IRRV TECHNICIAN AND FULL PROFESSIONAL SYLLABUS

IRRV TECHNICIAN AND FULL PROFESSIONAL SYLLABUS CONTENTS About the Institute Status as an Awarding Body Qualifications and Membership Regulation of Examinations and Assessment Entry Requirements Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) Regional Variations Changes to the Law; Other Changes Practical Information Time and place of examinations Entry Written assignments Entry procedure Module entry and validity of pass credits Payment of fees Results Certificates Prizes Examiners Reviews of Scripts, Appeals Past papers and examiners reports Further information Syllabus Structure Knowledge and Understanding - Level Overview Detailed Syllabus Content Examinations and Assessment Regulations Page 1

ABOUT THE INSTITUTE The Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation is the professional body for people working in the fields of local revenues and benefits administration, and both public and private sector valuation. It promotes its members interests in offering sought-after qualifications and professional development opportunities, as well as representing the professions at both central and local government level. The Institute keeps its members informed of current issues through its range of publications, conferences and courses, and conducts research projects on behalf of government and commercial clients. The two main levels of membership are Technician, for those at an early stage of their career, and Corporate, which has full professional status. Both Technician and Corporate members are represented on the Institute s governing Council. Status as an Awarding Body The government s education regulator, the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, recognised the Institute as a national awarding body in June 2001. This means that the Institute works to agreed standards in its conduct of examinations and assessments, and that, in addition to the long experience the Institute has as an awarding body, it can draw on the expertise and advice of the regulator. Qualifications and Membership The written examinations and assessments described in this publication lead to the Technician and Full Professional qualifications which provide access to, respectively, Technician and Corporate Membership. Additionally, the Institute offers National Vocational Qualifications and Scottish Vocational Qualifications in revenues and benefits, and N/SVQs in Valuation and Surveying Support. Both of these lead to the Technician qualification and Technician membership. Qualified members in both main membership categories can enrol on the Continuing Professional Development scheme. This is an invaluable support to members in maintaining and broadening their skills and knowledge in their professional lives. The Technician qualification offered through examination is considered to be at Level 3 of the 5-level National Qualifications Framework. The Full Professional Qualification is considered to be at Levels 4/5. Regulation of Examinations and Assessments The Institute s Professional Services Committee, a standing committee of Council, determines the content and regulation of the examinations and assessments. It is advised by the Syllabus Review Group, a body composed of practitioners, academic representatives and assessment specialists, which monitors the working of the syllabus and proposes periodic updates and modifications to the syllabus on the basis of observation and comments received. The management of the examinations and assessments is overseen by the Examinations and Assessment Board, whose principal functions are to appoint examiners, commission and edit papers, moderate and approve results, consider candidate requests for special treatment, supervise examiners reviews and appeals, and award prizes. At all times the three bodies keep before them the need to ensure that the examinations and assessments are fair and consistent, that they maintain the high standards required by both internal and external regulation, and that they continue to fulfil their function of serving the professions in assessing and recognising up-to-date workplace knowledge and skills. Page 2

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS To enter for the Institute s Technician examinations and assessments, candidates must have been a member of the Institute for at least three months, must be employed in an appropriate workplace and must have a good standard of education. Stress is laid on the need for candidates to be able to express themselves fluently and accurately in written English. A signed statement is required from a senior manager at the candidate s place of employment attesting to the candidate s fitness to sit the examination/assessment (a statement is provided on the examination/assessment entry form). To enter for the Full Professional Qualification Level 1, candidates must be employed in an appropriate workplace and EITHER (i) hold the Technician qualification or be exempted therefrom OR (ii) hold a qualification in any discipline at Level 3 or above of the National Qualifications Framework (eg NVQ Level 3, 2 A-levels or equivalent Highers/Advanced Highers, Higher National Certificate or Diploma) Candidates for Full Professional Qualification Levels 2 and 3 must have passed the preceding level. ACCREDITATION OF PRIOR LEARNING (APL); TECHNICIAN AND FULL PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATION EXEMPTION Technician Subject Credits Candidates holding qualifications which they consider to be similar in content and level to certain components of the Technician examinations and assessments may apply for subject credits. If the application is successful then examinations/assessments in the subject(s) in question would not need to be taken. An accreditation fee is payable where applications are successful. Full Professional Qualification Subject Credits Candidates holding qualifications which they consider to be similar in content and level to certain components of the Full Professional Qualification may apply for subject credits. If the application is successful then examinations/assessments in the subject(s) in question would not need to be taken. Accreditation is subject to certain restrictions and regulations: Credits will not be granted for core technical subjects Credits will not normally be granted at Level 3, or for Assignment modules Qualifications that form part of the entry requirements will not attract credit Credit will normally only be considered where the subject taken is at the same level as the subject for which credit is being sought or where the depth of study in a specialist subject is comparable, although the overall level of the qualification might be lower The content of the syllabus being submitted for credit must reflect current practice Students must supply a copy of the syllabus for which credit is being sought and must map in detail the contents and learning outcomes against the IRRV syllabus. Applications from students who do not supply sufficient information will be rejected. An accreditation fee is payable where applications are successful. Candidates must apply for credits BEFORE attempting examinations and assessments at the applicable level; applications cannot be considered retrospectively. Further information and the official submission form for APL applications are obtainable from the Institute. Page 3

FULL PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATION LEVEL 1 EXEMPTIONS With effect from July 2006, all candidates who have achieved the Technician qualification by examination, with an appropriate combination of subjects, will be exempt from either Local Taxation Law and Practice or Housing and Council Tax Benefits Law and Practice at Level 1 of the Full Professional examinations. An appropriate combination of subjects at Technician is one that includes Council Tax Law and Non-Domestic Rating Law OR Council Tax Law and Housing and Council Tax Benefit Law OR Housing and Council Tax Benefit Law and The Prevention and Detection of Housing and Council Tax Benefit Fraud. An inappropriate combination of subjects is one that includes Council Tax Law and The Prevention and Detection of Housing and Council Tax Benefit Fraud OR Non Domestic Rating Law and The Prevention and Detection of Housing and Council Tax Benefit Fraud OR Non Domestic Rating Law and Housing and Council Tax Benefit Law. Revenues and Benefits candidates who have gained the Technician qualification in the above circumstances will therefore be required at Level 1 to pass UK Constitutional Framework, Commercial Law and Principles of Accounting. Valuation Tribunal candidates in the same position will be required to take UK Constitutional Framework, Commercial Law and Tribunal Administration and Practice. There is no retrospective time limit and therefore, previous candidates at technician level who are eligible for the exemptions are urged to contact the Institute as soon as possible to ensure that their records are updated. FULL PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATION FULL EXEMPTION Members and Fellows of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors may apply for full exemption from the Full Professional Qualification for the purposes of membership. Holders of the above exemptions may apply for Technician or Corporate Membership of the Institute. The exemptions do NOT confer the Technician or Full Professional Qualifications. REGIONAL VARIATIONS While the syllabus is applicable to the whole of the UK, it is recognised that law, procedures and terminology can vary between England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales across the professional fields covered. Separate England & Wales and Scottish papers will be offered in Commercial Law (Level I) and Housing Law and Policy (Level 3), and variations within papers will be offered in other subjects as required. All examination papers are edited by regional subject specialists before approval, and variations incorporated where necessary. CHANGES TO THE LAW; OTHER CHANGES All changes to the law must have been in force for a minimum of two months before they can be the subject of questions in law papers. However, in administration papers (not law papers) candidates are expected to refer to any relevant green and white papers, guidance documents etc. Updated information on the effects of changes to the law, regulations and procedures relevant to specific syllabus subjects will be made available on the Institute website (www.irrv.org.uk), which should be consulted regularly. Information on format of examinations and assessments, which may be modified from time to time, will also be published on the website. Page 4

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Time and Place of Examinations Examinations take place in June and December each year. All subjects are available at both sessions. Examinations take place at designated centres throughout the UK. Candidates may choose their most convenient centre. Details of centres and timetables are published in advance of each examinations session. Entry must be made on the official form, and should reach the Institute by the publicised closing date normally 1 st March for the June session, and 30 th September for the December session. Late entries may be accepted, at the Institute s discretion, and will incur an additional late entry fee. There are special entry arrangements for written assignments at Technician and Level 2 (see below). Written Assignment Technician The subjects Local Authority Administration Framework and Administrative Justice are assessed both by examination and by a 2,500-word written assignment, prepared over a sixmonth period prior to the examination. See individual subject entries for details. Work-Based Assignments Full Professional Level II This component of Level II consists of two assignments of 3,000-5,000 words each, to be completed within stipulated periods over a maximum of two years. See individual subject entry for details. Entry Procedure Candidates must submit their examination / assignment entries, on the official entry form, by the published closing date for the session. Entry forms are available directly from the Institute. Payment of the current fees should be made with entry. Alternatively, candidates may request an invoice. Module Entry Validity of Pass Credits Candidates may enter for all subjects of a particular level at one session, or may enter for them singly or in any combination over a period of two years. In order to gain a full pass at a given level, passes must be obtained in the appropriate combination of subjects within the two-year period. A pass in an individual subject remains valid for a period of two years. A two-year period comprises five consecutive examination sessions, eg June 2004-June 2006. All levels of the Full Professional Qualification examinations/assessments should be completed within a period of ten years. Candidates who have previously obtained the Technician qualification may, at any subsequent examinations session, enter for additional Technician subjects in order to gain further subject credits. A Letter of Credit will be issued for additional subjects passed. Payment of Examination/Assessment Fees Payment should normally accompany the examination/assessment entry. If an invoice is required, the office to which the invoice should be addressed should be clearly stated, with the name of the person responsible for authorising the payment. Results Results are issued on a designated date following each session, usually in late August (June session) and late January (December session). Results letters are sent by first-class post on the designated date, and results are also placed on the Institute s website on the morning of the same day. Candidates may only access their own results using a numbered code. Details are sent with confirmation of examination entries. Page 5

Certificates Certificates are awarded to candidates who successfully complete the Technician and Full Professional Qualifications. Letters of Credit are awarded to candidates who successfully complete Full Professional Qualification Levels 1 and 2. Certificates and Letters of Credit are either sent directly to candidates, or are issued through the local IRRV Association, depending on each Association s procedures. Technician certificates will specify the subjects taken. Prizes At the discretion of the Examinations and Assessment Board, prizes may be awarded for outstanding performance in individual subjects and at a specific level. Prize-winners will be informed at the time of issue of results. Administrative Check of Results; Examiner s Review of Scripts, Appeals Following the issue of results, candidates may request an administrative check of the marks or grades awarded. There is no charge for this service. Candidates who have failed a particular subject may request an Examiner s Review of their script, upon payment of the current fee. The examiner will provide a report on performance for the candidate, and will review the marks awarded. Following an examiner s review, the candidate may lodge an appeal against a fail result, on payment of a further fee. Under the Appeals procedure a member of the Examinations and Assessment Board will scrutinise the script and a sample of others, in order to consider the fairness of the marking, and will report his/her findings to the Examinations and Assessment Board, or its Chair. A decision will then be made to uphold or change the original result. This decision will be final. Past Papers and Examiners Reports Past examination papers, and examiners general reports on the performance of all candidates, will be made available on the Institute s website. Further Information For further information and all queries relating to courses, examinations, assessments and membership the Institute s Education Section should be contacted by e-mail, letter, fax or telephone. Page 6

SYLLABUS STRUCTURE - TECHNICIAN FOUR subjects to be studied. Candidates follow either the Revenues/Benefits route or the Tribunal route (England and Wales only) SECTION A ONE SUBJECT TO BE CHOSEN Local Authority Administration Framework assessed by examination and written assignment Administrative Justice assessed by examination and written assignment PAGE SECTION B ONE SUBJECT TO BE CHOSEN Revenues Administration The study of Local Authority Administration Framework is a prerequisite for the studying of this subject. Housing and Council Tax Benefits Administration The study of Local Authority Administration Framework is a prerequisite for the studying of this subject. Valuation Tribunal Administration The study of Administrative Justice is a prerequisite for the studying of this subject. SECTION C TWO SUBJECTS TO BE CHOSEN Council Tax Law Housing and Council Tax Benefit Law Prevention and Detection of Housing and Council Tax Benefit Fraud Non Domestic Rating Law Page 7

SYLLABUS STRUCTURE - FULL PROFESSIONAL Level 1 Four subjects to be studied at this level. Candidates follow either the Revenues/Benefits route or the Tribunal route (England and Wales only) THREE COMPULSORY SUBJECTS: UK Constitutional Framework PAGE Commercial Law OR Commercial Law, Scotland Principles of Accounting ONE of: Local Taxation Law & Practice Housing & Council Tax Benefits Law & Practice Tribunal Administration and Practice candidates for this subject must take UK Constitutional Framework, Commercial Law and Local Taxation Law and Practice as their three other subjects Level 2- Four subjects to be studied at this level THREE COMPULSORY SUBJECTS: Financial Management in the Public Sector Introduction to Management Work-Based Assignments Two assignments to be completed within stipulated periods ONE of: Principles and Practice of Valuation for Local Taxation Revenues Administration Benefits Administration Level 3- Four subjects to be studied at this level, with Management counting as 2 subjects TWO COMPULSORY SUBJECTS: Management ( Double module) Integrative Case Studies ONE of Welfare Benefits Valuation for Local Taxation Housing Law and Policy OR Housing Law and Policy, Scotland Page 8

KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING - LEVEL OVERVIEW The following section indicates the knowledge and understanding required at the various levels of the examination process. Technician Level At this level students should be able to: acquire underlying knowledge relating to their chosen routeway including the acquisition of knowledge from other areas which may also underpin their chosen routeway. (This may mean that students have to undertake additional reading in other technical areas in order to be able to deal with the chosen subjects); apply knowledge and skills in a broad range of activities and scenarios with the relevant theoretical knowledge; make informed judgements, selecting from a considerable choice of procedures, in both familiar and unfamiliar contexts. (Students will be expected to apply their knowledge to situations in which they may have no or limited experience). Level 1 At this level students should be able to: apply a broad knowledge base, incorporating theoretical concepts and employing a wide range of professional skills; evaluate information using it to plan and develop investigative strategies and to determine solutions to a wide range of unpredictable problems; operate in a range of varied and highly specialised contexts, taking responsibility for the nature and quality of outputs. Level 2 At this level students should be able to: generate ideas through the analysis of concepts at an abstract level with a command of highly specialised skills and the formulation of responses to concrete and abstract problems; analyse and evaluate information; exercise significant judgement across a broad range of functions. Level 3 At this level students should be able to: critically review, consolidate and extend a systematic and coherent body of knowledge, utilising highly specialised skills across a major discipline; critically evaluate and integrate new concepts and evidence from a range of sources; transfer and apply creative skills and exercise significant judgement in a range of situations; accept personal accountability for determining and achieving outcomes. Page 9

DETAILED SYLLABUS CONTENT Page 10

LOCAL AUTHORITY ADMINISTRATION FRAMEWORK (TECHNICIAN) REVISED SUBJECT SYLLABUS NOTE: THIS SUBJECT SYLLABUS APPLIES TO 2005/6 ONLY. IT COVERS THE DECEMBER 2005 AND JUNE 2006 EXAMINATIONS SESSIONS, PENDING A FULLER REVIEW OF THE FULL SYLLABUS TO BE APPLIED IN 2006/7. Aim To provide students with an outline knowledge and understanding of the structure, organisation, role and function of local government in the country where they currently work (students will be required to state their country of work in examinations and assessed assignments). Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: describe the role, structure and organisation of local government within their chosen country; state the main functions of local government within their chosen country. Content The structure, functions and principles of financing of local government including the different types of local authority (where appropriate). Relationships between local authorities, regional authorities and central government. Governance of local authorities - Cabinet style and other relevant approaches; role of elected mayors (England and Wales); roles and responsibilities of elected members; the role of the scrutiny function. Separation of responsibilities between Officers and Members; roles and responsibilities of Statutory Local Government Officers. Public participation in local government including standing for election as a Councillor, participation in meetings of local authorities, ability to attend meetings, petitioning and lobbying local councillors, voting at elections and inclusion on the electoral register. Role of inspectorates in local government; performance measures (including standards, indicators and targets), controls and standards for and by local government. Principles of procurement. Local Authority role as an agency (usually for central government), role as a partner in a public private partnership and in other joint ventures with public sector bodies. Local authority and professional associations. ASSESSMENT This subject is assessed in two parts: (i) Two-hour examination; (ii) 2,500-word written assignment prepared over a six-month period. The assignment will require the candidate to cover an area or areas of the syllabus in greater detail than would normally be the case in the examination. It must be a piece of original work drawing on the candidate s own occupational knowledge and experience as well as published material. All sources of information must be acknowledged. Page 11

The assignment titles are released in October for assessments relating to the following June session (to be submitted in the intervening April), and in April for assessments relating to the following December session (to be submitted in the intervening October). Candidates must obtain full regulations for completion of the assignment from the Institute before embarking on it, and must make their entry for the examined component of the subject and the assignment at the same time (by the normal closing date for examination entry). Assignments must be submitted in the prescribed format, and must include the official cover sheets, duly completed. One cover sheet will include a statement to be signed by the candidate to the effect that the assignment is his/her original work, and a similar statement from the candidate s employer or tutor testifying that this is the case, to the best of his/her knowledge. Full regulations are available from the Institute. Page 12

ADMINISTRATIVE JUSTICE (TECHNICIAN) Aim To provide an outline knowledge and understanding of the sources of law of the United Kingdom, particularly that affecting administrative bodies, the organisation and structure of the judicial system, the legal framework in which judicial and administrative bodies operate Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: Identify the major sources of law of the United Kingdom Outline the structure, organisation and personnel of the judicial system Describe the roles and functions of the various courts Describe the legal status and responsibilities of administrative and semi-judicial bodies such as tribunals and executive departments Explain the judicial and other controls exercised over administrative activities CONTENT Major sources of law (Outline only) Legislation: Acts of Parliament (primary legislation); method of passage through Parliament from 1 st reading to Royal Assent, repeal and amendment Delegated (secondary) legislation; law making powers of the Executive; limits to such powers and basis for challenge in the courts Common law: the principle of judicial precedent; major rules of statutory interpretation Effect on U.K. law of: European Law: status of Treaty, Regulation, Directive, Decision European Convention on Human Rights JUDICIAL SYSTEM AND COURTS Judiciary: Lord Chancellor (or equivalent position), judges, magistrates: appointment, roles, responsibilities and functions Other legal personnel: roles and functions of barristers, solicitors, court staff U.K. civil and criminal court system: House of Lords or equivalent judicial body; Court of Appeal; High Court; County Court; Crown Court; Magistrates Court; Scottish Courts; nature of each court, its roles, functions, organisation, appeal hierarchy ADMINISTRATIVE AND SEMI-JUDICIAL BODIES TRIBUNALS AND INQUIRIES Types of tribunal Statutory tribunals: characteristics, roles, functions, organisation, membership, powers Statutory Inquiries and special tribunals: purpose and use EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS Judicial, quasi-judicial and other powers required for principal types of activity, such as decision-making, in the modern state (central and local government); exercise of such powers by Ministers, officials and administrative tribunals; limits of discretion Page 13

JUDICIAL AND OTHER CONTROLS Control by Parliament over administrative activity Judicial review: purpose, process and available orders; basis for challenge: principles of natural justice, excess or unreasonable exercise of powers, failure to act Other judicial remedies Legal liabilities of administrative authorities and officials to the public commissioners for administration ASSESSMENT This subject is assessed in two parts: (i) Two-hour examination; (ii) 2,500-word written assignment prepared over a six-month period. The assignment will require the candidate to cover an area or areas of the syllabus in greater detail than would normally be the case in the examination. It must be a piece of original work drawing on the candidate s own occupational knowledge and experience as well as published material. All sources of information must be acknowledged. The assignment titles are released in October for assessments relating to the following June session (to be submitted in the intervening April), and in April for assessments relating to the following December session (to be submitted in the intervening October). Candidates must obtain full regulations for completion of the assignment from the Institute before embarking on it, and must make their entry for the examined component of the subject and the assignment at the same time (by the normal closing date for examination entry). Assignments must be submitted in the prescribed format, and must include the official cover sheets, duly completed. One cover sheet will include a statement to be signed by the candidate to the effect that the assignment is his/her original work, and a similar statement from the candidate s employer or tutor testifying that this is the case, to the best of his/her knowledge. Full regulations are available from the Institute. Page 14

REVENUES ADMINISTRATION (TECHNICIAN) Aim To provide a knowledge and understanding of - the administration of the revenues functions for a local authority and the role of the revenues administrator, - the various local taxes available to the local authority and the significance of collection of the sums due, and - the range of fees and other charges that may be levied and their significance for the revenue income of the local authority. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: recall the full range of revenues income available to a local authority; identify the principal powers and duties of the local authority in respect of local taxation and discuss the principles on which the taxes are levied and collected; describe the principles of the ring fenced housing revenue account (HRA) and its impact upon the setting and collection of the rents of HRA properties; discuss the principles of e-government and of the procurement of specialist systems (manual and computerised), equipment and stationery; describe and explain customer care policies particularly on revenues related matters; describe the concepts of Best Value and Performance Management and explain their impact upon revenues administration. Content Source of Income council tax; non-domestic rates; residuary taxes; HRA rents; rents from non-hra properties and commercial properties; fees and charges for services and goods supplied; any other source of revenue income but not borrowing and capital receipts. General Administration - organisation of the revenues office; distribution of duties; acquisition of specialist stationery, equipment, services and systems; debt arrangement schemes (Scotland); all relevant Court proceedings and their administration; public enquiry facilities; citizen s charter implications; customer care considerations including complaints procedures; cash receiving facilities; payment methods; competitive tendering; Data Protection; Race Relations. Setting Rents, Fees and Charges - powers of the local authority to set and collect rents on HRA and non-hra properties; rents for commercial properties; fees and charges for goods and services supplied; discretionary/mandatory charges; impact of national policies and political objectives on rents, fees and charges. Best Value/Quality Systems - ISO9002, EFQM/Baldridge Model, elements of good process design, processing standards, Best Value, Performance Management. External Relationships - correspondence with Members of Parliament (MPs) / Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs); members of council and the public; publicity and advertising material; form and leaflet design including the use of plain language; relationships with the media; liaison with benefits, audit, accountancy and payments sections, liaison with other internal and external organisations; setting and monitoring performance targets. Personnel - The personnel function; staff recruitment and selection; training, health and safety; violence in the workplace; office accommodation and equipment; Disability Discrimination Act 1995. Page 15

HOUSING AND COUNCIL TAX BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION (TECHNICIAN) Aim To provide a knowledge and understanding of - the general administration of housing and council tax benefits, - the role of quality systems, and - the principles of fraud prevention. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: describe and identify the organisation and management styles required for the administration of benefits in a local authority; describe the principles of personnel management and the requirements for liaison with internal and external organisations; deal with reviews, cases referred to appeals tribunal, calculation statements, backdating of claims and other customer requirements; draft committee reports, letters and presentational papers, design forms and leaflets; identify the statutory and audit requirements; compile and analyse subsidy and statistical returns; undertake fraud detection and prevention. Content General Administration - the relationship with the council tax and the housing functions; liaison with the Benefit Agency / Job Centre Plus / Pension Service and the Rent Officer Service including pre-tenancy determinations; the relationship with and the rights of private landlords; reviews and Appeals Tribunal; customer care; publicity; the principles of form and document design including the use of plain language; liaison with the Welfare Rights Service and the Citizens Advice Bureaux; dealing with elected members, the media and the general public; presentation of management and committee reports; control and organisation of workload and their relationship with Best Value / Statutory / local performance indicators; control and recovery of overpayments/excess benefits; information technology applications including the development of e-commerce and customer relationship management; data protection. Subsidy, Statistics and Audit - quarterly stock count; 1% sample; estimates; subsidy claims encompassing backdating, overpayments, benefit period overruns, etc.; administration subsidy; housing revenue account; rent officer referrals including local reference and maximum rents; financial and reconciliation controls; internal and external audit control; systems security; performance indicators. Quality Systems - ISO 9002; EFQM/Baldridge Model; elements of good process design, processing standards, Best Value, and the role of the Benefits Fraud Inspectorate in investigation; performance standards. Fraud - detection; prevention; service level agreements / liaison with Benefits Agency / Job Centre Plus / Pension Service and other organisations; interviews under caution; prosecution; cautions and administrative penalties; security against fraud and error (SAFE); weekly incorrect benefits scheme; relationship with benefits section; procedures and organisation. The Verification Framework; the role of the Benefit Fraud Inspectorate. Personnel - the personnel function; staff recruitment and selection; training; health and safety; violence in the workplace; office accommodation and equipment. Page 16

VALUATION TRIBUNAL ADMINISTRATION (TECHNICIAN) Aim To provide a knowledge and understanding of the statutory duties and responsibilities of the Valuation Tribunal, its administration and relationships with other bodies. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: explain the relevant legislation relating to constitution and jurisdiction of Valuation Tribunals and its application; discuss the general administrative functions relating to the Valuation Tribunal as a Parent Body; identify the principal roles of the Chairman and Clerk or Tribunal. Content Legal Framework - the legal framework for the establishment, jurisdiction, administration and procedures of the Tribunal to the extent that it affects its administration and practice. The Tribunal (The Parent Body) - constitution: membership, appointing authorities, terms of appointment, disqualifications, resignations, removal from office; election, powers and duties of President and Chairman. Law of meetings - minutes; admission of press and public. Jurisdiction - Non-Domestic Rates (NDR), Council Tax Valuation, Council Tax Liability and Drainage Rate Appeals. Tribunal administration - programme of tribunals, selection of members and cases for hearing, pre-hearing reviews; relationship with government departments, valuation office and local authorities; application of the management and administration procedures and practices to the Valuation Tribunal. Page 17

COUNCIL TAX LAW (TECHNICIAN) Aim To provide an introduction to council tax law, and its application to the billing, collection, enforcement and the assessment of council tax in England, Wales and Scotland. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: recall and discuss the legislation governing the administration and collection of council tax and domestic water services charges (Scotland only); recall relevant case law and explain how this has impacted on the interpretation of the relevant legislation; state the basis of the council tax valuation and describe the appeals process in relation to valuation and non valuation matters; identify the factors which affect the calculation of liabilities and reliefs; describe and explain the rules which govern billing, collection, recovery and appeals procedures. Content General Provisions - administration; data protection; delegation; Ombudsman; financial arrangements; administration of financial affairs; sources of finance; duty to consult ratepayers (England and Wales only); reductions for prompt payment / non-cash payments; judicial system; court system; council tax appeals; judicial review. ENGLAND AND WALES: Valuation - valuation list; listing officer; basis of valuation; compilation and maintenance; contents alterations; effective dates; valuation tribunal; constitution; pre-hearing review; hearing; decision; transitional arrangements; entitlement; changes to band; special cases; examples. Liability - determination; liable person; sole or main residence; joint & several liability; owners; determination; prescription; resolution; caravans & boats; joint & several liability; gathering of information; determination; residents / owners & managing agents; public bodies; deaths; penalties. Reliefs - exemptions; determination; vacant; unoccupied (special conditions); unoccupied (relevant absentee) occupied; completion notices; administration; discounts; determination; disregards; administration; disabled reductions; determination; calculation of relief. Billing and Recovery- council tax setting; demand notice; instalments; enforcement; reminder / final notices; complaint; summons; liability orders; statement of case; request for information; attachment of earnings; attachment of allowances; deductions; distress; charging order; committal; costs & fees; insolvency; practitioners; voluntary arrangements; liquidation; bankruptcy; receivership; administration orders; deeds of arrangement; role of billing authority. SCOTLAND: Valuation valuation list; the Assessor; valuation areas/boards; basis of valuation; compilation, maintenance and alterations to the list; effective dates, completion notices; proposals; appeals; Valuation Appeal Committee Liability - liable person(s);sole or main residence; joint and several liability; owners liability; provision of information - owners, managing agents, public bodies and deaths; civil penalties; appeals Page 18

Reliefs - exemptions; discounts; assumptions; administration; reductions for disability; transitional reductions; reduction of liability Billing and Recovery - council tax setting; water services charges; demand notice; instalments; reminders; summary warrant; decree; diligence; direct deduction from ISA/JSA; Sheriff Officers; debt arrangement scheme; bankruptcy; liquidation; inhibition; receivership. Page 19

HOUSING AND COUNCIL TAX BENEFIT LAW (TECHNICIAN) Aim To provide an introduction to the law relating to housing and council tax benefits and its practical application. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: recall and discuss the principles of all aspects of the law relating to housing and council tax benefit; recall relevant case law and explain how this has impacted on the interpretation of the relevant legislation; identify the law appropriate to the solving of benefits issues and problems describe and explain the rules which govern assessment and calculation, transitional and discretionary awards, and the award and payment of benefit; recall the rules governing benefit subsidy describe and explain tenancy matters relevant to housing and council tax benefit. Content The structure of Benefits legislation - the principles of all aspects of the law of housing and council tax benefits; case law and associated social security matters. Eligibility and disentitlements and the law governing claims and claimants - the duty of the local authority with regard to decision-making on claims and representations thereto; right of review; the role of the Appeals Service, its constitution and the rights of the respective parties; judicial review. Principles of Assessment and Calculation - pre-tenancy determinations; eligible rent including determinations made by the Rent Officer and council tax: amenity and service charges; water charges; non-dependants; income; capital; applicable amounts; household; joint occupiers; sub-tenants students; second adult rebate; boarders and lodgers; minimum and maximum awards of benefit; unsuitable accommodation and restrictions on eligible rents and service charges; occupation and absence from home, benefit prior to occupation. Discretionary and transitional awards of benefit - the benefit period and its determination; effective date of claims and changes of circumstances; provisions for backdating claims and extended payments. Payment and Award of Benefit - payment to third parties; suspension of payment; overpayments; excess benefits; underlying entitlement; recovery of overpaid benefits. Subsidy - the rules governing benefit subsidy; incentive and penalty areas; administration costs; fast tracking arrangements. Tenancy Matters - assured and shorthold tenancies; tenant s improvements; private sector licences and other tenancy matters; shared ownership; mesne profits; rental purchase and retaining fees. Page 20

PREVENTION AND DETECTION OF HOUSING AND COUNCIL TAX BENEFIT FRAUD (TECHNICIAN) Aim To provide an introduction to the legal provisions and principles involved in the prevention and detection of housing and council tax benefit fraud. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to demonstrate an: understanding of the law relating to the prevention and detection of fraud; ability to apply the law relating to the prevention and detection of housing and council tax benefit fraud; understanding of the principles, practice and procedure involved in preventing and detecting fraud; understanding of the legal and practical requirements relating to the preparation of cases for prosecution. Content Relevant Legislation and Policy - the law relevant to the prevention and detection of fraud including an understanding of the various offences involved and the range of legislation under which prosecutions or sanctions can be taken - Local Authority policies in relation to codes of practice for the detection and prevention of fraud - Counter-fraud strategies and measures - Subsidy issues: The New Incentive Scheme (SAFE) and fraudulent payments - The role of the BFI Organisation and Planning - organising and planning fraud initiatives including objective setting and an understanding of the sources of information available, intelligence gathering, evaluation of intelligence (5x5x5), recording of information, data protection issues, and data analysis; working with other agencies; an understanding of information technology requirements; preparation and planning of a surveillance operation, surveillance techniques, evidence gathering, health and safety, the impact of the Human Rights Act; the law relating to photographic evidence and its use in the detection of fraud; preventing and deterring fraud; working within current legislation. Investigative Interviewing - communication skills including active listening, questioning techniques, and non-verbal communication; preparing and planning an interview; structuring and controlling an interview; PACE (England and Wales) / PEACE; use of tape recording equipment, taped transcripts and summaries; dealing with third parties; techniques involved in eliciting information; recognising and dealing with aggressive behaviour. England and Wales Rules on Disclosure - an understanding of the provisions of the Criminal Procedure and Investigations Act as it relates to the law on disclosure including: - the disclosure process, - the roles created by the code, - the completion of the disclosure schedules, - maintaining continuity of evidence and preparation of exhibits, - preparation of evidence statements. The Courts an understanding of the legal process and the courts through which prosecutions can be undertaken; court etiquette; the role of the police, and the officers of the court; the role of the local authority as a prosecuting authority; preparing and presenting evidence; the role of witnesses; the impact of case-law on local authority counter-fraud policies. Page 21

Scotland Rules on how to submit cases for Prosecution and the Alternatives to Prosecution. How cases are prosecuted in Scotland The roles involved in the process The disclosure and precognition process Maintaining continuity of evidence and preparation of productions Preparation of evidence statements. The role of the local authority as a prosecuting authority. The Courts An understanding of the legal process and the courts through which prosecutions can be undertaken; court etiquette; the role of the police and the officers of the court. The persons involved in the Scottish Legal process Preparing and presenting evidence The role of witnesses. The impact of case-law on local authority counter fraud policies. Page 22

NON DOMESTIC RATING LAW (TECHNICIAN) Aim To provide an introduction to non-domestic rating law and its application to the billing, collection enforcement and the assessment of Non-Domestic Rates in England, Wales and Scotland. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: recall and discuss the legislation governing the administration and collection of Non- Domestic Rates; recall relevant case law and explain how this has impacted on the interpretation of the relevant legislation; state the basis of valuation and describe the appeals process in relation to valuation and non valuation matters; identify the factors which affect the calculation of liabilities and reliefs; describe and explain the rules which govern billing, collection, recovery and appeals procedures. Content General Provisions administration; data protection; delegation; Ombudsman; financial arrangements; administration of financial affairs; sources of finance; duty to consult ratepayers (England and Wales only); pooling arrangements; judicial system; court system; Non-Domestic Rate appeals; Judicial Review. ENGLAND AND WALES Valuation - valuation list; valuation officer; basis of valuation; compilation and maintenance of list; contents; alterations; effective dates; interest; central rating list; valuation tribunal; constitution; pre-hearing review; hearing; decision; transitional arrangements; entitlement; changes in rateable value; special cases; examples. Liability - occupation; local and central rating liability; rateable occupation; 4 elements; joint & several; servants/agents & caretakers; seasonal; clubs; advertising rights; unoccupied rate; liability; exemptions; completion notices; exemptions; classes of exemption. Reliefs Charities & kindred organisations: mandatory relief, discretionary relief, financial implications, guidance note; Rural rate relief: rural settlements, compilation & maintenance of lists, mandatory relief, discretionary relief, financial implications, guidance note; Hardship relief: entitlement, financial implications, guidance note, part occupied properties, financial implications, guidance note. Recovery - billing/collection; multiplier; demand notice; instalments; enforcement; further/reminder notices; complaint; summons; liability orders; statement of case; distress; security for unpaid rate; committal; costs & fees; insolvency; practitioners; voluntary arrangements; liquidation; bankruptcy; receivership; administration orders; deeds of arrangement; role of billing authority. SCOTLAND Valuation-valuation roll; the Assessor; valuation areas/boards; basis of valuation; compilation, maintenance and alterations to the roll; valuation notices; effective dates; exemptions; appeals; valuation appeal committee; lands tribunal; Page 23

Liability-rateable occupation; assessment roll; liability; joint owners and occupiers; exemptions; provision of information from owners; empty rate; transitional arrangements; interest on overpaid rates; appeals. Reliefs-mandatory (charitable) and discretionary; small business; rural; hardship; part occupied properties; disabled persons. Billing and Recovery-uniform business rate; demand notice; instalments; reminders; summary warrant; decree; diligence; Sheriff Officers; debt arrangement scheme; bankruptcy; liquidation; inhibition; receivership. Page 24

U.K. CONSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK (LEVEL 1) Aim To provide a knowledge and understanding of the constitutional and institutional framework of the United Kingdom and its relationship with the European Union Learning outcomes On completion of their studies students should be able to: Identify the division of State functions into the legislative, executive and judicial Describe the constitutional roles and responsibilities within the U.K. of Parliament, the Executive and the Judiciary; Outline the structure and institutions of the European Union and its relationship with the United Kingdom State the relationship between central, regional and local government Explain the statutory framework of local government, its functions and means by which these are carried out Content DIVISION OF STATE FUNCTIONS Doctrine of separation of powers division of State functions into legislative, executive, judicial - and extent within the U.K. PARLIAMENT, EXECUTIVE AND JUDICIARY PARLIAMENT Composition of House of Lords and House of Commons; membership, methods of selection or appointment, roles and duties Functions of Parliament: law making process, including consultation, Green and White papers, primary and secondary legislation; scrutiny of Executive: select committees, debates, questions; Parliamentary officers Voting systems used for U.K. (including E.U.) elections; referenda EXECUTIVE Monarch: constitutional position and functions as Head of State Central Government: Prime Minister, appointment, role and powers; Cabinet: selection and functions; Government departments: appointment, role and functions of government ministers (including law-making powers); individual and collective responsibility; organisation of departments (with special reference to the work of local government); Civil Servants and their relationship with ministers Public finance: administration and controls (outline only) Quangos, executive agencies and independent authorities for government and regulatory services; distinction between them; purpose; methods of creation; forms of organisation and membership Political parties and pressure groups: characteristics and influence in central and local government Page 25

JUDICIARY Role and function of the Lord Chancellor (or equivalent judicial position) Outline of system of courts (civil and criminal) and judicial processes (with particular emphasis on the work of the Magistrates Court) Law-making through judicial precedent and statutory interpretation (an outline understanding only is required in order to provide a contrast with law-making through legislation) Role and functions of administrative tribunals Control and review of administrative processes: method of review by the courts and remedies; role, functions and powers of Commissioners for Administration Outline of the effect of human rights law on central and local government EUROPEAN UNION Outline of: structure, institutions and organisation of the E.U.; inter-action with the U.K. constitution; types of legislation (treaty obligations, regulations, directives, recommendations and opinions), role of the Courts of the European Union Role of the Committee of the Regions; European financial assistance for UK local authorities CENTRAL, REGIONAL AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT Regional Government: principles and extent of devolution of power within the United Kingdom; composition and powers of devolved institutions (Welsh Assembly, Scottish Parliament, Northern Ireland Assembly, Greater London Assembly); regional bodies exercising executive powers; Relationships with central and local government LOCAL GOVERNMENT Structure of local government in the U.K.; roles and duties of elected members and officers; internal organisation; functions of local government, enabling role, arrangements and partnerships with other bodies; financing of local government; work of the Audit Commission, Audit Scotland and inspectorates within local government; relationship with central government Page 26

COMMERCIAL LAW (LEVEL 1) Aim To provide students with an outline knowledge of some of the main areas of law affecting business operations Learning outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: State the legal principles relating to the creation, management and membership of partnerships and limited companies and their respective legal status (including the concept of artificial legal personality) State the legal principles relating to formation, content and termination of enforceable contracts Contrast the nature of tortious liability with contractual liability Outline the nature of freehold and leasehold estates and some interests in land (easements, restrictive covenants and mortgages) State the relationship between landlord and tenant and their main obligations towards each other Outline the method of recording land ownership under the system of registration of title to land and its importance for the revenues or benefits function Apply principles of law to factual situations Content Partnerships and limited companies Legal personality: the concept of natural and legal persons; the concept of separate corporate personality, its importance and consequences Types of companies which may be registered; registration formalities; importance of Memorandum and Articles of Association; consequences of incorporation especially limited liability and exceptions to it; functions and powers of Director and Secretary (especially agency function); role and powers of members; (outline only) of methods of finance available to a limited company through shares (including nature and types), debentures and floating charges; termination of a limited company through winding up (a detailed knowledge of procedures is not required) Distinction between ordinary, limited and limited liability partnership; formation of an ordinary partnership; legal duties and relationships of partners between themselves, liabilities of partners towards third parties (including the agency position); circumstances in which a partnership may be dissolved at common law and under statute (Apart from awareness of the existence of other types of partnerships, this part of the syllabus will relate only to ordinary partnerships under the Partnership Act 1890) CONTRACT Nature of a contract; requirements for formation of a legally enforceable contract (offer, acceptance, consideration, intention to create legal relations, formal requirements when necessary, capacity); principle of privity of contract and exceptions to it under common law and statute; Terms of a contract: distinction between express and implied terms; methods by which terms are implied into contract; (in outline only) terms implied by statute into consumer contracts for the sale of goods and services; definition of exclusion and limitation clauses and outline of effectiveness under common law and statute; classification of terms into conditions, warranties and intermediate terms and the importance of the classification Page 27

Classification of a contract as void, voidable and unenforceable and the consequences; outline awareness of the effect on a contract of mistake, misrepresentation, undue influence, duress and illegality Discharge of a contract through performance, agreement, breach, frustration Remedies for breach of contract: damages (including rules on remoteness), specific performance, injunction, quantum meruit TORTIOUS LIABILITY Nature of tortious liability (especially for goods and premises) as contrasted with contractual liability arising from prior agreement ESTATES AND INTERESTS IN LAND Common law and statutory definitions of land ; nature and main characteristics of freehold and leasehold estates and distinction between them; contrast of estate with interests in land Identification of mortgage, easement, restrictive covenant; outline of circumstances in which each is created and their effect on use of land LANDLORD AND TENANT Essential requirements for creation of a leasehold; distinction between a leasehold and a licence and importance of the distinction; nature of the relationship between landlord and tenant, assignees of the reversion or term and sublessees Nature of a leasehold covenant; identification of covenants normally found within a lease i.e. repairs, quiet possession, non-derogation from grant, rent, assignment and subletting; remedies of landlord and tenant for breach of covenant Outline of circumstances in which a leasehold terminates Note: students will not be required to know any of the statutory codes conferring security of tenure, lease extension etc. REGISTRATION OF TITLE TO LAND The principle of registration of title as a record of land ownership and its importance; the system of registration (in outline); functions of the Land Registry in recording ownership and supplying information on ownership; use of the Land Register (especially by the revenues or benefits officer) for investigating and proving title to land and third party rights Page 28

COMMERCIAL LAW, SCOTLAND (LEVEL 1) Aim To provide students with an outline knowledge of some of the main areas of law affecting business operations Learning outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: State the legal principles relating to the creation, management and membership of partnerships and limited companies and their respective legal status (including the concept of artificial legal personality) State the legal principles relating to formation, content and termination of enforceable contracts Contrast the nature of delictual liability with contractual liability Outline the nature of heritable and leasehold estates and some interests in land (servitudes, real burdens and mortgages) State the relationship between landlord and tenant and their main obligations towards each other Outline the method of recording land ownership under the system of registration of title to land and its importance for the revenues or benefits function Apply principles of law to factual situations Content Partnerships and limited companies Legal personality: the concept of natural and legal persons; the concept of separate corporate personality, its importance and consequences Types of companies which may be registered; registration formalities; importance of Memorandum and Articles of Association; consequences of incorporation especially limited liability and exceptions to it; functions and powers of Director and Secretary (especially agency function); role and powers of members; (outline only) of methods of finance available to a limited company through shares (including nature and types), debentures and floating charges; termination of a limited company through winding up (a detailed knowledge of procedures is not required) Distinction between ordinary, limited and limited liability partnership; formation of an ordinary partnership; legal duties and relationships of partners between themselves, liabilities of partners towards third parties (including the agency position); circumstances in which a partnership may be dissolved at common law and under statute (Apart from awareness of the existence of other types of partnerships, this part of the syllabus will relate only to ordinary partnerships under the Partnership Act 1890) CONTRACT Nature of a contract; requirements for formation of a legally enforceable contract (offer, acceptance, consideration, intention to create legal relations, formal requirements when necessary, capacity) Terms of a contract: distinction between express and implied terms; methods by which terms are implied into contract; (in outline only) terms implied by statute into consumer contracts for the sale of goods and services; definition of exclusion and limitation clauses and outline of effectiveness under common law and statute; classification of terms into conditions and warranties Classification of a contract as void, voidable and unenforceable and the consequences; outline awareness of the effect on a contract of mistake, misrepresentation, undue influence, duress and illegality Page 29

Discharge of a contract through performance, agreement, breach, frustration Remedies for breach of contract: damages (including rules on remoteness), specific performance, interdict, quantum meruit DELICTUAL LIABILITY Nature of delictual liability (especially for goods and premises) as contrasted with contractual liability arising from prior agreement INTERESTS IN LAND Common law and statutory definitions of land ; nature and main characteristics of heritable and leasehold property and distinction between them; missives of sale and purchase Identification of mortgage, servitude, real burdens; outline of circumstances in which each is created and their effect on use of land LANDLORD AND TENANT Essential requirements for creation of a lease; distinction between a lease and a licence and importance of the distinction; nature of the relationship between landlord and tenant, assignees and sub-tenants Nature of a leasehold obligations; identification of obligations normally found within a lease i.e. repairs, uninterrupted possession, non-derogation from grant, rent, assignation and subletting; remedies of landlord and tenant for breach of obligations Outline of circumstances in which a lease terminates REGISTRATION OF TITLE TO LAND The principle of registration of title as a record of land ownership and its importance; the system of registration (in outline); functions of the Land Register in registering ownership and supplying information on ownership; use of the Land Register (especially by the revenues or benefits officer) for investigating and proving title to land and third party rights. Page 30

PRINCIPLES OF ACCOUNTING (LEVEL 1) Aim To develop an understanding of basic bookkeeping and accounting procedures, an appreciation of auditing principles and practice, and an ability to interpret accounts. Learning Outcomes: On completion of their studies, students should be able to: describe the purpose of accounting and explain the main accounting principles; interpret final accounts and balance sheets for trading and non-trading organisations and use appropriate ratios and percentages and to interpret the results of such calculations; explain the principles and organisation of both internal and external audit, the relationship between the two, and the regulatory framework within which they operate; explain the principles of internal control to accounting systems (both computerised and manual); describe the contents of an audit plan for verification of accounting systems and records; describe costing activities and building budgets. Content: The Role of Accounting - the purpose of accounting; accounting principles and techniques; and accounting as an information system. Accounting Records - forms of and interpretation of final accounts and balance sheets for sole traders, partnerships and non-trading organisations including the use of ratios and percentages; capital/revenue distinction; fixed assets; depreciation. Understanding how the financial statements are compiled, the relevance of the information contained in them and the ability to analyse the content of the statements. Principles of Budgeting and Costing - the use of relevant budgeting and costing techniques, understanding the different methods of budgeting, the relative merits of each method and the appropriateness of each. Understanding how and when to use the various costing techniques in different types of organisation and the relative merits of each methodology. Audit - the nature and purpose of audit; types of audit; general principles of internal and external audit; organisation and method of audit; audit programme and audit records; security arrangements; computer audits; internal control and internal check. Page 31

LOCAL TAXATION LAW AND PRACTICE (LEVEL 1) Aim To provide knowledge and understanding of Council Tax and Non Domestic Rating law and its application and administration within a local authority. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: explain local taxation legislation and its inter-relationship with case law; describe and explain how a local authority is required to implement and administer local taxation; explain and apply the legal basis of Council Tax and Non-domestic Rating, the main methods of valuation, exemptions and reliefs; explain and apply the billing, collection and enforcement procedures for Council Tax and Non-Domestic Rating and domestic water services charges (Scotland only) Content England and Wales Administration of Local Taxation - role of Billing Authority, precepting authorities, levying bodies and special authorities; collection fund and its principles; Non-Domestic Rates (NDR) pooling and its operation (including returns made by local authorities to the relevant department); rating accounts; setting of the council tax and precepts, council tax base and calculations; substitute tax and precepts. Role of the Valuation/Listing Officer - basis of valuation for Council Tax and NDR purposes; valuation and rating (Central and Local) lists; duties to compile and maintain the lists; liaison with the billing authority, amendments to values; duties of the billing authority, amendments to values; duties of the billing authority in relation to the lists; appeal mechanisms. Council Tax - exemptions and their administration and review; non valuation appeals; basis of the tax; liability and the establishment of liability including joint and several liability for owners; completion notice procedures; discounts, disregarded persons, including the identification, administration and review of discounts; disabled persons reduction and its administration; transitional relief; prompt payment schemes and their administration; Billing: all statutory and procedural requirements relating to the billing of council tax including instalment schemes and methods of payments and collection; Enforcement: all statutory and procedural requirements relating to all remedies of recovery including insolvency. Non Domestic Rating exemptions; rateable occupation and its establishment; rateable hereditament, identification; unoccupied property rate and its administration; completion notice procedures; transitional arrangements and their administration; payment of interest on overpayments; relief for charities and similar organisations and its administration and financial implications; Billing: all statutory and procedural requirements relating to the billing of Non Domestic Rating including instalment schemes and methods of payments and collection; Enforcement: all statutory and procedural requirements relating to all remedies of recovery including insolvency. Data Protection (recognition of) the principles of data protection and their effect on the administration of Local Taxation. Content - Scotland Administration of Local Taxation-role of levying/ rating authority; pooling arrangements(including provisional and final contribution returns); council tax setting; uniform business rate; calculation of council tax base Page 32

Role of The Assessor; basis of valuation for council tax and non domestic rates; valuation list/roll-compilation and maintenance; alterations; exemptions; liaison with levying/rating authority; completion notices; appeal mechanisms Council Tax - liability; discounts, exemptions and their administration; disabled persons reductions; transitional arrangements; civil penalties; appeals; all statutory and procedural requirements for billing, collection and enforcement including all remedies of recovery Non Domestic Rates - rateable occupation; assessment roll; exemptions; empty rate; transitional arrangements; mandatory and discretionary relief, small business and rural relief; disabled persons relief; interest on overpaid rates; part occupied reductions; appeals; all statutory and procedural requirements for billing, collection and enforcement including all remedies of recovery Data Protection - recognition of the principles of data protection and their effect on the administration of local taxation. Page 33

HOUSING AND COUNCIL TAX BENEFITS LAW AND PRACTICE (LEVEL 1) Aim To provide a detailed understanding of law on Housing and Council Tax Benefits and its application and administration within a benefits environment. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: explain the housing benefit and council tax benefit legislation and its inter-relationship with case law and DWP guidance; describe and explain the assessment, calculation and award of benefit and subsequent changes to the award; describe and explain relevant tenancy matters and the role of the rent officer; identify circumstances where there is a potential for fraud and incorrect benefit payments and to describe good practice in its prevention and detection; describe and explain the rules governing benefits and fraud subsidies; describe and explain good practice in the general administration of Housing and Council Tax benefit. Content The Structure of Benefits Legislation - principles of the law of housing and council tax benefits and the practical application of all aspects of the law of housing and council tax benefits, case law and associated social security matters; eligibility and disentitlements and the law governing claims and claimants; duty of the local authority with regard to decision making, notification letters, rights of review; the role of the Appeals Service and the rights of the respective parties; Judicial Review. Evaluation of the Principles of Assessment and Calculation - eligible rent and council tax: service charges; water charges; non-dependants; the household; applicable amounts; income; capital; joint occupiers; sub-tenants and boarders : students; second adult rebate; occupation and absence from home: benefit on two homes and prior to moving in; minimum and maximum awards of benefit. Claims, benefit periods and changes to entitlement - the benefit period; extending and ending of benefit periods; extended payments; time and manner of claims; effective date of claims; changes of circumstances; provisions for backdating claims; revisions and supersessions. Payment and Award of Benefit - payment to third parties; suspending payment; overpayments; excess benefits; underlying entitlement; recovery of overpaid benefits; discretionary and transitional awards. Tenancy Matters - assured and shorthold tenancies; tenant s improvements; private sector licences and other tenancy matters; shared ownership; mesne profits; rental purchase and retaining fees. Rents and The Role of the Rent Officer - mooring charges, pitch fees, mesne/violent profits, shared ownership, crown tenants; fixing of local reference rents (in depth understanding required), size related rents, exceptionally high rents, significantly high rents, single room rents; claim related rent; pre-tenancy determinations. Fraud and Incorrect Benefit - principles of weekly incorrect benefits scheme; sanctions, cautions, prosecutions and administrative penalties; liaison with the Benefits Agency; Service Level Agreement (SLA) arrangements; the financial implications of investigating fraud; overview of the verification framework. Page 34

Subsidy - rules governing benefit subsidy (practical evaluation required); incentive and penalty areas; administration costs; fast tracking arrangements; subsidy arrangements for the Housing Revenue Account. Subsidy thresholds. General Administration - management information systems; management issues: recruitment, retention and management of staff; computer systems; internal and external liaison, data protection, e-commerce, electronic service delivery, call centres, document imaging. Page 35

TRIBUNAL ADMINISTRATION AND PRACTICE (LEVEL 1) Aim To provide students with a knowledge of the statutory duties, responsibilities and practices of the Valuation Tribunal in respect of Tribunal hearings. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: describe the principles of practice and procedure of Tribunal hearings and to explain the legal framework under which they are conducted; describe and discuss the basic principles of natural justice and their impact on Tribunal hearings; identify the principal roles of the Chairman and Clerk or Tribunal Officer in relation to Tribunal hearings; identify and describe and apply the basic principles of valuation for both non-domestic rating and Council Tax; identify and explain the nature of evidence and be able to differentiate between the differing types and qualities of evidence. Contents The Tribunal Jurisdiction: Non-Domestic rates (NDR), Council Tax Valuation, Council Tax Liability and Drainage Rate Appeals, Drainage Rate appeals Tribunal Hearing Practice and Procedure - respective roles of Chairman and Clerk or Tribunal Officer in relation to the hearing, decisions and appeal mechanisms; - pre-hearing procedure: notification of hearings, parties to the hearing, rights of the parties, postponements and adjournments; - hearing procedure: conduct of the hearing: non appearance and written submissions, disposal by written representations, appearance, rules of natural justice, impartiality, bias and prejudice. - post hearing procedure: record of decisions; Notification of decision; Inspections; Review of decisions; Appeals from the Tribunal; Effect of decision. Evidence - law, fact and opinion; documentary and admissibility; weight of evidence, burden of proof, expert witness: the standing of the expert; competency; facts and opinion in expert evidence. Valuation Principles - legal principles of valuation for non-domestic rating and Council Tax purposes. (in outline; undertaking actual valuations is not required). Page 36

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR (LEVEL 2) Aim To provide an understanding of financial management and control in local government and the concepts of public accountability, stewardship of public funds and financial probity. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: describe and explain the role and organisation of the finance function in a local authority; explain the process and components present when calculating the council tax and agreeing the council tax base; recognise the importance of internal and external financial controls, budgeting techniques and the content of final accounts in the public sector; demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of housing finance; explain the financial arrangements for accounting for best value; explain capital expenditure, financing methods and central government controls in the capital financing strategy; explain and define treasury management and the factors required for its management; explain the role of elected members in the capital and revenue financing of a local authority. Content Revenue Expenditure - its nature, types, method of analysis, accounting for support services, capital charges and control by central government. Revenue Income - main sources, fees, charges, council tax, non-domestic rates, grants, subsidies. Accounting requirements (General/Collection Fund) calculation of tax base. Housing Finance - Housing Revenue Account, subsidy, right to buy, rent to mortgage, repair and improvement grants, financial relationships with Housing Associations. Capital Expenditure - definition, financing methods, credit approvals, controls and charges, asset management plans; Public/Private Partnership. Treasury Management - definition, functions, borrowing, investing, cash flow and treasury management strategy and statutory receipts Financial Control - Central Government controls; role of the Chief Financial Officer; Finance Department - organisation and Role; internal and external audit; internal controls; purpose and preparation of revenue and capital budgets; Financial Regulations and Standing Orders; content of Annual Accounts; role of elected members in financial management, financial planning. Page 37

INTRODUCTION TO MANAGEMENT (LEVEL 2) Aim To provide an introduction to the main principles of management and to the role of the manager within an operational function. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: demonstrate an understanding of the factors involved in effective management describe the internal and external relationships of revenues and benefits offices and their significance appreciate and apply the principles of effective communication within an office environment recognise organisational issues and analyse their effect Content Effective management - the manager s role; leadership; teams and team-building; delegation; motivation of the individual; achieving the task; targets and objectives; reviewing performance; the main management theories and ideas, how these have developed over time, and their practical relevance for today s manager. Internal and External Relationships - communication between the organisation and the environment; identification of stakeholders within a local government context; consultation with stakeholders; networking; relationships with colleagues. Effective communication - communication within the organisation, formal and informal, written and oral, verbal and non-verbal; report writing; chairing and participating in meetings; group behaviour and group roles; group dynamics. Organisational Issues - the organisation and its environment; corporate objectives and the statutory environment; PEST analysis; culture of the organisation; different types of organisational structures; The physical environment: office layout, responsibilities for health and safety, contribution of equipment and IT in providing a productive work environment; data protection, freedom of information Page 38

WORK BASED ASSIGNMENTS (LEVEL 2) Aims: - To integrate knowledge acquired at this and previous year s studies; - To develop an ability to apply knowledge in a practical and professional manner; - To develop the ability to develop solutions to practical problems; - To take responsibility with regard to their own professional development. Learning outcomes Students should be able to demonstrate the ability to: apply knowledge acquired in previous studies to offer solutions to practical problems; produce a professional report or similar material. Content Given the nature of the module there is no specified syllabus other than that indicated in all other modules. Assessment TWO assignments must be submitted, and each should be completed within a threemonth period. The available periods are November-January, March-May, July- September. Submission The choice of a suitable assignment is, initially, a matter for discussion between the candidate and the employer. It should be based on work for which the candidate has been principally responsible and prepared, generally, unaided. The assignment should illustrate the depth of experience that the candidate has obtained in undertaking the work. The report should cover such areas as: key issues of study options or possible course of action which were available reasons for rejection of those options which were not selected reasons for the course of action, and critical appraisal and evaluation of the outcome. You will be required to have your choice of report approved by the Institute. You will need to provide, immediately prior to the assignment period, a proposal, briefly stating: the aim and nature of the work based assignment the key issues involved a 200-word summary of the proposed work. The Assignment Report The Report should be presented in a professional manner and should be between 3,000 and 5,000 words. This report should include all supporting evidence, analyses and any other relevant information. Market sensitive information should be anonomised, though you should give an indication of location of the project so that it can be seen in the proper context. SUMMARY OF REGULATIONS 1. This component of Level II consists of two assignments of 3,000-5,000 words each, to be completed within two three-month periods over a maximum of two years. This means that candidates may complete the assignments within a minimum of seven months. Assignments and examinations at Level II must all be completed within the normal two-year period, and each subject pass (both assignments count as one Page 39

subject pass) has a currency of two years. The two-year validity period starts when the first assignment has been awarded a pass result. 2. Candidates may therefore opt to complete both assignments and sit the Level II examinations within one year if they wish, or may choose to take a longer period up to two years to complete the level. 3. The four-month time periods for completion of assignments are 1 November-31 January, 1 March-31 May and 1 July-30 September. An assignment proposal and outline of no more than 200 words must be submitted to the Institute for approval as early as possible during the calendar month preceding the period. For example, the outline for the assignment to be completed in the November - January period should be submitted between 1 and 31 October. The Institute will aim to give a decision on the acceptability of the outline within two weeks of receipt. It is in the candidate s interest to send in the proposal and outline as early as possible in the month, so that approval can be given before the start of the assignment writing period. 4. If an assignment proposal and outline is not approved it will be returned to the candidate with comments. The candidate may then choose to re-work the proposal and re-submit, or prepare a new proposal. The Institute will aim to consider the fresh proposal as quickly as possible, but no additional time can be allowed for submission of the completed assignment if the start date is delayed as a result of this process. 5. The choice of a suitable assignment is, initially, a matter for discussion between the candidate and the employer. It should be work that the candidate has been principally responsible for and prepared, generally, unaided. 6. Assignments must be submitted in the prescribed format, and must include the official cover sheets, duly completed. See the full regulations for details. 6. Completed assignments may be submitted before the end of the assignment period if the candidate wishes. Before undertaking the assignments, full regulations and relevant forms should be obtained from the Institute. Page 40

PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE OF VALUATION FOR LOCAL TAXATION (LEVEL 2) Aim To provide an understanding of the valuation principles and their application in respect of Council Tax and Non-Domestic Rating. Learning Outcomes: On completion of their studies, students should be able to: With regard to Council Tax explain and apply the principles and practice of Council Tax valuations, having regard to the legal framework and the nature and characteristics of individual properties; analyse sales for the basis of Council Tax; undertake simple Council Tax banding. With regard to Non-Domestic Rating analyse and adjust rents as a basis for non-domestic rating valuation; use and adjust rental information as a means of determining the rating assessment of hereditaments / lands and heritages having regard to their individual characteristics; have regard to the effect of the physical nature and characteristics of hereditaments / lands and heritages on their rating assessments; demonstrate an outline knowledge of the receipts and expenditure and contractor s basis of valuation. Content Council Tax - the legal basis of council tax as it affects banding; definition of dwelling ; unit of assessment; analysis of sales evidence; banding principles and assumptions; factors affecting value. Non-Domestic Rating - Statutory definition of rateable value and its interpretation by Courts and Tribunals; valuation assumptions; exemptions and reliefs. Rental Analysis and Valuation - the survey, methods of measurement and comparison of the main types of retail, office and simple industrial and warehouse hereditaments / lands and heritages analyses and devaluation of rents of the main types of commercial property (offices, shops, industrial, warehouses etc.); analysis and adjustment of rents, where appropriate, for premiums, goodwill, fixtures and fittings, reverse premiums, incentives, and other similar items; adjustment of rents for lease dates, lease terms, repairing and insuring and other liabilities; the application of the rental approach as a basis for determining the rating assessment of the hereditament / lands and heritages. Applied Valuation - the valuation of retail, office and industrial hereditaments / lands and heritages for non-domestic rating purposes on the basis of the rental and tone of list / role approaches. Other Valuation Approaches: Receipts and Expenditure outline of the valuation approach. Contractor s basis outline of the valuation approach. (NB: Candidates will not be required to apply the Other Valuation Approaches in the examination) Page 41

REVENUES ADMINISTRATION (LEVEL 2) Aim To provide a comprehensive understanding, within the framework of relevant law, of the theory and practice of administration of local taxation and other revenues for, or on behalf, of a local authority. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: explain and apply the principles and procedures which are the basis for the effective organisation and management of a revenues function; explain the origin and sources of revenues available to local authorities and the methods of accounting and control; apply the law and regulations of local taxation by way of practical procedures; explain and apply the law and procedures relating to the recovery and enforcement of statutory and non-statutory debts; analyse practical problems in relation to revenues administration and to recommend solutions; evaluate the benefits, purposes and costs in relation to the selection and use of information technology systems for revenues applications; demonstrate effective communication skills. Content Principles of Revenues Administration - the organisation of a revenues office: distribution of duties, management controls and internal check; the application of management techniques, performance targets and statistics to revenues administration; business and service plans, office procedures, health and safety, equipment and supplies, staff relations, office services and insurances, including fidelity insurance; the practical application of local taxation law, regulations and guidance issues by government departments; identification of sources of income, the collection and accounting process; methods of payment and collection, cash handling, banking and security; identification of individual debtors; procedures for the deterrent and detection of fraud internally and externally; principles of best value and their application. Billing, Collection and Information Technology - accounting systems, billing and collection systems in relation to all revenues, including local taxes; methods of billing; design of payment documentation, stationery and form design; the application of computer accounting systems; the use of information technology including the appraisal, selection and application in relation to the full range of revenues office procedures; data protection. Liability, Discounts and Allowances - adjustments to liabilities and accounts, including the allowance of exemptions, reliefs, discounts and other reductions; evidence concerning liability disputes, policy issues, the decision making procedure and appeals. Recovery and Insolvency Law - enforcement and debt recovery systems, all relevant court procedures, evidence, advocacy; statutory and common law remedies for debt enforcement; debt arrangement schemes (Scotland only); the principles of insolvency law; control of arrears, debt monitoring, tracing and management of irrecoverables. Administration and Customer Care - the application of analytical skills to revenues administration, for the identification of solutions to practical problems and selecting appropriate courses of action; public and customer relations, including anti-poverty strategies. Page 42

Effective Communication - the preparation of written material for internal and external purposes, formal reporting styles, public presentations and written explanations of revenues principles. Page 43

BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION (LEVEL 2) Aim To provide a comprehensive understanding of the law, theory and practice of administration of housing and council tax benefits. Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: explain the principles and procedures for the effective organisation and management of a benefits function for, or on behalf of a local authority; explain the relationship between local authority administered benefits and those administered by central government or by other agencies; explain in detail the rules relating to central government subsidies for local authority and administered benefits; explain and apply the law and regulations of housing and council tax benefits in practical instances and in particular the application of the law for the calculation and payment of benefits and the recovery of overpayments analyse practical problems in relation to benefits administration and to recommend solutions; evaluate the advantages, purposes and costs in relation to the selection and use of information technology systems for benefits applications; demonstrate effective communication skills. Content: Office Organisation - the organisation of a benefits office; distribution of duties, management controls and internal check; the application of management techniques, performance targets and statistics to benefits administration; business and service plans, office procedures, health and safety, equipment and supplies, staff relations, office services and insurances, including fidelity insurance. Law - the practical application of the law, regulations and guidance issues by the government departments. Policy - policy decisions of local authorities in implementing local schemes, discretionary awards having regard to anti-poverty strategies and backdating of claims. Administrative Procedures - Assessment procedures: income, family and resources verification; design of forms, documentation and stationery, including the use of plain language; public and customer relations including liaison with voluntary agencies, landlords, elected members and the media; government agencies. - Preparation of written material for internal and external purposes, formal reporting styles and public presentations. - Use of information technology including the appraisal, selection and application in relation to the full range of benefits office procedure; document imaging; customer relationship management; e-commerce, electronic service delivery; data protection. - Role of the Rent Officer; fixing of local reference rents, single room rents, maximum rents etc.; discretionary payments, pre-tenancy determinations; - Decision making procedure including the operation of discretionary housing payments, decisions, revisions, super sessions and appeals; the role, reports and findings of the Appeals Service, Commissioners. Management Information and Controls - Monitoring of expenditure on benefits, on subsidy incentives/penalties and the restriction of discretionary expenditure. Page 44

- Methods of payment of benefit, frequency and periods of payment, payment to landlords or third parties; relationships between the benefits function and the collection of Housing Rents; excess benefits and the recovery of overpayments; underlying entitlement - Procedures for the prevention and detection of fraud internally and externally; the verification framework.; the role of the Benefit Fraud Inspectorate; investigation techniques in respect of claimant fraud; interviews, prosecution, administrative penalties and cautions; liaison with other fraud detection agencies, the police and the courts. - Application of analytical skills to benefits administration for the identification of solutions to practical problems and selecting appropriate courses of action. Effective Communications - the preparation of written material for internal and external purposes, formal reporting styles, public presentations and written explanations of benefits principles. Page 45

MANAGEMENT (LEVEL 3) This is a double weighted module and will carry two assessments. Aim To provide an understanding of the role of the manager within an organisation in relation to the planning of service delivery and the management of its implementation Learning Outcomes On completion of their studies, students should be able to: explain the purpose and benefits of planning for an organisation in the context of its internal and external environment; analyse the processes by which a plan is developed and the importance of the involvement of an organisation s stakeholders in the planning process; evaluate and explain techniques for effective implementation of the plan and monitoring of its outcomes; describe and evaluate effective management of human resources within the organisation; explain the main principles and methods of project management; characterise the abilities needed to work effectively as a member of the service delivery team; recognise the importance of self-development by the manager. Content Purpose and Benefits of Planning - context of the plan: internal - the organisation, its culture and mission; external - the organisation and its relations with the outside world; service delivery within the legislative framework; types of plans; business and service plans. Processes for Plan Development: - Defining the nature of the business/service function; analysis of the market and competition; analysis of stakeholder/customer requirements though effective investigation and consultation; - Internal SWOT analysis and interpretation of results; evaluation and comparison of alternative delivery strategies; identification of resources needs: negotiating and setting a budget, staffing requirements, equipment and accommodation (including tender evaluation); - Reporting and presenting the plan. Effective Implementation of the Plan: - Setting objectives and targets; allocation of tasks individually and within teams; decision making; delegation of authority; budgetary control; management of change for delivery of the plan; - Monitoring of the plan: the use of on-going consultation with stakeholders for the duration of the plan for effective delivery of service; methods of consultation and communication of results; - Monitoring processes internal and external, their purposes and effectiveness; timing of reviews; revision of the plan; use of Quality Systems including Charter Mark, ISO and EFQM. Project Management: - Principles of project management; content of project plans; critical path analysis; methods of reducing project lengths. Effective Management of Human Resources: - Management of human resources to carry out the purposes of the organisation and plan within the culture of the organisation and external influences Page 46

- Recruitment and selection methods; job descriptions and person specifications; contracts of employment; relevant employment legislation including equal opportunities, its content and implementation; Human Rights Act and European legislation and practice; appraisal of staff performance; dealing with failing performance; disciplinary procedures; design, purpose and monitoring of staff policies; - Health and safety issues. Effective Membership of Service Delivery Team: - Leadership styles; - Team-building; promotion of good relations within the team; - Communication: types of communication and their effectiveness; - Motivation: financial and non-financial; - Training: identification of training needs, effective training techniques, monitoring and evaluation of training. Self Development - Relationships with other managers and the corporate team; benefits of membership of professional organisations; responsibility for own training and continuing professional development. Page 47

INTEGRATIVE CASE STUDIES (LEVEL 3) Aims To integrate knowledge acquired in previous studies; To develop an ability to apply knowledge in a practical and professional manner; To enable candidates to undertake additional research into subjects outside their chosen field of studies and/or areas of professional activity. Learning Outcomes: Students should be able to demonstrate the ability to: apply the academic underpinning knowledge and understanding acquired in previous studies to solving practical professional problems, and find alternative solutions to problems and examine problems in different ways. Content: Given the nature of the module there is no specified syllabus other than that indicated in earlier modules. The case studies will involve the need to undertake additional research into subjects outside the students chosen fields of study and/or areas of professional activity. Guidance notes on this module are available from the IRRV. Assessment The module will be assessed by means of an examination (3 hours), where candidates will have to produce answers to two out of three case studies. Case Study material may be issued to candidates prior to the examination to allow time for research and related activities. The Case Studies will seek to simulate practical problems and issues likely to be encountered in practice. Each case study will be from a different subject area and the mix of areas may change from assessment to assessment. Page 48

WELFARE BENEFITS (LEVEL 3) Aim: To provide an understanding of the range of welfare benefits available and their interaction, the links with administration of housing and council tax benefits, and the wider social policy implications of the welfare state Learning outcomes: On completion of their studies, students should be able to: Analyse the principles of social policy and budget implications of the welfare state, the concepts of local authority anti-poverty strategies and the various methods of funding; Assess entitlement to a range of welfare benefits and the interrelationship between benefits; Differentiate between the agencies responsible for the administration of the various benefits and explain the ways in which benefits are claimed and calculated and the appeals and disputes procedures Differentiate between the roles of the various advice agencies and assess the benefits of partnership working Content Social Policy The welfare state and budget issues; dimensions of poverty and recession; personal and social effects of poverty; development and implementation of local authority anti-poverty strategies; UK Government and EU funding WELFARE BENEFITS AND AGENCIES FOR ADMINISTRATION OF BENEFITS A broad understanding of the administration, method of claiming and the calculation, benefit rates and appeals and dispute rights and procedures for the following benefits: LOCAL AUTHORITY ADMINISTERED BENEFITS Housing and council tax benefits; free school meals; school clothing grants; maintenance awards; social aids and adaptations STATE ADMINISTERED MEANS TESTED BENEFITS AND CREDITS Income support; all forms of Tax Credit; social fund payments (discretionary and regulated); passported benefits; Job Seeker s Allowance (Income Based) STATE ADMINISTERED CONTRIBUTORY/NON-CONTRIBUTORY BENEFITS Retirement pensions; Bereavement Benefit; Widowed Parent s Allowance; Child Benefit; Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefits; Job Seekers Allowance (Contribution Based); Maternity Allowance; War Pensions; Carer s Allowance; Incapacity Benefit DISABILITY BENEFITS Disability Living Allowance; Attendance Allowance Page 49

ADVICE AGENCIES AND PARTNERSHIPS Multi-agency take-up campaigns; money advice; debt counselling; credit unions Page 50

VALUATION FOR LOCAL TAXATION (LEVEL 3) Aims: To develop further the application of the principles to the valuation of Council Tax to more complex examples; To develop further the application of the principles to the valuation of non-domestic hereditaments / lands and heritages on the basis of rental analysis, and tone of the list / role approaches to more complex hereditaments / lands and heritages; To examine the receipts and expenditure basis and the contractor s basis of valuation for non-domestic rating in detail; To explore the inter-relationship and boundaries between council tax and nondomestic rating. Learning Outcomes: On completion of their studies, students should be able to: apply the principles and practice of Council Tax Valuation having regard to the legal framework and the nature and characteristics of individual properties; analyse and adjust accounts as a basis for valuation of hereditaments / lands and heritages on a profit basis and to apply such information to the valuation of appropriate hereditaments / lands and heritages; prepare valuations using the receipts and expenditure basis and the contractors basis of valuation and understand the interaction of these methods with other approaches to valuation; use and adjust rental and tone of list / role information as a means of determining the rating assessment of hereditaments / lands and heritages having regard to their individual characteristics particularly in respect of more complex hereditaments / lands and heritages; have regard to the effect of the physical nature and characteristics of hereditaments / lands and heritages and the impact on their rating assessments; understand the inter-relationship and boundaries between council tax and rating and identify examples. Content: Council Tax Valuation -the boundary between council tax and non-domestic rating; exemptions and reliefs; repair and its effect on value; adjustment of values; material change in circumstances. Non-Domestic Rating Valuation - Contractors Basis: consideration and application of the method as a basis for determining rental value; contract types and their effect on cost; adjustment of costs required for non-domestic rating purposes; consideration of the type of costs adjustments including: date of contract, contract types, non-rateable expenditure, unremunerative expenditure; the interaction of the method with other approaches to valuation. The method of valuation - 5 stages: Stage 1 - Replacement Building basis v. s Substituted Building Approach. Identification and determination of all costs of construction in addition to the building. Stage 2 - Age and Obsolescence allowances - ascertainment of Stage 3 - Valuation of land. Stage 4 - Statutory Decapitalisation rate. Stage 5 - Other adjustments required. Page 51

Receipts and Expenditure Basis - consideration and application of the method as a basis for determining rental value; adjustment of accounts required for non-domestic rating purposes; consideration of typical income and expenditure including repairs, insurance, wages, proprietor s remuneration, rates, rents, depreciation etc; ascertainment of tenant s capital, adjustment and ascertainment for tenant s share; the interaction of the method with other approaches to valuation. Applied Valuations - the valuation of more complex forms of retail, offices and industrial property for non-domestic rating purposes; an outline knowledge of the valuation of more specialised types of hereditaments / lands and heritages including local authority occupations, leisure properties etc. Page 52

HOUSING LAW AND POLICY (LEVEL 3) Aim: to provide a detailed understanding of the law and policy relating to public and private housing provision Learning outcomes: On completion of their studies, students should be able to: Demonstrate an understanding of the nature, creation and termination of a leasehold, and the relationship between the parties to a lease; Describe the typical covenants in residential lettings, the effect on the management and value of property and remedies for breach of covenant Distinguish between different types of residential tenancies and the legislative framework applied to each Analyse the rights and duties of the parties to each type of residential tenancy Analyse the roles and functions of the main bodies involved in the provision of social housing and the relationships between them Evaluate the policy issues in financial support for social housing and home ownership Describe public and private legal controls over standard of repair and fitness of residential accommodation Explain rights of enfranchisement and lease extension for residential tenants and associated policy issues Apply legal principles to factual situations Content Nature of leasehold Essentials of a leasehold; distinction between leasehold and licence and importance of distinction; leasehold as a legal estate and contractual relationship; position of assignees of term and reversion; creation and termination of residential leasehold at common law COVENANTS Express and implied covenants usually found in residential leases: quiet enjoyment; nonderogation from grant, rent, repairs, alterations, user, assignment and subletting; enforceability of covenants; remedies for breach of covenant TYPES OF RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES; RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF PARTIES Private Sector Rent Act protected tenancies; assured and assured shorthold tenancies; rights and duties of parties; statutory provisions relating to: security of tenure, grounds for possession, rights of succession, rent control (fair rents and market rents) and roles of Rent Officer and Rent Assessment Committee Restricted contracts Public Sector Public sector landlords; types of tenancy within public sector; rights and duties of parties including consultation with tenants and tenant s rights in property management; statutory provisions relating to security of tenure, grounds for possession, rights of succession; basis of rent Protection against unlawful eviction and harassment SOCIAL HOUSING PROVIDERS Status and composition of main public sector agencies involved with social housing provision: local housing authorities, housing associations, housing co-operatives and Page 53

trusts, local housing companies, other bodies; statutory framework of each and duties and powers to provide housing; Registered social landlords: role of Housing Corporation, Scottish Homes and Tai Cymru Allocation of social housing by local housing authorities; relationship with other providers Homelessness: duties and powers of local housing authorities; rights of the homeless POLICY ISSUES RELATING TO FINANCIAL SUPPORT Housing Benefit: significance for landlord and tenant Disposal of public sector housing stock: underlying policies for transfer to the private sector; methods of transfer: large scale voluntary transfer, voluntary purchase schemes, tenant s right to buy and eligibility, funding for individual purchase, ownership schemes including shared ownership STANDARDS OF REPAIR AND FITNESS Liability of public and private sector landlords for repair and maintenance; express covenants for repair, implied covenants by landlord and tenant for repair under common law and statute; liability in tort under common law and statute for defective premises (including occupier s liability and waste Duties and powers of local authorities in respect of unfit dwellings and statutory nuisance; procedures under public law Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO): definition; duties of managers; local authority powers in respect of HMOs and overcrowding; types and availability of grant assistance: conditions of grant, enforcement of conditions; area and group repair schemes ENFRANCHISEMENT AND LEASE EXTENSION Statutory rights of tenants of houses and flats held under long leaseholds in relation to: individual and collective enfranchisement; individual rights to lease extension and security of tenure; consultation in respect of service charges and rights of challenge; remedies for poor management Page 54

HOUSING LAW AND POLICY, SCOTLAND (LEVEL 3) Aim: to provide a detailed understanding of the law and policy relating to public and private housing provision Learning outcomes: On completion of their studies, students should be able to: Demonstrate an understanding of the nature, creation and termination of a lease, and the relationship between the parties to a lease; Describe the typical conditions in residential lettings, the effect on the management and value of property and remedies for breach of lease terms Distinguish between different types of residential tenancies and the legislative framework applied to each Analyse the rights and duties of the parties to each type of residential tenancy Analyse the roles and functions of the main bodies involved in the provision of social housing and the relationships between them Evaluate the policy issues in financial support for social housing and home ownership Describe public and private legal controls over standard of repair and fitness of residential accommodation Apply legal principles to factual situations Content Nature of lease Essentials of a lease; distinction between a lease and a licence and importance of distinction; lease as a contractual relationship; position of sub-tenants and assignees; creation and termination of residential leases under common law LEASE CONDITIONS Express and implied conditions usually found in residential leases: rent, repairs, alterations, assignation and subletting; enforceability of conditions; remedies for breach of lease terms TYPES OF RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES; RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF PARTIES Private Sector Rent Act protected tenancies; assured and short assured tenancies; rights and duties of parties; statutory provisions relating to: security of tenure, grounds for possession, rights of succession, rent control (fair rents and market rents) and roles of Rent Officer and Rent Assessment Committee Other private lease contracts Public Sector Registered social landlords; types of tenancy within registered social landlord sector; rights and duties of parties; statutory provisions relating to security of tenure, grounds for possession, rights of succession; basis of rent Protection against unlawful eviction and harassment SOCIAL HOUSING PROVIDERS Status and composition of main public sector agencies involved with social housing provision: local housing authorities, housing associations, housing co-operatives and trusts, other bodies; statutory framework of each and duties and powers to provide housing; Registered social landlords: role of Communities Scotland Page 55

Allocation of social housing by local housing authorities; relationship with other providers Homelessness: duties and powers of local housing authorities; rights of the homeless POLICY ISSUES RELATING TO FINANCIAL SUPPORT Housing Benefit: significance for landlord and tenant Disposal of public sector housing stock: underlying policies for transfer to the private sector; methods of transfer: large scale voluntary transfer, voluntary purchase schemes, tenant s right to buy and eligibility, funding for individual purchase, ownership schemes including shared ownership STANDARDS OF REPAIR AND FITNESS Liability of public and private sector landlords for repair and maintenance; express obligations to repair, implied repair terms binding on landlord and right to repair under common law and statute; delictual liability under common law and statute for defective premises (including occupier s liability) Duties and powers of local authorities in respect of unfit dwellings and statutory nuisance; procedures under public law Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO): definition; duties of managers; local authority powers in respect of HMOs and overcrowding; types and availability of grant assistance: conditions of grant, enforcement of conditions; area and group repair schemes Page 56

IRRV EXAMINATIONS AND ASSESSMENT REGULATIONS Applicable from January 2004 1. Eligibility 1.1 Applicants for examinations and assessments must have been members of the Institute for at least 3 months before entering for an examination. Student membership is available to those without a current IRRV qualification. 1.2 All applicants must be employed in an appropriate environment, or have recent experience of relevant employment and intend to re-enter the profession. 1.3 Applicants for the Technician examinations must have a good general standard of education. 1.4 Applicants for the Full Professional Qualification examinations must have obtained a full pass in the preceding level. 1.5 Candidates must pass all subjects necessary to complete a specific level within a two-year period. Subjects may be taken (and, where necessary, re-taken) in any order and in any combination within the two-year period. All passed components are valid for two years, after which they lapse if the complete level has not been passed. (A two-year period is deemed to include five consecutive examination sessions, eg from June 2004 to June 2006 inclusive) 1.6 Candidates who have passed all subjects but one at a given level may enter for that one subject and any other subjects at the next level at the same examinations/assessment session PROVIDED THIS IS POSSIBLE ACCORDING TO THE TIMETABLE FOR THAT SESSION. In no other case may subjects at different levels be taken at the same session. 2. Application 2.1 Application for examinations must be made on the official form available from the Institute. It should be submitted by the publicised application date with payment of the current fee. 2.2 It is the responsibility of individual candidates to submit their entry, or to ensure that it has been submitted on their behalf. 2.3 Any special needs must be notified on the application form. Where necessary, specific arrangements will subsequently be discussed with the candidate. See Arrangements for Candidates with Special Needs below. 2.4 Following application, an acknowledgement will be sent to the applicant, confirming details of the examinations entered. The Institute should be informed immediately of any errors. 2.5 An instruction letter, incorporating an official entry card, will be sent to the candidate 7-10 days before the start of the session. 2.5 Late entries will be accepted at the discretion of the Education and Membership Department of the Institute, upon payment of an additional fee of 30, regardless of the number of papers to be taken. Page 57

3. Deferral of or Change to Entry; Absence from Examinations 3.1 Deferral or withdrawal of, or changes to entries may be made without charge before the final entry date has passed. 3.2 After the closing date entries may be deferred, modified or withdrawn without charge if the candidate can produce a statement from a medical practitioner or employer attesting to significant medical or personal causes (the Institute cannot reimburse candidates for charges made by medical practitioners in respect of such statements). If no statement is produced, the current fee per subject affected is payable. 3.3 Candidates who are absent from examinations will forfeit the examination fee unless a statement is produced as in 3.2; in which case the full fee is refundable or the paper(s) affected will be deferred to the next or a subsequent session. Decisions as to extension of a candidate s re-sit period because of sickness or other significant reasons are at the discretion of the Examinations and Assessment Board. 4. Conduct at Examination Centres 4.1 Candidates should arrive at the designated centre at least fifteen minutes before the start of each examination. 4.2 All examinations must be written in blue or black ink. It is recommended that a ruler and highlighter pen are also used. Candidates must provide their own writing materials. Where appropriate they should provide their own valuation tables, set squares and scales. They may use an electronic calculator provided that it is handheld, cordless and battery operated and is not pre-programmable. 4.3 The candidate entry card, duly signed, must be brought to every examination. If a candidate forgets to bring the entry card, the invigilator will require him/her to produce an acceptable means of identification. Invigilators may refuse entry to the examination if identity cannot be established. 4.4 All personal belongings must be left in the place designated by the invigilator. All mobile phones, audible watches and other electronic items likely to cause a disturbance must be switched off. 4.5 Candidates for valuation papers should bring an unmarked copy of Parry s Tables, or similar, to the centre, for consultation during the examination. Otherwise, no papers or books of any kind may be used. 4.6 The cover of each answer book used must be clearly completed with the required information. The candidate number must be particularly clear, as this is the sole means of candidate identification. Candidates must write on both sides of the paper and may answer questions in any order, provided the question numbering is clear. All rough work must be written on the rough paper provided. 4.7 Discreet drinking of water, and eating of small items such as sweets, is permitted during examinations, provided this causes no disturbance to other candidates. Smoking is forbidden. 4.8 Candidates should not leave the examination room during the first hour or last thirty minutes of a paper. Invigilators may, at their discretion, permit candidates to leave at any time, if they consider that other candidates will not be unduly disturbed. Page 58

4.9 All instances of irregular behaviour during examinations will be reported to the Institute. Where this behaviour is deemed to be of a serious nature, the Candidate Disciplinary Procedure will apply (see below). 5. Results 5.1 Examination results will be despatched by first-class letter to all candidates on a specified date in August (June session) or January (December session). Results will also be published on the Institute s website on the same date; candidates will be able to access their own results only by means of a numerical code. 5.2 Following receipt of results, candidates may request their exact marks. A small fee will be charged for this service. 5.3 Candidates may request a review of performance and marks, and subsequently lodge an appeal against a fail result. A fee for each subject review and appeal requested will be charged. See Reviews of Scripts and Appeals below. 5.4 All candidate queries regarding results must be made in writing. No results can be discussed by telephone. 5.5 A certificate (Technician and Level 3) or Letter of Credit (Levels 1 and 2) will be issued to successful candidates following the examinations. No copies will be provided. 5.6 Letters of Credit are also available to holders of the Technician qualification who have passed additional Technician subjects, and to candidates who have passed The Prevention and Detection of Housing and Council Tax Benefit Fraud (Technician/Level 1) without passing other subjects. 6. General Examinations Information 6.1 There are two examinations sessions per year, normally during the first complete week in June and December. The closing dates are normally 1 st March and 30 th September respectively. 6.2 The examinations timetable, syllabus, past papers and course information are available from the Institute, and selected information is published on the website. 6.3 Candidates may choose any of the regional examination centres listed on the application form. In the unlikely event of excessive demand at a centre, some candidates may be directed to the next nearest centre. Candidates with Special Needs or at remote locations who wish to take examinations in their locality should contact the Examinations Officer at the Institute in the first instance. 6.4 Potential candidates with appropriate qualifications and may apply for subject credits under the Accreditation for Prior Learning arrangements. Guidance is provided in the syllabus, and by Institute staff and the Education Committee where necessary. 7. Candidate Disciplinary Procedure in the Event of Irregular Behaviour PROPRIETY 7.1 Irregular Behaviour is deemed to cover cheating, attempts to cheat, plagiarism, collusion and any other attempts to gain an unfair advantage in assessments. Assessment includes all forms of written work, presentations, demonstrations, viva voces, accreditation of prior learning portfolios and all forms of examination. 7.2 The Institute emphasises to candidates the seriousness of all forms of misconduct. It is the responsibility of the student to be aware that irregular behaviour in any form Page 59

constitutes a serious offence. Penalties can range from a warning to exclusion from the IRRV. It is the responsibility of the student to take reasonable precautions to guard against unauthorised access by others to his/her work, both before and after assessment. 7.3 The following definitions are presented for guidance, but should not be considered exhaustive: CHEATING INCLUDES:- a Any form of communication with or copying from any other source during an examination. b Communicating during an examination with any person other than an authorised member of staff. c Introducing any written, printed or other material into an examination (including electronically stored information) other than that specified in the rubric of the examination paper. d Gaining access to unauthorised material during or before an assessment. e Access by any electronic, radio, telephonic or satellite communication. f The use of mobile telephones or pagers during an assessment or examination. g The submission of false claims of previously gained qualifications, research or experience in order to gain exemptions. 7.4 Procedures to be followed in cases of suspected cheating:- a All cases of suspected cheating as defined in 7.1 above must be referred to the Examinations Officer in the first instance and then to the Examinations and Assessment Board. b In the case of examinations, an invigilator suspecting a student or students of cheating or attempting to gain an unfair advantage in an examination must clearly mark the script of the suspected student(s) at the point when attempts to communicate with another student or using unfair means are noticed. The script should be signed by the invigilator. The candidate will be allowed to complete the examination unless his/her continued presence in the examination room is having a negative effect on other candidates. Any extended discussion between a candidate and an invigilator must take place outside the examination room. c The invigilator must attach a full report to the script, which has to be submitted to the Chair of the Examinations and Assessment Board and the Institute Director. d The Board must establish an Investigatory Panel consisting of three of its members. e The Examinations Officer must inform the suspected student(s) of its investigation and of the nature of the allegation and give the student the opportunity to state his/her case orally and/or in writing, at the student's choice, to the panel. The student must be told to make all evidence available to the panel. If the student chooses to present his/her case orally s/he must be given the opportunity to do so in the presence of a friend. The student may choose not to attend a hearing. f The investigatory panel must normally have met and reported prior to the meeting of the Examinations and Assessment Board. Where investigations are not completed in time for the meeting of the Board, a decision must be deferred pending completion of the investigations. Where evidence of cheating becomes available subsequent to a meeting of the Board, the IRRV has the right to reopen the matter and to determine the outcome(s) according to the evidence. g The panel must decide whether the cheating is proven or not and must make a report in writing, including all evidence, to the Examinations and Assessment Board. The report Page 60

must indicate whether the decision was unanimous, must advise on any mitigating circumstances and must advise the Board on the seriousness of the incident. h The panel must advise the student(s) of its decision and of the substance of their report to the Examinations and Assessment Board. The student must be informed that s/he may, if s/he wishes, make a written statement to the Board. i The panel, if it finds the breach of examination regulations involves a breach of the IRRV's disciplinary code, will report the matter to the Director who may initiate disciplinary proceedings. j It is the panel s responsibility, acting with the full responsibility of the Examinations and Assessment Board, to establish whether cheating has taken place, and, if so, to decide what penalty, if any, should be imposed and what marks, if any, be given to the student. This panel has the power to rule that students have failed part or all of the examinations concerned and to determine whether or not the student should be allowed a further examination opportunity. In all cases the panel should inform the IRRV Council of its exercise of discretion. If the incident is deemed by the panel to require more wide ranging action, the matter must be reported to the Director who may initiate disciplinary proceedings. The discretion available to the Examinations and Assessment Board shall include the right to recommend to the IRRV Council that his/her Institute membership be terminated. k Any examiner suspecting plagiarism or collusion must report the matter to the Examinations Officer who, in turn will inform the Chair of the Examinations and Assessment Board. l Pending the outcome of any investigation, the examination scripts must still be marked but the Examinations and Assessment Board will not consider the marks until it has been adjudged whether or not an offence has been committed. Any discussion of the suspicion with the student(s) or anyone else must be avoided except as provided in the IRRV's procedures. 7.5 Appeal Procedures A student has the right to challenge the decision of the Examinations and Assessment Board by requesting an Appeal Hearing before a sub-group of the Professional Services Committee; such a sub-group to consist of three Committee members including the Chair or Vice-Chair. 8. Arrangements for Candidates with Special Needs SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ARRANGEMENTS 8.1 IRRV examinations will be taken at the examination centres designated by the Institute, apart from in exceptional cases where a decision has been requested from the Examinations Officer and Chair of Examinations and Assessment Board. Such cases shall be defined as those in which candidates, whether for physical or other reasons accepted by the Examinations and Assessment Board, are unable to attend a designated centre; or alternatively where it would be inappropriate for them to attend such a centre. Candidates may only sit IRRV examinations at remote locations with the express permission of the Examinations and Assessment Board. Examinations taken at a remote location shall be supervised by a person deemed by the Institute, to be a fit and proper person, for such purpose. 8.2 Assessment of students with known disabilities Students with known disabilities who require special arrangements for assessment purposes are required to submit a written statement to the Education Department at the time of application. Medical confirmation will be required. The request will be considered by the Examinations Officer and the Examinations and Assessment Board. Page 61

8.3 While every effort will be made to meet the particular needs of students with disabilities, it should be noted that support may be constrained by such factors as timetable scheduling and access to particular buildings. Students who are granted extra time, and who do not require an amanuensis, typewriter, word processor or other permitted device, may elect to sit the examination in the standard venue. However, due to the constraints of timetabling schedules, a maximum extension of only 30 minutes in total in the finishing time for examinations held in the same room can normally be permitted (but see 8.4 Extra Time below). The starting time of all examinations in the room must be the same. 8.4 Specific provision may include: Amanuenses: An amanuensis is a scribe or assistant who writes from a candidate's dictation. Visually handicapped, physically disabled and in some cases dyslexic candidates may wish to use an amanuensis. The amanuensis should be someone who is able to write legibly and at reasonable speed and ideally should have a working knowledge of the subject being examined but not someone who is too closely involved with the particular paper or student (e.g. a research assistant may be suitable provided s/he does not teach on the option being examined). In the case of a candidate with severe physical disabilities (e.g. a student with cerebral palsy whose speech may be difficult to understand), a regular volunteer or teacher would be acceptable. Such candidates need to be invigilated in a separate room. A student who is recently disabled or temporarily unable to write will experience greater difficulties than a student who is used to working with an amanuensis, and this should be taken into account in the assessment. If possible, practice sessions with the amanuensis should be arranged. Extra Time: Extra time may be given to candidates with physical disabilities, dyslexia and/or a student using an amanuensis, a type-writer or word-processor, or other permitted device. Dictation creates the need to check punctuation and grammar and reading back what has been written. Individual arrangements per candidate will be made in the light of individual circumstances. As a general guide an extra fifteen minutes per hour is thought appropriate, although longer may be granted if the amanuensis is not familiar with terminology appropriate to the examination. Aids and Equipment: In an examination a candidate with a disability will be allowed to use equipment or aids which s/he normally uses in day-to-day study (e.g. typewriter, personal computer). Separate Invigilation Arrangements: Any special arrangements will aim to minimise stress for students undertaking assessment. Alternative Papers The following may be provided where required: Braille Papers Large Print Papers Coloured Papers (for candidates with scotopic sensitivity syndrome, as examinations printed on coloured paper alleviate this problem) Tape Recordings (Tape recordings may be made and typed up immediately after the examination by an approved secretary) The following conditions may be catered for: Dyslexia: Dyslexia can be identified, and students with dyslexia must produce evidence of the condition if they wish special consideration to be given to their assessment. Dyslexic candidates have different needs, and different difficulties e.g. reading (accuracy and speed), spelling, written presentation (legibility, speed, fluency). These will be identified, and the means by which the candidate normally studies (e.g. use of tapes to take in Page 62

information or to present answers, use of typewriter etc.), may be arranged as applicable for formal assessment. Hearing Impairment: Hearing impaired students can take exams in the same room as other students but may be placed near to the invigilator so that if necessary they may lip read any oral instructions etc. It may be necessary to support the invigilator with a person able to communicate with the student using the appropriate sign language. Where sudden illness or disability occurs during the assessment period, medical certificates must be provided. Where necessary full details will be presented to the Examinations and Assessment Board and full consideration given to the case in the light of available options (deferral, withdrawal and refund, marks allowance etc). 8.5 Religious observances: Students whose religious observances clash with scheduled assessments should submit a written request which will be considered by the Examinations Officer. A minimum of four weeks advance notice must be given by the student. Appropriate supporting evidence may be required. While every effort will be made to meet the particular needs of students religious devotions, it must be noted that support may be constrained by such factors as scheduling, staffing and the timing of examinations. Possible arrangements could include deferral to the next available opportunity. The advice and the agreement of the Examinations and Assessment Board will be sought. 9. Review of Scripts and Appeals 9.1 The Review and Appeals procedure provides a formal two-stage mechanism by which examination candidates who feel aggrieved may appeal against their results in a particular subject/s and have their examination papers re-assessed. 9.2 The results letter issued to all candidates gives an indication of performance, ie Pass, Marginal Fail, Fail, Bad Fail or Very Bad Fail. Candidates are advised of their right of Review and Appeal in their results letters, and are asked to complete and return a standard form to initiate the process. The current fee for a Review is 30 per paper, and the fee for subsequent Appeal to the Examinations and Assessment Board is 40 per paper. 9.3 Upon receipt of a review request, and receipt of the 30 fee, the appropriate examiner is asked to scrutinise the candidate s script and submit a report on performance and marking within fourteen days. If the examiner recommends an upgrading of the result from Fail to Pass, the report will be referred to the Examinations and Assessment Board, or its Chair. Only the Examinations and Assessment Board or its Chair can issue or amend a result. If the examiner s recommendation is confirmed, the candidate s record will be amended, the candidate will be informed, and the 30 fee will be refunded. If the Board or Chair rejects the recommendation, or if the examiner makes no recommendation for change of result, the examiner s report, which will highlight areas of weakness and give guidance on improvement of future performance, will be sent to the candidate to assist with further study. 9.6 A candidate may query the outcome of a review by submitting an appeal to the Examinations and Assessment Board. The current fee for an appeal is 40. An appeal may not be made until a review report has been obtained. Under the appeal process the Board member responsible for the subject in question will examine the script, and a sample of others, in order to investigate the marking, and report back to an Examinations and Assessment Board meeting. If the Board decides to upgrade the result from Fail to Pass, then the candidate s record will be amended, the candidate will be informed, and the total 70 fee (for review and appeal) will be refunded. The Examinations and Assessment Board s decision at the end of this process will be final. Page 63