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What does “Fitness to Practise” mean?
Fitness to Practise is about making sure that students on professional courses
are suitable to enter the profession. This includes your conduct, health, and
ability to behave in a way that meets the expectations of your future career (e.g.
as a nurse, teacher, or social worker).
It’s not just about academic ability—it’s about whether you can uphold
professional standards and public trust in line with the relevant professional code
of practice.
Why have concerns been raised about me?
Concerns can come from various sources: a tutor, placement provider, member
of staff, or even another student. These concerns might be about your:
- Behaviour on placement or in class
- Communication or conduct with others
- Health and how it may affect your ability to practise safely
- Criminal conviction or police involvement
- Breach of professional codes of practice
Remember: concerns don't automatically mean you’ve done something wrong—
it's about whether your actions (or health) may impact your ability to safely join
the profession.
What happens when a concern is raised?
The University will carry out a preliminary review to decide if the concern falls
under the FtP policy.
You may be asked to respond to the concern and provide any relevant
information (medical evidence, reflection statement, character references, etc.).
Informal Local Resolution or Formal Panel:
- Minor issues may be resolved informally at a Local Resolution meeting.
- More serious or unresolved concerns go to a Fitness to Practise Panel.
You will always be notified in writing and given an opportunity to respond.
How can I prepare for my meeting?
Yes, absolutely. You will be invited to submit a written response and attend any
panel hearing. This is your opportunity to:
- Explain your circumstances
- Show insight and reflection
- Offer evidence (medical letters, placement feedback, etc.)
- Suggest support or actions you are already taking
You can also bring a representative to the hearing (such as someone from the
Student Union Advice Service).
You are not expected to go through this alone. The following support is
available:
- Student Union Advice Service – We offer independent, confidential
advice and can help you draft responses and prepare for any meetings you
are invited to.
- Student Wellbeing Services – If the issue is health-related, you can
speak to a member of the university wellbeing team.
- Disability Advice – For help with reasonable adjustments or if your
condition impacts your ability to engage with the process. You can access the disability advice here.
- Your Academic Adviser or Course Administrator – For course-specific
support. Access the course handbook here.
What are the possible outcomes?
The Fitness to Practice Panel can decide on a range of outcomes depending on
the severity of the issue and your response including but not limited to the
following:
- No action
- Support or monitoring (e.g. health plan, academic support)
- Warning or formal advice
- An action plan
- Referral to Occupational Health
- Repeat placement with support conditions
- Suspension or exclusion from the course (in serious or unresolved cases)
The outcome will be communicated to you in writing.
Will this affect my professional registration?
Not necessarily. If you complete the process and demonstrate you are fit to
practise—either with support or following recommendations—you may still be
able to register.
However, if a serious concern results in course termination, this could prevent
professional registration.
You may be required to disclose any Fitness to Practise outcomes to the relevant
professional body when registering.
What if I disagree with the panel’s decision?
You have the right to appeal a formal Fitness to Practice Hearing outcome,
especially if:
- You believe the process wasn’t followed properly
- New evidence has come to light
- You feel the outcome is unfair or disproportionate
The Student Union Advice Service can help you understand the appeals process
and give feedback on any appeal drafts before you formally submit it.
I’m feeling overwhelmed—what should I do?
That’s completely understandable. These processes can feel daunting, especially
when your future career is involved.
Here are a few first steps:
- Contact the Student Union Advice Service – We’ll help you make
sense of the policy and walk through the steps with you.
- Speak to someone you trust – Your academic adviser or a wellbeing
officer may be able to support you emotionally.
- Stay engaged – Try to respond to communications and meet deadlines,
even if you feel anxious.
You are not being judged as a person. This process is here to protect you and the
public, not to punish—but your participation and reflection are key.