BCS Practitioner Certificate in Freedom of Information
Understand how to instill robust information practices, based on the Freedom of Information Act 2000, and the implications for your organisation.
Who is it for?
Anyone managing or responding to requests for information from the public or working in this subject area, for instance information managers or Freedom of Information (FOI) practitioners.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements however, it is strongly recommended that candidates attend a BCS accredited training course. Some knowledge of the FOI law and applying this in a work context would be beneficial.
What will I learn?
Candidates will be able to demonstrate:
- How specific exemptions might apply to requests for information including the application of the public interest test
- A clear and balanced approach to applying legal judgements in accordance with the law and relevant case law.
- Implementation of internal management procedures to support freedom of information and environmental information legislation.
- Knowledge of the definition of the Act and how it interacts with related legislation, specifically the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 and the Data Protection Act 2018.
- Development of internal procedures to support your authority’s compliance with the FOI Act including those relating to internal reviews.
- How to apply the legislation in a practical setting relevant to your work.
- How to prepare clear advice to colleagues as well as the public.
The syllabus includes training objectives, details of modules and learning hours, plus a recommended reading list:
What format is the exam?
- 90 minute scenario based ‘closed book’ digital exam:
- 6 multiple choice questions (State and Describe)
- 12 multiple response questions (Explain)
- 3 scenario-based questions (Apply and Analyse). - Pass mark of 65%
What's next?
CCP assured service
If you work or are considering working in a cyber security / information assurance role, we run a Certified Cyber Professional (CCP) assured service.
This qualification is not regulated by the following United Kingdom Regulators - Ofqual, Qualifications Wales, CCEA Regulation or SQA.
