Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced Standing Agreements 1. Introduction 1.1 1.2 1.3 These Guidelines set out the University’s procedures for setting up, approving and monitoring agreements with external institutions whereby groups of students from named courses at a specific institution may be admitted to NTU courses with advanced standing. These arrangements are known as Advanced Standing Agreements (ASA). An ASA involves an academic judgement that the outcomes of a specified external course partially meet those of a specified NTU course. An ASA is based upon the principle that both the NTU and external course will continue to function as independent courses designed to meet their own aims and outcomes – the ASA should not impose curriculum or other changes on either party. 2. Exclusions 2.1 These guidelines do not cover the following: September 2014 Any arrangements that might be established for the admission of students to the beginning of a course – except to the beginning of a one year, 120 credit point, level 3 ‘top-up’ course. Such arrangements would be considered to be progression agreements. The admission of individuals through an Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process (this is covered by Guidelines on APL). Any arrangement whereby the NTU course and that of the external institution are specially designed to ensure progression between the two, typically involving NTU in the delivery, support or assessment of the course at the partner institution. For page 1 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 example, Foundation Degree progression (these arrangements are covered by guidance on foundation degree progression). The credit rating of external courses (these are covered by the procedures set out in Sections 5 and 10 of the Quality Handbook (QH)). 3. Regulation 3.1 The guidelines set out below are based on regulations detailed in QH Section 12. 4. Establishing equivalence 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 An ASA is based on the principle that there is reasonable equivalence between the learning outcomes of the external course and those of a module(s), level or stage of an NTU course(s). An NTU course team must establish reasonable equivalence by mapping the curriculum components and learning outcomes of the external and NTU course(s). Where an ASA is being established for entry to a level three ‘top-up’ course, mapping may not be required or be possible, however the advanced standing agreement should ensure that all students completing the external course fully meet the entry requirements of the ‘top-up’ course at NTU. The course team should be satisfied that students on the external course will undergo a comparable learning experience so as to ensure smooth transfer to the NTU course – this will involve some scrutiny of the institution’s teaching, learning and assessment styles and its learning resources. Where there are gaps in the curriculum of the external course or in the student’s learning experience it may be possible for the course team to devise a bridging module or dedicated induction – taken before or alongside the NTU course – so that students can transfer direct to the beginning of a level or stage. Where ASAs are being arranged with overseas institutions, special attention should be paid to the English language competence of students. As an ASA will be in place for a period of three years, the course team should ensure that the external institution has appropriate quality assurance systems. 5. Amount of advanced standing 5.1 5.2 The amount of advanced standing assigned to the external course should be expressed as a credit or level value, i.e. 80 credits at Level 4 or direct entry to Level 6. The amount of advanced standing should not exceed two thirds of the credits required for the NTU award, i.e. 240 credits maximum of a 360 credit course. September 2014 page 2 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 6. Student status 6.1 6.2 The credits accumulated at the external institution are not NTU specific credits – they only become NTU specific credits when a student has been admitted to the NTU course. Consequently, students at the external institution receive no certification or credit rating documentation from NTU regarding their studies on the external course. Prior to transfer, students at the external institution are not students of NTU and have no access to NTU services or resources. 7. Admission decisions 7.1 7.2 Admission to the NTU course(s) may be unconditional or conditional. The conditions imposed may relate to the outcome of additional selection methods or the availability of places at NTU. The external institution must provide transcripts – and any other relevant details – for all advanced standing candidates. 8. Approval arrangements 8.1 8.2 8.3 Before detailed planning takes place, the NTU College should sign off the business case for the agreement and confirm that the external institution is of appropriate standing. The College should also satisfy itself that no formal Government or related regulatory approvals are necessary in the external country before sign off – it is anticipated that such approvals will not be necessary as no changes are being made to the local course. Normally, the School Academic Standards and Quality Committee (SASQC) – rather than a DAG – will consider the NTU academic approval of the proposal. Approval should involve liaison with the relevant CADQ Officer. Where a proposal is particularly complex it may be taken to the Academic Standards and Quality Committee (ASQC) for approval. The documentation in support of approval should comprise: a. a short rationale and justification for the ASA; b. a note on how the course team has determined equivalence; c. some evidence of the mapping exercise undertaken (if applicable) or that the students meet the entry requirements for a ‘top-up’ award; d. details of how the students will be supported in their transition to NTU; e. a brief analysis of the external institution’s learning environment, teaching and learning methods, and quality management system; f. the bridging module/dedicated induction (where necessary); g. the draft formal ASA. September 2014 page 3 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 8.4 4 A summary of all ASAs approved by SASQCs will be considered by the ASQC to ensure that the University retains oversight of these arrangements. 9. Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies 9.1 The course team/SASQC must take into account any PSRB policy that might affect the scope or approval of the ASA. 10. Formal agreement 10.1 The formal agreement should be drafted using the exemplar below, and in liaison with Legal Services. 10.2 Following NTU academic approval, the formal ASA must be signed by the relevant Pro Vice-Chancellor and Head of College and the Head of the external institution. 11. Duration of the agreement 11.1 The ASA should last for a fixed period of three years maximum. 12. Monitoring and review 12.1 The course team should monitor the operation of the ASA as part of its routine course management processes. Any salient points (including good practice) should be included within its Course Standards and Quality Report (CSQR). 12.2 The arrangement will be considered as part of the periodic course review process. The operation of ASA’s within a School may be considered as an item at Periodic School Review. 12.3 The ASA must include a clause that requires the external institution to inform NTU about changes to its course. 12.4 Where changes are made to the NTU course, the ASA should be reviewed to ensure that the two courses continue to articulate. 12.5 The SASQC should undertake a formal review of the ASA prior to the end of the three year approval period. This review should focus upon the available evidence, including external examiner reports and student data. It should consider the success and appropriateness of the ASA arrangement. If the review is successful the ASA may be re-approved for a further three year period. 13. External Examiners 13.1 The NTU External Examiner(s) should be provided with details of any ASAs relating to the course for which they are appointed and should be consulted when new ASAs are being negotiated. September 2014 page 4 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 Exemplar Advanced Standing Agreement This Agreement is made on (date) between: (1) Nottingham Trent University, Burton Street, Nottingham, NG1 4BU, United Kingdom (hereafter referred to as ‘NTU’) and: (2) [University of International Better Studies, 10 East Miracle Street, Lapland District, Neverland (hereafter referred to as ‘[UIBS]’).] WHEREAS: (A) NTU and the [[UIBS]] have agreed to enter into an arrangement on the terms and conditions set out below whereby Students enrolled at [[UIBS]] on the [UIBS] Courses specified in appendix 1A may apply for entry with advanced standing to courses at NTU specified in appendix 1B. (B) [[UIBS] warrants that it has attained the consent of the [ regulatory body in the Territory to enter into this Agreement.] ] and any other WHEREBY it is agreed as follows: 1 Definitions 1.1 In this Agreement the following words and phrases shall have the meanings set opposite them: “Advanced Standing” means the provision by NTU of credit for academic study in relation to [UIBS] Courses, provided that such NTU credit is only applicable for those individuals studying NTU Courses; “Approval Event” means the quality assurance process undertaken by NTU to ensure that students on the [UIBS] Courses undergo a comparable learning experience, underpinned by adequate systems and resources and sound and effective quality assurance (QA) processes; September 2014 page 5 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 “Candidates” means Students who apply for admission and enrolment on to NTU Courses and wish to obtain Advanced Standing in such NTU Courses; “CAS” means the confirmation of acceptance for studies, a virtual document issued to a Candidate by NTU and to be used by such Candidate in their application to UKVI; “Confidential Information” means any information disclosed by a party to another that has been designated in writing as confidential or that ought to be considered as confidential (however it is conveyed or on whatever media it is stored) including information which relates to the business, affairs, properties, assets, trading practices, developments, trade secrets, Intellectual Property Rights, know how, personnel, Students and suppliers of a party; “Effective Date” means [insert date agreement is to be legally binding from]; “FOIA” means the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and any subsequent legislation made under that Act from time to time; “Intellectual Property” means any intellectual property right throughout the world for the full term of the rights concerned, whether or not registered and whether or not registrable, including without limitation copyright, database rights, patents, rights in inventions, know-how and technical information, design rights, design rights, design patents, registered designs, trade marks (including business and brand names, devices and logos) domain names and the rights to apply for any of the foregoing anywhere in the world; “NTU Regulations” means NTU Regulations, policies and procedures as amended from time to time; “Course Requirements” means for the purposes of a Candidate being able to be enrolled on the NTU Course; Having achieved IELTS of no less than 6.5; Achieving no less than the pass mark required by [UIBS] for the [UIBS] to be successfully completed; Satisfying the criteria for the applicable NTU Course as noted in Appendix 1B; and September 2014 page 6 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 1.2 4 Each such Candidate being entitled to enter into and remain within the UK for study at NTU in accordance with UKVI requirements. “Students” means those individuals enrolled on Courses at [UIBS]; “UKVI” means Her Majesty’s United Kingdom Border Agency (or subsequent/similar Government body as subsequently set up to replace the same function). In this Agreement (except where context otherwise requires): 1.2.1 Any reference to a recital, clause, appendix or schedule is to the relevant recital, clause, appendix or schedule of or to this Agreement and any reference to a sub-clause or paragraph is to the relevant subclause or paragraph of the clause, appendix or schedule in which it appears; 1.2.2 The clause headings are included for convenience only and shall not affect the interpretation of this Agreement; 1.2.3 Use of the singular includes the plural and vice versa; 1.2.4 Use of any gender includes the other gender; 1.2.5 Any references to “persons” includes natural persons, firms, partnerships, companies, corporations, associations, organisations, governments, states, foundation and trusts (in which case whether or not having separate legally personality); 1.2.6 Any reference to a statute, statutory provision or subordinate legislation (“legislation”) shall (except where the context otherwise requires) be construed as referring to such legislation as amended and in force from time to time and to any legislation which re-enacts or consolidates (with or without modification) any such legislation; and 1.2.7 Any reference to a party or Parties includes reference to its successors. 1.3 The schedules, appendices and recitals form part of this Agreement and shall have effect as if set out in full in the body of this Agreement and any reference to this Agreement includes the schedules, appendices and recitals. 1.4 In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this Agreement and the provisions of the schedules or appendices, the provisions of this Agreement shall prevail. September 2014 page 7 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 2 Courses at [UIBS] and NTU 2.1 The parties agree that [UIBS] shall admit individuals of suitable academic standing to undertake [UIBS] Courses. 2.2 Successful completion of a [UIBS] Course shall lead to a conditional offer of entry with advanced standing for Candidates to one of the NTU Courses, providing always any specific Course Requirements are satisfied (as detailed in Appendix 1B) by the applicable Candidate. 2.3 The NTU Courses and [UIBS] Courses may be subject to change over the period of this Agreement. Both parties undertake to inform the other about any such changes as soon as reasonably possible and [UIBS] agrees it shall cooperate fully with NTU to ensure that academic equivalence is maintained between the respective courses of each party. On an annual basis, the list of specified courses in appendices 1A and 1B will be reviewed and may be amended by NTU. 3 Quality assurance 3.1 Both parties acknowledge that NTU has undertaken an Approval Event prior to the commencement of this Agreement. In the event that there are material changes to the [UIBS] Course(s) [UIBS] agrees it shall cooperate fully with NTU in the event any re-Approval Event processes are to be undertaken by NTU. 3.2 [UIBS] shall ensure that the academic equivalency and comparable learning outcomes identified during the Approval Event are maintained throughout this Agreement. In the event that either the [UIBS] Courses are amended or the equivalency or outcomes are not maintained, [UIBS] agrees it shall inform NTU forthwith. 3.3 NTU shall receive a copy of an annual report from the course leader at [UIBS] in relation to the [UIBS] Courses, as prepared under [UIBS]’s QA procedures. In addition, NTU will provide [UIBS] with a copy of its Course Standards and Quality Report (PSQR). 3.4 This Agreement shall be subject to the annual monitoring review procedures of NTU, as set out from time to time in NTU’s Academic Standards and Quality Handbook. [UIBS] agrees it shall comply with NTU’s policies and procedures in relation to the required standards and quality for the applicable [UIBS] Courses. 3.5 Each party shall bear its own costs in relation to the Approval Event and any subsequent re-Approval Event. 4 Students 4.1 Candidates will normally be expected to transfer to NTU directly after the successful completion of their studies at [UIBS]. However, exceptionally a Candidate may apply for transfer within 3 years of completing their studies in order to be considered under this Agreement. September 2014 page 8 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 4.2 It is the responsibility of [UIBS] to provide Students with the applicable [UIBS] academic award, transcripts or other certification for their studies at [UIBS]. Prior to their transfer to NTU, Students will not be regarded as NTU students, nor have access to NTU services or resources. 4.3 [UIBS] agrees it shall provide guidance to Candidates on all aspects of living in the United Kingdom and studying at NTU. This guidance shall include but not necessarily be limited to: 4.3.1 advice in relation to the UKVI and its requirements (including advice on all the documentation required); 4.3.2 compliance with all relevant legislation in the United Kingdom in connection with the application process for CAS; 4.3.3 general advice relating to living expenses while in the United Kingdom; and 4.3.4 advice on how to complete the application process to NTU (but for the avoidance of doubt [UIBS] shall not complete any part of the application form on behalf of the Candidate). 4.4 [If [UIBS] is in the UK include this clause – delete this opening section. If not within the UK this clause may be included:] [UIBS] agrees it shall use its best endeavours to comply with the requirements of the UKVI, including but not limited ensuring that [UIBS]’s procedures and practices are in strict compliance with UKVI requirements and procedures. 5 Arrangements for the admission of Candidates to NTU 5.1 [UIBS] and NTU will arrange to disseminate information relating to the NTU Courses and other information including fees and NTU enrolment requirements to the Candidates. 5.2 Candidates wishing to transfer to NTU for an NTU Course shall receive a conditional offer letter from NTU. 5.3 [UIBS] undertakes to provide academic transcripts for all Candidates intending to transfer to NTU, including candidates’ final grades, as soon as reasonably possible and not later than [ ] weeks prior to the date of enrolment at NTU. 5.4 Admissions Staff at NTU shall, after due consideration of Candidates, send to [UIBS] a definitive list of Candidates accepted for entry to NTU. 5.5 All Candidates holding a conditional offer shall have the right of transfer to NTU at the designated level of the NTU Course, subject to: 5.5.1 acceptance of NTU’s enrolment conditions or other regulations; 5.5.2 the Course Requirements being fully satisfied, and; September 2014 page 9 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 5.5.3 4 subject to places being available on the applicable NTU Courses. 5.6 NTU undertakes to give reasonable notice to [UIBS] in the event that the number of places available on any NTU Course becomes limited. 5.7 NTU undertakes to process admissions in accordance with the UCAS arrangements for “Overseas Partnership Arrangements” (as that term is used by UCAS) as such arrangements are amended from time to time. 5.8 Candidates who meet the required standard on the relevant NTU Course, but whose IELTS score is below that required for entry to the specified course may, at the discretion of the NTU Course Leader, be offered a place and required to attend either the “English for Academic Purposes course” at NTU, or a presessional summer school at [UIBS]. 5.9 All successful Candidates shall be informed by [UIBS] that they are required to attend the general University orientation course prior to the start of the academic year at NTU. 6 Financial arrangements 6.1 The parties shall inform the Candidates enrolling in any of the NTU Courses that they shall be liable for the following fees, which shall be paid directly to NTU when they enrol at NTU: 6.1.1 a fee for “English for Academic Purposes course” (if applicable); and, 6.1.2 tuition fees payable by all non-EU students as available on the NTU’s web-site. 6.2 [delete if not applicable] [A Progression Scholarship will be given to all Candidates progressing to NTU under this Agreement. This will be a 10% reduction on the student’s tuition fee which will be applied to the first year of studies at NTU only.] 6.3 Costs incurred by each party in establishing the arrangements covered by this Agreement shall be paid for by the respective institution. 7 Intellectual Property, use of trade marks and marketing 7.1 The Parties agree that: 7.2 7.1.1 NTU’s Intellectual Property is and shall remain the property of NTU; 7.1.2 [UIBS]’s Intellectual Property is and shall remain the property of [UIBS]. NTU shall have a non-exclusive, non-transferable, revocable, royalty free licence to use [UIBS]’s Intellectual Property in relation to the [UIBS] Course for the purposes of fulfilling NTU’s responsibilities under this Agreement. September 2014 page 10 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 7.3 Except as expressly provided in this Agreement, [UIBS] shall have no rights in respect of NTU’s Intellectual Property or any other intellectual property rights used by NTU or of the goodwill associated therewith and [UIBS] hereby acknowledges that, except as expressly provided in this Agreement, it shall not acquire any rights in respect thereof and that all such rights and goodwill are and shall remain the legal and beneficial ownership of NTU. 7.4 NTU grants to [UIBS] a non-exclusive, non-transferable, royalty-free licence (without the right to sub-licence) for the term of this Agreement to use NTU Trade Marks solely for the purpose of marketing the [UIBS] Course PROVIDED THAT [UIBS] shall use NTU Trade Marks solely in accordance with such written instructions as NTU may from time to time issue to [UIBS]. The NTU Trade Marks shall be provided by NTU in accordance with any applicable marketing guidelines for NTU. For the avoidance of doubt, [UIBS] shall have no right to use NTU Trade Marks outside of the scope of the licence granted in this clause 7.4 without the prior written consent of NTU. 7.5 [UIBS] grants to NTU a non-exclusive, non-transferable, royalty-free licence (without the right to sub-licence) for the term of this Agreement to use the [UIBS] Trade Marks solely for the purpose of marketing the NTU Courses PROVIDED THAT NTU shall use the [UIBS] Trade Marks solely in accordance with such written instructions as [UIBS] may from time to time issue to NTU. The [UIBS] Trade Marks shall be provided by [UIBS] in accordance with any applicable marketing guidelines for [UIBS]. For the avoidance of doubt, NTU shall have no right to use the [UIBS] Trade Marks outside of the scope of the licence granted in this clause 7.5 without the prior written consent of [UIBS]. 7.6 Neither party shall use (or apply to register as trademarks) the trade marks of the other party (including NTU Trade Marks and the [UIBS] Trade Marks) or any other trade marks that (in the sole opinion of the relevant party) so resemble the other party’s trade marks as to be likely to cause confusion or deception in relation to any goods, services or other product except as permitted in writing by such party. 7.7 In connection with the promotion, marketing and/or delivery of the NTU Courses, [UIBS] shall make clear in all dealings with students and other third parties that it is not acting as an agent of NTU. 7.8 Neither party shall use the trade mark of the other party in any way which would tend to allow it to become generic, lose its distinctiveness, be likely to mislead the public or be materially detrimental to or inconsistent with the good name, goodwill and/or reputation of such other party. 7.9 [UIBS] acknowledges that NTU is the owner of NTU Trade Marks and shall not do anything which diminishes NTU’s rights in NTU Trade Marks or claim any title in NTU Trade Marks other than as a licensee under the terms of this Agreement. [UIBS] shall indicate that NTU Trade Marks are the property of NTU by appropriate use of the following wording (or such alternative as is agreed between the parties in writing): “Nottingham Trent University is the registered trade mark of NTU.” September 2014 page 11 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 7.10 Any goodwill derived from the use by either party of a trade mark of the other party pursuant to this Agreement shall accrue and belong to such other party and, insofar as such goodwill does not so accrue, the first party shall hold it in trust for such other party and shall, at the request of the other party, execute such documents and give such assistance as the other party may reasonably require to vest such goodwill in the other party. 7.11 Each party undertakes not to use or to apply to register as a trade mark any trade mark of the other party or any trade mark that (in the sole opinion of such other party) so resembles the relevant trade mark of such other party as to be likely to cause confusion or deception upon or relation to any goods or services. 7.12 [UIBS] shall promptly notify NTU if it becomes aware of: 7.12.1 any attack on the validity of any registration of any of NTU Trade Marks; 7.12.2 any potential infringement of any of NTU Trade Marks by third parties, including anything that may amount to passing off or an actionable act of unfair competition; and 7.12.3 any information that comes to the knowledge of [UIBS] that use of NTU Trade Marks may infringe the rights of any third party, and shall provide NTU with all the information in its possession in relation to the same and shall co-operate with NTU so far as reasonably requested for the purpose of seeking to resolve the same. 7.13 [UIBS] shall at the request of NTU, and at its own expense, do all acts and execute all deeds and documents necessary for registration of itself as a permitted user of such NTU Trade Marks with all relevant authorities. 7.14 Neither party shall make press or other public announcements, or release in any form any marketing or other publicity materials or releases relating to this Agreement without the prior written approval of the other party. The form and manner of the announcement or release of materials must also be approved in writing by the other party. 7.15 For the avoidance of doubt, the procedure for obtaining the approval described in clause 7.11 shall be that the party seeking approval shall submit in writing to a designated person from the other party as the other party may advise, all draft material referred to in clause 7.11 prior to any use by such party of such material. 8 Accommodation 8.1 NTU shall use reasonable endeavours to facilitate the provision of accommodation in Nottingham for successful Candidates, either in University Halls of Residence or in University-approved private accommodation. September 2014 page 12 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 9 Duration and Termination of this Agreement 9.1 This Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and shall continue, subject as provided for in clauses 9.2, 9.3 and 16.2 and 16.4 for three academic years until [insert day and month 20--] and may be renewable thereafter subject to mutual written agreement between the parties, and subject to a satisfactory review of performance by each party. 9.2 At any time during the term of this Agreement either party may give 6 months’ prior notice in writing to terminate this Agreement. 9.3 This Agreement may be terminated: 9.3.1 on a material breach of this Agreement, by the party not in breach serving a notice on the other party requiring the breach to be remedied (if capable of remedy) within a period specified in the notice, not being longer than sixty (60) days. If the breach has not been remedied by the date of the expiry of the notice, the party not in breach may then terminate the Agreement immediately. 9.3.2 forthwith by either party serving notice in writing if an order is made or a resolution is passed for the winding-up of the other party or an order is made for the appointment of an administrator to manage the affairs, business and property of the other party or a receiver and/or manager or administrative receiver is validly appointed in respect of all or any part of the other party’s assets or undertaking or circumstances arise which entitle the Court or a creditor to appoint a receiver and/or manager or administrative receiver or which entitle the Court to make a winding-up or bankruptcy order or the other party suffers any similar or analogous action in consequence of debt; 9.3.3 forthwith if [UIBS] purports or assign its rights or obligations under this Agreement unless NTU consents to such assignment under clause 17.1; 9.3.4 forthwith if at any time it is unlawful for either party to perform any of its obligations under this Agreement; 9.3.5 forthwith if either party fails to comply with any proper laws binding on it for the purposes of the rights and obligations specified in this Agreement; 9.3.6 forthwith if either party ceases or threatens to cease to carry on the business customarily carried on by it; 9.3.7 forthwith if any other event or series of events occurs which, in the reasonable opinion of either party, renders it impracticable or impossible to observe and fulfil the terms of this Agreement; or September 2014 page 13 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 9.3.8 4 [forthwith if in the reasonable opinion of NTU, Student enrolment levels in the NTU Courses or transfers from the [UIBS] Courses to the NTU Courses are not viable.] 10 Effect of Termination 10.1 The service of notice to terminate under clauses 9.2 or 9.3 will not absolve either party of its obligations to fully comply with the terms and conditions of this Agreement until such termination is effective and shall be without prejudice to the rights of either party against the other which may have accrued up to the date of termination. 10.2 Upon termination of this Agreement for any reason: 10.2.1 no new Students shall be admitted to the [UIBS] Courses on the basis that such [UIBS] Courses provide admission with advanced credit for any NTU Courses under this Agreement; 10.2.2 [UIBS] shall forthwith cease to use NTU’s Trade marks; 10.2.3 [UIBS] shall cease to promote, market or advertise the [UIBS] Courses as providing academic credit and/or advanced standing at NTU; 10.2.4 all licences granted pursuant to this Agreement shall terminate; and 10.2.5 all Confidential Information, including any Commercially Sensitive Information, and any copies thereof shall be returned to NTU. 10.3 [UIBS] shall use reasonable endeavours to ensure that following termination of this Agreement all Students enrolled in any of the [UIBS] Courses shall receive adequate teaching, assessment and examination for the anticipated duration of their respective [UIBS] Courses. 10.4 Subject as otherwise provided therein and to any rights and obligations which may have accrued prior to termination, neither of the Parties shall have any further obligation to the other under this Agreement. 11 Confidentiality 11.1 All data and other documents and information (other than promotional material) supplied in writing by either Party (the “Supplying Party”) to the other Party (the “Receiving Party”) under this Agreement (“Confidential Information”) shall remain the property of the Supplying Party and shall be treated as confidential. 11.2 The Receiving Party shall not during the term of this Agreement or thereafter use any Confidential Information or disclose any Confidential Information to any third party save to the extent as may be reasonably necessary for the fulfilment of the Receiving Party’s duties and obligations under this Agreement. 11.3 The Receiving Party’s obligations under clause 11.2 shall cease to apply to: September 2014 page 14 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 11.4 4 11.3.1 any Confidential Information which becomes available to the public generally other than through a breach of this clause; 11.3.2 any information which the Receiving Party can prove was lawfully known to the Receiving Party at the time of receipt from the Supplying Party and not subject to any existing obligations of confidentiality; 11.3.3 information that was lawfully received from a third party without restriction or breach of any obligation of confidentiality; 11.3.4 any disclosure of Confidential Information pursuant to a judicial or other lawful government order; and 11.3.5 in the event the Receiving Party is NTU, the disclosure of Confidential Information to enable the Receiving Party to comply with the information disclosure obligations contained in FOIA (as hereinafter defined). Confidential Information shall not be exempted under sub clauses 11.3.1 and 11.3.2 by reason only that: 11.4.1 some or all of the features of the Confidential Information (but not the combination and principle of it) are or become published or available to the public generally or are known to or in the possession of or are subsequently received by Receiving Party; or 11.4.2 such information could be derived or obtained from information which is or becomes published or available to the public generally or is in the possession of or becomes available to the Receiving Party if so to obtain or derive it would require substantial skill, labour or expense. 12 Freedom of Information 12.1 [UIBS] acknowledges that NTU is subject to the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (as amended from time to time) (the “FOIA”) and [UIBS] agrees it shall (at its own expense) co-operate and provide all necessary and reasonable assistance to fulfil any reasonable request or reasonable assistance as may be requested by NTU to enable NTU to comply with its obligations under the FOIA. 12.2 Notwithstanding the generality of clause 12.1, [UIBS] shall provide NTU within five (5) Working Days of receipt of a request for assistance from NTU with such information in its possession or power as may be reasonably requested in order to assist NTU to comply with its obligations under the FOIA. 13 Data Protection 13.1 Both parties confirm that they shall comply with their obligations and duties under the 1998 Act. In particular: September 2014 page 15 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 13.1.1 where necessary, the parties shall obtain and maintain appropriate data protection notification entries on the UK Information Commissioner’s Register of Data Controllers; 13.1.2 in the event a party is acting as a data processor (hereafter the “Processing Party”) (as defined by the 1998 Act) for the other party (hereafter the “Controller Party”), the Processing Party undertakes in respect of personal data and sensitive personal data (as defined by the 1998 Act) processed by it (“Personal Data” and "Sensitive Personal Data” respectively): September 2014 (i) to process the Personal Data strictly in accordance with the terms of this Agreement and the Controller Party’s instructions from time to time; if the Processing Party cannot provide such compliance for any reason, the Processing Party agrees to inform the Controller Party promptly. In this situation the Controller Party is entitled to suspend the transfer of Personal Data and/or terminate this Agreement; (ii) take appropriate technical and organisational measures against the unauthorised or unlawful processing of the Personal Data and against the accidental loss or destruction of, or damage to, the Personal Data (including adequate back up procedures and disaster recovery systems). Such measures shall (taking into account the state of technological development and the cost of implementing such measures) be appropriate to the nature of the Personal Data processed by the Processing Party; (iii) ensure that only its employees who may be required during the course of their employment to perform tasks relating to the services undertaken to be provided by the Processing Party under this Agreement shall have access to the Personal Data. The Processing Party shall ensure that all employees used by it to process Personal Data have undergone training in UK data protection law and in the care and handling of Personal Data; (iv) process the Personal Data in accordance with the laws of the United Kingdom; (v) notify the Controller Party about any request which may be received from individuals who are the subject of the Personal Data (“Data Subjects”) without responding to that request, unless the Processing Party has been authorised to do so by the Controller Party; (vi) assist the Controller Party promptly with all requests which may be received from Data Subjects. The Controller Party shall reimburse the Processing Party for any reasonable costs which the Processing Party may incur in complying with this requirement; page 16 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 (vii) not use the Personal Data for any purposes which may be inconsistent with those notified to the Data Subject on or before collection provided that the Controller Party has previously supplied copies of all such notices to the Processing Party; (viii) not disclose the Personal Data to a third party in any circumstances other than at the specific request of the Controller Party or as otherwise specified in this Agreement; (ix) notify the Controller Party immediately upon receiving any notice or communication from any supervisory or government body which relates directly or indirectly to the processing of the Personal Data; and (x) not assign, transfer or sub-contract any right or obligation under this Clause 13 without the Controller Party’s prior written consent. 13.2 The Processing Party and Controller Party shall discuss and agree appropriate security measures to be implemented in respect of the exchange of student data and other data including Personal Data, between the Parties. 13.3 The Processing Party will allow its data processing facilities, procedures and documentation which relate to the processing of the Personal Data to be scrutinised by the employees or agents of the Controller Party, in order to ascertain compliance with the terms of this Agreement. 13.4 The rights and obligations set out in this Agreement shall automatically terminate upon the expiry of the provision of services. On termination of this Agreement the Processing Party will cease processing the Personal Data and return the Personal Data to the Controller Party, or destroy the Personal Data as the Controller Party requests. 14 Liability 14.1 In addition to any other remedy available to NTU, [UIBS] (except in respect of death or personal injury arising from the negligence of NTU or in respect of fraudulent misrepresentation on the part of NTU) irrevocably and unconditionally agrees to indemnify NTU in full and on demand and keep NTU so indemnified from and against all claims, demands, actions, and proceedings made or brought against NTU and all damages, losses (including all consequential and indirect losses), costs and expenses (including legal and other professional advisers’ fees) whether or not foreseeable at the date of entering into this Agreement incurred or suffered by NTU directly or indirectly as a result in whole or in part from breach of this Agreement by and/or the negligence of [UIBS]. 14.2 NTU shall not be liable to [UIBS] in contract, tort, negligence, breach of statutory duty or otherwise for loss of profit, use, anticipated savings, goodwill, reputation or opportunity, other economic loss (whether direct or indirect) damages, costs or expenses incurred or suffered by [UIBS] as a result of any breach by NTU of the terms of this Agreement. September 2014 page 17 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 14.3 Subject to clause 14.2 except in the case of death or personal injury caused by negligence, fraudulent misrepresentation or in other circumstances where liability may not be so limited under any applicable law, the total liability of NTU to [UIBS] whether arising in contract, tort, negligence, breach of statutory duty or otherwise for any loss or damage, costs or expenses arising under or in connection with this Agreement shall not exceed [the sum of [£ ]]. 14.4 For the purposes of clauses 14.2 and 14.3, any number of acts or omissions whether successive or concurrent which together result in or contribute to substantially the same loss or damage shall be treated as one act or omission. 14.5 Except as set out in this Agreement, all warranties, conditions, terms and undertakings, express or implied, whether by statute, common law, custom, trade or usage, course of dealings or otherwise (including without limitation as to quality, performance or fitness or suitability for purpose) in respect of any service and/or materials to be provided by NTU under this Agreement are hereby excluded to the fullest extent permitted by law. 15 Dispute Resolution 15.1 Should NTU and [UIBS] be unable to reach agreement on the meaning or interpretation of any terms set out hereto or in any other matters arising out of this Agreement, the matter in dispute shall be resolved by negotiation by the signatories (or their delegates). 15.2 If the parties cannot reach a satisfactory resolution within thirty (30) days after commencing discussions the matter will be referred to mediation in accordance with the model procedure of the Centre for Dispute Resolution, London (“CEDR”), such mediation to be completed within 30 days of signature of the CEDR Mediation Agreement. 15.3 All negotiations connected with the dispute will be conducted in complete confidence, and the parties undertake not to divulge details of such negotiations except to their professional advisers who will also be subject to such confidentiality. Such negotiations shall be without prejudice to the rights of the parties in any future proceedings. 15.4 If the parties accept the mediator’s recommendations or otherwise reach agreement on the resolution of the dispute, such agreement shall be reduced to writing and once it is signed by their duly authorised representatives, shall be final and binding on the parties. 15.5 Nothing contained in this clause 15 shall restrict either party’s freedom to commence legal proceedings to preserve any legal right or remedy or protect any proprietary or trade secret right. 16 Anti-corruption and anti-bribery 16.1 [UIBS] shall: (a) September 2014 comply with all Relevant Requirements; page 18 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 (b) not engage in any activity, practice or conduct which would constitute an offence under sections 1, 2 or 6 of the Bribery Act 2010 if such activity, practice or conduct had been carried out in the UK; (c) have and shall maintain in place throughout the term of this Agreement its own policies and procedures, including Adequate Procedures to ensure compliance with the Relevant Requirements and this clause 16, and will enforce them where appropriate; (d) procure and ensure that all of its Associated Persons of [UIBS] and/or other persons who are performing services and/or providing goods in connection with this Agreement comply with this clause 16. 16.2 Without prejudice to any other rights or remedies NTU may terminate this Agreement on written notice to [UIBS] specifying the date on which this Agreement will terminate in the event of a breach of this clause 16. Breach of this clause 16 shall be deemed to a breach which is not capable of remedy. 16.3 For the purpose of this clause 16, the following terms have the meaning set out next to them: “Adequate Procedures” shall be determined in accordance with section 7(2) of the Bribery Act 2010 (and any guidance issues under section 9 of that Act). “Associated Person” shall have the meaning ascribed to it in section 8 of the Bribery Act and shall include but is not limited to any employees, agents and/or subcontractors of the Centre. “Bribery Act” shall mean the Bribery Act 2010 (and any amendment thereto). “Foreign Official” shall be determined in accordance with section 6(5) of the Bribery Act 2010 (and any guidance issues under section 9 of that Act). “Relevant Requirements” shall mean all applicable laws, statutes, regulations, and codes relating to anti-bribery and anti-corruption including but not limited to the Bribery Act. 17 General 17.1 Neither of the parties shall be entitled to perform any of its obligations through any other company or entity and, without the prior written consent of the other party (which the other party shall be free to give or withhold as it sees fit). Neither of the parties shall assign, mortgage, charge or dispose of any of its rights hereunder, or sub-contract or otherwise delegate any of its obligations hereunder. 17.2 Nothing in this Agreement shall create, or be deemed to create, a partnership or the relationship of principal or agent or employer and employee or parent company and subsidiary and/or branch between the parties. 17.3 This Agreement contains the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof save and except for the NTU Regulations supersedes September 2014 page 19 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 all previous agreements and understandings between the parties with respect thereto, and may not be modified except by an instrument in writing signed by the duly authorised representatives of the parties. 17.4 If any provision of this Agreement is held by any court or any other competent authority to be void or unenforceable in whole or in part, this Agreement shall continue to be valid to the other provisions thereof and the remainder of the affected provision. 17.5 The Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 is excluded from applying to this Agreement and nothing in this Agreement confers or purports to confer on any third party any benefit or any right to enforce any term of this Agreement. 17.6 Neither party is relying on any representations or warranties except those expressly set out in this Agreement. However, nothing in this Agreement purports to exclude liability for any fraudulent statement or act. 17.7 No variation of this Agreement (including its Schedules) shall be binding, unless it is in writing and signed by authorised representatives of both parties. 17.8 This Agreement may be entered into in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original but all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Any party may enter into this Agreement by signing any such counterpart. 17.9 This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law. Any dispute which may arise between the parties concerning this Agreement shall be determined by the English courts and the parties hereby submit to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts for such purpose. 17.10 Neither of the parties to this Agreement shall be responsible to the other party for any delay in performance or non-performance due to Force Majeure, but the affected party shall promptly upon occurrence of any such causes inform the other party, stating that such cause has delayed or prevented its performance hereunder and thereafter such party shall take all action within its power to comply with the terms of this Agreement as fully and promptly as possible. If the Force Majeure in question prevails for a continuous period in excess of [one (1) month], either party may terminate this Agreement on [30 days notice]. 17.11 [The parties agree that where there shall be an English and local language version of this Agreement, and in the event that the local language version of this Agreement contains any conflicting provisions or variations to the English version and/or any typographical errors, the parties agree that such conflicting provisions, variations and/or typographical errors, shall be amended in manuscript and initialled by the authorised representatives of the parties. For the avoidance of doubt, in the event of a conflict between the English and local language versions of this Agreement, the English version shall prevail] September 2014 page 20 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 18 Notices 18.1 Any notice or other communication given under this Agreement shall be in writing and signed by or on behalf of the Party giving it and shall be served by delivering it personally or sending it by pre-paid recorded delivery or registered post or fax to the address and for the attention of the relevant party set out in clause 18.3 (or as otherwise notified by that party for the purposes of this Agreement). 18.2 Any such notice shall be deemed to have been received: 18.2.1 if delivered personally, at the time of delivery; 18.2.2 in the case of pre-paid recorded delivery or registered post, seven (7) Working Days from the date of posting; 18.2.3 in the case of registered airmail, seven (7) Working Days from the date of posting; and 18.2.4 in the case of fax, at the time of transmission provided that a transmission report is generated by the sender’s fax machine recording a message on the recipient’s fax machine, confirming that the fax was sent to the number indicated below and that all pages were successfully transmitted provided that if deemed receipt occurs before 9am on a Working Day the notice shall be deemed to have been received at 9am on that day, and if deemed receipt occurs after 5pm on a Working Day, or on a day which is not a Working Day, the notice shall be deemed to have been received at 9am on the next Working Day. 18.3 The addresses and fax numbers of the parties for the purposes of clause 18.1 are: Nottingham Trent University Address: For the attention of: Fax number: [UIBS] Address: For the attention of: Fax number: or such other address or fax number as may be notified in writing from time to time by the relevant party to the other party. September 2014 page 21 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 18.4 In proving such service it shall be sufficient to prove that the envelope containing such notice was addressed to the address of the relevant Party set out in clause 18.3 (or as otherwise notified by that Party for the purposes of this Agreement) and delivered either to that address or into the custody of the postal authorities as a pre-paid recorded delivery, registered post or airmail letter, or that the notice was transmitted by fax to the fax number of the relevant Party set out in clause 18.3 (or as otherwise notified by that Party for the purposes of this Agreement). 18.5 For the avoidance of doubt, notice given under this Agreement shall not be validly served if sent by e-mail. IN WITNESS of the above this Agreement was entered into on the date set out abov SIGNATORIES Signed for and on behalf of NOTTINGHAM TRENT UNIVERSITY _____________________________________ ______________ Professor Eunice Simmons Pro Vice-Chancellor - Academic Date Signed for and on behalf of UNIVERSITY OF INTERNATIONAL BETTER STUDIES __________________________________ ______________ Peter Perfect Chief Officer Date September 2014 page 22 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 Named contacts: [UIBS]: Name: Role in terms of ADA: Title: Address: Fax: Telephone: Email: Website address: NTU: Name: Role in terms of ADA: Title: Address: Fax: Telephone: Email: Website address: September 2014 page 23 Nottingham Trent University Quality Handbook Supplement School-based Collaborative Provision: Advanced standing agreements CP 4 APPENDIX 1A University of International Better Studies ([UIBS]) Course(s) of study at [UIBS] successful completion of which, along with an International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS) examination score of at least 6.5, shall lead to an offer of entry to a specified course at Nottingham Trent University: Diploma in Acme Studies Diploma in Applied Acme Studies APPENDIX 1B Nottingham Trent University (NTU) Successful completion of the requirements set out in Appendix 1A above shall lead to an offer of entry to the second year of any of the following courses at NTU as selected by the student: BA (Hons) Dream Studies Specific entry requirements: At least 60% in project work. BA (Hons) Applied Dream Studies Specific entry requirements: Successful completion of placement on the Diploma Course. September 2014 page 24