Terms and Conditions
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Link School of English Terms and Conditions - General – 2023
Enrolment
To enrol with the School for a course with/without accommodation, the Enrolment Form must be completed. Any allergies or medical conditions must be indicated. Upon receipt of the Enrolment Form the Student will be sent a Confirmation of Enrolment and Invoice for the total cost. All reservations must include tuition.
Full payment of the total invoice value must be paid by not less than 30 days prior to the arrival in Malta.
If a student enrols in less than 30 days prior to arrival in Malta, the total cost on the Invoice must be paid in full upon confirmation. Post Booking Voucher will not be issued unless payment is received in full.
Payment for accommodation in residence or hotel is subject to conditions stipulated at the time of booking.
Terms of Enrolment for groups will be agreed upon through correspondence prior to the booking.
VISA
Link School of English offers assistance in visa applications when applicable. The Invitation Letter is issued by the School upon receipt of full payment to enable the Student to apply. Full documentation must be presented by the student to the Authorities concerned. The Student is aware of the Data Protection Policy and allows the School to handle and submit personal documentation for visa application purposes should the need arise. It is the Student’s responsibility to ensure that the visa is valid or that the visa application/extension is in order. Link School of English is not responsible if the visa is refused or not extended for any reason whatsoever. In the event that a Visa is refused, it is at the school’s discretion whether to refund the payment or not.
A fee of €50 is applicable for Visa extension in Malta. Once in Malta, should the visa extension be refused through the student’s negligence, poor attendance at School, insufficient documentation for visa application, late submission, Link School of English is not obliged to refund any tuition or accommodation fees.
If a student is in Malta on a Study Visa and the level of attendance falls below the 80% benchmark, the School is duty bound to report the student to the Government Immigration Authority and hand over all the details and attendance records. No refunds of course and/or accommodation are applicable.
If the student is unable to attend lessons due to illness, a medical certificate must be provided to the school by e-mail on ados@linkenglishschool.com and whataspp on +356 9949 5019 on the first and last day of absence. It is at the discretion of the Immigration Officer to confirm acceptance.
Acceptable Forms of Payment
Fees and costs are payable in EUROS by Credit Card or Bank Transfer. Credit Card payments must include an additional 3% to cover Credit Card fees. When paying by Bank Transfer, bank charges must not be deducted from the amount owed to School. Therefore the amount owed to the School must be received by the School in full.
Link School of English bank details:
HSBC BANK MALTA PLC
HIGH STREET,
SLIEMA, MALTA
ACC. NO. : 006 0607 68001
SWIFT CODE: MMEB MTMT
SORT CODE: 44060
IBAN: MT32MMEB44060000000006060768001
Cancellation and Refund
- In the event of cancellation within 30 days of the date of arrival in Malta the total invoice value is non-refundable.
- In the event of cancellation before 30 days of the date of arrival in Malta the total invoice value less €300 administration fee is refundable.
- In the event of a student terminating their course during the time of the course the amount paid is non-refundable.
- No cancellation is accepted for accommodation bookings in residence or hotel.
- Cancellation terms for groups will be agreed upon by correspondence prior to booking.
- Bookings of Special Reduced Offers will be subject to additional terms indicated on the Special Offer.
Examination Preparation Courses
Students wishing to sit for external examinations (IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge examinations) whilst in Malta, must book through the appropriate examination centre. Please contact our Director of Studies by e-mail dos@linkenglishschool.com for assistance in applying and for advice. Students should take into account the examination dates when planning their English language course.
Class Size
Link School of English aims to maintain small class sizes. The maximum class size is 12 for adults (aged 20 years and over), 15 for teenagers (aged 13-19 years) and kids (aged 8-12 years). Classes with Online Students, whether Hybrid or totally Online, may reach a maximum of 20 per class for both adults and teenagers.
Timetable
Link School of English reserves the right to determine the time of day of students’ lessons. Students should be aware that they may have lessons in the morning on one day and/or lessons in the afternoon on the following day/s. Morning lessons start at 09:00hrs. Afternoon lessons start at 13:00hrs. Students may start tuition on any day of the week. Lessons are held in both the morning and the afternoon depending upon availability, the course booked and the level of the student. A lesson lasts 45 minutes. Usually students will have 2 lessons together lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes. This is called a module. After the first module, students have a 30 minute break. Minimum course length is 1 week. Total tuition days per week is 5 days. One to One lessons will take place at the time indicated by our Director of Studies.
Level of English
Link School of English reserves the right to place students in the appropriate class level as deemed fit by the Director of Studies, following the Placement Test and Students’ individual needs.
Change of level
Students who wish to change level during the course should inform the respective teacher, who will discuss the request with the Director of Studies. The Director of Studies will then speak with the student and process the request. Link School of English reserves the right to refuse the request for change of level if it is deemed inappropriate. Should the Director of Studies accept the change, the student would be obliged to purchase a new book for the new level.
Study Material and Books
Study material and books are not included in the tuition price. Students are obliged to purchase a textbook at each level. If the package programme purchased includes one book, the student is still obliged to purchase another book once the class level changes. The teacher will also provide occasional hand outs or access to the School’s Google Drive with access to material. The textbook is handed out on the second day of the course.
Lending Library
Reading books may be borrowed from the school library against a deposit.
Reduced Hours Procedure
In the event that the class number of students is three or lower, Link School reserves the right to reduce the number of lessons:
From 20 group lessons to 10 lessons 3:1, 2:1, 1:1
From 30 group lessons to 15 lessons 3:1, 2:1, 1:1
Internships
When booking an internship, the Student is obliged to book an English course at the school for a minimum of 3 weeks against payment. Minimum requirement for work placement is from 1 to 4 months. Accommodation against payment is provided in our self catering residence. Non EU citizens would need to register with Jobs+ on application and pay any relevant Government Registration Fees, even those due by the engaging party.
School Attendance
Course attendance is compulsory, whether face to face or online, according to agreement. Students may be asked to keep their camera on throughout the lessons while online. Students who are unable to attend lessons, physically or online, due to illness should inform the School immediately by calling the Director of Studies on +21 384 825 and sending an e-mail to dos@linkenglishschool.com. If residing at a host family, the host family must also be advised immediately. Students must provide a medical certificate in cases of absence of more than 1 day. The certificate of attendance will reflect the percentage of the lessons attended. The certificate of attendance will not be issued if attendance is less than 80%. Persistent lack of attendance will be deemed as a reason for expulsion. No refunds or compensation are applicable.
Certificate of Attendance
A Certificate of Attendance will be awarded to the student on the last day of the course by the Director of Studies. Certificates will not be issued for students who miss more than 20% of their course.
Accommodation
- Host Family
Students must familiarise themselves with the Host Family Guidelines in the Student Manual before the start of their stay. The Guidelines are provided on confirmation of booking. Any damage caused to property owned by the school or any of its appointed outlets has to be paid directly by the student before departure. Shared room implies twin, triple or quadruple. The room may be shared with other students.
- Self-catering Premises
Students must familiarise themselves with the Self Catering Premises Guidelines in the Student Manual before the start of their stay. A refundable deposit of €300 per student will be collected by Link School of English on the first day of study, when staying in apartments. The deposit will be refunded to the student on the day of departure once an inspection is carried out with inventories to evaluate any damage. Rooms in the self-catering accommodation may be twin, triple or quadruple and shared with other students. Standard Check In: 15:00 hours Standard Check Out: 09:00 hours. Check In and Check Out times may be changed upon request but subject to the discretion of the school. Minors are not allowed to reside in apartments unless they are accompanied by their parents or guardians. Minors must never be left in the premises unattended. Inspection visits may be carried out at random during the stay. No friends are allowed in the premises other than those permitted by the School through the Room Allocation process. Students are not allowed to bring in their own electrical/gas appliances/equipment/installation into the accommodation. No heating is allowed. Students must not tamper with any electrical fixtures on the premises. Students are prohibited from using the premises as place for business/trade/ job related activities. Loss of deposit and penalties apply also if lights are left on and/or any of the guidelines are ignored.
- Hotels
Students staying at hotels must abide by the Regulations imposed by the hotel. A damage deposit may be applicable prior to checking-in.
Meals
Self-catering – no meals are included
Half Board basis – breakfast and dinner are included
Full Board basis – breakfast, packed lunch and dinner are included
Meals provided by host families include:
- Continental Breakfast-Tea/Coffee/Juice, Cereal/Toast with butter, ham/cheese/ jam
- Packed lunch includes two filled sandwiches or rolls, fruit, and water
- Dinner includes a hot meal with dessert and water
Supplements apply for any special dietary requirements
Environmental Contribution Tax
Students of 18 years of age and over, are bound to pay €0.50 per person per night for Environment Contribution Tax. However the maximum amount paid by one student amounts to €5.00 for each continuous stay. Copy of Passport or Identity Card is required for this reason. The copy of passport must be provided at booking stage. If accommodation is in Hotel, a copy of passport or identity card must also be provided to the Hotel.
Damages
Any damage caused to property owned by the school or any of its appointed outlets/premises has to be paid directly by the student before their departure.
Leisure Programme/Activities
Link School of English reserves the right to make amendments to leisure programmes and activities due to weather conditions or any other reason beyond the school's control. All excursions are weather-permitting. No refunds are given if excursions are cancelled due to unfavourable weather or other conditions beyond our control. Furthermore, no refunds are applicable should the student fail to attend the activity for any reason. Any additional costs due to Covid19 measures are to be borne by the student. Any fines/penalties incurred by the School or student due to the student’s insubordination to Covid19 measures will be borne by the student.
Diving
If students wish to scuba dive it is necessary to provide a medical certificate and proof of insurance upon confirmation of the dive.
Airport Transfers
One way and two way transfers are available upon request. Actual flight details (date, time and flight numbers) must be submitted when booking. Airport transfer on arrival (airport – accommodation) is compulsory when accommodation is reserved in self catering premises. The student is obliged to check with Link School Administration to ensure that the return transfer has been booked in good time (where applicable)
Personal Holiday
If a long term student wishes to take a break from the course, the school must be informed at least 2 weeks prior to the study break. The relevant Form must be completed and can be collected from the office. Students may take a 2 week study break in every 12 weeks. The school is not obliged to compensate for any missed lessons or accommodation. Should the student be in Malta with a visa, the CVU immigration authorities will be informed about the absence from the School. A copy of the flight ticket will need to be provided, for CVU purposes. The amount of lessons missed will be reflected in the Certificate of Attendance at the end of the course. The School is not responsible if the student’s absence from the School will result in refusal of visa or visa extension by the CVU.
School/Public Holidays
Link School of English is open from Monday to Friday and is closed on public holidays;
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS and CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS:
24th December 2022 to 2nd January 2023, 10th February, 31st March, 7th April, 1st May, 7th June, 29th June, 15th August, 8th September, 21st September, 8th December, 13th December, 23th December 2023 to 2nd January 2024.
If a student misses lessons during the above School/Public Holidays, LINK will provide ‘compensation lessons’ during the days that LINK is operating. This means that, before LINK closes for any School/Public Holiday, the number of lessons per day would be increased in order to cover the lessons that will be missed. This is subject to the discretion of the School, and only if possible.
Learner Dismissal Policy and Expulsion
Link School of English reserves the right to ask students to leave the course and/or accommodation due to unacceptable behaviour, misconduct or unjustified absence. In this situation no refund of fees will be made and any extra costs incurred by the school on the behalf of the student will be charged to the student (including travel expenses). Repatriation is at student’s own expense. The school expects all of the students to be polite and considerate towards other students, members of staff and host families at all time. The School does not tolerate any form of bullying and discrimination as a consequence of race, creed, skin colour, sexual orientation, political beliefs and mental and physical disadvantage.
The following instances constitute enough grounds for immediate expulsion without forewarning and without refund:
When a student poses a realistic threat to the safety and well being of others, through words or actions or both
When a student is found carrying guns, knives, or other instruments which may jeopardise the safety of others
When a student is found to be in possession of drugs or alcohol or under the influence of drugs or alcohol
When a student does not comply to the Equal Opportunities Policy and the Sexual Harassment Policy
When a student is caught stealing or vandalising school property
When a student may in any way, tarnish the sound reputation of Link School of English or its partners
When any of the School Guidelines/ Terms and Conditions are ignored
A verbal warning will be given prior to dismissal in the following cases:
A student who misbehaves or distracts others during class
A student whose constant tardiness disrupts the lesson flow
A student caught smoking within the school premises
A student who does not respect the school’s Health & Safety procedures
Compliance with laws including substance abuse, motor accidents and procedures in case of arrest
Students must be aware of the Laws in Malta. Smoking is not allowed in public areas. The legal drinking age in Malta is 17. Students may not purchase or consume alcohol if they are younger than 17 years of age. It is illegal to drink alcohol in the streets. Drug possession (e.g. cannabis, LSD, ecstasy, amphetamines, Marijuana, etc.) in Malta, even for personal use, is a criminal offence. It is illegal to carry any sort of weapons, including knives.
Complaints
Concerns regarding accommodation, courses, activities or any other issue must be raised with the student welfare officer either verbally or in writing to sales@linkenglishschool.com during the students’ course. Link School of English cannot be held liable for any complaint received after the students’ departure. Students are to file the complaint immediately the problem arises. Contact numbers are on the student cards and voucher provided. Students may also visit our offices during office hours.
Liability
Link School of English is not liable in case of accident, illness, loss or damage to personal effects or belongings. Link School of English cannot be held responsible for any decisions taken by local authorities including decisions about issues of entry or extensions of VISA.
The school shall in no way be held responsible for any costs incurred due to lack of or insufficient insurance cover. Link School of English reserves the right to be fully reimbursed for any medical or associated costs it may incur on the behalf of a student who requires urgent medical attention.
Insurance
It is compulsory that students take out a comprehensive health, accident, travel, life insurance policy which covers them for the entirety of the duration of their course. It is also recommended that the insurance covers the student for cancellations, loss/theft of baggage and personal belongings, emergency evacuation and any other eventuality that may occur.
Health
Students suffering from any disability, illness or condition must inform the school in writing at least 2 weeks prior to their arrival in Malta. Upon arrival in Malta, it is recommendable to ensure that any allergies and/or medical conditions have been notified to the person hosting the student (if accommodated at a host family). Special dietary supplements will apply, if necessary.
Should a student attend class showing any signs of illness which may be contagious, the school may oblige the student to leave the premises immediately and to return with a Doctor’s Certificate (at student’s expense) confirming whether or not the student may continue attending lessons. No compensation of lessons or refunds are applicable
Medical Assistance
Medical Assistance given to European students by the state hospital or state clinics is free of charge as long as the European Heath Insurance Card (EHIC) is presented. If the student is not in possession of a valid EHIC Card card, payment may be requested by the State Hospital and Clinic. If you are covered by a Health Insurance, you can make a claim. We strongly advise you to contact your insurers and their representatives in Malta, immediately the need to file a claim arises. Should you need any medical assistance during your stay, you may also contact our School doctors (doctor’s fee applicable) on the numbers provided in the welcome pack.
Personal Belongings
Link School of English will not be held responsible for the loss / theft or damage of students’ belongings.
Damages
The full cost of any damages caused to school property/accommodation or during services provided by the school or its subcontractors must be paid by the student.
Policies
All students, agents and subsidiaries are bound to abide by the policies and rules of Link School of English. The School’s policies and rules are available on the website, on the Notice Boards and in other literature provided. Non-compliance may lead to the expulsion of the student from the school. Link School of English is an Equal Opportunities employer and as such expects all of its employees, service providers including Host Families and students to uphold both the Equal Opportunities Policy and the Sexual Harassment Policy of the School. Copies of both these Policies can be found throughout the School premises, on the website and are also available upon request.
Force Majeure
Link School of English will not accept responsibility or liability in the event of inability to fulfil any of its obligations as a result of any event (s) outside of Link School of English’s reasonable control. Such events include (but are not limited to) terrorist attacks, war or the threat of war, riots, industrial action, natural or manmade disasters, unusually adverse weather conditions, pandemics or any other event(s) that may classify Malta as an ‘at risk destination’. Link School may only operate subject to the enforcement or new regulations imposed by the Local Authorities, including but not limited to the Ministry of Education, Foreign Affairs and Health.
Data Protection
All information collected by the school will be subject to the Data Protection Act of Malta. In enrolling with Link School of English the student authorises and agrees to the processing of any personal data as well as the disclosure of such information to other companies and service providers within the Link School of English group. Such disclosure will only be as deemed necessary for the successful provision of services and any associated purpose. Personal data including a copy of the student’s identification document must be kept by the school for the identification and recognition of the student, the processing of ECO tax submission, visa processing, banking and accounting purposes, statistical reports and other course related matters. As per the School’s Data Protection Policy, the student’s data will be kept for as long as the student wishes to continue benefitting from it. The student may oppose, limit, amend or request the deletion of personal data by sending an e-mail to: info@linkenglishschool.com, as well as lodge a complaint with the competent authorities.
Photography and Filming
A passport sized photo of the student must be submitted to the school on enrolment in order to include in the Student Card. Photographs taken by the school during the student’s educational stay in Malta may be used in promotional material. If the student does not wish to have photographs or films of themselves used in such material they must inform the school in writing.
Covid-19
Students are obliged to keep updated with Laws and Regulations stipulated by the Maltese Government and to follow and abide by all the rules and regulations at all times.
https://www.visitmalta.com/en/covid-19/
It is recommended to wear masks at all times, both indoors and outdoors, during the whole duration of the stay.
Social distancing is to be kept as recommended by the Malta Health Authorities.
Regular hand sanitising is highly recommended.
If a student feels COVID-19 symptoms, the student must stay at home, call COVID Helpline 111 and inform the School on the emergency number +356 9949 5019. It is important to Get Tested as soon as possible. If Covid-positive, Quarantine measures need to be followed at the Student’s expense. Students sharing the same accommodation must also quarantine at their own expense. The School is not responsible to compensate for any missed lessons or unused accommodation. Once a student recovers from Covid, the School requests a copy of the Medical Certificate (at student’s expense) confirming full recovery before allowing the student back to school.
Assumption of Risk Form
Prior to arrival in Malta, the student or guardian must sign the Assumption of Risk Form.
Minors
Apart from the General Terms and Conditions in this document, minors also have a separate set of Terms & Conditions to abide by.
Updating of documentation
The School reserves the right to update the Terms & conditions, Accommodation Guidelines, Student Manual and other documentation when deemed necessary. Therefore the Agent and /or Student is responsible to look out for any updated versions on notice boards in the school and accommodation as well as on the School website.
Jurisdiction
Any disputes that may arise between the student and Link School of English are subject to the laws of the Republic of Malta and the jurisdiction of the Maltese Courts.
ASSUMPTION OF RISK & WAIVER OF LIABILITY FORM RELATING TO COVID-19
The novel Coronavirus, COVID-19, has been declared a worldwide pandemic by the World Health Organization. COVID-19 is extremely contagious and is believed to spread mainly from person-to-person contact. As a result, the local government is constantly updating the necessary measures and precautions recommended and stipulated by Law, to contain the virus.
Link School of English has put in place preventative measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19; however, the School cannot guarantee that you will not become infected with COVID-19. Further, attending classes increase your risk of contracting COVID-19.
By signing this agreement, I acknowledge the contagious nature of COVID-19 and voluntarily assume the risk that I may be exposed to or infected by COVID-19 by attending the School and that such exposure or infection may result in personal injury, illness, permanent disability, and death. I understand that the risk of becoming exposed to or infected by COVID19 at the School may result from the actions, omissions, or negligence of myself and others, including, but not limited to, School employees, other students, vendors or affiliates and their families.
I voluntarily agree to assume all of the foregoing risks and accept sole responsibility for any injury to myself (including, but not limited to, personal injury, disability, and death), illness, quarantine, damage, loss, claim, liability, or expense, of any kind, that I may experience or incur in connection with my attendance at the School or participation in School activities. On my behalf, I hereby release, covenant not to sue, discharge, and hold harmless the School, its employees, agents, and representatives, of and from the Claims, including all liabilities, claims, actions, damages, costs or expenses of any kind arising out of or relating thereto. I understand and agree that this release includes any Claims based on the actions, omissions, or negligence of the School, its employees, agents, and representatives, whether a COVID-19 infection occurs before, during, or after participation in any School services. My signature indicates I DO NOT HOLD Link School of English and its members accountable for any accidents or the spread of COVID-19 that may occur as a result of participation in the school.
All participants will have no-touch temperature check onsite.
All participants are required to answer the following screening questions prior to participation. Circle your answer.
1. Have you been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19? YES NO
2. Are experiencing a cough, shortness of breath or sore throat? YES NO
3. Have you had a fever in the last 48 hours? YES NO
4. Have you experienced new loss of taste or smell? YES NO
5. Have you experienced vomiting or diarrhea in the last 24 hours? YES NO
Signature of Student Date
Print Name of Student
Signature of Parent/Guardian Date
Print Name of Parent/Guardian (If Student Under 18)
