Hillcroft Publication Scheme

What is the scheme?

The publication scheme is a guide to the information we routinely publish, or which we intend to publish and provides a description of the ‘classes’ of types of information published. We are currently also building up a list of the actual publications available within each class, with the location of where it may be found.

Adopting a publication scheme is a requirement of Section 19 of the Freedom of Information Act 2000. The purpose of the Act is to promote greater openness by public authorities (ie, government and other public sector organisations, including Universities and Further Education Colleges). The Hillcroft College scheme follows the Model Publication Scheme produced for Universities, Further Education Colleges and Sixth Form Colleges across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

How do I obtain information covered by the Publication Scheme?

We will make available items which belong to classes in the Publication Scheme. Any exceptions are noted in the descriptions of the different classes of information. These will generally be for reasons related to the Data Protection Act or commercial sensitivity.

Where possible we intend to progressively publish all documents covered by the scheme in electronic format via our website although at present all documents are available in hard copy only.

How much do printed publications cost?

Printed information on the courses and services we offer is available free of charge, as are packs issued to people responding to notices of job vacancies. If requested, we will produce publications in other formats; in these cases we will usually make a charge, amounting to the cost of producing the item in the format requested and sending it. In certain circumstances we may waive the charges.

Who do I contact if I have a question, comment or complaint?

If you are not able to obtain what you require, or if you have any questions, comments or complaints about this scheme, please contact:
Director of Corporate Services
Hillcroft College
South Bank
Surbiton KT6 6DF
Telephone: 020 8339 4057
Fax: 020 8390 9171
Email: FOI@hillcroft.ac.uk

What about information not covered by the Publication Scheme?

From 1st January 2005 you will have the right, under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, to request any information (subject to certain exemptions) held by a public authority, including such a college as Hillcroft, which they have not already made available through their publication scheme. Requests will have to be made in writing and in general, public authorities will have twenty working days to respond. Hillcroft College may charge a fee, which will be calculated according to Fees Regulations. We will not be required to release information to which an exemption in the Act legitimately applies.

Who do I contact if I have a complaint?

We will do everything in our power to meet your information needs. However, if you have a complaint we are unable to resolve, you have the right to complain to the Information Commissioner, the independent body which oversees the implementation of the Freedom of Information Act:
The Information Commissioner; Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 5AF