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
Event Information
| Event Date | 10-03-2026 9:30 am |
| Individual Price | From £2199 plus VAT |
| Location | Online (live) |
10-04-2026 10:00 am
Online (live)
13-04-2026
Online (live)
14-04-2026
Online (live)
20-04-2026 9:00 am
Online (live)
21-04-2026
Online (live)
21-04-2026
Online (live)
22-04-2026
North-east
22-04-2026
Online (live)
22-04-2026 11:00 am
Online (live)
23-04-2026
Online (live)
23-04-2026 10:00 am
Online (live)
23-04-2026 4:00 pm
Online (live)
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ABOUT SHARPE PRITCHARD
We are a national firm of public law specialists, serving local authorities, other public sector organisations and registered social landlords, as well as commercial clients and the third sector. Our team advises on a wide range of public law matters, spanning electoral law, procurement, construction, infrastructure, data protection and information law, planning and dispute resolution, to name a few key specialisms. All public sector organisations have a route to instruct us through the various frameworks we are appointed to. To find out more about our services, please click here.
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On demand webinars
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Standish 18 months on
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OUR KEY LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONTACTS
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Partner 020 7406 4600 Find out more |
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Catherine Newman
