completion of their training.

Definitions

Language: the tools we used to communicate with one another in many different situations and for many different reasons. Language involves speaking, listening, reading and writing.

Literacy: the ability to read and use written information. It means being able to recognise, read and interpret documents, signs etc.

Numeracy: involves being able to carry out mathematical operations and includes knowing when to use mathematics, what mathematics to use and how to do it.


36

Access to SCSB’s training programs must be equal for all participants. SCSB does not discriminate against participants whose needs are identified under the standards of LLN with regards to their enrolment in any current or future training programs. Ultimately it is the choice of participants as to whether or not they proceed with the enrolment.

Policy 1. Responsibilities

SCSB has the responsibility to ensure that:

LLN needs are identified and developed within the course materials and assessment tools by qualified Trainers and Assessors

relevant staff are provided with the necessary training to ensure they have the skills required to manage with LLN issues as they arise

administration staff will endeavor to ascertain students LLN information prior to course commencement and;

in the event that a Trainer and/or Assessor identifies students with LLN difficulties, they implement appropriate strategies to assist them with their learning and;

students are provided with advice and support services in the provision of LLN assistance services

the confidentiality of students who require additional support services and appropriate strategies are in accordance with our Privacy Policy

those students that require or request additional LLN support are referred to professional organisations

To enter Vocational courses overseas students with English as a second language must be able to demonstrate an English proficiency equivalent to 5.5 IELTS. In addition, VET students should provide evidence of completion of Year 12 or equivalent to demonstrate that their literacy and numeracy skills are adequate. Provision of evidence of recent study or employment that requires literacy and numeracy skills will be acceptable. If students are unable to provide this evidence the college may require them to undertake an aptitude test to assess literacy and numeracy levels.

SCSB is here to offer you maximum assistance throughout your training experience. Many of the units which form part of the selected course require that you have adequate comprehension and writing skills in order to achieve competence. This assessment provides a method of assessing these skill levels and aims to help us determine the learning approach that is most suited to your specific needs. SCSB will review your assessment results together with the information gathered during your interview. If your skills do not meet the entry requirements, SCSB may decide to refer you to another training provider for specific training in language, literacy and numeracy. SCSB can provide you with a list of providers who have the expertise to maximise your learning opportunity. This strategy has been implemented to ensure that you are given the best opportunity to achieve competence and ultimately obtain the skills in your chosen field. We wish you every success in your assessment.

SCSB requests that students notify the College of any special assistance they may require in relation to literacy and numeracy. If additional charges apply e.g. for a scribe or for additional equipment, the college undertakes to notify the student prior to the commencement of the course.


37

The College recognises that assistance with literacy and numeracy and language, may be necessary during some courses or programs as on-going language support is critical to the retention and success of overseas students. In developing training and learning materials, SCSB will ensure that respective LLN requirements of specific units of competency or training packages are integrated into learning and assessment materials. SCSB will ensure that the training staff members have the required knowledge and skills to manage with LLN issues as they arise; and engage in professional development activities within LLN domain. SCSB will ensure that the training staff members implement appropriate strategies to assist the students who need LLN assistance with their learning and maintain fairness, confidentiality, and equality in dealing with them.

2. Implementation The Academic Manager is responsible for acting upon information obtained in the Enrolment Form where LLN and other individual needs are identified. Where individual needs are identified, action can be taken during the delivery of the training program and the assessment process to assist the participant by way of:

Discussion between participant and Academic Manager and Trainer/Assessor staff to identify participants’ particular needs

Reasonable adjustment of the training program delivery and assessment methods to suit these needs.

One-on-one support provided during the training program, delivery and progress monitored by the academic management staff to promote successful learning outcomes.

Identification of training needs is to be based on the English language literacy and numeracy competencies, which are needed to participate effectively in the College’s training programs. SCSB will endeavour to obtain LLN information before commencement of the course/unit although the participant’s individual needs may not be identified until after the course /unit has commenced.

SCSB endeavours to equip the participant to write sufficiently to undertake the tasks of the profession. The Trainer/Assessor, Academic Manager and ELICOS Program Manager will consult to analyse necessary requirements to meet the participant’s individual needs. Where these needs cannot be met, a refund will be given to the participant.

Where support needs to go beyond what can be met with reasonable adjustment during the training and assessment process, and additional support is required, SCSB will direct participants to an external literacy specialist. Where assessment strategies include LLN to be performed to a particular standard as a requirement of the package or individual unit, SCSB will not modify the standard as to invalidate the assessment process. Students are requested to declare any learning disabilities/ language requirements as a part of the enrolment process. Once such requirements are identified, relevant staff is alerted to the students’ requirements and remedial processes can be implemented.


38

Students with insufficient English proficiency are required to undertake additional English studies prior to commencing in VET programs. Students that undertake additional English studies will be monitored and assessed for their suitability to continue in the nominated VET program.

Students are offered specified assistance in the form of study skills and tutorial sessions. These are incorporated into the academic program over each semester. These sessions may have a particular emphasis on essay and report writing, writing skills, referencing and plagiarism. As a follow up, individual tuition is provided geared to the needs of each student. This may include assistance with oral presentations, reviewing and providing feedback on assignment drafts and preparation techniques for exams. SCSB will also integrate the development of required computer skills that will assist the student in providing supporting functions for LLN challenges. All students and relevant College staff are informed of this policy and procedure. Copies of this policy and procedure are in the policy and procedures manual and published on the College website. All information relating to participants gathered during needs identification, training and valuation will remain confidential. Participants will have access to any information gathered by the College about them as defined in the College’s Privacy Policy and Procedure.

Credit Transfer and Recognition Policy

Credit Transfer

In accordance with National Code Standard 12, Southern Cross School of Business recognizes all AQF Qualifications and Statements of Attainment issued by other Registered Training Organizations (RTOs) and grants academic credit for such courses/units of study upon a prospective or existing student’s application (supported by the requisite documentary evidence) for such course credit. If you have previously completed qualification(s) or unit(s) of competency you may be eligible to apply for a credit transfer. Please visit SCSB’s website and fill out the Credit Transfer Form, attach copies of the evidence you have (e.g. Certificate and/or Statement of Attainment) and submit all the evidence with your Letter of Offer. Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application within 10 working days of its submission.

Recognition Policy

Southern Cross School of Business does not grant course credits for the recognition of prior learning (RPL) for international students.

Procedure for Credit Transfer All students are made aware of the ability to apply for course credit via Credit Transfer application throughout the enrolment and induction process of the course.

http://australisinstitute.nsw.edu.au/index.php/student-support


39

Where possible, students are to place any applications for course credit before they commence their studies. To apply for course credit, the student must complete a ‘Credit Transfer Application Form’ (available on SCSB website and from reception desk). All applications are to be submitted to Student Administration and include original documents to be sighted and copied by Student Administration. Applications will not be accepted unless all required information is included. A ‘Credit Transfer Application Form’ must be accompanied by nationally recognised Certificates and/or with detailed Statement of Attainments indicating the units successfully completed including unit codes and titles and dates of completion. Once the application is received the following must occur:

Student Administration must adjust the student’s CoE to reflect any reduction in the period of study the student is enrolled.

SCSB will provide the student a ‘Confirming Outcome of Credit Application’ letter. The students must sign this letter to indicate agreement with the outcomes of Credit

Transfer and a copy is to be kept on the student’s file.

Deferring, Suspending or Cancelling your Enrolment Student enrolment can be deferred, suspended or cancelled in limited circumstances by SCSB or by the student. Deferrals, Suspensions and Cancellations can only be applied for in writing, using the Application Form for Deferment, Suspension or Cancellation of Studies available at the SCSB’s website or can be obtained from the reception desk. VERBAL notifications to Southern Cross School of Business staff or agents ARE NOT VALID. SCSB Definitions for Deferral, Suspension and Cancellation

Deferral – postponing the commencement of your course prior to course commencement.

Suspension – postponing your enrolment during your course.

Cancellation – cessation of enrolment in the course. It is important for international students to understand that deferrals, suspensions and cancellations may affect your student visa status. Cancelling your enrolment will attract cancellation fees. Where applicable, cancellation may also affect your refund. Please read the Refund and Cancellation Policy carefully to make an informed decision. A copy of our Refund and Cancellation Policy was included in your Letter of Offer. A deferral, suspension or cancellation of your enrolment can be initiated by yourself or by SCSB. All applications for deferment, suspensions and cancellations must be lodged no less than 14 days in advance and will be considered within 10 working days.

Based on the National Code Standard 13 for International Students, SCSB may only enable students to defer or temporarily suspend their studies, including granting a leave of absence, during the course through formal agreement in certain limited circumstances.


40

Right of Appeal You have the right to appeal any decision by SCSB to defer, suspend or cancel your studies. Southern Cross School of Business will maintain the student’s enrolment until the internal and external complaints and appeals process are completed.

Deferral of enrolment - Student initiated You may request a deferral of your course commencement by completing an Application Form for Deferment (available on SCSB website) or can be requested from the reception.

Procedure Complete an Application for Deferment Form and submit to the Administration Staff, with evidence to support your application, who will:

Discuss your application for deferment with SCSB Management;

Discuss the changes to your training plan with you

Confirm the outcome of the meeting in writing, and, if granted, provide you with a copy of the new schedule/intervention strategy

Inform you whether your application for deferment affects your visa;

Inform you that the length of time should not exceed 2 Terms

Update your student file accordingly;

Send you a letter outlining the deferment details, and

Notify the DIBP via PRISMS that the enrolment has been deferred. Note: A new CoE will be issued once a new commencement is processed. Deferring your enrolment may cause your refund for the current and subsequent semester to be forfeited. Please read the Refund and Cancellation Policy carefully to make an informed decision. A copy of our Refund and Cancellation Policy was included in your letter of offer

Deferment of enrolment - SCSB initiated SCSB may defer your enrolment of a course if the course does not commence as agreed in the Student Agreement. You will be informed about the changes to the course details and receive an option to either agree to the changes or to receive a refund, where applicable, as stipulated in the refund and cancellation policy outlined in this student handbook and available on our website.

Suspension of enrolment - Student initiated Once the course has commenced students may only request a suspension of their participation in compelling or compassionate circumstances. Compelling or compassionate circumstances are defined as things outside of the control of the student and which may have an influence on the student being able to complete their study program under the original CoE. They include things such as:

Serious illness or injury. A medical certificate is needed stating the student is unable to come to class.

Death of a close family member.


41

Major political unrest in home country or natural disaster. The student being witness to a crime or having a crime committed against them. SCSB being unable to offer a pre requisite unit.

Students must submit documents supporting their claim for suspension of their course (e.g. medical certificates). The granting of the suspension is at the discretion of the Chief Executive Officer/PRINCIPAL of SCSB. SCSB Management must approve the student’s application for suspension in writing before he/she can leave. The student must lodge his/her request for suspension by filing out an Application Form for Deferment, Suspension or Cancellation of Studies, available on SCSB website or can be requested from the reception. The maximum accepted duration for suspension is two study terms (20 weeks). Note: Suspending the enrolment may affect student’s refund for the current and subsequent semester to be forfeited. You should read the Refund and Cancellation Policy carefully to make an informed decision. A copy of our Refund and Cancellation Policy is always included in your letter of offer.

Procedure Complete an Application Form for Deferment, Suspension or Cancellation of Studies and submit to the Administration Staff, who will:

Discuss the application for suspension with SCSB’s Management;

Discuss the changes to the training plan with the student

Confirm the outcome of the meeting in writing, and, if granted, provide the student with a copy of the new training plan

Inform the student whether his/her application for suspension affects the visa;

Update the student file accordingly;

Send student a letter outlining the details of his/her suspension

In case of refusal, send the student a letter explaining the reason and;

Notify the Department of Education via PRISMS that the enrolment has been suspended.

Suspension of enrolment – SCSB initiated SCSB may suspend enrolment for a course if the course ceases to be provided at any time after it starts but before it is completed. Students will be informed about the changes to the course details and receive a refund, where applicable, as stipulated in the refund and cancellation policy outlined in this student handbook, Letter of Offer, and available on our website.

SCSB may also suspend a student’s enrolment due to the following reason:

Student behavioural misconduct as defined in the Behaviour Misconduct Policy

In case of the SCSB’s initiation of suspending a student’s enrolment due to the above reason, the length of time a student may have their enrolment suspended is at the discretion of the Chief Executive Officer of SCSB. However, a student’s enrolment may not be suspended more than one (1) Term without the circumstances being re-assessed. The student will be notified in writing in advance of the reasons and the timeframe of the suspension.


42

A student may appeal a suspension decision through SCSB’s internal appeals process. Any appeal will be dealt with as a matter of urgency to minimise any disadvantage to the student. A student’s enrolment will be maintained throughout the process. If, as part of this process, a student’s enrolment is cancelled, the student will be notified in writing of the reasons for the cancellation and given 20 working days to access SCSB’s internal complaints and appeals process. Any change in enrolment status will not be reported to the Department of Education until the internal appeals process has been completed unless extenuating circumstances relating to the student apply. Once the deferral, suspension or cancellation is processed SCSB will notify the Department of Education via PRISMS.

Cancellation of enrolment - SCSB initiated SCSB may choose to cancel the enrolment under the following circumstances:

Breach of the Southern Cross School of Business Code of Conduct Non-payment of student fees

Assault of another student or staff member The committing of a crime As part of the intervention strategy for unsatisfactory progress as defined in the

Monitoring Course Progress Policy.

If SCSB decides to cancel the student’s enrolment, then it will let the student know about their decision in writing, via a Notice of Intention to Cancel/Suspend/Defer. SCSB will remind the student, that the change in enrolment status may affect their visa, and that they have 20 working days to use SCSB’s complaints and appeals process as outlined in this Student Handbook. A copy of all correspondence will be kept in the student file.

If the student decides not to access the complaints and appeals process, then SCSB will notify

the DIBP via PRISMS that the student’s enrolment has been cancelled. If the student does use the complaints and appeals process, the cancellation will not take effect until the process is completed.

Cancellation of enrolment – Student initiated

Any student who wishes to cancel their enrolment with SCSB must apply in writing by completing an Application Form for Deferment, Suspension or Cancellation of Studies. The Form can be downloaded from the SCSB’s website or the reception. Cancelling student enrolment will attract cancellation fees. Where applicable, cancellation may also affect the refund. Student should read the Refund and Cancellation Policy carefully to make an informed decision. A copy of our Refund and Cancellation Policy is always included in the student’s Letter of Offer.

Procedure Complete an Application Form for Deferment, Suspension or Cancellation of Studies and submit to the Administration Staff.


43

The Administration Staff will identify the reason for the cancellation and if the reason is to transfer to another education provider, then the concerned Administration Staff will check whether the students have completed 6 months of their principal course. In this case, SCSB’s policy on ‘Student Transfer’ as mentioned above under Standard 7, will be followed by the concerned Administration Staff. As per this policy’s procedure, students will be required to complete Request for Release Form and submit it, together with a letter of offer from another education provider and other supporting documentation. The Administration Staff will then arrange a meeting of the student with the college’s CEO. The student is required to explain in the meeting the reasons for seeking a cancellation of current enrolment. The CEO along with the Administration Staff will ensure by checking with the Finance Department that the student has no outstanding tuition fees. If fees are outstanding, then the student will be notified in writing and at the same time will be advised that their cancellation request may be pending until the outstanding payment is cleared. If the cancellation is approved, the Administration Staff will process the cancellation of enrolment in PRISMS and notify student in writing. Cancellations may involve a refund. This is discussed with the Chief Executive Officer on a case-by-case basis.

Transfer to another College If you wish to be released from your studies at SCSB to transfer to another registered training provider within the first 6 months of commencing your first course of study, you must inform the Student Support Officer by completing a written application or through an email, of your intention to transfer at least 14 days prior to the transfer and submit a letter of offer from the other training provider. The Student Support Officer and the CEO will then meet to assess your request for transfer from SCSB to another registered provider where the first six months of the principal course have not elapsed. If your request for transfer is approved: The Student Support Officer will issue a letter of release* at no cost, but subject to the constraints of the refund policy; and Inform you that it is your responsibility to contact DIBP to ascertain whether a new student visa is required. *A release letter will only be issued when we have a valid Letter of Offer from your new RTO and that it is in your best interests.

Where the student has provided all the necessary documentation regarding letters of release the assessment will be made within 48 hours.

If the request for transfer is not approved, the Student Support Officer will do the following:

Issue a written response including the reasons for the refusal; Inform you of your right to appeal the decision; and Place a copy of all relevant documentation into your student file.


44

Note: A release letter will only be issued when we have a valid Letter of Offer from your RTO and that it is in your best interests.

Transferring from another College to SCSB SCSB will not enrol students transferring from another college prior to the student completing six months of their principal course of study. Students wishing to transfer from another college prior to the completion of the first six months of their principal course must present SCSB with a LETTER OF RELEASE from their training provider.

Exceptions are as following:

Your original registered training provider has ceased to be registered or the course in which you are enrolled has ceased to be registered.

Your original registered training provider has had sanctions imposed on its registration by the Australian Government or State or Territory Government that prevents you from continuing your principal course

You or a Government Sponsor consider the change to be in your best interest and where you provide evidence to support for that change.

Fees and refunds SCSB limits the collection of pre-paid fees in accordance with the ESOS Act. SCSB only collects up to 50% of the total tuition fees for any of its courses before a student commences the course. After the student commences, SCSB will only require the student to pay any further fees until 2 weeks before the start of the second study period.

Refund Policy

Southern Cross School of Business under the ESOS Act 2000 and the National Code 2007 has

a Refund Policy which is provided to the prospective international students studying in Australia

before formalization of their enrolment. The policy states the following:

1. If an applicant accepts a place offered by SCSB and pays the applicable fees, it means a binding contract is created between the student and SCSB.

2. Notification of withdrawal from unit/s or course of study must be made in writing to SCSB addressing to the Principal. The cancellation fee will be calculated as shown in the Schedule A.

3. All fees paid including any course fees collected by education agents on behalf

of SCSB except the non-refundable enrolment fee, are subject to this refund policy.


45

4. Where a visa renewal is rejected due to a breach in visa conditions, a student must withdraw from SCSB and the cancellation fee will be calculated as shown in the Schedule A.

5. SCSB reserves the right not to offer a course previously made available at its own discretion. Where a student is unable to enroll in a similar course at SCSB and the enrolment is cancelled then all fees paid will be refunded.

6. In the unlikely event that SCSB is unable to deliver the enrolled course in full (provider default), the students will be offered a refund of all the course money they have paid to date. The refund will be paid to them within 4 weeks of the day on which the course ceased being provided. Alternatively, the student may be offered enrolment in an alternative course by SCSB at no extra cost to them. The student has the right to choose whether he/she would prefer a full refund of course fees, or to accept a place in another course. If they choose placement in another course, we will ask them to sign a document to indicate that they accept the placement.

7. All refunds (apart from provider defaults) under this policy will be paid within four (4) weeks after receiving a written claim and full supporting documentation from the student.

8. If the student is not satisfied with a decision of the refund, an appeal should be made in writing to the Principal of SCSB.

9. Refunds will be made in Australian dollars and SCSB reserves the right to make refunds payable in the country of origin. Agency fees, if applicable, will not be refunded.

10. Where an international student requests that the refund is made payable to a relative or other person in Australia, this will only be granted if documentary evidence proves that the relative or other person paid the tuition fees.

Procedure for claiming refund:

Please fill up the ‘Fee Refund Form’ (which can be downloaded from SCSB’s website)

Submit the form with any supportive evidence to the Student Services Officer or

alternatively you can send the scanned copy of the ‘Fee Refund Form’ to the [email protected]

Once the ‘Fee Refund Form’ is received by the Student Services, it will be forwarded to the Principle for a review.

If eligible, refunds will be processed within 4 weeks.

In the event of an unsuccessful outcome or if the student is not eligible for a refund, students can appeal against the Principal’s decision accessing the SCSB’s Complaints and Appeals policy located on the SCSB’s website.

mailto:[email protected]


46

Schedule A Condition SCSB Policy Condition SCSB Policy

Written notice of withdrawal provided at least 4 weeks prior to course commencement

Paid tuition fees refunded, less $250 enrolment fee (non-refundable).

Visa refusal which caused the student’s failure to start the course before the course commencement

Paid tuition fees refunded, less $250 enrolment fee (non-refundable).

Written notice of withdrawal provided less than 4 weeks prior to course commencement

Refund equal to 50% of the paid tuition fees. The non-tuition fees are exempt from the refund amount.

If a student’s visa application is rejected after the student has commenced the course

The refund amount calculated will be the weekly tuition fee times the weeks in default period. The non-tuition fees are exempt from the refund amount.

Where a student provides written notice of withdrawal prior or during the new term

The refund amount calculated will be the weekly tuition fee times the weeks in default period.

Where a student does not commence the course on the start date and subsequently provides notice of withdrawal from the course

No refund of the $250 enrolment fee (non-refundable) and the first term fee. The subsequent terms paid in advance will be refunded.

SCSB refuses to continue the student in the course because of student misbehaviour, breached visa conditions, failure to pay outstanding fees

No refund of the $250 enrolment fee and current term fee. The subsequent terms paid in advance will be refunded.

Southern Cross School of Business cancels the course prior to course commencement

All monies paid to the provider, less $250 enrolment fee (non-refundable), will be refunded.

SCSB cancels the course before its expected end date

In the unlikely event of an SCSB’s default of a course, students will be offered with two options:

1) Full refund: The refund amount calculated will be the weekly tuition fee

times the weeks in default period; or

2) Alternative Course Arrangement: Students can be offered an alternative

course at Southern Cross School of Business with no extra charge.

Students will have the right to choose one of the above options.

# Overseas student refunds are calculated on the basis of the amount received from an education agent.

Payment method

Southern Cross School of Business accepts payment for fees using:

Credit Card Electronic Funds Transfer (account details available on request) Cheque (made payable to Southern Cross School of Business)

Payment in cash is discouraged.

Student Access to Records Policy

At SCSB, we acknowledge that students need access to their records in order to monitor their progress and participation. SCSB will facilitate access to records to a student on request. Requesting access to records

Students who require access to their records are required to complete a Records Request Form.

This form can be obtained from any SCSB staff member. It is the responsibility of all staff to


47

respond positively to these requests and assist the student to complete the request form and

facilitate access.

It should be noted that access will only be provided to the student in person and only after

identification has been confirmed. Photo ID is required. SCSB also requires the payment of an

administrative fee of $10.00 if the student requires a copy of their records. This is a one-off

admin fee that is only payable where copies are requested to take away by the student. If the

student is simply requesting access to view records, then this incurs no cost. The student does

however need to complete the Records Request Form on all occasions where access is

requested. The completed Records Request Form can be submitted to any staff member who

will pass the request to the Administration Manager. The Administration Manager will respond

to the request within two business days.

What records can be accessed?

The Records Request Form seeks to identify what specific records are requested to access.

These may include:

hard copy records from a student’s file which will include enrolment administrative records and assessment evidence.

activity data which is contained within the SCSB student management system including electronic training plan and details of awarded units of competency.

How are records accessed?

Once a student has requested access to records, a staff member will organise for the student to attend the SCSB office where controlled access will be provided. Controlled access means, hardcopy records may be viewed by the student in the presence of a SCSB staff member. Students who request activity data from the SCSB student management system can be provided this in a printed report format which details all activity recorded within the student’s training plan for any specific enrolment which includes achievement of units of competency. Students who request to access their records are to be provided with this access at the earliest opportunity. SCSB is committed to maintaining a transparent and equitable training environment. The Australian Skills Quality Authority is entitled to collect activity data about a student’s

enrolment and achievements. This information includes all information submitted by the student

during the enrolment process. This information is collected for the purpose of auditing

participation and the monitoring and reporting of training outcomes. The information provided

by students may be accessed by Commonwealth officers and by the National Centre for

Vocational Education Research (NCVER) for statistical research purposes.

You are entitled to have access to your student file and learning and assessment records on

request. You may require these to monitor your progress with training or simply to go back and

confirm something in a previous training module. While these records are retained by SCSB,


48

you are welcome to have access anytime - just ask your trainer and it will be organised

immediately.

You can access hard copy records and reports from our student management system, but only

relating to you personally. You can request this access using the Student Records Request

Form. Access to requested records during a work day will be arranged as soon as possible and

definitely within 24 hours. Students should note that these records cannot be taken away unless

a copy is requested. Where photocopies are requested, Southern Cross School of Business

reserves the right to charge a one-off photocopy fee of $10.00. There is no cost to simply view

records at our office.

Continuous improvement

SCSB is committed to the continuous improvement of our training and assessment services,

student services and management systems which is done through systematic and sustained

feedback procedures.

Learner satisfaction survey

At the completion of your training program, you will be issued with a Learner Satisfaction Survey

(Course Evaluation Form). This is aimed at collecting feedback from students about their

experience while studying a nationally recognised training program at SCSB. Your completion

and return of this survey is important to SCSB for our ongoing improvement of services. Your

assistance in gathering this survey data is greatly appreciated.

Southern Cross School of Business Equity Commitment

Legislation and Regulatory Responsibilities

SCSB is required to operate in accordance with the law. This means we comply with the requirements of legislative and regulatory requirements. The following legislation is a list of the Acts that SCSB has recognised it has obligations under. They also represent obligations to you as a student whilst training with SCSB. During your day-to-day work and when participating in training, you will need to be aware of the relevant legislation that may impact on your conduct and behaviour. Copies of State and Federal legislation can be found on the Internet at Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. (State) and www.comlaw.gov.au (Federal) The following is a summary of the legislation that will generally apply to SCSB stakeholders in their day-to-day work and training.

Work Health and Safety Act 2011

This Act provides for a balanced and nationally consistent framework to secure the health and safety of workers and workplaces. The WH&S Act protects SCSB stakeholders against harm to their health, safety and welfare through the elimination or minimisation of risks.

http://www.comlaw.gov.au/


49

Based on section 29 of the WH&S Act any person in SCSB, including students, staff and visitors, must take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions.

Privacy Act 1988

SCSB manages personal information in an open and transparent way. Please review the section within this handbook that relates to privacy protection. It provides you with information about:

the kinds of personal information that SCSB collects and holds;

how SCSB collects and holds personal information;

the purposes for which SCSB collects, holds, uses and discloses personal information;

how an individual may access personal information about the individual that is held by SCSB and seek the correction of such information;

how an individual may complain about a breach of the Australian Privacy Principles and how SCSB will deal with such a complaint; and

whether SCSB can disclose personal information to overseas recipients.

Disability Discrimination Act 1992

Sect 5 - Disability Discrimination SCSB does not treat anyone less favourably or discriminates against anyone on the grounds of a disability and would provide exceptional support for that person to succeed.

Sex Discrimination Act 1984

The application of this Act by SCSB implies that:

SCSB eliminates all forms of discrimination against women; and discrimination against persons on the ground of sex, marital status, pregnancy or potential pregnancy in the areas of work and education.

SCSB eliminates discrimination involving dismissal of employees on the ground of family responsibilities; and

SCSB eliminates discrimination involving sexual harassment in the educational facility

Age Discrimination Act 2004

The application of this Act by SCSB implies that:

SCSB eliminates, as far as possible, discrimination against persons on the ground of age in the areas of work, education, access to premises, the provision of goods, services and facilities, accommodation, and programs and requests for information; and

SCSB promotes recognition and acceptance within the College of the principle that people of all ages have the same fundamental rights to study or work in SCSB; and

SCSB responds to demographic change by removing barriers to mature aged students enrolling in programs, and working in the SCSB team.

Racial Discrimination Act 1975


50

This Act gives effect to Australia's obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. Its application in SCSB is shown by the following:

SCSB promotes equality before the law for all persons, regardless of their race, colour or national or ethnic origin, and

SCSB makes discrimination against people on the basis of their race, colour, descent or national or ethnic origin unlawful.

Copyright Act 1968

Copyright is a type of property that is founded on a person's creative skill and labour. It is designed to prevent the unauthorised use by others of a work, that is, the original form in which an idea or information has been expressed by the creator. These rights include the right to copy, publish, communicate (e.g. broadcast, make available online) and publicly perform the copyright material. There is no general exception that allows a work to be reproduced without infringing copyright. There is a 10% rule which applies in relation to fair dealing copying for the purposes of research or study in SCSB. Students are allowed maximum 10% portion of work may be copied from a source without infringing copyrights.

Fair Work Act 2009

The main application of this Act on SCSB stakeholders is to provide a balanced framework for cooperative and productive workplace relations that promote national economic prosperity and social inclusion for all stakeholders by:

Providing workplace relations laws that are fair to SCSB staff, are flexible for businesses, promote productivity and economic growth for Australia's future economic prosperity and take into account Australia’s international labour obligations;

Ensuring a guaranteed safety net of fair, relevant and enforceable minimum terms and conditions through the National Employment Standards, modern awards and national minimum wage orders;

Enabling fairness and representation at work and the prevention of discrimination by recognising the right to freedom of association and the right to be represented, protecting against unfair treatment and discrimination, providing accessible and effective procedures to resolve grievances and disputes and providing effective compliance mechanisms.

National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Act 2011

This legislation provides the basis for the establishment of the National VET Regulator (the registration authority for RTOs). A core component of this legislation applicable to SCSB is that it defines the condition for its registration based on the following:

compliance with the VET Quality Framework

satisfying Fit and Proper Person Requirements

satisfying the Financial Viability Risk Assessment Requirements

notifying National VET Regulator of important changes

co-operating with National VET Regulator

compliance with directions given by the National VET Regulator


51

Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015

The purpose of these Standards is to:

set out the requirements that an organisation must meet in order to be a registered training organisation (RTO);

ensure that training products delivered by RTOs meet the requirements of training packages or VET accredited courses, and have integrity for employment and further study; and

ensure RTOs operate ethically with due consideration of learners’ and enterprises’ needs

The Standards form part of the VET Quality Framework which is comprised of the Standards for Registered Training Organisations, the Australian Qualifications Framework, the Fit and Proper Person Requirements, the Financial Viability Risk Assessment Requirements and the Data Provision Requirements. Compliance with these Standards is a compulsory condition for SCSB to maintain its registration under the Act.

Additional Information for International Students Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

As an International Student, it is a condition of your Student Visa that you have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay in Australia. OSHC gives you access to out of hospital and in hospital medical services to help you maintain your health. Students must make an appointment with the Student Support Officer if there are any problems with OSHC.

ESOS Framework ESOS Act

The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act is an Australian Government Act that controls the delivery of international education in Australia. The ESOS Act was introduced to provide a legislative framework to ensure the quality of programs and services provided to international students and to ensure that the rights of international students are protected.

A full copy of the ESOS Framework for student reference is available at

https://internationaleducation.gov.au/regulatory-information/education-services-for-overseas-students-esos-legislative-framework/national-code/pages/default.aspx

VISA CONDITIONS You must abide by the student visa conditions. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in the cancellation of your visa. These conditions include (but are not limited to):

Complete the course within the duration specified in the CoE Maintain satisfactory academic progress Maintain approved Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) while in Australia




52

Remain with the principal education provider for 6 calendar months, unless issued a letter of release from the provider to attend another institution

Notify your training provider of your Australian address and any subsequent changes of address within 7 days.

Protection for overseas students As an overseas student on a student visa, you must study with an education provider and in a course that can be found on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) at http://cricos.deewr.gov.au/. CRICOS registration guarantees that the course and the education provider at which you study meet the high standards necessary for overseas students. Please check carefully that the details of your course − including its location − match the information on CRICOS.

Your rights based on ESOS The ESOS framework protects your rights in SCSB, including:

Your right to receive, before enrolling, current and accurate information about the courses, fees, modes of study and any other information from SCSB and its agents.

Your right to sign a written agreement with SCSB before or as fees are paid, setting out the services to be provided, fees payable and information about refunds of course money. You should keep a copy of your written agreement.

Your right to get the education you paid for. The ESOS framework includes consumer protection that will allow you to receive a refund or to be placed in another course if SCSB is unable to teach your course.

The ESOS framework sets out the standards Australian education providers offering education services to overseas students must obey. These standards cover a range of information you have a right to know and services that must be offered. The SCSB covers some of the standards including but not limited to the following:

orientation to help you understand the course and more about SCSB as well as access to support services that can help you study and adjust to life in Australia

SCSB’s contact officer or officers for overseas students

SCSB’s requirements for satisfactory attendance

SCSB’s requirements for satisfactory progress in the courses you study and what support is available if you are not progressing well

If you can apply for course credit and the circumstances in which your enrolment can be deferred, suspended or cancelled

A complaints and appeals process.

Your Responsibilities

As an overseas student of SCSB on a student visa, you have responsibilities to:

Satisfy your student visa conditions.

Maintain your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the period of your stay.

Meet the terms of the written agreement with your education provider.

Informing SCSB if you change your address or contact details (within 7days)

http://cricos.deewr.gov.au/


53

Maintain satisfactory course progress.

If attendance is recorded for your course, follow SCSB’s attendance policy.

If you are under 18, maintain your approved accommodation, support and general welfare arrangements.

Documents

International Student Handbook - scsb.nsw.edu.au