Case Study : MSci Optometry - Appeal Upheld

Case Study

MSci Optometry - Withdrawal

- RT Coopers Drafted Appeal

– Appeal Upheld

MSci Optometry – Concerns Raised by University Referred to General Optical Council (‘GOC’) – Failed Resit of final attempt of the Eye Test Examination – RT Coopers Drafted Appeal – Appeal Upheld – Referral to GOC Rescinded

Our client was studying on a Master of Science (MSci) Optometry programme and had exhausted all attempts of the patient eye test examination assessment (‘Exam’), including the final resit.

Background

During the final resit attempt of the Exam, our client experienced difficulties which contributed to the failure of the Exam.

Withdrawn

Our client was withdrawn from the Optometry programme following the failure of the last resit attempt of the Exam. RT Coopers were instructed to draft the appeal. A consultation was held with the client prior to drafting the appeal. RT Coopers then drafted the appeal against the withdrawal. The appeal was drafted on grounds of Mitigating Circumstances and Procedural Irregularity.

Referral to Concern Review Panel and then a Separate Referral to the GOC

In addition, there were concerns raised against our client about breaches by our client of the Optician’s Act, GOC Standards for Optical Students and the university Fitness to Practise Policy, Regulations, Procedures and Codes. In light of these concerns, a referral was made to the Concern Review Panel of the university for further investigation.

The Optician’s Act 1989
College of Optometrists Guidance for Professional Practice – Knowledge Skills and Performance: Principles of the eye examination or sight test GOC Standards for Optical Students.

The Concern Review Panel held the concerns were serious and referred our client’s case to the GOC for further investigation (which had serious consequences).

Appeal

The appeal was drafted by RT Coopers on the grounds of Procedural Irregularity and Mitigating Circumstances.

With regards to Procedural Irregularity, our client was able to successfully show in the appeal that there was no breaches of the (i) Optometrists Guidance; (ii) GOC Standards; and/or (iii) Fitness to Practise Policy, Regulations, Procedures or Codes of the university in existence at the time of the Exam.

On the grounds of Mitigating Circumstances, our client was able to submit fresh evidence which was not available at the time of the Exam.

Outcome

As a result of a detailed carefully drafted appeal by RT Coopers, our client’s appeal was upheld. The referral to the GOC was rescinded. Our client was able to return to university to complete the optometry programme to become an optometrist.

Testimonial

MSci Optometry – Referral to GOC – Failed Resit of Eye Test Examination – RT Coopers Drafted Appeal – Appeal Upheld – Referral to GOC Rescinded - First published in Google Business Profile

'I am incredibly grateful to Dr Cooper and the RT Cooper Solicitors team for their outstanding support in helping me create a crucial statement for my fitness to practise case. Dr Cooper’s expertise and dedication were evident from the very start, and her professionalism truly sets her apart in this field.

From the moment I contacted Dr Cooper, her thorough knowledge of fitness to practise matters and her strategic approach gave me confidence. She took the time to understand every detail of my situation, providing personalised attention and ensuring that I felt supported at every step. Her guidance was invaluable in navigating what could have been an overwhelming process, and she always made sure I was informed and comfortable with every decision made.

What truly made a difference for me was Dr Cooper’s support beyond the legal side of things. Over the months of working with her, she provided emotional and mental support that went far beyond what I expected. It felt like I was talking to a friend who genuinely cared, someone who looked out for my best interests and wanted nothing more than to see me succeed. Her empathy and constant reassurance helped me stay grounded during a stressful and challenging time.

Thanks to Dr Cooper’s commitment, my statement was clear, comprehensive, and incredibly well-prepared. I highly recommend Dr Cooper to anyone in need of expert legal assistance in fitness to practise matters. The support and expertise are unparalleled, and I will forever be grateful for Dr Coopers care and dedication.' Adeenah - - -

Real Estate, Finance and Investment, Deregistration - RT Coopers drafted academic appeal due to extenuating circumstances - on Appeal re-admitted

'I found working with RT Cooper's an easy and pleasurable experience from the very beginning. The members of staff were very understanding and knowledgeable and offered sound advice on a complicated case. One thing that stood out for me was the extra mile that they were willing to go. My case had an uncertain and tight deadline and when it became necessary the team at RT Cooper's worked throughout the night to get everything done. As a result of their work, my university appeal was successful, which meant I was able to sit the exam as a first attempt. This allowed me to get the degree and job I wanted. A Big thank you to Rosanna and the Team!' VS

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All Testimonials - Academic Appeals various students - Academic Integrity - Academic Misconduct and Academic Malpractice - Cheating - Collusion - Complaints to the OIA against Universities - Dentistry Students - Disciplinary - Exclusions - Expulsions - Extenuating Circumstances - Failed resits for OSCE/ISCE/PACES - Failed resits for written paper - Failed resits - Failed retake year - Fitness to Study - Fitness to Practise - Medical Students - Mitigating Circumstances - Panel Hearings - Pharmacy MPharm & GPhC Registration Assessment Appeals - PhD Students - Plagiarism - Poor Referencing - Procedural Irregularities - Withdrawal - Withdrawn from University - Representation before Panels and Committees - Termination of Studies - Veterinary Students