BCS Practitioner Certificate in Freedom of Information
An advanced level BCS certificate for compliance or communications professionals with information access responsibilities under FOI & EIR in England, Wales & NI.
The BCS Practitioner Certificate in Freedom of Information course is a widely acknowledged mark of excellence that demonstrates award holders possess the knowledge and skills necessary to implement robust information access practices. The course outlines the requirements organisations must adhere to under the Freedom of Information Act (2002) and the Environmental Information Regulations (2004). This includes the maintenance of publication schemes, how to respond to requests, and disclosing information having applied the relevant exemptions or exceptions.
The latest version of the BCS syllabus (v6.0) provides a significant refresh with greater emphasis being placed on records management, corporate governance, and information architecture. A new 90-minute multiple-choice BCS Practioner Exam is now available online.
Course Overview
The BCS Practitioner Certificate in Freedom of Information course offers an in-depth examination of the legislation, codes of practice, frameworks, standards and ethics surrounding information access within public authorities. As a recognised professional workplace qualification, award holders are often selected to lead disclosure practices of publicly held information within their organisation, department or authority. The course provides delegates with a practical understanding of the obligations and responsibilities involved with being an FOI officer so that their organisations can be confident legal compliance is continually addressed.
This BCS accredited course explores the rights people have to know about the activities of public bodies, except where there is a valid reason for non-disclosure. It examines how transparency and openness are integral to the degree of trust and confidence placed in public authorities. And how being accountable opens debate, ultimately leading to the development of more efficient public services.
The course requires participants develop a thorough understanding of the access requirements under the Freedom of Information Act (2002), Environmental Information Regulations (2004) and associated legislation. It covers the process and mechanisms used to administer the release of information held by, or on behalf of, government departments and public authorities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Training during the COVID-19 pandemic
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this accredited course, which is traditionally taught in a classroom setting over 5-days, is now provided safely across a secure WebEx platform with all the support and interactivity found in the classroom. Delegates can gain a recognised practitioner level workplace qualification at home or from their desk by attending ten x 3.5 hour live online sessions across two-weeks.
Participants will also receive a separate 1-day online revision course to help prepare for the BCS Practitioner Certificate in Freedom of Information Course Exam. The course follows the latest BCS Syllabus (v6.0) and prepares participants for the 90-minute multiple-choice BCS Practioner Exam, which is taken separately and is also now available online.
FAQs
Payment options include: Pay by Invoice or Credit/Debit card.
For more information view our full course overview.
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