Freedom of Information

The purpose of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 is to promote greater openness by public institutions. The right to access recorded information held by Maltings Academy may be exercised by anyone worldwide. This dates back to 1st January 2005.

Anyone may ask general or specific questions about any aspect of Maltings Academy business and its decision making processes.

Does this conflict with the Data Protection Act?

No, individuals may access their personal data under the Data Protection Act 1998 and this has not changed. This is known as the “subject access right” and this right is not affected by the Freedom of Information Act (FoI).

No member of the public may apply to receive personal and confidential student information.

Are there any useful websites?

• www.informationcommissioner.gov.uk - the site of the Information Commissioner supplies a lot of information about Freedom of Information and the Data Protection Act.
• www.cfoi.org.uk - the site of the Campaign for Freedom of Information – there is practical advice on this site to help people use their access rights.

How do I contact someone?

If you wish to discuss any aspect of the Academy’s strategy for meeting the requirements of Freedom of Information please e-mail contactus@maltingsacademy.org or write to:

John Szynal
Headteacher
Maltings Academy
Spinks Lane
Witham
Essex
CM8 1EP

Are there Exemptions from the Act?

Whilst the Academy and other public bodies will be as open as possible there are 23 exemptions under the Act. Some of these relate to national security, international relations or the justice system - the main exemptions that will apply to Maltings Academy are:

• Any request that involves information that concerns the individual making the request will be managed under the Data Protection Act.
• All and any identifiable student information that is protected under the Data Protection Act.
• Personal data about other people or staff – (except where staff names are mentioned in viewable documents or on Maltings Academy website)
• Commercially sensitive information.
• Information that is already available through another route.

How do I appeal against a decision not to disclose?

If the Academy decides not to disclose Information the requester will be informed of the basis for the refusal together with a right of appeal and how to exercise it. The first level of appeal will normally be to the Academy. The final level of appeal will be to the Information Commissioner.