Young Learners Team FAQ
Content Introduction Onboarding Criminal Background Checks (DBS) Payslips & Finance Overtime Time off & Sickness All other burning questions Centre Managers Team Appraisal Process Contractors/Self Employed
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Introduction We understand that as a valued member of our team, you may have questions or need information to help you make the most of your experience with us. Whether you are an employee, worker, or a self-employed team member currently working for BSC (Education, Group, or Young Learners Limited), this Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section is designed to provide you with answers to some of the most common questions and concerns you may have. Whether you have just started or are looking to navigate the complexities of your employment status, you'll find valuable insights and guidance here. Our goal is to address the fundamental questions that our team members often encounter, from understanding tax obligations to managing finances and maintaining a work-life balance. Explore the questions below to find the information you need to thrive in your career journey with BSC. Feel free to browse the categories and questions, and if you can't find the answer you're looking for, don't hesitate to reach out for further assistance. We're here to support you on your journey: hr@bsc-education.com.
Onboarding
What are the locations of the centres where I will be based? International Summer Schools in the UK & Ireland | Young Learners (british-study.com) There is loads of information on our website, so best to have a good read through. At our discretion, depending on student volumes, we may occasionally ask team members to move to another centre, though the roles and requirements will remain the same as per their contract or service agreement. Please read through your contract of employment and service agreement to find out about the location of your college and relocation clause.
Can you provide details about my accommodation such as: shared toilets and kitchen? We try to prioritise placing team members in single bedrooms (where possible). In most cases, these have shared (adult only) bathrooms. Adult bathrooms tend to be single bathrooms near the adults’ bedrooms, while the student’s bathrooms are split by gender (male/female) and tend to be cubicles. Team members usually have access to a kitchen, though all meals are provided as part of the residential package. Please read through the accommodation section of your contract/service agreement.
What are my working hours ? All team members will work based on a rota, which will be issued to you. We calculate the hours they are expected to work (these are known as contact sessions). Contact sessions are divided as follows: Meals: 30 mins (these run-in shifts allocate 30 mins to supervise students and 30 mins to eat) Lessons/Sessions: 1.5 hours Breaks: 30 mins Half-day Excursions: 3 hours Full-day Excursions: 7 hours (includes 1 hour for lunch) Evening Sessions: 2 hours Night Duties: 1 hour At no point should a member of team be required to work an entire day. As per the weekly rota, team member’s hours should not exceed their contracted limit. Non-residential team members work a 5-day week over 15 or 30 hours of teaching. Residential team members work 45 or 48 hours over 6 days.
Where team members request time off, this needs to be done through their line manager at least one week before the date they wish to be off. If a member of the team is unable to work on any specific day(s), such circumstances will certainly be taken into consideration and managers will ensure that these requests are respected. If a team member requires an extra day off due to any personal commitments (such as attending a funeral, childcare, hospital appointment), this needs to be discussed with your line-manager as far in advance as possible as BSC are obligated to provide specific adult to student ratios and will need to make provisions to ensure these are met in your absence. The extra day will be considered either as annual leave (will be deducted from your annual leave balance) or unpaid leave.
Would I require to attend any training before or after my commencement date? No, you will be required to attend induction training which starts at 10am on your first day. For the role of manager this is 5 days of Centre Management Team (CMT) training. During this time, all operational aspects of their roles will be covered. They will also be trained on how to deliver training to their respective teams. 2 days prior to the first students’ arrivals, non-CMT team members will arrive at the centres to receive their induction training and to set up the centres.
What is my first day schedule on arrival and what will I be doing? In those first two days, teams will be attending induction training, familiarising themselves with the site, putting up BSC signage, preparing for activities and excursions, learning about the campus requirements (how laundry is done at the centre, what the procedure is in case of a fire, etc.), setting up classrooms, organising themselves for arrivals and testing, etc.
What documentation do I need to bring before or on my start date? Please bring your original documents on your first day for your line manager or Centre Manager to complete the onboarding compliance checks. This will include the following: Original Passport Original Certificates (for Teaching Roles) Original Valid Enhanced DBS Certificate Evidence of right to work in the UK (such as Frontier Work Permit and Shared Code) and Oversees Police Check valid for the past 6 months in English (if you do not hold the UK residency)
Please note that if you don’t hold a UK passport and are currently on a work or student visa and don’t have the shared code required for the People Team to complete the verification process online, you must attend the nearest college/Centre at least 24 hours before your start date so that the line manager, Centre Manager, or relevant manager can complete the manual ID verification checks, to avoid any delays on your start date
I have further questions, what’s the best email address? Please only email Recruitment@bsc-education.com for any queries and we will get back to you within 3-5 working days.
Criminal Background Checks (DBS)
Criminal background checks are also known as Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and PVG in Scotland. This guide aims to provide you with essential information about the Enhanced DBS check process. For further information on this, please read through DBS Policy, available on Teams Handbook.
What is an Enhanced DBS check? An Enhanced DBS check is a thorough background check conducted by the Disclosure and Barring Service in the UK. It reveals an individual's criminal record, including both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, warnings, and reprimands. Members of the public cannot see criminal records of other people. If you go to court and are convicted of a crime you get a criminal record. This applies to all sentences a court can give – including: discharges fines prison sentences Sometimes, instead of charging you the police could give you a caution (or a ‘warning’ or ‘reprimand’ if you’re aged 10-17). These are not criminal convictions, but they are recorded on the police database.
How long will a Criminal Record last? If you have a criminal record, it could last a few months or a number of years depending on your sentence. Legislation called the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 states that, for most people, a sentence should not have to ‘stay with them for life’. Depending on your sentence, most cautions and convictions eventually become ‘spent’. Once your conviction is spent it’s as if you never committed any offence in the first place.
Do all sentences become spent? Some sentences can never be spent. If you have a conviction and are unsure when it is spent, get legal advice.
Why are criminal record checks required and who needs one? Certain types of job, including those based within a college are considered to be a ‘regulated’ activity as defined by the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and Protection of Freedoms Act (2012) and require an enhanced criminal record check. Jobs that are ‘regulated’ mean you: will be working regularly with children or adults will be working in an establishment that is wholly or mainly for children will be working in healthcare have applied to be a foster carer, adoptive parent or child-minder or, work which allows the individual to have the opportunity of contact with children or vulnerable adults in a ‘specified place’ as defined by the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
How do I apply for an Enhanced DBS check? BSC will initiate the DBS check process. You'll need to complete the necessary application form, provide identification documents, and pay the required fee (if you are a returner)
What identification documents do I need to provide? Valid in date photographic ID – Passport/ Driving Licence x 2 Or birth certificate Plus - Proof of address (letter dated to your home address in the last 3 months) Full list can be found here ID checking guidelines for standard/enhanced DBS check applications from 1 July 2021 - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
How long does the process take? The processing time can vary, but most Enhanced DBS checks are completed within a few weeks. However, it might take longer if there are complexities or discrepancies in your records.
What information does an Enhanced DBS check reveal? An Enhanced DBS check will show details of your criminal record, including any cautions, convictions, warnings, or reprimands. It may also include relevant police information.
Will a criminal record automatically disqualify me from a job? Not necessarily. The impact of your criminal record on your job prospects depends on the nature of the role and the convictions. Some convictions may not be relevant to the position you're applying for, while others might disqualify you due to safeguarding concerns. It is always best to make any disclosures prior to checks being run.
Can I see my own DBS check results? Yes, you have the right to see your own DBS check results. You can request a copy of your certificate from the DBS.
Can an employer withdraw a job offer based on my DBS check? Yes, an employer could withdraw a job offer if the information revealed in the DBS check raises concerns related to the role's requirements or safeguarding.
Do I pay for my DBS enrolment this year? BSC will arrange for you to be enrolled for your initial DBS check. However, if you are planning to return in Summer 2024, please ensure you are registered on the DBS Update Service under BSC as returners will be responsible for funding their ongoing checks. The update service is the easiest and quickest way to ensure your records are transferable not only with BSC but any other company requiring an enhanced DBS check.
How can I have access to the updated service for DBS check and sign up for the service? Please follow the below link and guidance to find out more: DBS Update Service - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Who will do the criminal record check for BSC? BSC is using an e-Umbrella Body called Civil and Corporate to process criminal record checks on-line.
Where will the Disclosure be stored? The disclosure number and the date of issue will be uploaded to Personio. The actual disclosure will be destroyed once this information has been gathered.
Who should we speak to if we have any further questions or queries? In the first instance, please raise them with either your line manager or People team Hr@bsc-education.com People team will submit the application form. Once it has been processed you will receive a copy of the Disclosure. This can take from 24 hours after the application has been sent up to 6 weeks. A paper copy of your disclosure certificate will be posted to your home address.
I am a returner to BSC Young Learners, do I need to pay for DBS check? Any returners or team members whose DBS has lapsed will be required to fund additional checks. This amount will be deducted from your pay in a single or split payment. It is recommended you enrol yourself onto the update service. The Update Service is an online subscription that allows you to keep your standard or enhanced DBS certificate up to date and allows employers to check a certificate online. You can join the Update Service as soon as you have your application form reference number. You can request this number by emailing hr@bnsc-education.com You can also join the Update Service with your certificate number when you receive your DBS paper certificate. If so, you must do so within 30 calendar days of the ‘date of issue’ which is printed on the certificate.
Can I refuse to apply for a criminal record check? You can refuse to have a criminal record check carried out; however, this is a requirement of the job role. The British Council requires all team members who have contact with children or vulnerable adults to have a valid enhanced criminal background check. This requirement includes self-employed team members.
Can I challenge the information revealed on my DBS check? Yes. If you have received the results of your DBS checks and there is an error on it or you wish to dispute any of the information revealed, you can contact the DBS by visiting DBS appeals and disputes page. Disputes should be raised with the DBS within 3 months of the date of issue of the certificate.
Payslip & Finance
How will I be paid? All team members based in the UK must provide UK bank account details, NI (National Insurance Number) and where applicable an RTW Share Code. Cheques and cash in hand payments are not possible.
What is a National Insurance Number and how do I get one? You will be eligible to pay mandatory National Insurance if you’re 16 or over and are an employee earning more than £242 per week from one job. You can start work before you receive your National Insurance number if you can prove you have the right to work in the UK. For UK nationals you’ll normally be sent a National Insurance number in the 3 months before your 16th birthday if both the following are true: you live in the UK a parent or guardian has filled in a Child Benefit claim form for you If you have a biometric residence permit (BRP), you might have a National Insurance number already - it will be printed on the back of your BRP if you do. If are new to the UK and have the right to work but you do not have a National Insurance number yet, you must apply for one here Apply for a National Insurance number: How to apply - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
What is a P45, why do I need one? You’ll get a P45 from your previous employer when you stopped working for them. Your P45 shows how much tax you’ve paid on your salary so far in the tax year (6 April to 5 April). A P45 has 4 parts (Part 1, Part 1A, Part 2 and Part 3). You MUST send your most recent, in-date P45 to payroll@bsc-education.com on your first day. Without this information you will automatically be put on emergency tax until HMRC advises us of your amended tax code. If you have been taxed too much this will be highlighted and flagged by HMRC who will advise our payroll provider regarding any changes and rebates.
What if I do not have a recent, in-date P45? If you do not have a current P45 (which was issued within the last 12 months) complete this form Starter checklist (publishing.service.gov.uk) and send to payroll@bsc-education.com
How do I get my P45 when I leave BSC Young Learners? When you leave BSC, you will be issued your P45 AFTER your final payslip has been issued via ADP. You will have 6 weeks after your final payslip to log in to view and download your payslips and P45.
How does tax get calculated? Tax on income is mandatory for all UK residents, regardless of age. You do, however, have a tax-free Personal Allowance The standard Personal Allowance is £12,570, which is the amount of income you do not have to pay tax on. 1257L is the tax code currently used for most (but not all) people who have one job or pension.
What do the letters on my tax code mean? Letters in your tax code refer to your own individual salary and personal tax allowance. Letters. What they mean: L - You’re entitled to the standard tax-free Personal Allowance 0T - Your Personal Allowance has been used up, or you’ve started a new job and your employer does not have the details they need to give you a tax code BR - All your income from this job or pension is taxed at the basic rate (usually used if you’ve got more than one job or pension) D0 - All your income from this job or pension is taxed at the higher rate (usually used if you’ve got more than one job or pension) NT - You’re not paying any tax on this income W1/M1/X - Emergency tax codes. Emergency tax codes are temporary. HMRC will usually update us directly of your tax code when you or your employer give them your correct details. If you have not paid the right amount of tax, you’ll stay on the emergency tax code until you’ve paid the correct tax for the year.
What if I am only working in the UK for the term and have a job in my home country? For team members from abroad with a job in their home country, this form Non UK Nationals Additional Job must be completed and sent to payroll@bsc-education.com on your first day.
Will I get holiday pay? Team Members on short, fixed term contracts over the summer do not have the opportunity to claim earned annual leave allowance due to the short length of the contracts (usually 1 – 8 weeks). As a result, annual leave is paid in the final payslip at a rate of 12.07% of hours accumulated over the period.
Will I get a paper payslip? No, we provide payslips via ADP, our online payroll system. You will receive a digital copy of your payslip and P45 via this online platform. You will receive an account activation email directly to your personal account before your first payday. Your username will be the same email address. You will have 6 weeks after your last pay day to log in to access and download your own payslips and p45. P45s are generated automatically after your last payslip and pay have completed. You can also download the ADP app here: ADP Mobile Solutions on the App Store (apple.com) ADP Mobile Solutions - Apps on Google Play Payslip Breakdown Salary – pay period 1st to last day of month Annual leave – paid in final payslip. See above Tax – paid amount deducted from your wage. IF you
are due a rebate you will see a * – * sign before the amount. NI – national insurance contributions paid Earnings – Money earned in a single pay period Deductions – Tax and NI contributions taken from
earnings Net Pay – Total amount paid after tax and NI
contributions taken
Why is my pay not 4 weeks X my contracted amount? Not all months have exactly 4 full weeks in them. Your contract will stipulate your weekly wage. However, your payslip will display monthly wage based on number of days in a full calendar month. This is calculated automatically by our online payroll provider ADP.
What if I have an expense to claim? BSC Young Learners works hard to ensure that you will not be required to use your own money to fund events for yourself or students. Please refer to the expenses policy, which can be found in the Team Handbook. In the rare event that you have to claim expenses, these must be submitted with receipts before the 16th of the month via ADP for authorisation. You will receive these funds back in your payslip. These funds are not subject to tax.
What happens if I am off with sickness or have time off? Should you have a period of sickness or absence during your fixed term contract, your payslip will generate showing the full amount for the pay period in the salary as if you had worked the full shifts as normal. You will then see Sick Unpaid for the period you are absent as a deduction from the full amount.
Can I claim Statutory Sick Pay if I am off sick? To qualify for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) you must have been ill for at least 4 days in a row (including non-working days) and complete and submit this form to your line manager and payroll@bsc-education.com Employee’s statement of sickness to claim Statutory Sick Pay GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Your contract stipulates that due to the nature of the short-fixed term contract should you have a period of 7 consecutive days off, BSC reserves the right to terminate your contract.
How will I be paid? All team members based in the UK will be paid via BACS.
What if I don’t have a UK bank account? If you do not have a UK account, we advise you download the Revolut app. This will provide you with a UK style account and sort code needed to be paid. You can then transfer your wage to your primary account yourself. You can download the app here Android: Revolut - Mobile Finance - Apps on Google Play Apple: Revolut - Mobile Finance on the App Store (apple.com)
I do have a UK bank account; do I still need to open an account with Revolut? If you are currently a UK resident or having a UK bank account, there is no requirement for you to open this account as BSC will be able to make your salary to your normal nominated UK account.
What is Revolut? Revolut in the UK is a company that offers banking services that can be done entirely through the Revolut mobile app.
What are the steps to follow? 1. Download the Revolut app from the App Store or Google Store and create an account 2. Choose your account type and select the account type you would like to open. Revolut offers a range of accounts, including personal, business, and cryptocurrency accounts. 3. Provide your personal information- you will need to provide your personal information, including your full name, date of birth, and address. You will also need to verify your identity by submitting a photo of your government- issued ID. 4. Add money to your account- to active your account, you will need to add money to it. You can do this by linking your bank account or debit card and transferring funds. 5. Order your Revolut card- once your account is activated, you can order a Revolut card through the app. The card will be delivered to your registered address within a few days. Start using your account- you can start using your Revolut account to make payments, transfer money, and manage your finances, Revolut offers a range of features, including budgeting tools, foreign currency exchange, and real time spending alerts.
If I am unbale to open this account, what will happen to my wages? BSC will not be able to do an international bank transfer and pay your wages through the usual process. Therefore we will require you to submit an invoice to us.
I have some questions regarding this, who’s the best person to contact to? In the first instance, your line manager and after that HR@bsc-education.com
When is the pay day? On or around 28th of each month for all the team members. BSC will make payments to your nominated bank accounts which are either Revolut or UK bank accounts. For team members and contractors based in Malta, please review your service agreement.
When is my first pay day? If you are starting after 19th of any month, you will be paid your first salary in the following month (on or around 28th of each month)
How can I have access my payslips? You will receive an email from ADP (BSC Payroll Provider) with your log in details before your first pay day and you will be able to have access to your payslips. Payslips would not be emailed or posted out to any team members. It is the team member’s responsibilities to log in and download their payslips before they finish their contract. No payslips will be emailed nor posted out once your contract is finished.
Could I receive my entire salary for summer as a lump sum when my contract ends? No. You will receive your salary each month as you work. We cannot skip any payment and pay you all in a lump sum.
Is there a deduction of accommodation from my wages? Yes – only for team members who require residential accommodation, we offset the cost of accommodation for residential employees in line with UK government set rates. These rates are used to calculate and ensure you are paid above minimum wage. For more information on how this is calculated please visit National Minimum Wage and Living Wage: accommodation: Accommodation rates - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) For those not residing on site, the wage will be reflective of no offset being deducted.
Overtime
Will I be paid for overtime? We aim to manage our rotas effectively and as per your contract. Should you be required to do overtime, your manager will ensure this time is taken back in lieu of the duration of your contract. Should you have any concerns about your hours, please contact hr@bsc-education.com.
Where do I find more information about the overtime Policy? The policy can be found on Team Handbook, which will be issued to you during your onboarding process, by the People Team.
Time off & Sickness Absence
Do I receive full pay for being off sick? You will be entitled to SSP (Statutory Sick Pay), in line with the below government guidance: Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) : Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Do I need to take my accumulated holidays whilst I am working in summer? All the holidays will be paid at the end of your fixed-term contract and there is no provision for holidays to be taken as your attendance is required for the duration of the contract.
All other burning FAQs
Is there en-suite available in my room? This is specific to the accommodation. Not all rooms offer an en-suite option. Generally, there is an en-suite bathroom in every room in Manchester and Kings London, though this is not guaranteed, and team members may need to share bathrooms with other adults associated with BSC. Other centres, such as Malta, may have both en-suite and shared bathrooms between 2 or 3 rooms.
Are my personal possessions secure on site? Although you will have a private and secure room during your stay, please be advised that we strongly recommend not bringing valuable items, as we will not assume responsibility for any loss or theft of personal possessions.
Is there a washing machine, pots and pans, iron in the accommodation provided? There will be a washing machine and laundry facilities on campus that can be used by team members at their own expense. No pots and pans are provided as meals are included. No irons are provided.
Do I need to bring my own duvet and pillow? Your room will be provided with bedding (including sheets, duvet and pillow) and changed either weekly or every 2 weeks. If you would like to bring your own, you will be responsible for laundering these at a cost to yourself with the facilities on site.
Do I bring towels? Although some centres may provide towels, we recommend you should always bring your own towels.
What uniform will I be provided with (summer and winter)? You will be provided with 2 BSC shirts and 1 BSC Jacket plus an identification lanyard when you arrive.
What are the meals typically? Three meals are provided daily. Should you be at an airport or at an event during mealtime, you will be able to request a packed lunch in advance. The meal offerings may differ slightly at each centre as they are provided by the residence catering. Generally, you can expect a variety of hot dishes such as pasta, lasagne, chicken, and rice, among other foods. Additionally, there will always be meat-free or other dietary options available as most dietary requirements can (usually) be met. Please let us know as soon as possible. A self-serve salad bar is typically offered, though not guaranteed, along with the option of a sweet dessert or piece of fruit.
Are halal/vegan/kosher meal options available? Yes, normally. But we need you to inform us of your requirements and any other dietary information before you arrive.
Do you get meals on days off? Yes, meals are provided on days off on site only.
What happens if you are not on-site during mealtimes? If you are on duty working, you will be provided with a packed lunch. Meals purchased by yourself outside of our catering provided will not be reimbursed. You must ensure you request a packed lunch for shifts away from the centre. If you are unsure, speak to the centre manager.
Will my expenses be refunded without a receipt? No. All meals and transport while working are provided. No personal money should need to be spent. On very rare occasions, where there is no other option but to spend money, this may be reimbursed if the appropriate procedure is followed. Specifically, this requires approval from the centre manager and the BSC Central Team beforehand. If approval is not granted, and receipt not provided within 3 working days, reimbursements won’t be made. To avoid this, we recommend that you always speak to your Centre Manager first.
When are meal times Mealtimes vary slightly depending on the centre’s catering timetable. Typically, the mealtimes are: Breakfast – 07:30-08:30 Lunch- 12:30-13:30 Dinner- 18:00-19:00
On my first day where do I go? More information on this will be provided in your arrival pack, which will be location specific. Your arrival pack will include a map, contact details, arrival times, etc.
What time do I arrive on my first day? There are two options; if you plan to start on the day you arrive, you MUST arrive on site before 10am as this is the start time for the induction. If you arrive any later, you will miss the scheduled induction. We recommend that if it is difficult to arrive before 10am due to transport links, that you travel to the accommodation the day before so you can get settled into the site ready for your induction the next day. Please note: If you are not completing induction on the day of arrival, the day of arrival will not be paid.
Who do I contact on my first day? You will be given the contact information of the centre manager in your welcome pack. The Centre Manager or a Senior Welfare /Mentor or Activity Team Member will meet you on your first day.
Will somebody contact me before I arrive? Prior to your first day, the main contact will be between yourself and the People Team (HR) via recruitment@bsc-education.com. The People Team will then hand you over to the Centre Manager who will issue you with your welcome pack. From this point the Centre Manager will be your main contact.
If my transport arrives after 8pm, will I miss the induction? Will I still have accommodation for that night You will still have accommodation. However, your induction will be scheduled for the following day as outlined above. Please ensure you let the recruitment team know of your travel arrangements and let us know if your plans change.
On my first day where do I go? More information on this will be provided in your arrival pack, which will be location specific. Your arrival pack will include a map, contact details, arrival times, etc.
If I start in the middle of the week, will I be paid for a full week? No. You will only be paid the days you work for the first week. From the following week, your weeks will be calculated from Sunday to Sunday onwards
I have a friend I want to work with at the same centre. Is this possible? Absolutely! We welcome collaborative requests and love for Team Members to Refer a Friend! Your request to work with a friend at the same centre will be considered against the current staffing levels and availability. We will try to honour all requests as long as they are in line with our Personal Relationships at Work policy. Please update yourself on this.
I have been asked to move to a different college during my contract and I do not want to change locations BSC contracts stipulate that ‘You may be required to work at any of the Organisation’s premises from time to time as required in the performance of your duties. The Organisation reserves the right to change your place of work whether temporarily or permanently. In the event of a permanent change, you will be given reasonable notice.’ We endeavour to ensure that team members remain at their original posting. Should we need support at another centre, the Centre Manager and the Head of Young Learners will approach the team to find an amicable solution. Should no team member volunteer, the Head of Young Learners will make the decision to move an individual. When an individual is transferred, travel plans and costs will be provided for that team member to ease the transition. Should you be selected and should you not wish to change to another location, you will be required to discuss this with your Centre Manager. If a mutual agreement cannot be reached your contract may be terminated due to breach of signed terms and conditions.
I have a medical conditions and adjustments such as time off to attend appointments, or being in close proximity to my medical provider is required. You must complete the medical declaration form. You will also need a risk assessment completed for your personnel file. During induction please ensure your Centre Manager is made aware if you have not already completed a risk assessment.
I have accepted the role and I am pregnant, who should I tell? Firstly, congratulations! Should you need to attend any medical appointment or scan, you should check the Maternity and Paternity policy and speak directly with your Centre Manager to arrange this. Secondly, we would like to outline that the role is maximum 8 weeks therefore would not fall into the 6 months qualifying period for maternity leave. Where possible we will make reasonable adjustments to the working duties, however, the role may require you to conduct moving and handling duties, attending attractions and long periods on your feet. Please consider this when accepting the role. However, please feel free to review BSC Maternity Policy and for further advice please contact HR@bsc-education.com or Maternity pay and leave: Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
How long is my probation? Due to the short-term contracts of the Young Learners Program, team members may have a 2-week probation period. Please check your contract of employment and review the probation clause.
When I finish my contact, how do I obtain a reference? Simply provide your new employer with our contact details hr@bsc-education.com and we will provide the standard statement of employment directly.
What if I want to resign before my fixed term contract ends? In the first instance we would recommend speaking to your line manager. If you are unable to speak to this person (for example, if the concern involves them,) you can contact their line manager. (see org chart). If you have a serious concern or one that is very sensitive, you can contact The People Team (HR) via hr@bsc-education.com and one of the team will provide impartial support.
Head of Young Learners
Academic Operations Manager
Operations Manager
Centre Manager
Director of Studies (DOS) Assistant DOS Teachers & Teaching Activity
Centre Administrator Activity/Welfare Manager Senior Activity/Welfare Leader Student Mentor & Activity/Welfare Leaders
Do I get a performance review? All team members on a contract of 4 weeks or more will expect to receive a performance review (commonly known as an appraisal) at the 50-75% date of their contract. Where possible, Centre Managers will conduct all appraisals on the same week so you may find yours happens sooner than expected. In instances where you are underperforming, your Centre Manager may schedule a performance review earlier to help support you with some achievable goals to support your progress.
Why do I need a performance review? Performance reviews help you develop in your career; they also help us identify Team Members strengths and weaknesses. We use the performance review as an opportunity to support your role, knowledge, growth in self-confidence, goal setting or even take the opportunity to promote team members.
Centre Managers
What do I need to know about the payroll deadline? The payroll deadline is 19th of every single month. As Centre Manager, it is your responsibility to ensure all information regarding payroll for your team is submitted on time. Any and All of the following need to be submitted to payroll by the deadline: Absences logs (including sick days, days off, emergency leave, etc) Sick notes and or self certs for emergency and approved sick days Rotas, live rotas and rota changes (changed days off/cover/change of team member etc) Overtime log Job title changes Salary changes Expenses log AND MATCHING receipts (not transaction screenshots) Plus, it is the centre managers responsibility to ensure team members submit P45s Bank details/changes/ personal detail updates. If you have further queries on this, contact payroll@bsc-education.com Any of the above must be submitted no later that 12pm on the 19th. Any information received by payroll after this point will be postponed until the next pay period. As the centre manager, it is your responsibility to convey this information to your teams.
A member of my team has an issue with their tax, who do I need to contact? All tax codes are provided and updated by HMRC and sent to our payroll provider. The payroll team will submit each individual P45 (P45s are only valid for processing if they are within the current tax year) to our payroll provider who liaise directly with HMRC. If a current P45 isn’t submitted before the first pay period and within the payroll deadline, HMRC will advise on the code to use. If your team member feels this is incorrect, they must call HMRC on Telephone: 0300 200 3300 & Outside UK: +44 135 535 9022. Opening times are: Monday to Friday: 8am to 6pm - HMRC do not answer queries online, as such, you may be put on hold on the helpline number for up to 1 hour or even longer. Please note, the payroll team and our payroll provider cannot change tax codes, tax deductions or issue refunds. This comes directly from HMRC.
A member of my team has been off sick. What is the sickness entitlement? All team members are entitled to SSP (Statutory Sick Pay), in line with the below government guidance: Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) : Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) You should ensure your team member downloads and completes any self cert form, and forward on any sick notes if provided in line with payroll deadlines. If a member of your team has been absent for less than 7 days, a self cert form will need to be completed. However, if a member of your team has been absent for more than 7 days, a sick note will need to be obtained and sent to payroll@bsc-education.com
How often should I complete a performance review? Performance reviews form a huge part of supervision and monitoring. All team members who are with us for at least 4 weeks should be given a performance review around the midpoint of their contract. It is recommended that you use the centre calendar to book these in advance. The People Team can support you with this if you are unsure. Performance reviews follow a simple format, and the form is available on share point. You will cover how to conduct a good performance review during your induction week.
I have a safeguarding concern about a member of my team. What do I need to do next? In the first instance you should remove that member of the team from face-to-face duties and report your concerns to your line manager and email hr@bsc-education.com. Your line manager and/or The People Team (hr) will advise you on proper steps to take. Ensure you record any concerns down including times/names/locations in case you need this information in the future.
I have a performance concern with a team member. Who should I contact? As a centre manager the first port of call would be to bring the individual in for a 1 to 1 supervision to discuss the concerns, investigate any mitigating circumstance and put in place SMART goals. Should improvement not occur, liaise with your line manager to discuss the options available to you, such as role change, location changes or if the team member is within their probation period we can fail the probation with immediate effect.
How will I know who is on my team? The People Team will send you a regularly updated list of team members with contact numbers, email addresses and any risk assessment information if relevant.
When should I contact my Team Members? You should ensure you contact your team members as soon as is reasonably possible during induction week so they know who you are and how to find you when they arrive/have arrival issues that could affect the wider team. We recommend any use of WhatsApp groups is kept professional and used for general information sharing only. No personal information about individuals should be shared in group chats.
A member of my team has not arrived on their first day. Who should I contact? Firstly, call the individual directly as there may be a reasonable explanation OR they may not intend to arrive at all. You must email The People Team (HR) and let your line manager know the changes.
A member of my team has quit with immediate effect. What do I need to do next? Firstly, ensure that the team member is ok. Secondly, collect all BSC property from the individual including uniform, id card, keys and building access cards. Assign a peer team member to support them packing and to ensure the team member leaves no personal items behind. Update your line manager and email The People Team (HR) to advise on time and date they finished and left the premises.
It is the team member’s last day (planned or unplanned). Is there anything I need to do? What is the process for when a member of my team is leaving? Ensure to add to your monthly payroll submission spreadsheet all leaving dates for each member of your team. It is important to complete this, even if the People Team are aware of leave dates, in case of a leave date changing. Confirmation of leaving dates will ensure payroll is submitted correctly and will avoid any overpayments/underpayments. IF a member of your team is due to finish earlier than their contracted end date, the People Team would need to be notified as soon as possible with a reason for leaving as this will be a breach of their fixed term contract. If there is any team member leaving early who has previously worked overtime and is yet to take the time back, you will need to ensure their time is taken back before their earlier expected leaving date.
I have completed my induction training and read through all the FAQs I still have a question. No problem. For all operations and education queries speak to your line manager or Head of Young Learners. For any personnel or payroll queries email HR@bsc-education.com
Appraisal
Appraisals are used to measure performance, suitability and gauge areas of strength and development. These will be used to determine where team members are meeting expectations or not and/or whether they may be better suited to a different centre or role. The appraisals should follow a three-step process to give both team members and their managers ample opportunities to provide insight into their performance.
In the first week, how does the final appraisal process work? At the end of their first week, all team members should complete a self-appraisal, to give insight into where they feel they are performing well and where they would like support.
In the second week, how does the final appraisal process work? Team members’ respective managers should give feedback on performance, highlighting strengths and pointing out where there is room for improvement. These meetings should be 15-30 minutes long. The Initial Appraisal should contain written feedback from the manager. The team member should be able to take this appraisal away with them to be able to focus on improving key aspects over the following weeks.
In the final week, how does the final appraisal process work? During each team member’s final week, their respective managers should have a final meeting with their team member to discuss progress and final thoughts. The Initial Appraisal should be consulted by the manager prior to the Final Appraisal meeting. The Final Appraisal should provide two written feedback comments, the first from the line manager, the second from the Centre Manager, and should include two tick-boxes asking/answering whether the team member should: 1. Be rehired 2. Be promoted These meetings should last 20-30 minutes.
Am I, as a manager, required to complete an appraisal? CMs & DoSs will follow the same 3-step process as above, though their appraisals will be completed by the YL Operations Manager (for CMs) and the YL Academic Operations Manager (for DoSs). DoSs’ Final Appraisals should include the Centre Manager’s feedback as well, unless there is a conflict of interest (such as if they are in a relationship or related) in which case the Head of Young Learners will complete this section. CMs’ Final Appraisals will include feedback provided by both the YL Operations Manager and the Head of Young Learners. AMs and WMs will be appraised by CMs, with their Final Appraisals containing feedback from the YL Operations Manager as well.
Who will complete the reviews? Centre Checks will be carried out by members of the YL Central Team and findings therein may be reflected in managers’ appraisals. CAs will be appraised by CMs, with their Final Appraisals containing feedback from the YL Operations Manager as well. Senior Support Team members (SALs, SWLs, A-DoSs and CAs) should not be responsible for any appraisals unless they have been promoted to a management position.
Contractors and Self-employed
Am I employed or self-employed/contractor- where do I fit in? Working out if you are self-employed is usually straightforward. If you run your own small business or work for a variety of clients and are able to choose when you work and who for, you are almost certainly self-employed. Please check the engagement agreement (contract) you have received from BSC which will explain your status with the Company.
What rights and protections do I have? Please find below the general categories of rights and protections:
How much will I get paid as a self-employed/contractor? Your hourly rate/ monthly fees will be discussed and confirmed to you in writing. Please check your service agreement.
Can I get contractual or statuary holiday pay? As per the above table, you are not entitled to any paid annual leave (either contractual or statuary) from the Company. Please check your engagement agreement to find out more.
Am I entitled to enhanced or statutory Company sick pay? As per the above table, Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is paid by an employer when an employee is unable to work due to sickness. If you are self-employed, you cannot get Statutory Sick Pay as you are working for yourself and therefore do not have an employer. If you are self-employed and temporarily unable to work due to illness, you should check if you have made enough national insurance contributions to qualify for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), in the UK. If you are not based in the UK, please check this with your local authority.
How do I get paid toward the service that I provide? You shall submit an invoice each month by latest 25th of each month to the Supplier Invoices supplier-invoices@bscgroupltd.com. Late invoices sent after this deadline will be processed in the following month's pay run. All invoices for self-employed team members will be paid on or around the 30th of each month.
How much notice should I provide to the Company if I wish my contract to be terminated? Each contract varies greatly. Some may require a few months while others are only for a few weeks. Browse through your service agreement to find out more.
Do I need to register as self-employed? Self-employed people have to register with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to pay tax, in the UK. This won't register you as self-employed for benefits purposes. There is no single way to register as self-employed for benefits. You should tell each organisation that pays you benefits (for example, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) or your local council) that you are self-employed, and you should let them know your income from self-employment. If you are not based in the UK, please check this with the local authority of the country that you are based at.
I am a contractor based in Malta, working only during the summer period. What teaching and right-to-work documents am I required to present during my interview? As a teacher in Malta, you must provide a copy of your teaching qualifications and have obtained your teaching license from the Council before you are able to start teaching. Additionally, a Basic Disclosure Certificate (BDC) is required, which includes a police check from your home country translated into English, and it must be valid for the past 6 months. If you are working in Malta and hold a visa, you must provide the relevant supporting documents and a share code to the People team before your start date.
What benefits can I claim, if there is any? When it comes to working out which benefits you are eligible for and how much you might get, it can be a little trickier than being employed by the Company. Please check your service agreement to find out further.
Can I get self-employed/contractor Maternity Pay? Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is paid by an employer when an employee leaves work to have a baby. If you are self-employed, you cannot get Statutory Maternity Pay as you are working for yourself and therefore do not have an employer. If you are self-employed and temporarily unable to work due to having a baby, you should check if you qualify for Maternity Allowance in the UK. If you are based outside the UK, you should check this with the local authority regarding your eligibility for any maternity pay.
Can I claim paternity leave and benefits? The main paternity benefit is Statutory Paternity Pay. This is paid by an employer to an employee who meets the qualifying conditions to cover a period of leave for a birth or an adoption. If you are self-employed, you cannot get Statutory Paternity Pay as you are working for yourself and therefore do not have an employer.
Can a self-employed person get any help to pay the mortgage on their home in the UK? You will only be able to get help towards the mortgage interest payments on your home if you are entitled to one of the following benefits (in the UK): Income Support Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) Pension Credit You cannot make new claims for Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance. You cannot get Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance and income-related Employment and Support Allowance if you work 16 hours or more per week, or your partner who you live with works more than 24 hours per week. If you work part time and your earnings, other income and capital are low enough and you meet the other rules for these benefits, you might be able to claim a Support for Mortgage Interest Loan. If you get Universal Credit, you can only claim a Support for Mortgage Interest loan if you have earned no income at all. Please note, different schemes run differently in each country so it is important you check your eligibility for any benefits in the county that you are currently based in.
Am I entitled to any in-house or external Company paid training/qualification? Ordinarily no, however, as a good will gesture, the Company might be able to consider and offer you an in-house training that you may require to perform your role, although there is no legal obligation to do so, and this will be decided on case-by-case basis.
Am I entitled to Company pension contributions? As a contractor, based on the above table, the Company legally is under no obligation to contribute towards contractor’s pension scheme, unless this has been explicitly agreed upon and confirmed in writing to you.
Can I return to my self-employment role after having a gap within the engagement agreement such as a family leave? If you decided to join the business after having a gap within the engagement, you should go through the recruitment and onboarding process again and a new service agreement should be signed between both parties. Unlike employment rights, as a contractor you do not hold continuous service rights.
Do I need to have my own IT equipment, or will the Company provide the necessary equipment? The Company is under no legal obligation to provide a laptop, mobile phone, or any other equipment. However, as a good will gesture, we may consider offering you the chance to purchase some of the equipment and invoice us or lend you the equipment. However, the equipment will remain the property of the Company and should be returned without being damaged in the original packaging before the final invoice payment is due to you.
Can I have access to the Company’s internal portals such as HR Self-Service/Payroll (ADP) system, SharePoint, Yammer and so on as a contractor? As a business, communications, engagement, collaborations, and best practices are high in our agenda. However, certain access levels are limited to your engagement’s status with the Company (i.e., self-employment/contractor) and the Company is not required to allow access to HR self-service or ADP (Payroll self-service portals). Having said this, regardless of engagement status everyone should have access to Yammers, SharePoint and YODA If you have any questions on the above, please contact HR@bsc-education.com