Section 1: Purpose and Scope

This Student Protection Plan outlines the measures ISH has in place to safeguard students’ interests in the event of any disruption to their studies. The plan aims to provide clarity and assurance that ISH will take all reasonable steps to protect students’ academic progress, financial investment, and overall experience.

ISH is committed to aligning its procedures with those of its partner universities, ensuring that where programmes are validated and delivered collaboratively, the approach to student protection is consistent and meets the standards expected across all institutions involved.

For any questions regarding the Student Protection Plan, students may contact: ish@sportshumanities.org

Section 2: Assessment of Risks

Full institutional closure is unlikely due to strong financial management and Board oversight, while regulatory compliance and strong academic partnerships remain priorities. Programme closures and disruption from industrial action or key staff loss are moderate risks, managed through regular reviews, teach-out plans, contingency teaching, and cross-trained staff to ensure continuity.

In all cases, ISH will coordinate its response with relevant partner universities where programmes are jointly delivered or validated, ensuring that risk assessments and any mitigation measures are consistent and supportive of students’ best interests.

Section 3: Measures to Protect Students

Programme or Module Changes ISH may implement minor programme or module enhancements to improve quality or meet accreditation standards. When such changes are significant and occur after an offer has been accepted, students will be informed promptly and provided with the option to withdraw or transfer to another programme run by ISH or by the partner university, if applicable. This ensures students retain full control over their academic choices. ISH will act in line with the partner university’s procedures to ensure decisions are communicated and managed consistently.

Programme Suspension or Closure

Where a programme is suspended or closed, ISH will generally continue to teach existing students to completion. In circumstances where this is not possible, ISH will support students in transferring to a comparable programme at another institution. Prospective students will be informed of any changes in advance, allowing them to consider alternative options without disadvantage. ISH will coordinate closely with its partner universities in these cases to agree on appropriate teach-out or transfer arrangements that meet the standards and expectations of all parties.

Collaborative Provision All partnership agreements include student protection clauses. If a partner withdraws or ceases delivery, ISH will implement a teach-out or transfer plan to protect affected students, ensuring continuity of study wherever possible. Such plans will be developed jointly with the partner university and in accordance with their policies, so that students experience a consistent level of protection and support across institutions.

Loss of Accreditation Where professional accreditation is at risk, ISH will work closely with the relevant accrediting bodies to maintain recognition. Where this cannot be achieved, assistance will be provided to help students transfer to accredited programmes, minimising disruption. ISH will also liaise with partner universities as appropriate to ensure professional and academic standards remain aligned.

Major Disruption Where a major incident affects a jointly delivered and validated programme, ISH will work in partnership with the relevant university to coordinate responses, communication, and contingency measures. Students will be kept informed through established communication channels, including email, the website, and the virtual learning environment.

Section 4: Refunds and Compensation

Refunds and compensation may be provided in line with the programme Admissions Terms and Conditions. Where studies are disrupted and continuation is not possible, students may receive refunds for undelivered teaching. Additionally, reasonable expenses directly resulting from the disruption may be reimbursed. Bursaries and scholarships already awarded will continue to be honoured. ISH will liaise with the partner to ensure any financial remedies are applied fairly and consistently, following the agreed terms of the partnership.

Section 5: Communication and Review

The Plan will be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary. Students affected by material changes will receive direct notification at least 14 days in advance. Students may raise concerns through ISH’s formal Complaints Procedure, ensuring that any issues are addressed transparently and promptly. ISH will align communication processes with partner institutions to ensure that students receive clear and coordinated information, regardless of their mode or location of study.

Section 6: Business Continuity Overview

In the event of a serious or major incident - such as data loss or a public health emergency - ISH will prioritise the safety of students and staff, maintain continuity of teaching and essential services, communicate effectively, and provide necessary support. Efforts will be made to restore normal operations as quickly as possible to minimise disruption to the student experience. ISH will also ensure that, where applicable, its response aligns with that of partner universities to maintain a consistent and collaborative approach to student support.