Self-Declaration
When you apply to the University you will need to tell us, using a form, about anything in your past or present that might impact on your suitability to study on a professional course.
If you have not already told us this, you must do so as soon as possible. We know that sometimes people make mistakes, and we are not here to punish you, but we need to make sure that you can practise safely and effectively.
We will look at the issue, when it occurred and how often. You will be asked about this during your application and enrolment.
Occupational Health
We will ask you to complete a form about your health and any conditions that you have which may affect your practise.
If you have a health condition or disability, we may be able to make reasonable adjustments to suit your needs. To help us do this you may be asked to attend a health check.
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
For some courses we need to check whether there are any reasons why you cannot practise in your profession. To do this we need you to complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) application.
It is important that you tell us about anything that may be on your DBS when we ask you to complete the self-declaration.
If not, we may be concerned about your honesty and be unable to offer you a place.
However, you do not need to tell us about protected convictions although these may appear on your DBS.
Suitability Panels
If you have declared something on your self-declaration, or your DBS is not clear, we may ask you to attend a Suitability Panel.
The panel will be made up of people who understand your course. The panel will include;
- The Course Director (or nominee)
- An academic from your course (not your personal or module tutor)
- Somebody who works in the relevant profession.
We know this can be a difficult time, so we always give you time to prepare, this is one week (excluding bank holidays). You may bring a friend with you and if you want to, you can write a statement before attending.
Someone will take notes at the meeting and you will be sent a copy of our risk assessment of your suitability to study on your course within one week (excluding bank holidays).
In some cases, you may be unable to continue on your chosen course due to the decision of the Suitability Panel. If this is the case, we will try to offer you an alternative.
If you disagree with decision of a Suitability Panel, you have a right to make an appeal. For more information, please see What if I feel the outcome is wrong?