Overview
The complainant (Ms C) claimed that she had been unfairly removed from her course at the University of Abertay Dundee (the University) and that the University had failed to follow procedures in removing her.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that Ms C was unfairly withdrawn from her degree programme at the University and that there were procedural failings leading up to her withdrawal (not upheld).
Redress and recommendations
Although the complaint has not been upheld, the Ombudsman recommends, to ensure future continuing improvement, that the University:
- (i) consider that records should be made of meetings with students, especially failing students, who are being counselled on their academic performance and where there is a likelihood that they could be withdrawn;
- (ii) reflect on the wording of the standard resit letter to see if it is as clear as it could be; and
- (iii) consider whether final decision letters at the conclusion of an unsuccessful appeal should give a fuller explanation of why an appeal is not upheld, rather than simply saying there are ‘no grounds’ for an appeal – an explanation of why there are no grounds might be helpful for the appellant.
The University have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly.