All Heartwood staff recognise their ethical and professional responsibility to protect the interests of learners. In situations where a conflict of interest may arise, particularly where a learner and staff member have a family or close personal relationship, then that staff member should not take part in the following in relation to that student:

• Selection for any prize or bursary
• Selection for any Heartwood programme
• Selection/promotion for work placement opportunities
• Supervision of theses/special projects
• Complaints and disciplinary proceedings
• Assessment or academic progress issues.

Staff members must declare to the Trustees of the Education Fund any personal interest with regard to a currently enrolled learner – whether the connection is through family, business or close personal relationship.