Terms & Conditions

(Whispering Ferns Institute — HICAT Course)

1. Coursework Requirements

To successfully complete this course, students must submit 100% of all coursework and meet all assessment requirements.

2. Course Fees & Refund Policy

Full-fee enrolments must be paid in full at the time of enrolment.
If choosing a payment plan, a deposit is required on enrolment. Monthly instalments begin in the first month of training and must be paid on time.
Students who fall behind on payments may lose access to classes, support, and assessment until fees are up to date.

Refunds:

All course fees (full or partial) are non-refundable.
Students who withdraw, change their mind, or are un-enrolled due to non-submission of coursework or non-attendance forfeit all fees paid.
Students on payment plans may still be required to honour the remainder of the payment plan, as expenses and resources are allocated based on enrolment and a committed course place cannot be transferred after the course begins.

We will always do our best to support students experiencing hardship and may offer options in exceptional circumstances; however, this cannot be guaranteed.

Payments can be made via bank transfer or online card payment. Enrolment places cannot be held without payment.

3. Deferrals

Students who are unable to continue due to illness or other extenuating circumstances may request a deferral.
Deferrals are granted at the discretion of the Director and are not guaranteed.

4. Course Delivery Interruptions

If we are unable to deliver the course due to circumstances beyond our control, the course may be paused and deferred to the nearest possible date. No refunds will be issued.

5. Class Cancellations

In the unlikely event a class must be rescheduled, students will be informed via email, text message, and/or social media.
An alternative class date will be arranged.

6. External Events Beyond Our Control

If classes are disrupted or cancelled due to events outside our control (e.g., emergencies, venue closures), no refunds will be provided.
We will make every reasonable effort to continue the course through an alternative delivery method, such as online learning.

7. Student Behaviour

We aim to provide a safe, respectful learning environment.
Behaviour that is offensive, aggressive, disruptive, or unsafe—online or in-person—will result in:

Two written warnings, and
Possible expulsion.

If expelled, no refunds will be issued and no certificate will be awarded.

8. Health & Safety Notice

All practical and creative activities are conducted with care. However, Whispering Ferns Institute cannot accept responsibility for any injury, discomfort, or harm that may occur during participation.
The information and guidance provided during the course are for educational and wellbeing purposes only and do not replace professional medical advice.
Participants are responsible for their own safety and wellbeing at all times.

9. Emotional Readiness & Self-Care

Our courses are designed to be nurturing, supportive, and growth-focused, using creative activities that may bring up personal thoughts and feelings.
It is important that participants are emotionally ready to engage with these experiences and can take responsibility for their own wellbeing.

If you are currently experiencing intense emotional challenges, ongoing trauma, or mental health concerns, we recommend seeking professional support before enrolling.
By enrolling, you acknowledge your ability to participate safely in a group environment and to use self-care strategies as needed throughout the course.

10. Learning Suitability

This course has not been designed for students with non-typical learning styles or conditions that affect reading, writing, or comprehension.
By enrolling, you acknowledge your own learning capabilities and agree to seek additional support or tutoring if required.

11. Qualification & Titles

This course is industry-accredited, not a government higher-education award.
Upon graduation, students in Australia and New Zealand may use titles such as: