FOI Practitioner Certificate - Act Now

FOI Practitioner Certificate - Act Now

An essential qualification for the modern FOI Officer.

This foundation course is designed for those wishing to acquire detailed knowledge of the FOIA and develop the practical skills to enable them to become a more effective FOI Officer.

The syllabus has been developed by FOI experts after analysing all the skills, knowledge and competencies required for the FOI Officer role. By the end of the course, you will be able to practically handle FOI requests, apply the exemptions and draft Refusal Notices. You will also be able to differentiate between FOI requests and requests under the Environmental Information Regulations.

The course takes place over four days followed by an assessment. Our teaching style is based on practical and engaging workshops covering the theory alongside hands-on application using real life case studies and exercises. Personal tutor support throughout the course, detailed course materials and a comprehensive online resource lab, ensure the best opportunity for success.

Structure

Day 1

FOI Scope and Obligations

  • Course outline/syllabus/ assessment
  • Intro, background and history
  • Link with other legislation
  • FOI scope and application
  • Publication Schemes
  • Datasets and ROPSI
  • The Right of Access (time limits, fees etc)
  • Refusals and Reviews

Day 2

Exemptions and Refusals (Part 1)

  • ICO Enforcement powers
  • Vexatious and Repeated Requests
  • The FOI Exemptions
  • Class/prejudice
  • Public Interest Test
  • The Exemptions Part 1 (Section 22 to 35)
  • Refusals and Reviews
  • Drafting/Critiquing a Refusal Notice

Day 3

Exemptions and Refusals (Part 2)

  • The Exemptions Part 2 (Section 36 to 44)
  • The Qualified Person
  • Health and Safety
  • Personal Data
  • Breach of Confidence
  • Legal Privilege
  • Commercial Interests
  • Drafting/Critiquing a Refusal Notice

Day 4

The Environmental Information Regulations 2004

  • EIR Scope
  • FOIA v EIR regs
  • Brief overview
  • Exceptions to disclosure
  • Preparing for Tribunal
  • FOI Officer Reflections
  • Drafting/Critiquing an EIR Refusal Notice
  • Assessment

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Event Information

Event Date 10-02-2026 9:30 am
Individual Price From £2199 plus VAT
Location Online (live)