Terms and Conditions for Online Tuition
Once you have read through the Terms and Conditions carefully, please complete this form:
DEFINITIONS:
Client: The individual or individuals who request, arrange, and pay for the service. This individual is assumed to be the person who initiates contact with Great Expectations Education. The individual or entity engaging Great Expectations Education for consultancy or coaching services, including any legal guardian responsible for payment.
Student: The individual receiving tutoring or assessment from Great Expectations Education.
Tuition: The provision of lessons to the Students, charged at an hourly or sessional rate.
Consultancy: The provision of educational advice or consultation, charged at an hourly rate.
Consultant: The individual delivering the consultancy services on behalf of Great Expectations Education.
Training session: The allocated time to train individuals or groups, charged at an hourly rate or by prior arrangement.
School holidays: Any period designated as non-term time, inclusive of all school dates within the UK as stipulated by Buckinghamshire County Council.
Contract: The agreement between Great Expectations Education and the Client, outlining the terms, obligations, and rights of both parties.
Force Majeure: Any unforeseeable circumstance that prevents one party from fulfilling the contract, including acts of God, war, and government restrictions.
Resources: Any educational materials, worksheets, or digital content created or recommended by Great Expectations Education, which shall remain the intellectual property of Great Expectations Education.
Client Cancellation: Refers to the instance wherein a Client withdraws from a scheduled lesson or consultancy session under specified conditions outlined in these terms.
2. CONTACT DETAILS:
2.1 The primary contact methods for Great Expectations Education are as follows:
Email: greatexpectationsed@gmail.com
WhatsApp: A contact number will be provided directly to Clients prior to their first lesson or consultancy session.
2.2 WhatsApp and email messages will only be checked during designated working hours. Working hours may vary weekly depending on lesson delivery, consultancy sessions, and resource production demands.
2.3 Great Expectations Education will communicate with Clients via email, WhatsApp, or other mutually agreed-upon methods to ensure efficient service delivery.
Clients must provide accurate and up-to-date contact information and notify Great Expectations Education promptly of any changes.
Communication channels provided by Great Expectations Education are strictly for consultancy, tuition, or service-related correspondence. Clients agree not to use these channels for personal, promotional, or unrelated purposes.
2.4 Great Expectations Education endeavors to respond to all emails and messages within seven working days. In cases of high demand, public holidays, or unexpected circumstances, response times may be longer, and Clients will be notified if delays are anticipated.
2.5 Clients acknowledge that email and messaging applications are not guaranteed to be secure methods of communication. Great Expectations Education is not responsible for unauthorized access to information shared through these platforms. Clients are encouraged to avoid sharing sensitive personal information via unsecured communication channels.
2.6 Contact details provided are for the sole use of Clients engaging with Great Expectations Education. Sharing or using these details for unsolicited communication is prohibited.
2.6 Communication for Additional Services (Workshops, Resource Purchases, Events): Clients participating in workshops, purchasing resources, or engaging in other activities facilitated by Great Expectations Education agree to receive communications related to these services via the contact details provided.
2.7 Emergency Contact: Great Expectations Education does not offer an emergency response service. Urgent queries should be marked as such, and reasonable efforts will be made to respond promptly; however, immediate assistance cannot be guaranteed.
3. CONFIDENTIALITY
3.1 Great Expectations Education is committed to maintaining the confidentiality and privacy of all Clients. Personal data and confidential information are handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy and applicable data protection laws.
Confidential information shared during lessons, consultancy sessions, or other interactions will not be disclosed without the Client’s prior written consent, except where disclosure is required by law or necessary to prevent harm.
3.2 Scope of Confidentiality: Confidentiality applies to all written, verbal, and digital communications, including lesson content, consultancy advice, assessments, and personal data shared by the Client.
3.3 Exceptions to Confidentiality: Confidentiality may be breached without the Client's consent under the following circumstances:
To comply with legal obligations or court orders.
To report safeguarding concerns or risks of harm to a person, in line with statutory requirements.
To share relevant information with regulatory bodies or professional advisors if necessary for legal or compliance purposes.
3.4 Data Security and Storage: Great Expectations Education will take reasonable steps to ensure that personal and confidential information is stored securely and protected from unauthorized access. However, no system is completely secure, and the Client acknowledges that communication via email or other digital platforms carries inherent risks.
3.5 Third-Party Access: Personal data will not be shared with third parties unless:
The Client has provided explicit consent, or
Sharing is required to provide services (e.g., use of third-party payment processors), subject to the terms of our Privacy Policy.
3.6 Access to Records: Clients may request access to their personal data or session records in accordance with data protection regulations. Requests should be made in writing and are subject to any applicable fees and processing times outlined in the Privacy Policy.
3.7 Confidentiality for Group Activities (Workshops or Events): Participants in group sessions, workshops, or events facilitated by Great Expectations Education are expected to respect the confidentiality of other participants. Information shared in these settings should not be disclosed without the consent of the individual involved.
4. EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY
4.1 Great Expectations Education is committed to promoting and maintaining an inclusive, equitable, and respectful environment for all Clients, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics. This commitment is in accordance with the principles of relevant equality legislation, including the Equality Act 2010 (or applicable regional law).
4.2 Application of Equality Principles: This commitment to equality and diversity applies to all aspects of service delivery, including:
One-on-one and group tuition.
Consultancy sessions.
Participation in workshops, events, and other educational activities.
Communication, feedback, and customer service.
4.3 Prohibited Conduct: Great Expectations Education has a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, and any form of conduct that violates the principles of equality. This includes actions or language that demean or exclude individuals based on protected characteristics.
4.4 Responsibilities of Clients and Participants: All Clients and participants in activities facilitated by Great Expectations Education are expected to:
Treat others with respect, fairness, and inclusivity.
Refrain from discriminatory behavior or language.
Comply with any relevant policies or codes of conduct provided.
Failure to adhere to these standards may result in the termination of services or exclusion from future activities.
4.5 Reasonable Adjustments: Great Expectations Education will make reasonable adjustments to accommodate the diverse needs of students and clients, particularly those with disabilities or additional learning requirements, in accordance with applicable equality legislation. Clients are encouraged to discuss any specific needs in advance to ensure appropriate support is provided.
4.6 Equality in Resource Access and Purchases: All Clients purchasing resources or engaging in services provided by Great Expectations Education will have equal access to these offerings without bias or preference based on any protected characteristic.
5. CLIENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND REQUIREMENTS
5.1 Provision of Contact Information: The Client must provide accurate and up-to-date contact information, including a postal address, a primary contact number, and an email address. The Client agrees to notify Great Expectations Education promptly of any changes. Failure to provide current contact details may result in disruption to service delivery.
5.2 Disclosure of Relevant Information: The Client must disclose any medical conditions, behavioural concerns, or learning difficulties that may affect the Student’s learning experience. Great Expectations Education will make reasonable adjustments to accommodate the needs of Students with special educational needs and disabilities, provided that the Client supplies relevant information in advance of tuition or consultancy sessions.
Failure to disclose significant information may limit the effectiveness of services and absolve Great Expectations Education of liability for any related outcomes.
5.3 Information for Workshops, Events, and Resource Purchases: For workshops, group activities, or resource purchases, the Client may be required to provide additional information to facilitate service delivery. This may include attendance preferences, accessibility requirements, or other relevant details as requested.
5.4 Accuracy of Provided Information
The Client guarantees that all information provided is accurate, complete, and up-to-date. Misrepresentation or withholding of material information may result in service termination or other appropriate action.6. FEES, PAYMENTS, AND INVOICES
6.1 Tuition Fees
6.1.1 Booking and Payment for Tuition
By reserving a time slot, the Client agrees to pay for all allocated sessions each term, regardless of attendance, unless agreed otherwise in writing before term commencement. Payment is due for half-term blocks in advance.6.1.2 Rates and Increases
Tuition rates are agreed upon at the time of booking and may increase annually in line with inflation and cost of living. Clients will receive written notice of any rate adjustments.6.1.3 Holiday and Ad-hoc Tuition
Holiday lessons and ad-hoc sessions are arranged separately, subject to availability, and must be paid in full at booking. These sessions are non-refundable.
6.2 Consultancy Fees
6.2.1 Fee Basis
All consultancy is provided on a private cost basis. Fees are due regardless of outcomes, and services are not offered on a “no win, no fee” basis.6.2.2 Payment and Ownership of Work
Payment for flat-rate packages is due before work begins. Hourly packages require payment within five working days. Ownership of created materials remains with Great Expectations Education until full payment is received.6.2.3 Schedule and Flexibility
Consultancy sessions are arranged by mutual agreement. Recommendations on session frequency are non-binding and may be adjusted as needed.
6.3 Payment Terms (Tuition and Consultancy)
6.3.1 Payment Methods
Payments must be made in GBP via bank transfer. Other methods, such as PayPal, may be accepted with prior arrangement. Any bank fees or charges incurred are the Client's responsibility.6.3.2 Invoices and Deadlines
Invoices are issued at the end of each half-term for tuition and before commencement for consultancy. Payment is due within the specified period on the invoice, typically in advance of services.
6.4 Refunds and Cancellations
6.4.1 Refund Policy
Refunds are processed within 14 days of notice of service termination, subject to applicable fees. Prepaid fees for cancelled sessions are refunded only where the cancellation complies with these terms.6.4.2 Non-Refundable Services
Fees for ad-hoc sessions, special events, and mock exams are non-refundable.
6.5 Late Payment and Interest
6.5.1 Late Payment Penalties
Overdue invoices will incur a late payment fee of £10 and interest at 15% per month, in accordance with the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998. Services may be withheld until payment is received.
6.6 Force Majeure
Force Majeure
In the event of unforeseen circumstances (natural disasters, pandemics, etc.), sessions may be rescheduled, rolled over, or refunded. Clients will be informed promptly.
6.7 Resource Purchases and Event Fees
6.7.1 Payment for Resources
Purchases from the online shop must be paid in full at checkout. No items will be dispatched until payment is complete.6.7.2 Refunds for Resources
Refunds are subject to the shop’s return policy, which includes conditions on non-refundable digital products and materials.6.7.3 Workshop Fees
Workshop participation requires payment in full at registration. Fees are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled by Great Expectations Education.
7. CANCELLATION AND RESCHEDULING BY GREAT EXPECTATIONS EDUCATION
7.1 Tutor-Initiated Cancellations
If a session is cancelled by Great Expectations Education due to personal circumstances, no charge will be levied. Every effort will be made to reschedule the session at a mutually convenient time. If rescheduling is unfeasible, a full refund for the cancelled session will be issued within 14 days of the cancellation notice. Clients will be notified of cancellations via email or WhatsApp. Great Expectations Education will provide at least 24 hours' notice of cancellation except in emergencies.
7.2 Repeated or Long-Term Unavailability
In the event that Great Expectations Education is unable to provide tuition or consultancy services for an extended period (more than two consecutive sessions), the Client will be offered a choice of continuing with an alternative tutor (where available), suspending services temporarily, or terminating the contract with a refund for any unused prepaid sessions.
7.3 Force Majeure
If cancellation is due to force majeure (including but not limited to natural disasters, government restrictions, or public health emergencies), Great Expectations Education will notify Clients promptly. Any prepaid sessions affected will be rescheduled or refunded as appropriate, without liability for damages or further compensation.
8. TIME-KEEPING AND SESSION MANAGEMENT
8.1 Lesson Duration and Feedback Time
Unless otherwise agreed, one-to-one lessons are 40 or 55 minutes in duration, with an additional 5 minutes allocated for parent or carer feedback, extending the total time to 45 or 60 minutes. Lessons will end promptly at the scheduled time to accommodate subsequent sessions.
8.2 Punctuality and Tutor/Student Lateness
Lesson durations are fixed. If the student is late, the session will still end at the scheduled time. Time lost due to Tutor tardiness will be made up either at the end of the session or during a future session, as agreed with the Client.
8.3 Absences from One-to-One Lessons
If a student does not log into a one-to-one session, a reminder message will be sent 5 minutes after the start time. Great Expectations Education will disconnect from the session after 15 minutes if no response is received, and the full session fee will be charged.
8.4 Group Sessions
Clients enrolled in group lessons or courses must adhere to the session schedule. Due to the nature of group teaching, individual reminders or notifications for non-attendance will not be issued. No refunds or make-up sessions will be provided for missed group lessons unless explicitly agreed in writing.
8.5 Screen Absences
If a student leaves the session after the lesson has commenced, the Tutor will remain online for the remaining scheduled duration. No extensions or rescheduling will be offered for screen absences.
8.6 Technical Requirements and Responsibilities
The Client is responsible for ensuring a stable internet connection, suitable equipment (computer, camera, microphone), and an appropriate learning environment. Great Expectations Education is not liable for technical issues originating from the Client’s side. If technical difficulties consistently arise beyond the Client’s control, lessons may be rescheduled at the discretion of Great Expectations Education. Verification of persistent technical issues may be required.
8.7 Lateness for Workshops or Events
Punctuality is essential for workshops, mock exams, and other timed events. Late arrival may result in the Client or Student being unable to participate, and no refunds will be issued for missed portions of time-bound events.
8.8 Tutor-Initiated Rescheduling for Technical Issues
If technical issues on the Tutor’s side prevent the completion of a session, the session will be rescheduled or extended at no additional charge to the Client.
9. CLIENT CANCELLATION POLICY
9.1 Advance Notice for Cancellations
If the Client provides notice of cancellation before the end of the previous half-term, the affected dates will be excluded from the subsequent invoice. This clause does not apply to cancellations made after invoices have been issued for the upcoming term.
9.2 Non-Refundable and Non-Transferable Sessions
Lessons that are cancelled or missed by the Client are non-refundable and non-transferable, including cancellations due to illness or other commitments once invoices have been issued. The Tutor is not required to provide alternative lesson slots unless otherwise agreed. Clients must notify the Tutor of cancellations at the earliest opportunity.
9.3 Illness During a Lesson
If a Student becomes unwell during a lesson, the session may be shortened at the Tutor’s discretion. No refunds or transfers will be issued for shortened sessions due to illness or other causes.
9.4 Emergency Cancellations
A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required for cancellations. If a Client cancels within 24 hours, including for medical emergencies or other urgent situations, one rescheduled session may be offered at the Tutor's discretion, subject to availability. This exception applies only once per term per Client.
9.5 Exceptional Circumstances
Exceptional circumstances, such as bereavement or significant medical issues, will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Clients are responsible for notifying Great Expectations Education promptly to request a review and discuss possible solutions.
9.6 Cancellation of Workshops, Events, and Courses
Cancellations for workshops, mock exams, or other group events require a minimum of seven days' notice to qualify for a partial refund (subject to a 20% administrative fee). No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than seven days before the event.
9.7 Cancellation of Online Shop Purchases
Refunds for digital resources purchased from the online shop are only available if the resource is defective or if the content does not match the description provided at the time of purchase. Refund requests must be made within 14 days of purchase.
9.8 Termination of Ongoing Consultancy Services
Consultancy packages may be terminated by providing written notice. Refunds for unused portions of prepaid consultancy services will be issued in accordance with clause 6.13, minus any applicable administrative fees.
9.9 Termination for Frequent Cancellations
The Tutor reserves the right to terminate tuition if the Client cancels or misses three or more lessons in one term without sufficient notice, as outlined in clause 9.4. Termination will be communicated in writing, and any prepaid, unused tuition fees will be refunded in accordance with clause 6.13.
9.10 Notice of Cancellation Concerns
If the Client misses or cancels two or more lessons in a term, the Tutor will provide written notice highlighting concerns about attendance and explaining the potential consequences, including the possible termination of services.
9.11 Termination of Workshop or Event Participation for Non-Attendance
If a Client fails to attend scheduled workshops, mock exams, or events without providing notice as specified in clause 9.6, Great Expectations Education reserves the right to refuse future event bookings or impose a prepayment requirement for similar services.
9.12 Repeated Failure to Access Digital Resources
Repeated unsuccessful attempts to access digital resources, where the issue is not caused by technical faults on Great Expectations Education’s part, may result in restricted access to future resources. Clients are responsible for maintaining systems that meet the technical requirements outlined in clause 8.6.
9.13 Additional Purchases from Online Shop
Resources purchased from the Great Expectations Education online shop are subject to the following terms:
All sales are final unless the item is proven defective.
No refunds will be provided for digital resources unless the content does not match the description or is defective.
Clients are responsible for ensuring compatibility with their systems.
9.14 Workshop and Event Prepayment Requirements
For workshops, mock exams, and other events, prepayment may be required for future bookings, subject to availability. Cancellations made with less than seven days’ notice may result in the Client being unable to book future services without prepayment.
9.15 Cancellation of Tuition Contract
Cancellation of the tuition contract must be communicated in writing or via email by the last day of term according to the Buckinghamshire County Council term dates.
9.16 Notice Period for Termination
Lessons will continue until a mutually agreed termination date, subject to two paid lessons’ notice from either party. Any overpayment will be refunded. Both parties have the right to terminate tuition if continuing the lessons is no longer beneficial to the Student.
9.17 Exam Preparation and Notice for GCSE/A-Level/11+/KS2 SATs
For exam preparations (GCSE, A-Level, 11+, KS2 SATs), attendance is expected until the date of the first exam. The Tutor requires notice on whether tuition will cease and resume in September or continue until the exam period is completed.
9.18 Settling-In Period
A two-week settling-in period is advisable, during which the parent and child can assess the suitability of the tuition arrangements. Either party may terminate the contract immediately within this period. After attending more than two lessons, the settling-in period is considered complete, and the full Terms and Conditions apply.
9.19 Unacceptable Behaviour
If the behaviour of the child, parent, or guardian jeopardizes safety or becomes unacceptable, the Tutor reserves the right to terminate lessons without notice.
9.20 Non-Solicitation
The Client agrees not to solicit or employ any tutor or consultant associated with Great Expectations Education for private tuition outside of this agreement for six months after tuition ends, without written consent.
9.21 Termination Due to Unacceptable Behaviour
If tuition is terminated due to unacceptable behaviour, no refund will be provided for any outstanding prepaid lessons.
9.22 Non-Payment of Fees
Termination due to non-payment of fees does not waive any outstanding balances owed by the Client.
9.23 Force Majeure
Neither party shall be liable for failure to perform obligations under this agreement due to causes beyond its reasonable control, such as acts of God, war, insurrection, governmental restrictions, or other unforeseen events.
11. PROGRESS LIMITATION AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
11.1 No Guarantee of Progress or Results
While Great Expectations Education strives to facilitate progress and success, outcomes cannot be guaranteed. All opinions and advice provided reflect professional judgment and do not constitute a warranty of specific results, including examination performance.11.2 Limitation of Liability for Tuition Services
The Tutor is not liable for exam results or academic performance. Liability for personal injury or property damage during in-person lessons is limited to cases of proven negligence by the Tutor.11.3 Liability for Disruptions Outside of Control
Great Expectations Education accepts no responsibility for disruptions or outcomes caused by changes to curricula, assessments, or examination standards. Liability for technical failures or third-party issues affecting online tuition is limited to cases where negligence can be demonstrated.11.4 Limitation of Liability for Consultancy Services
Clients engaging in consultancy acknowledge that outcomes depend on personal actions and external factors beyond the Consultant's control. The Consultant assumes no liability for decisions made by the Client, nor for any financial, emotional, or educational outcomes arising from advice given.11.5 Indemnification for Non-Disclosure
The Client agrees to indemnify Great Expectations Education for any claims or damages resulting from failure to disclose relevant medical, behavioural, or educational needs affecting the Student or Client.11.6 Use of Materials and Resources
All materials provided are for educational purposes. Clients may not copy, distribute, or reproduce content without prior written consent.11.7 Resource Purchases from Online Shop
Purchases of digital resources are non-refundable unless defective. Refunds or replacements will be provided only if the resource does not match the description provided at the time of sale.
11.8 Prepayment for Workshops and Events
Liability for workshop or event participation is limited to the refund of prepaid fees in cases where cancellation occurs due to Tutor unavailability.
11.9 Force Majeure
Neither party shall be liable for failure to fulfill obligations due to events beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, war, government restrictions, or technical disruptions.
19. CHANGES TO TERMS
19.1 The Tutor reserves the right to modify, add, or remove any or all of these Terms and Conditions at any time. Each adjustment shall be effective immediately upon posting. Clients are encouraged to periodically check these Terms for any updates and Clients will be notified of material changes impacting fees or cancellation policies.
19.2 Clients will be notified of significant changes via email with at least 30 days’ notice.
19.3 Great Expectations Education reserves the right to use feedback from Clients and Students as testimonials on its website and promotional materials with prior written consent
20. DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND JURISDICTION
20.1 Any disputes arising from these Terms will be subject to the laws of England and Wales. Both parties agree to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales. By engaging the services provided by Great Expectations Education, the Client agrees to these Terms and Conditions in full, ensuring a clear understanding of their rights and obligations.
20.2 Both parties shall engage in good faith mediation prior to litigation. This mediation shall be conducted by an independent third-party mediator with any associated costs shared equally unless agreed otherwise in writing.
20.3 Great Expectations Education provides consultancy and coaching to support parents navigating the Special Educational Needs (SEN) process in the UK.
20.4 We endeavor to provide you (parents) with information based on statutory law, appropriate steps, and advice. Should we not have the expertise in any area you seek support, we will signpost you to another appropriate provider.
20.5 Consultants representing Great Expectations Education are not legally qualified; however, there is no legal requirement for those representing parents in appeals to the Special Educational Needs & Disability Tribunal (SENDIST) to be formally qualified in law.
20.6 The consultancy services are provided as guidance and do not constitute legal advice. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, Great Expectations Education accepts no liability for actions taken based on consultancy advice.
20.7 Consultancy is not psychological counselling or any type of therapy, and should not be construed as such. You understand that the consultancy services you will be receiving from your Consultant are not offered as a substitute for professional diagnostic services or medical care and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any conditions. You also understand that your Consultant is not acting as a mental health counsellor or a medical professional. Clients acknowledge that consultancy is not regulated psychotherapy or counselling. Any mental health concerns should be directed to licensed professionals
20.8 For legal purposes, you understand that consultancy is currently an unregulated industry and that your consultant is not “licensed“ by any UK body even though the sessions may take place in England or elsewhere in English.
12. TUITION SERVICES
12.1 Platform Use and Responsibilities
All tuition sessions are conducted using the designated online platform. Clients agree to comply with the platform's terms of service. Great Expectations Education is not liable for third-party service disruptions, platform unavailability, or data breaches. The Tutor will take reasonable steps to ensure a secure and effective learning environment.
12.2 Cancellation, Rescheduling, and Missed Sessions
Cancellations or rescheduling requests must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Failure to provide adequate notice will result in full fees being charged for the missed session. In the case of technical issues on the Client’s side, the session will be charged unless otherwise agreed in writing. No refunds are provided for pre-paid sessions unless cancelled by the Tutor.
12.4 Homework and Additional Work Requests
(a) Homework assignments may be provided for a fee of £7 per assignment, payable in advance or added to the next invoice.
(b) Additional work, such as bespoke reports, form completion, or extra advisory sessions, requires a written request and confirmation of fees. Charges apply at the Tutor’s hourly rate unless otherwise stated.
12.5 Communication with Third-Party Professionals
At the Client’s written request, discussions with other professionals (e.g., teachers, therapists) will incur fees at the standard hourly rate. Written consent for such discussions, including an outline of topics and expected duration, must be obtained in advance.
12.7 Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights
Clients acknowledge that all resources provided by Great Expectations Education are protected by intellectual property laws. Any unauthorised use, reproduction, or distribution may lead to legal action. The Client agrees to indemnify Great Expectations Education for associated legal fees and damages resulting from any IP infringement.
12.9 Verbal Feedback and Written Reports
(a) Verbal feedback may be provided for up to five minutes at the conclusion of each session, at no extra charge.
(b) Written progress summaries and detailed reports are not included in standard tuition fees. Formal reports are available for an additional fee, subject to prior agreement on scope, timing, and cost.
(c) Requests for excessive or frequent progress updates or meetings will be subject to availability and additional charges.
12.10 Fee Adjustments
Fees are subject to periodic review. Great Expectations Education reserves the right to adjust tuition fees with at least 30 days’ notice to existing Clients. Continued use of services after the effective date of fee changes constitutes acceptance of the new rates.
13. ADVOCACY SERVICES
13.1 Online Advocacy Platform
All advocacy meetings and consultations are conducted using the designated online platform as specified by Great Expectations Education. The Client agrees to the platform’s terms and conditions. Refer to previous sections for general online service terms, including camera use and technical requirements.13.2 Fees and Payment Terms
(a) All initial consultations will include an assessment of case prospects. The Client agrees to pay for consultation time even if they choose not to proceed with further representation.
(b) Costs related to SENDIST appeals are billed separately for preparation hours and consultations. The Client acknowledges that no guarantee of appeal success is provided.
(c) Costs for external professionals (such as psychologists and therapists) are not included in the fees of Great Expectations Education. The Client is solely responsible for engaging and paying such professionals.13.3 Responsibility for Costs
(a) If the Local Authority does not oppose an appeal by the sixth week, the Client remains responsible for all fees incurred to date.
(b) If the appeal is withdrawn, conceded, or resolved before a hearing, the full fixed cost of the appeal will still be payable by the Client.13.4 Withdrawal from Representation
(a) The Client may terminate representation by providing written notice. An invoice will be issued for all completed work up to the date of termination. Until payment is received, all related documents will be retained by Great Expectations Education.
(b) If alternative advocacy support is sought while under our representation, services will cease immediately to prevent conflicting advice.13.5 Ceasing Representation by Great Expectations Education
We reserve the right to cease representing the Client under the following conditions:We are unable to obtain clear instructions.
Unreasonable demands are placed on the case.
A breakdown of trust or confidence.
Notification will be sent to the Client and all relevant parties, including Tribunal/Respondents, if we discontinue representation. Any outstanding work will be invoiced immediately.
13.6 Confidentiality and Data Protection
All client communications and case information are confidential. Great Expectations Education will handle personal data in compliance with applicable data protection laws. A privacy policy detailing data handling procedures is available upon request.13.7 Conflict of Interest
Should a conflict of interest arise during representation, we will inform the Client and discuss alternative options. If a resolution cannot be found, representation may be terminated, with fees payable for work completed to date.14. GROUP CLASSES
14.1 Parents must book group classes on either a half-termly basis or for specified courses as advertised.
14.2 Inappropriate behaviour may result in removal from group classes without prior notice, and in such cases, no refund will be provided.
14.3 The Tutor is not responsible for ensuring group class members’ attendance. Sessions missed by individuals are non-refundable.
14.4 In the instance of group classes that fall short of the required number of participants, the Tutor reserves the right to cancel the class or offer one-to-one sessions at an adjusted rate.
14.5 In situations of group classes where cancellation is necessary, Clients will be provided with proper notice and rights to reschedule if possible
15. RESOURCE PURCHASES
15.1. Purchasing Resources: All educational materials, worksheets, and digital content sold through the Great Expectations Education online shop shall be paid in advance. Refunds are only applicable in cases of defective goods or services, as outlined in the Returns and Refunds policy.
15.2. Intellectual Property: All resources purchased by the Client are to be used solely for the designated Student’s educational purposes. Any redistribution, reproduction, or commercial use of these resources without written consent from Great Expectations Education is prohibited
16. WORKSHOPS
16.1 Workshop Registration: Clients interested in attending workshops offered by Great Expectations Education must register via the designated method outlined in the marketing materials. Payment for workshops must be made in advance, and attendance is subject to the Client confirming participation.
16.2. Cancellation of Workshops: Clients may cancel their registration for workshops with a full refund if notified at least 14 days prior to the event. Cancellations made fewer than 14 days in advance may result in a partial refund at the Tutor's discretion.
19. CHANGES TO TERMS
19.1 The Tutor reserves the right to modify, add, or remove any or all of these Terms and Conditions at any time. Each adjustment shall be effective immediately upon posting. Clients are encouraged to periodically check these Terms for any updates and Clients will be notified of material changes impacting fees or cancellation policies.
19.2 Clients will be notified of significant changes via email with at least 30 days’ notice.
19.3 Great Expectations Education reserves the right to use feedback from Clients and Students as testimonials on its website and promotional materials with prior written consent
20. DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND JURISDICTION
20.1 Any disputes arising from these Terms will be subject to the laws of England and Wales. Both parties agree to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales. By engaging the services provided by Great Expectations Education, the Client agrees to these Terms and Conditions in full, ensuring a clear understanding of their rights and obligations.
20.2 Both parties shall engage in good faith mediation prior to litigation. This mediation shall be conducted by an independent third-party mediator with any associated costs shared equally unless agreed otherwise in writing.
20.3 Great Expectations Education provides consultancy and coaching to support parents navigating the Special Educational Needs (SEN) process in the UK.
20.4 We endeavor to provide you (parents) with information based on statutory law, appropriate steps, and advice. Should we not have the expertise in any area you seek support, we will signpost you to another appropriate provider.
20.5 Consultants representing Great Expectations Education are not legally qualified; however, there is no legal requirement for those representing parents in appeals to the Special Educational Needs & Disability Tribunal (SENDIST) to be formally qualified in law.
20.6 The consultancy services are provided as guidance and do not constitute legal advice. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, Great Expectations Education accepts no liability for actions taken based on consultancy advice.
20.7 Consultancy is not psychological counselling or any type of therapy, and should not be construed as such. You understand that the consultancy services you will be receiving from your Consultant are not offered as a substitute for professional diagnostic services or medical care and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any conditions. You also understand that your Consultant is not acting as a mental health counsellor or a medical professional. Clients acknowledge that consultancy is not regulated psychotherapy or counselling. Any mental health concerns should be directed to licensed professionals
20.8 For legal purposes, you understand that consultancy is currently an unregulated industry and that your consultant is not “licensed“ by any UK body even though the sessions may take place in England or elsewhere in English.