Product Terms And Conditions
Product Terms & Conditions
1. Introduction and Acceptance
1.1 Agreement to Terms and Conditions
These Terms and Conditions, in conjunction with our Website Terms of Use, govern the sale and provision of all tutoring services and products by TheUKCATPeople. By purchasing any Course or service, including but not limited to one-on-one tutoring, group classes, online courses, and the Ultimate Package, you agree to these Terms and Conditions.
1.2 Updates to Terms and Conditions
TheUKCATPeople reserves the right to periodically update these Terms and Conditions to reflect changes in our services, legal requirements, or other factors that may affect our business and clients. To ensure transparency and keep our clients well-informed, we will notify them of any significant changes to these terms. This notification will be provided by email to the address registered with their account, outlining the nature and effective date of the changes.
We encourage clients to regularly review the Terms and Conditions available on our website and to keep their contact information up to date to ensure they receive all necessary communications from us. The latest version of these Terms and Conditions will always be available on our website, and the date of the most recent update will be indicated at the top of the document.
2. Definitions
2.1 Course
The term "Course" encompasses all forms of educational services offered by TheUKCATPeople. This includes both online and classroom-based options, ensuring that clients have a wide range of educational choices. Our diverse range of Courses caters to various learning preferences and needs.
2.2 Fees
"Fees" refer to charges for Courses and services, exclusive of any additional costs. It covers the financial aspect of our services, providing clarity on the pricing structure. We want our clients to have a clear understanding of the financial commitment involved in their chosen Course.
2.3 Study Materials
"Study Materials" include a comprehensive list of resources aimed at enhancing the learning experience. This encompasses workbooks, online resources, practice exams, and any proprietary educational content. Our commitment to providing Study Materials ensures that clients have the necessary tools for success in their educational journey.
2.4 Ultimate Package
The "Ultimate Package" is a premium service provided by TheUKCATPeople. It includes personalised mentoring and comprehensive tutoring support, ensuring that clients have access to top-tier educational assistance. This premium service is designed to offer the highest level of support and guidance.
3. Ordering and Payment
3.1 Payment System
Clients typically purchase services through a package system, paid upfront. This payment system provides convenience and transparency to clients, as they know the full cost of the service in advance. Instalment options are available but are subject to strict adherence to payment schedules. We offer flexibility in payment to accommodate various financial situations.
3.2 Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with instalment schedules may result in service termination and a requirement to pay the remaining balance. TheUKCATPeople reserves the right to charge late payment interest on any overdue amounts, at a rate of 6% a year above the base lending rate of Barclays Bank PLC from time to time. The interest shall accrue daily from the due date until the date of actual payment of the overdue amount, whether before or after judgment. You must pay us interest together with the overdue amount.
3.3 Prohibition of Direct Payments to Tutors
At TheUKCATPeople, we enforce a strict and non-negotiable policy prohibiting direct payments to tutors under any circumstances. This rule is critical to maintain the integrity and transparency of our payment system and to ensure that all financial transactions are conducted solely through TheUKCATPeople's official channels. Adherence to this policy is essential for the protection of both our clients and tutors, preventing any potential financial disputes and ensuring a clear record of all transactions.
Clients are reminded that any attempt to bypass this policy by offering or making direct payments to tutors will result in immediate and significant consequences. These may include but are not limited to, termination of service without a refund, potential legal action, and barring from future use of our services. Tutors are equally bound by this policy and are obligated to report any offers of direct payment to TheUKCATPeople administration immediately.
We take this policy very seriously and expect full compliance from all parties to uphold the highest standards of financial conduct within our educational community.
4. Tutors
4.1 Rigorous Recruitment Process
Tutors are recruited following a rigorous process as detailed in our Safeguarding Policy. This process guarantees that only qualified and trustworthy individuals are entrusted with the responsibility of tutoring clients. We prioritise the safety and quality of our tutoring services.
4.2 Qualifications and Training
Tutors must meet specific qualifications and undergo training and vetting processes. This commitment to tutor qualifications ensures that clients receive high-quality educational support. Our tutors are equipped with the knowledge and skills to guide clients effectively. We continuously monitor and assess their performance, relying heavily on student feedback to ensure they meet our high standards. Only those who consistently receive positive feedback and demonstrate a genuine commitment to student success are retained on our team.
5. Cancellation and Refund Policy
5. Cancellation and Refund Policy
5.1 No-Refund Policy
At TheUKCATPeople, we maintain a strict no-refund policy once you have enrolled in any of our Courses or services, including one-on-one tutoring, group classes, online courses, and the Ultimate Package. All fees paid are non-refundable by default. This policy underscores our confidence in the quality and value of our educational offerings and the immediate access provided to our resources upon enrollment. The only exceptions to this policy are outlined in Sections 5.2 and 5.3 under specific conditions.
5.2 Ultimate Package Cancellation
If you enroll in the Ultimate Package, you may cancel within 72 hours of your initial consultation to qualify for a refund. The "initial consultation" is defined as the first scheduled video meeting with your mentor or the commencement of access to any online resources, whichever occurs first. Should you cancel within this period, you will receive a refund of the total fees paid minus a £400 initial consultation fee. Cancellation requests must be submitted via email to "info@theukcatpeople.co.uk" within the specified 72-hour window.
5.3 Exceptional Refunds
While our policy is generally non-refundable, we recognise that extraordinary circumstances, such as securing a university place via clearing or significant personal changes (e.g., major health issues, unforeseen severe family responsibilities), might necessitate a departure from this policy. Such refunds are discretionary, rare, and capped at a maximum of 10% of the remaining fees, with the final decision made solely by the senior administration team. To request an exceptional refund, please email a formal request to info@theukcatpeople.co.uk, detailing the specific circumstances and providing relevant supporting documentation. All requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and the team's decision is final. We will respond to all refund requests within 14 days of their submission.
5.4 Refund Processing Time
Upon approval of a refund, the processing will occur within 7 business days from the date of the refund approval decision. This timeline ensures that you receive your funds promptly, reflecting our commitment to service and client satisfaction.
5.5 Transfer of Remaining Hours
We offer flexibility by allowing the transfer of unused hours within a package to a sibling or friend if circumstances change. This transfer must be initiated within three months of the last conducted lesson within the original package and completed by emailing "info@theukcatpeople.co.uk" with the details of the recipient. Transferred hours must be utilised within six months from the date of transfer. Please note that these transferred hours are non-refundable and are subject to the same terms and conditions as the original package purchase.
5.6 Other Online Courses
Please be aware that all fees for other Courses, such as online courses, one-day courses, live days, weekly classes, and books, are non-refundable upon purchase. We encourage clients to review all course details carefully before enrollment to ensure that their choice aligns with their educational goals and commitments.
6. Intellectual Property & Materials
6.1 Ownership of Materials
TheUKCATPeople is the sole owner of all Course materials, including Study Materials and proprietary content. Clients are granted a limited, non-exclusive, and non-transferable license to use these materials solely for personal educational purposes. This means that clients have the right to access and utilise the provided educational resources during the duration of their enrollment in a Course. However, it's important to emphasise that ownership and copyright of these materials remain with TheUKCATPeople.
Any unauthorised distribution, reproduction, or sharing of these materials, whether for commercial gain or otherwise, is strictly prohibited. Clients must respect the intellectual property rights of TheUKCATPeople and fellow clients. Violation of this policy may result in legal action and immediate termination of services.
6.2 Digital Study Materials
TheUKCATPeople is committed to providing comprehensive digital study materials and resources to support the educational journey of our clients. These materials may include but are not limited to online resources, practice exams, proprietary educational content, and digital resources (collectively referred to as "Study Materials").
6.3 Online Access
For clients accessing digital Study Materials, it is a requirement to create an account on our online learning platform. This account will serve as the gateway to accessing the digital resources. TheUKCATPeople shall provide instructions for account creation upon enrollment. Please note that failure to create an account and access the digital Study Materials is the responsibility of the client. TheUKCATPeople shall not be held liable for any issues arising from a client's failure to create an account and access the provided materials.
6.4 Associated Costs
The costs associated with digital Study Materials will be communicated to clients during the enrollment process. Clients are responsible for any associated costs as outlined in the course or service agreement.
By enrolling in a course or utilising our services, clients acknowledge and agree to the terms related to the provision of digital Study Materials as outlined in this clause.
7. Code of Conduct
7.1 Respectful Behaviour
Clients are expected to uphold the highest standards of respectful and professional behaviour when interacting with tutors, staff, and fellow clients within TheUKCATPeople's educational environment. This includes refraining from any form of harassment, discrimination, or disrespectful behaviour.
Harassment includes but is not limited to verbal abuse, offensive language, and any actions that create a hostile or uncomfortable environment. Discrimination based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic is strictly prohibited.
TheUKCATPeople is committed to providing an inclusive and safe learning environment for all clients. Failure to adhere to these behavioural standards may result in immediate termination of services without a refund.
7.2 Academic Integrity
Clients are expected to maintain the highest levels of academic integrity in all aspects of their studies with TheUKCATPeople. This includes a strict prohibition on plagiarism and cheating.
Plagiarism, which involves presenting someone else's work, ideas, or words as one's own, is a serious breach of academic integrity and will not be tolerated. Similarly, any form of cheating, including copying from others during exams or submitting work that is not one's own, is strictly prohibited.
Violations of academic integrity will result in disciplinary actions, which may include expulsion from Courses. TheUKCATPeople is committed to upholding the value of education and ensuring that all clients have a fair and honest learning experience.
7.3 Ethical Practice
At TheUKCATPeople, we take ethical conduct seriously. By enrolling in our Courses, clients agree to adhere to our ethical standards, which encompass professionalism, punctuality, and compliance with our safeguarding policy. We prioritise a safe and respectful learning environment for all. Inappropriate behaviour, including safeguarding breaches, plagiarism, or unethical practices, may lead to termination of services. For a detailed understanding of our safeguarding policy, please refer to TheUKCATPeople's Safeguarding Policy.
7.4 Client Responsibilities
Alongside adhering to our Code of Conduct, it is essential for clients to actively engage in their educational journey with TheUKCATPeople by fulfilling certain responsibilities. Clients are expected to maintain a conducive learning environment, particularly during online sessions or while working on assignments, ensuring the space is quiet and free from distractions to facilitate focused study. Regular attendance and punctuality for scheduled courses are crucial, and clients are responsible for notifying us in advance if they are unable to attend a session. Being well-prepared for each tutoring session is equally important; this includes completing any preparatory work, having the necessary materials ready, and being mentally prepared to actively participate in the learning process. Open and timely communication is encouraged, allowing clients to provide feedback on their learning experience and raise any concerns they might have, thus enabling us to continuously adapt and enhance our services. Additionally, we expect clients to engage respectfully with our tutors, fostering a positive and productive educational environment. By fulfilling these responsibilities, clients contribute significantly to the effectiveness of their learning experience with TheUKCATPeople.
7.5 Ultimate Package - Additional Hours, Upgrade Terms, and Client Responsibility
7.5.1 Additional Tutoring Hours
Clients enrolled in the Ultimate Package, which includes a predetermined number of tutoring hours (20, 35, 50 or 75 hours - as specified on your receipt), must understand that these hours are finite. If a client depletes their allotted hours, they have the option to purchase additional tutoring hours. These additional hours will be charged at a rate of £75 per hour, regardless of any discounts or special rates that may have applied to the original package.
7.5.2 No Discount on Additional Hours
The purchase of additional hours beyond the initial package does not qualify for any discounts or reduced rates. The rate of £75 per hour is strictly applicable for any extra hours required after the initial package hours are utilised.
7.5.3 Package Upgrade within 72 Hours
Clients are permitted to upgrade to a higher tier of the Ultimate Package (e.g., from 20 to 35 hours or 35 to 50 hours) within a 72-hour window following their initial consultation. This upgrade is contingent upon discussion and agreement with their mentor, allowing for adjustments should clients realise a need for more hours than initially planned.
7.5.4 Restriction on Post-72 Hour Upgrades
After the 72-hour period post-initial consultation, clients will not be eligible to upgrade their package by simply paying the difference between packages. Any additional hours needed beyond this timeframe must be purchased at the standard rate of £75 per hour, as detailed in clause 4.5.1.
7.5.5 Client Responsibility for Hour Management
It is the client's responsibility to manage and budget their tutoring hours effectively. TheUKCATPeople provides resources and support to facilitate learning, but the onus of monitoring the usage of tutoring hours lies with the client. Clients are encouraged to plan their sessions in advance and communicate with their tutors to make the most efficient use of their time. TheUKCATPeople will not be responsible for the exhaustion of tutoring hours or for providing additional hours without the standard charge.
7.5.6 Commitment to Student Support While TheUKCATPeople is committed to supporting our students' educational journey, we encourage proactive engagement and personal responsibility in managing tutoring resources. We aim to provide quality education and support within the framework of the agreed terms, helping each student to achieve their academic goals.
8. Privacy and Data Protection
8.1 Data Collection and Usage
TheUKCATPeople is dedicated to protecting the privacy and data of its clients. We collect and process client data in strict compliance with applicable data protection laws, ensuring that all personal information is handled securely and responsibly.
Client data is collected for the sole purpose of delivering educational services, including enrollment, communication, and progress tracking. TheUKCATPeople does not share client data with third parties without explicit consent, except when required by law.
Clients can have confidence that their personal information is treated with the utmost care and is used exclusively for educational purposes. This is all detailed in our Privacy Policy.
8.2 Confidentiality
TheUKCATPeople places a high value on client confidentiality. All client information, including academic records, performance data, and communication with tutors, is treated with the utmost confidentiality.
We maintain strict confidentiality protocols to safeguard client privacy. Tutors and staff are trained to handle client information responsibly and are bound by confidentiality agreements. Clients can trust that their academic journey with TheUKCATPeople is private and secure.
9. Complaints and Dispute Resolution
9.1 Reporting Concerns
We understand the importance of a supportive and effective learning environment. If any concerns arise regarding a tutor's conduct, teaching methods, or effectiveness, we urge parents to contact us without delay. Concerns can be emailed to info@theukcatpeople.co.uk, where our dedicated team will promptly address and investigate the issue.
Client feedback is invaluable in helping us improve our services, and we take all concerns seriously. Our support team will work diligently to resolve issues and provide appropriate solutions.
In the unlikely event that a tutor does not align with your expectations, or if there is a mismatch in teaching styles, we are fully prepared to take the necessary steps to rectify the situation. This may include changing the tutor to better suit the student’s needs. Our aim is always to ensure a positive and enriching learning experience for every student, and we take all feedback and concerns very seriously.
Our commitment to maintaining open communication lines means that we are always ready to swiftly address and resolve any issues, guaranteeing that your experience with TheUKCATPeople is both positive and impactful.
9.2 Dispute Resolution Timeframe
In the event of a dispute that cannot be resolved through normal channels, clients and TheUKCATPeople agree to engage in good-faith mediation or arbitration, as determined by applicable laws. The mediation or arbitration process is expected to conclude within 90 days of initiation, providing a clear timeframe for resolution.
TheUKCATPeople is committed to resolving disputes in a manner that is fair, transparent, and respectful of the rights and interests of all parties involved.
10. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
10.1 Applicable Law
These Terms and Conditions, along with any contractual or non-contractual matters arising from them, are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the United Kingdom. This choice of law ensures a clear and consistent legal framework for interpreting and enforcing these terms.
10.2 Jurisdiction
Any disputes, whether contractual or non-contractual, arising out of or in connection with these Terms and Conditions, shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of the United Kingdom. This provision ensures that all legal actions related to these terms are handled within a familiar and predictable legal environment.
10.3 International Disputes
For clients residing outside the United Kingdom, both TheUKCATPeople and the client agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the UK courts. However, TheUKCATPeople retains the right to bring proceedings against a client in their country of residence or any other relevant country. This is to ensure flexibility in resolving international disputes and to allow TheUKCATPeople to enforce its rights and remedies in jurisdictions outside the United Kingdom if necessary.
11. Termination of Services
11.1 Client Conduct
TheUKCATPeople reserves the right to terminate services if a client's conduct is deemed disruptive, disrespectful, or in violation of our Code of Conduct (Section 7). Termination may occur after a warning, and in such cases, no refund will be provided.
11.2 Non-Payment
In the event of non-payment of Fees or failure to adhere to payment schedules (Section 3), TheUKCATPeople may terminate services. Clients will be notified in advance of any potential service termination due to non-payment.
12. Accessibility and Accommodations
12.1 Accessibility
TheUKCATPeople is committed to providing accessible education to all clients. Clients with disabilities or special needs are encouraged to inform us of their requirements in advance. We will make reasonable efforts to accommodate such requests, ensuring that our services are inclusive.
13. Communication
13.1 Communication Channels
Clients are expected to primarily use official communication channels provided by TheUKCATPeople for all correspondence related to their education. This includes email, messaging systems within the learning platform, and scheduled video conferences. Use of external communication channels for academic purposes may be restricted.
13.2 Response Times
TheUKCATPeople commits to reasonable response times for client inquiries and concerns. Response times may vary depending on the nature of the inquiry but will generally adhere to a set standard. This ensures that clients receive timely assistance and support.
14. Third-Party Services
14.1 External Resources
When utilising external educational resources, clients are advised to exercise discretion and verify the reliability of the sources. While external resources can complement our materials, clients should be cautious about the quality and accuracy of third-party content.
15. Liability and Indemnification
15.1 Limitation of Liability
TheUKCATPeople's liability for any claims, damages, losses, or grievances arising from or related to the enrollment or participation in any Course, or through the utilisation of any services, is limited to the total fee paid by the client for the specific Course or service from which the claim arises. This limitation applies to all claims, regardless of their nature or legal basis, whether in contract, tort, breach of statutory duty, or otherwise.
Specifically, TheUKCATPeople shall not be held liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages. This includes, but is not limited to, loss of profits, data, business, goodwill, or anticipated savings. This exclusion applies irrespective of whether such damages were foreseeable and even if TheUKCATPeople had been advised of the possibility of such damages.
Before taking any legal action, clients are required to engage in a mandatory dispute resolution process, including mediation or arbitration as detailed in our Dispute Resolution Policy. This process is intended to provide a fair and effective avenue for resolving any disputes without resorting to litigation.
While we strive to limit our liability within the bounds of the law, this clause does not limit any liability which cannot legally be limited. This includes but is not limited to, liability for death or personal injury caused by our negligence, fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation, and any other liabilities that cannot be excluded under applicable law.
By agreeing to these terms, clients acknowledge their understanding and acceptance of this limitation of liability as a fair allocation of risk. This acknowledgement is an essential part of the agreement between TheUKCATPeople and the client, reflected in the pricing and terms of our services.
15.2 Indemnification
Clients agree to indemnify and hold harmless TheUKCATPeople and its tutors and staff from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from their use of our services, including legal fees. This clause helps protect TheUKCATPeople from legal actions that may arise due to a client's actions or conduct.
16. Force Majeure
16.1 Unforeseeable Events
In the event of a force majeure, TheUKCATPeople will not be liable for any failure or delay in our performance. This applies to situations beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters like earthquakes and floods, acts of terrorism, public health emergencies such as pandemics, labour disputes, and significant government actions like new regulations or orders. When such events occur, we will promptly notify our clients about the situation and its potential impact on our services. Our response strategy includes adapting our service delivery to the circumstances, such as switching to online platforms during natural disasters or public health emergencies, rescheduling courses, or adjusting service timelines as needed. We are committed to providing support and guidance to our clients throughout the force majeure event and will offer regular updates on our efforts to resume normal operations. We aim to minimise the impact on our clients and ensure a swift return to full service once the force majeure event has been resolved.
17. Entire Agreement
17.1 Comprehensive Understanding
These Terms and Conditions, in conjunction with TheUKCATPeople's Website Terms of Use and any specific Course agreements, constitute the entire agreement between clients and TheUKCATPeople. They supersede all prior agreements, discussions, or representations, providing a comprehensive understanding of the terms governing our relationship.
18. Severability
18.1 Validity of Provisions
If any provision of these Terms and Conditions is found to be invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect. This clause ensures that the invalidity of one provision does not invalidate the entire agreement.
19. Amendments
19.1 Changes to Terms
TheUKCATPeople reserves the right to make amendments to these Terms and Conditions. Clients will be notified of significant changes, and any amendments will become effective after a reasonable notice period. Clients may be required to acknowledge and accept updated terms to continue using our services.
20. Contact Information
20.1 Support and Inquiries
Clients are encouraged to reach out to TheUKCATPeople's support team for any inquiries, concerns, or support needs. Contact information for our support team will be readily available by emailing info@theukcatpeople.co.uk.
We keep our statement under regular review. This statement was last updated on 21st November 2023.