Student policies, procedures and information

- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander enrolment
- Academic history
- Accelerated progression
- Appeals
- Articulation
- Assessment
- Awards
- Children on campus
- Computer and network use
- Credit policy
- Credit transfer
- Feedback, grievances and concerns
- Graduation
- Harassment
- International student deferral, suspension or cancelling of enrolment
- International student satisfactory progress
- International students transfer
- Misconduct
- National recognition
- Online enrolment
- Parking
- Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
- Refund & cancellations
- Security
- Smoking
- Student rules
- Workplace health and safety
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander enrolment
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are eligible for a fee concession. Refer to The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander enrolment guideline [
PDF 43 kB] for further information.
Academic history
A student academic history is an accumulative list of academic achievements through TAFE Queensland. It is not an award - it serves as a student reference. A student may apply at one of the Customer Service and Information Centres for a student academic history. The Customer Service and Information Centre staff member will advise the cost of providing a Student Academic History.
Accelerated progression
Accelerated progression (or fast tracking) requires the completion of all designated assessment requirements for the particular unit of competency and will be negotiated between the student and their teacher. No special applications or processes are required and normal enrolment fees apply. All activities will be recorded as part of the standard operation of the class and a result processed at the completion of the assessment.Appeals
A decision made by Brisbane North Institute of TAFE regarding the following can be appealed:
- an academic result
- penalty imposed as a result of misconduct by a student
- breach of academic requirements by an international student
- refusal of either a refund or a release from study for an international student
The Institute appeal procedure [
PDF 96 kB] outlines the process and the timelines that both the student and the institute must adhere to.
Articulation
There are a number of ways in which some TAFE courses link to other TAFE courses and also to university courses. A TAFE course may:
- Provide pre-requisites for other TAFE or university courses
- Be used to increase a student's QTAC rank (similar to an OP) which may assist the student in being offered a place in a university course or in a TAFE diploma or advanced diploma course.
For further information on articulation, contact the Student Counsellors on your campus.
Assessment
Competencies and modules studied at Brisbane North Institute of TAFE are part of accredited courses and national training packages. In order to be successful in gaining competency, students must demonstrate they have the necessary underpinning knowledge and can apply this in a practical way in a workplace setting to industry standard. Assessment of competencies will be graded as either:
- J Competency Achieved
- M Competency Not Competent
- MI Competency Not Yet Achieved - did not complete.
Some specific courses may include performance level assessment.
The due date for submission of assessment will be set out in the competency outline/training plan given to students. This date will be regarded as the student's first attempt, whether they choose to attempt or not.
A student who does not wish to incur an academic penalty due to non-progression, must formally withdraw from the enrolment at least 21 days prior to the class end date for the Unit. The Institute policy IP57 [
PDF 33 kB] outlines the process to follow to withdraw.
Re-sit/re-submission of assessment
When a student has not achieved competency on their first attempt, the teacher/trainer will provide feedback and negotiate additional assessment or resubmission requirements. All assessment (including the reassessment) must be completed prior to the close of study date on their enrolment. The Institute resubmission of assessment policy [
PDF 43 kB] outlines the process.
Special/deferred assessment
In exceptional circumstances a student may be allowed to undertake a deferred assessment. Any student wishing to apply for deferred assessment should complete the request for assignment/assessment consideration/modification form [
PDF 41 kB].
Please note: medical certificates are required for all applications for special consideration based on illness.
Collecting marked assessment
The onus is on the student to collect his/her assessment item within twenty-one (21) days after the results of the assessment have been published. The relevant program delivery area has the authority to discard any assessment items not collected within three (3) months of completion of the Unit.
Re-evaluation of result
If a student considers the result received for an assessment is not a fair reflection of his/her work, the student can apply for re-evaluation of that assessment. The Institute appeals procedure [
PDF 96 kB] details the steps and timeframes to be adhered to by the student and the Institute.
Awards
To be eligible for a course award, the student must successfully complete all relevant competencies/modules. The Institute will issue awards to eligible students within the prescribed timeframes as detailed in the Training and Employment Act 2000.
Children on campus
Brisbane North Institute of TAFE recognises that under extreme circumstances a student may want to bring their child into a classroom. The Institute children on campus policy [
PDF 33 kB] outlines the Institute process for a student's responsibility should they wish to bring children onto an Institute campus.
Computer and network use
Brisbane North Institute of TAFE recognises that computing and electronic resources are a valuable source of learning and information relevant to educational programs. The Institute computer and network policy [
PDF 44 kB] provides information about the acceptable use of computing and electronic resources provided by the Institute.
Credit policy
If you are unable to pay your fees at the time you are enrolling you may be eligible for a Time to Pay arrangement. The Institute credit policy [
PDF 50 kB] outlines the conditions of time to pay arrangements.
Credit transfer
Credit transfer is the process whereby formal documented study equivalent to that of the proposed study is recognised. Credit transfer will not be granted for a full qualification, and must be submitted and approve within 5 weeks after start of study for the subject/module/competency.
Students seeking credit transfer or exemptions from any subject/module/competency, should apply by completing and lodging an application for credit transfer other than recognition of prior learning form [
PDF 77 kB] with the relevant program delivery administration. Applications should be supported by relevant documentation such as academic transcripts and syllabus outlines.
Feedback, grievances and concerns
Brisbane North Institute of TAFE strives for continuous improvement in the quality of teaching and learning. The Institute welcomes constructive feedback to help provide the best service for current and future customers.
If the student has any feedback, concern or grievance, they should first discuss this with the teacher/manager of the appropriate area. If the situation is not resolved to their satisfaction, or they do not feel comfortable discussing the issue with either of these people, they should complete a customer feedback form.
Customer feedback forms and confidential customer feedback boxes are available on every campus, usually in the foyer, at enrolments, administration or the cafeterias. Alternatively, feedback may be submitted via the Brisbane North Institute of TAFE website.
Comments are taken seriously and sent to the appropriate manager to ensure the issue is actioned.
Alternatively, the student may speak to one of the Student Counsellors. Following review of the student's concern they will be advised of the outcome. If the student is still dissatisfied, they have the opportunity to request their concerns be revisited.
Graduation
Students who have successfully completed an advanced diploma, diploma or certificate IV course are eligible to participate in the graduation. These ceremonies are formal events and academic dress is mandatory. Graduation ceremonies are held to honour students for their efforts and family and friends of the graduating students are welcome to attend. graduands will be forwarded an invitation prior to the ceremony.
Harassment
Unwanted and unwelcome sexual attention, bullying, abuse of power or intimidation are examples of harassment or workplace violence.
Sexual harassment
Sexual Harassment is unwanted and unwelcome sexual attention. It may be sexual harassment when someone:
- leers at you
- touches or brushes against your body
- persists in asking you out after you have said no
- tells dirty jokes in your presence
- displays offensive printed material
- makes unwelcome comments or asks questions about your personal life or sexual habits
- tries to force you to have sex
What if you're not sure you're being sexually harassed? If the behaviour made you feel:
- offended
- intimidated
- upset
- frightened
- humiliated
- angry
or that someone went too far - then it's sexual harassment.
You don't have to put up with sexual harassment. You may feel you have to keep quite about sexual harassment or even play along with it. You may feel that if you do object to sexual harassment you will be seen as over-reacting or unable to take a joke.
But remember:
- sexual harassment is not flattering or harmless fun
- it is not friendship, or part of normal social relationships
- it is unwanted and unwelcome sexual attention which denies you respect and fair treatment
- you have every right to object and do something about it
Is sexual harassment against the law?
State and Commonwealth legislation outlaws sexual harassment as a form of sex discrimination. TAFE Queensland takes its obligations under this legislation very seriously. Brisbane North Institute of TAFE will not tolerate sexual harassment.
If you are sexually harassed:
- Tell the person you find their behaviour offensive; keep a record of the incident
- Talk to your Student Counsellor for personal advice and support in dealing with the feelings caused by the harassment
- Consult a Sexual Harassment Referral Officer (SHRO) for a clear presentation of the options available to resolve the problem
- Report the complaint to the Director or another member of Executive at the Institute. Both Counsellors and the SHRO can support you in this process - all complaints will be treated confidentially.
- Share your concerns with any other member of staff with whom you feel comfortable. They will support you and refer you to others who will assist you in resolving the problem
Students who have concerns regarding harassment should discuss them with Student Counsellors and/or Sexual Harassment Referral Officers (SHRO) so that appropriate action can be taken.
International student deferral suspension or cancelling of enrolment
During a course through formal agreement, in certain limited circumstances, Brisbane North Institute of TAFE enables international students to defer or temporarily suspend their studies. For further informationa please refer to the international student deferral suspension or cancelling of enrolment policy [
PDF 56 kB].
International student satisfactory progress
The international student satisfactory progress policy [
PDF 63 kB] details the process regarding satisfactory academic progress to ensure international students of Brisbane North Institute of TAFE, comply with mandatory student visa condition 8202 relating to academic performance under the Migration Act 1958.
International students transfer
The international students transfer policy [
PDF 47 kB] outlines how Brisbane North Institute of TAFE processes international student request for transfers between registered providers in compliance with The Education for Overseas Students Act 2000 and the requirements under Standard 7 of the National Code of Practice 2007.
Misconduct
Misconduct is inappropriate behaviour which:
- Disrupts the learning of others
- Prevents staff members from performing their duties
- Endangers the health and safety of staff or students
- Interferes with the conduct of Institute operations
- Indulges in any acts which may result in damage to Institute property, reputation or unduly interferes with the comfort or conveniences of any person lawfully entitled to be within the premises of the Institute
Please note that misconduct may result in a student being excluded or expelled, or in the case of an apprentice, fined and or suspended.
The Institute's position on unacceptable student behaviour and related student discipline is detailed in the student misconduct management policy [
PDF 51 kB].
National Recognition
National recognition is the process that recognises AQF qualifications and statements of attainment issued by other registered training organisations enabling individuals to receive national recognition of their achievements.
Online enrolment
If you choose to utilise our online enrolment functionality this policy will provide some additional information. Refer to the online enrolment policy document [
PDF 34 kB] for further information.
Parking
There are rules about where staff and students can park on Brisbane North Institute of TAFE campus grounds. The vehicle parking policy [
PDF 34 kB] affects all staff, students and visitors who park on the campus grounds of Brisbane North Institute of TAFE.
Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
Recognition of prior learning, also referred to as RPL is the formal recognition of a person's current skills and knowledge, no matter how, when or where the learning occurred. Even if a person has never formally studied or trained in a particular area, they may have gained knowledge and skills through their education, training, work and life experience.
RPL is a recognition process evidenced in accordance with the Australian Quality Training Framework and could provide individuals with a full or part qualification, and avoid duplication of training. It could be used to identify what training may be needed to complete a qualification, or provide a pathway to higher qualifications. There is a cost involved in the recognition process; however it will cost less than formal training.
If a student believes they have the experience to apply for RPL, they should do this prior to enrolment and refer to the information available on the Institute website.
Refund and cancellations
If you choose not to continue with your enrolment or the institute has to cancel your course you may be eligible for a refund. The Institute refund and cancellation policy [
PDF 52 kB] outlines the conditions under which a refund can be made.
Security
Campus Security
Security Officers are available on each of the Institute's campuses.
Breakages, losses and damage
Students are required to report all damage to Institute property (to a staff member) whether involved in the damage or not. If a student wilfully breaks or damages Institute property, or personal property, the student will be asked to pay for the replacement of that property. Disciplinary action may result.
Drugs and alcohol
Students are not permitted to attend class or any Institute site, or participate in any Institute activity (such as industry placement) following the consumption of performance inhibiting substances such as drugs and alcohol. By law, any drug offence is automatically reported to the Police.
Smoking policy
Brisbane North Institute of TAFE is required to comply with the Queensland Government Tobacco and other Smoking Products Act 1998 which legislates against smoking in Government buildings and vehicles. At Brisbane North Institute of TAFE all students and staff should obey individual campus signage relating to smoking at all times. Refer to the Institute smoking policy [
PDF 33 kB] for compliance requirements.
Student rules
To ensure students maximise the benefits of training and understand their responsibilities, and those of others in this diverse environment, there are various rules to follow. These can be found in the TAFE Queensland student rules [
PDF 144 kB] which can also be accessed through the Institute Learning Hubs. The rules determine that a student must:
- Maintain a high standard of behaviour at all times within the premises of the Institute
- Maintain a learning environment which is free from unnecessary distraction
- Observe all Institute rules relating to safety and the care of Institute facilities and equipment
Workplace health and safety
Brisbane North Institute of TAFE has workplace health and safety rules designed to protect students whilst on any Institute site or engaged in Institute activities.
Accidents and hazards
Students must report all accidents and hazards on institute property to a staff member. The appropriate forms must be completed.
Ambulance
Ambulance assistance will be sought if deemed necessary. All staff, students and visitors are covered for ambulance services under a State Government initiative.
Cleaning work areas
Students are responsible for the cleanliness of their work areas and designated work areas. For example, benches, desks, machines and tools should be cleaned after each use. Please note that eating and drinking in classrooms, laboratories, workshops and learning hubs is prohibited
Dress requirements
Students must:
- maintain a high standard of dress as laid down by the Workplace Health and Safety Act
- be acceptable to industry/commerce standards
Please note that minimum standards include appropriate footwear (no thongs - scuffs).
Evacuation procedures
During emergency evacuations, supervisors and teachers act as emergency co-ordinators and retain absolute authority in respect to any actions, instructions or requests relating to an emergency. Students are required to familiarise themselves with emergency procedures for their specified areas of study. Evacuation maps are available in the campus information pages of the website.
First aid
There are a number of staff on each campus of the Institute who are trained First Aid Officers. Initial contact for assistance is by phone to campus security who will arrange for first aid or ambulance assistance if required.
Insurance cover
Students of the Institute are not covered by insurance of any type whilst on campus except for the following circumstances:
- Apprentices are covered by their employer's work cover policy.
- Work experience, industry placement and vocational placement students are insured against permanent disabling injury and property damage providing the appropriate documentation has been completed within the specified time limits.
Please note that private property or vehicles are not covered by departmental insurance. This is the individual's responsibility.
Personal protective equipment
Students are required to supply and wear mandatory personal protective equipment and apparel as determined by the practical training requirements of their course and Workplace Health and Safety Advisory Standards.

