1. Course Structure & Access
Courses are delivered in structured learning units. All units are released immediately upon enrolment, unless otherwise stated.
Although full access is granted at the outset, learners are expected to complete the programme in a logical sequence. The structure of the course is designed to support progressive understanding and skill development. This approach is fundamental to maintaining learning quality and programme integrity.
Access to learning materials does not guarantee certification or successful completion. All requirements outlined in these Terms must be met.
By enrolling, you confirm your agreement to this structure.
2. Time Limits for Course Completion
Learners have two (2) years from the date of enrolment to complete their course.
If no contact is made with the Association for a period of six (6) months or more, learners are encouraged to contact the Association to confirm their intention to continue.
Extensions may be granted at the discretion of the Association and may be subject to additional fees.
3. Certification & Final Assessment (Diploma Courses Only)
Formal grading applies only to Diploma-level programmes.
Upon successful completion of all course requirements, learners will be awarded a qualification graded as:
PASS
MERIT
DISTINCTION
Final grading is awarded at the conclusion of the programme and is based on:
Overall commitment to study
Quality, depth, and consistency of submitted work
Evidence of independent research and understanding demonstrated throughout the course
Individual units are reviewed for satisfactory completion and understanding but are not graded separately.
4. Academic Integrity & Original Work
The Association of Canine Learning operates a strict academic integrity policy.
All submitted work must be original and written entirely in the learner’s own words. The following are not permitted:
Copying text verbatim from course materials or external sources
Copy-and-paste content from websites
Content generated by artificial intelligence (AI), including tools such as ChatGPT
Quotations and references are encouraged, particularly for Diploma-level study. All quoted material must be clearly referenced and explained in the learner’s own words.
Any submission found to contain non-original content will be marked UNGRADED (U) and returned for resubmission. Resubmissions are assessed under standard criteria and do not negatively affect the final outcome.
Three-Strikes Policy
A learner receiving a U grade on three separate submissions will be reviewed for suitability to continue the programme. If removal is deemed appropriate, no refund will be issued.
Submission of the first assignment constitutes acceptance of this policy.
5. Learner Conduct & Professional Behaviour
Learners are expected to communicate professionally, respectfully, and constructively at all times.
Concerns should be raised via email with the assigned tutor in the first instance. If unresolved, the matter may be escalated internally.
Abusive, disrespectful, or inappropriate communication toward staff will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the programme without refund.
The Association also protects its professional reputation. Deliberate, unfounded, or malicious attempts to damage the Association’s reputation—particularly via social media—may result in immediate termination of enrolment and potential legal action. Genuine course reviews are welcomed.
6. Discounts & Eligibility
Discounts may be available to:
Armed forces personnel and their families
Veterinary professionals
Existing learners and graduates
Eligibility for discount codes is verified prior to course access.
Unauthorised use of discount codes will result in cancellation of enrolment. Any refund issued will be subject to a £20 administration fee.
7. Submitting Assignments & Feedback
Learners are responsible for ensuring submissions meet the course requirements.
Submissions should:
Demonstrate understanding of the learning material
Be clear, concise, and relevant
Be submitted in Word, PDF, or email format
Unless specifically requested, lengthy essays are not required.
The Association aims to return feedback within four (4) working days, though this may be extended during peak periods.
Submission Requirements
When submitting work:
Include your full name
State the course name and unit number in the subject line
Avoid using “RE:” in the subject line
Clearly indicate resubmissions
An automated confirmation will acknowledge receipt. Submissions are processed in order. Revised submissions replace earlier versions and are placed at the back of the queue.
8. Assessment Criteria
Work is reviewed against the following criteria:
Evidence the learning material has been read and understood
Ability to explain concepts using appropriate terminology
Independent interpretation and original written responses
Submissions are assessed as either:
Satisfactory
Criteria Not Satisfied (CNS)
All required elements must be satisfactory for successful course completion.
9. Refunds, Transfers & Cancellations
By enrolling with the Association of Canine Learning, you enter into a legally binding agreement for the provision of digital educational services.
Cooling-Off Period
Consumers may cancel within 14 calendar days of enrolment. However:
Course access begins immediately
Learning materials, tutor allocation, and system access are provided instantly
By agreeing at checkout, you acknowledge that the right to cancel is waived once the service begins
Refund Consideration
As a goodwill gesture, refunds within 14 days may be considered, subject to:
£50 administration fee (no submissions made)
£100 administration fee (if any submission has been made)
Example: If a £45 instalment is paid and cancellation is requested, the full payment may be retained as an administration fee.
Transfers & Course Changes
Within 30 days of enrolment and before submitting any work, learners may request:
A course change
Transfer of enrolment to another individual
A £50 administration fee applies. Requests must be made in writing.
10. General Terms
The Association cannot accept responsibility for changes in personal or professional circumstances after enrolment. Learners should consider their availability before enrolling.
All requests relating to refunds, transfers, or course changes must be submitted in writing. Responsibility for confirming receipt rests with the learner.