Safeguarding Policy
This Safeguarding Policy outlines the standards and responsibilities that help ensure the safety, wellbeing, and protection of all students using the Hello Tutor platform. It applies to Tutors, Students, parents, and guardians, and sets clear expectations for maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment at all times.
1. Overview
1.1 Hello Tutor LLC ("Hello Tutor", "we", "us", "our") is committed to providing the highest standard of safeguarding across all aspects of our platform. The safety and wellbeing of every user, and in particular children and young people, is our paramount concern.
1.2 Our platform, services, and all coordinating policies have been designed to ensure that students, parents, legal guardians, and tutors can interact in a safe, trusted, and respectful environment.
1.3 This Safeguarding Policy applies to all individuals who access or use the Hello Tutor platform, whether as a student, parent, legal guardian, or tutor ("Users").
1.4 By registering for or using our platform, all Users confirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to the terms of this Policy.
2. Legislation
2.1 Our platform and coordinating policies have been developed to ensure we comply with all relevant safeguarding and child protection legislation applicable in the United Arab Emirates.
2.2 This Policy is informed by UAE Federal Law No. 3 of 2016 on Child Rights (Wadeema's Law), which establishes the rights of children to protection from all forms of harm, abuse, and neglect.
2.3 This Policy also takes into account the UAE Cybercrime Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021), relevant provisions of the UAE Penal Code, and any applicable regulations issued by the UAE Ministry of Community Development.
2.4 This Safeguarding Policy should be read in conjunction with our Terms and Conditions and our Privacy Policy.
2.5 We reserve the right to amend this Policy at any time. Users will be notified of material changes via the platform or by email.
3. Aims of Policy
3.1 Hello Tutor seeks to provide the best service possible and to create a safe experience in which children and young people can learn and develop.
3.2 This Policy aims to ensure we safeguard all Users of the Hello Tutor platform, including students, parents, legal guardians, and tutors, while they engage with our platform and participate in Lessons.
3.3 This Policy outlines the safeguarding responsibilities of Hello Tutor, tutors, students, and parents and legal guardians, and it is important that all Users familiarise themselves with its contents before using the platform.
3.4 If any User has a concern regarding the safety or welfare of a child or young person, they must contact Hello Tutor immediately at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
3.5 Contravention of any of the terms contained within this Policy may result in immediate suspension of access to, and permanent removal from, our platform and services.
4. Hello Tutor's Responsibilities
4.1 Hello Tutor will decide when a tutor's profile is sufficiently complete and verified to be made live on the platform and accessible by other Users.
4.2 Hello Tutor will use reasonable endeavours to verify the identity of all tutors before approving their profile, including checking government-issued identity documents and relevant qualifications.
4.3 Hello Tutor requires all tutors to have completed a background check dated within the last three years before they are permitted to conduct sessions through the platform. Background checks must meet the requirements set out in our Terms and Conditions. Tutors must provide Hello Tutor with evidence of their background check status upon request.
4.4 Hello Tutor requires new tutors to provide two written references from individuals who are not family members, confirming the referee's relationship to the tutor and consenting to the reference being shared with prospective students. Hello Tutor is not responsible for the accuracy or content of these references.
4.5 Hello Tutor requires all tutors who are not UAE nationals to hold a valid work permit or freelance permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), or an equivalent permit issued by the relevant free zone authority, that legally entitles them to provide tutoring or educational services in the UAE on a self-employed or freelance basis. Tutors must provide Hello Tutor with evidence of their permit status upon request. Failure to hold or maintain a valid and applicable permit will result in the immediate suspension of a tutor's profile until this requirement is met.
4.6 Hello Tutor will rank tutors on the platform based on a combination of profile completeness, student ratings, and the number of lessons taught. Positive student ratings, prompt responses, repeat bookings, and a greater volume of lessons delivered will contribute to a higher ranking. Hello Tutor reserves the right to change the ranking methodology at any time.
4.7 Hello Tutor encourages students and parents to leave a review of any tutor they have sessions with. "Review" means any review, comment, or rating.
4.8 Hello Tutor will take precautions it considers reasonable to protect the personal information of all students, parents, and tutors on the platform.
4.9 Hello Tutor will protect all personal data in accordance with applicable UAE data protection legislation and our Privacy Policy.
4.10 Hello Tutor will monitor messages and activity posted on the platform and sent between students and tutors. Hello Tutor does so to facilitate introductions between students and tutors, to prevent misuse of the platform, and to safeguard all Users, particularly those who are under 18.
4.11 Hello Tutor will record all online sessions (except where an unforeseen technical malfunction occurs) and store those recordings for a minimum of 28 days and a maximum of one year. These recordings remain the property of Hello Tutor.
4.12 Hello Tutor may review any recorded session at any time for the purposes of improving our service or where a complaint or safeguarding report has been made.
4.13 Hello Tutor will deal with reports of possible illegal activity promptly, focusing on the safety and wellbeing of all Users. Hello Tutor will cooperate fully with UAE law enforcement and share any relevant session recordings where a criminal offence may have occurred.
4.14 Hello Tutor has a designated Safeguarding Officer who is responsible for handling all safeguarding concerns raised through the platform and for liaising with relevant UAE authorities where necessary.
4.15 Hello Tutor will endeavour to ensure that all complaints and safeguarding reports are considered promptly and in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
4.16 Hello Tutor will regularly review this Policy and our Terms and Conditions to ensure they remain adequate, up to date, and aligned with current UAE safeguarding standards and legislation.
5. Tutor Responsibilities
5.1 Tutors are independent contractors and are not employees of Hello Tutor. Tutors are solely responsible for their own actions both on and off the platform.
5.2 If tutors contact or teach students who are under 18, they must ensure that those students are represented by a parent or legal guardian who has given their consent for the student to receive tuition.
5.3 Tutors may cancel a session if no parent or legal guardian is present during a lesson with a learner who is under 18 and either the tutor or the learner does not feel comfortable continuing.
5.4 Tutors are responsible for ensuring that all personal information they provide on the platform, including their profile, qualifications, and personal statements, is accurate, complete, and not misleading. They must update this information promptly to maintain its accuracy.
5.5 Tutors must not post, share, or transmit any defamatory, offensive, inappropriate, or illegal material through the platform, including in messages, profile content, or session communications.
5.6 Tutors must immediately report to Hello Tutor any defamatory, offensive, or illegal material they encounter on the platform.
5.7 Tutors must disclose to Hello Tutor any criminal convictions or cautions they hold at the time of registration, and must disclose any convictions or cautions received at any time after registering on the platform for as long as they remain a registered tutor.
5.8 Tutors must disclose to Hello Tutor any other relevant information that may lead Hello Tutor to determine that they are not suitable to provide tutoring services through the platform.
5.9 All tutors must have a valid background check dated within the last three years. This must meet the requirements set out in the Terms and Conditions. Failure to maintain a valid background check will result in the immediate suspension of the tutor's profile until this requirement is met.
5.10 Tutors must hold and maintain a valid work permit or freelance permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), or an equivalent permit issued by the relevant free zone authority, that legally entitles them to provide tutoring or educational services in the UAE on a self-employed or freelance basis. Tutors must provide Hello Tutor with evidence of their permit status upon request. Failure to hold or maintain a valid and applicable permit will result in the immediate suspension of the tutor's profile until this requirement is met.
5.11 Tutors must use their own judgement about whether they wish to offer their tuition services to each individual student. Tutors must take every reasonable precaution to ensure they work in a safe environment and are responsible for taking out and maintaining their own insurance to cover the work they undertake.
5.12 Tutors must ensure that their session environment does not display any inappropriate images, materials, or documents that could be visible to students during an online session.
5.13 Tutors must treat all students fairly and without prejudice or discrimination on the basis of age, culture, ability, gender, language, racial origin, religious belief, or any other characteristic.
5.14 Tutors must ensure that all reasonable steps are taken to protect students from harm, discrimination, and demeaning treatment and to respect their rights at all times.
5.15 Tutors must value students and take their contributions seriously during sessions.
5.16 Tutors must ensure they work in partnership with parents and guardians where the student is under 18, as this is essential for the protection and welfare of young learners.
5.17 Tutors must ensure the language they use in all communications with students is appropriate, professional, and not offensive or discriminatory.
5.18 Tutors must not make any improper or inappropriate suggestions to students at any time.
5.19 Tutors must ensure that any contact or communication they have with a student is appropriate to their role as a tutor and confined to the subject area for which they have been engaged.
5.20 Tutors must ensure there is no inappropriate communication between themselves and any student, whether on or outside the platform, and must report any unsolicited communication from a student to Hello Tutor if appropriate.
5.21 Tutors must not attempt to contact students or parents outside of the Hello Tutor platform using personal contact details obtained through the platform, without the explicit consent of the student or parent and Hello Tutor.
5.22 Tutors are responsible for their own online and offline security in connection with their use of the platform.
5.23 Tutors must report any complaint in line with our Terms and Conditions.
5.24 Tutors must report any safeguarding concern or suspected illegal activity immediately to Hello Tutor at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
6. Student Responsibilities
6.1 Students must be at least 18 years old to register for an account and book a tutor for themselves or another learner. Learners under the age of 18 must be represented by a parent or legal guardian who provides their consent for the learner to receive tuition. Hello Tutor is not responsible for any dispute regarding parental consent.
6.2 Students must ensure that all personal details and contact information they provide on the platform are accurate and kept up to date.
6.3 Students must ensure there is no inappropriate communication between themselves, a learner they represent, and the tutor, whether on or outside the platform, and must report any unsolicited contact from a tutor if appropriate.
6.4 Students must exercise their own judgement regarding the accuracy of information provided on the platform. Hello Tutor cannot guarantee that all content on the platform is complete, accurate, or up to date.
6.5 Students must use their own judgement about the suitability of any tutor they book. Although Hello Tutor undertakes certain checks before approving a tutor's profile, students are responsible for verifying any claims made by a tutor that may influence their decision to proceed, including qualifications and experience. We recommend doing so prior to, or at the beginning of, their first session with a tutor.
6.6 Students are solely responsible for all content they post on the platform, including messages sent, and must not post any defamatory, offensive, misleading, or illegal material.
6.7 Students must immediately report to Hello Tutor any defamatory, offensive, or illegal material they encounter on the platform.
6.8 Any student who is the parent or legal guardian of a learner under the age of 18 who has a session with a tutor should not leave the child in the unsupervised sole care of that tutor. They must remain available so that the learner can report any inappropriate behaviour or concerns, and learners must report any concerns to a parent or guardian immediately.
6.9 Students must ensure the physical or digital environment in which sessions take place is appropriate and safe.
6.10 Students must ensure that tutors are treated with respect and are not subjected to abusive, offensive, or discriminatory behaviour or language.
6.11 Students must not make any improper or inappropriate suggestions to tutors at any time.
6.12 Students are responsible for their own security in connection with their use of the platform, both online and offline.
6.13 Students must report any complaint in line with our Terms and Conditions.
6.14 Students must report any safeguarding concern or suspected illegal activity immediately to Hello Tutor at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
7. Parent and Guardian Responsibilities
Any reference to learners in this section refers to learners who are under the age of 18.
7.1 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for selecting a tutor and making any reasonable checks to satisfy themselves that the tutor is suitable for the learner, including reviewing the tutor's identity verification and background check status as displayed on the platform.
7.2 The parent or legal guardian must ensure that the learner is fully aware of Hello Tutor's Safeguarding Policy before using the platform.
7.3 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for the welfare and wellbeing of the learner at all times during any session conducted through the platform.
7.4 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for the physical or digital environment of the learner during a session and must ensure it is safe, appropriate, and free from any risk.
7.5 The parent or legal guardian should, where they consider it appropriate, be present or remain available during a session so that the learner can report any concerns immediately and so that they can ensure both the learner and the tutor are behaving appropriately.
7.6 The parent or legal guardian must not leave a child under the age of 18 in the unsupervised sole care of a tutor during an online session. Learners must be able to report any concerns to a parent or guardian without delay.
7.7 The parent or legal guardian must use their best endeavours to ensure the learner treats tutors with respect and does not subject any tutor to abusive, inappropriate, or discriminatory behaviour or language.
7.8 The parent or legal guardian must ensure the learner has no inappropriate communication with any tutor outside of the Hello Tutor platform messaging and lesson sessions.
7.9 The parent or legal guardian must report any unsolicited communication between the tutor and the learner to Hello Tutor if appropriate.
7.10 The parent or legal guardian must report any dispute with a tutor to Hello Tutor in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
7.11 The parent or legal guardian must report any inappropriate behaviour or suspected illegal activity by a tutor to Hello Tutor immediately at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
7.12 The parent or legal guardian consents, on behalf of the learner, to the recording of online sessions for safeguarding and quality purposes, as described in clause 4.11 of this Policy.
7.13 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for ensuring that all personal information provided on behalf of the learner is accurate and kept up to date.
8. Reported Breach
8.1 Any student or tutor reported for a breach of this Safeguarding Policy will be immediately suspended from the platform pending investigation by Hello Tutor and, where appropriate, the relevant UAE authorities. The User will be informed of their suspension. The User who reported the breach may be informed of the outcome where appropriate.
8.2 Hello Tutor reserves the right to make a final decision on the action taken in respect of minor breaches of this Safeguarding Policy.
8.3 Any student or tutor reported for illegal activity whilst using the Hello Tutor platform may be permanently barred from the service, reported to UAE law enforcement, and reported to any other relevant UAE authorities or organisations.
8.4 Hello Tutor will cooperate fully with any investigation carried out by UAE law enforcement or regulatory authorities and will provide access to session recordings, communications, and other relevant data where required to do so by law.
8.5 Where a safeguarding concern relates to a child or young person, Hello Tutor will prioritise the immediate safety and welfare of that individual above all other considerations when determining the appropriate course of action.
9. Updating This Policy
9.1 This Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed by Hello Tutor on a regular basis to ensure it remains adequate, relevant, and aligned with current UAE safeguarding standards and legislation.
9.2 Where material changes are made to this Policy, Hello Tutor will notify Users via the platform or by email prior to the changes taking effect.
9.3 The date of the most recent update is always shown at the top of this page. Continued use of the platform following notification of any changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Policy.
10. Contact Us
10.1 For any safeguarding concerns, reports of inappropriate behaviour, or questions relating to this Policy, please contact our Safeguarding Officer immediately at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
10.2 For general enquiries about the platform, contact us at support@hellotutor.me.
10.3 You may also write to us at: Hello Tutor LLC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
10.4 Hello Tutor will acknowledge all safeguarding reports as a priority and will respond to general enquiries within 2 working days.
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Safeguarding Policy
This Safeguarding Policy outlines the standards and responsibilities that help ensure the safety, wellbeing, and protection of all students using the Hello Tutor platform. It applies to Tutors, Students, parents, and guardians, and sets clear expectations for maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment at all times.
1. Overview
1.1 Hello Tutor LLC ("Hello Tutor", "we", "us", "our") is committed to providing the highest standard of safeguarding across all aspects of our platform. The safety and wellbeing of every user, and in particular children and young people, is our paramount concern.
1.2 Our platform, services, and all coordinating policies have been designed to ensure that students, parents, legal guardians, and tutors can interact in a safe, trusted, and respectful environment.
1.3 This Safeguarding Policy applies to all individuals who access or use the Hello Tutor platform, whether as a student, parent, legal guardian, or tutor ("Users").
1.4 By registering for or using our platform, all Users confirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to the terms of this Policy.
2. Legislation
2.1 Our platform and coordinating policies have been developed to ensure we comply with all relevant safeguarding and child protection legislation applicable in the United Arab Emirates.
2.2 This Policy is informed by UAE Federal Law No. 3 of 2016 on Child Rights (Wadeema's Law), which establishes the rights of children to protection from all forms of harm, abuse, and neglect.
2.3 This Policy also takes into account the UAE Cybercrime Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021), relevant provisions of the UAE Penal Code, and any applicable regulations issued by the UAE Ministry of Community Development.
2.4 This Safeguarding Policy should be read in conjunction with our Terms and Conditions and our Privacy Policy.
2.5 We reserve the right to amend this Policy at any time. Users will be notified of material changes via the platform or by email.
3. Aims of Policy
3.1 Hello Tutor seeks to provide the best service possible and to create a safe experience in which children and young people can learn and develop.
3.2 This Policy aims to ensure we safeguard all Users of the Hello Tutor platform, including students, parents, legal guardians, and tutors, while they engage with our platform and participate in Lessons.
3.3 This Policy outlines the safeguarding responsibilities of Hello Tutor, tutors, students, and parents and legal guardians, and it is important that all Users familiarise themselves with its contents before using the platform.
3.4 If any User has a concern regarding the safety or welfare of a child or young person, they must contact Hello Tutor immediately at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
3.5 Contravention of any of the terms contained within this Policy may result in immediate suspension of access to, and permanent removal from, our platform and services.
4. Hello Tutor's Responsibilities
4.1 Hello Tutor will decide when a tutor's profile is sufficiently complete and verified to be made live on the platform and accessible by other Users.
4.2 Hello Tutor will use reasonable endeavours to verify the identity of all tutors before approving their profile, including checking government-issued identity documents and relevant qualifications.
4.3 Hello Tutor requires all tutors to have completed a background check dated within the last three years before they are permitted to conduct sessions through the platform. Background checks must meet the requirements set out in our Terms and Conditions. Tutors must provide Hello Tutor with evidence of their background check status upon request.
4.4 Hello Tutor requires new tutors to provide two written references from individuals who are not family members, confirming the referee's relationship to the tutor and consenting to the reference being shared with prospective students. Hello Tutor is not responsible for the accuracy or content of these references.
4.5 Hello Tutor requires all tutors who are not UAE nationals to hold a valid work permit or freelance permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), or an equivalent permit issued by the relevant free zone authority, that legally entitles them to provide tutoring or educational services in the UAE on a self-employed or freelance basis. Tutors must provide Hello Tutor with evidence of their permit status upon request. Failure to hold or maintain a valid and applicable permit will result in the immediate suspension of a tutor's profile until this requirement is met.
4.6 Hello Tutor will rank tutors on the platform based on a combination of profile completeness, student ratings, and the number of lessons taught. Positive student ratings, prompt responses, repeat bookings, and a greater volume of lessons delivered will contribute to a higher ranking. Hello Tutor reserves the right to change the ranking methodology at any time.
4.7 Hello Tutor encourages students and parents to leave a review of any tutor they have sessions with. "Review" means any review, comment, or rating.
4.8 Hello Tutor will take precautions it considers reasonable to protect the personal information of all students, parents, and tutors on the platform.
4.9 Hello Tutor will protect all personal data in accordance with applicable UAE data protection legislation and our Privacy Policy.
4.10 Hello Tutor will monitor messages and activity posted on the platform and sent between students and tutors. Hello Tutor does so to facilitate introductions between students and tutors, to prevent misuse of the platform, and to safeguard all Users, particularly those who are under 18.
4.11 Hello Tutor will record all online sessions (except where an unforeseen technical malfunction occurs) and store those recordings for a minimum of 28 days and a maximum of one year. These recordings remain the property of Hello Tutor.
4.12 Hello Tutor may review any recorded session at any time for the purposes of improving our service or where a complaint or safeguarding report has been made.
4.13 Hello Tutor will deal with reports of possible illegal activity promptly, focusing on the safety and wellbeing of all Users. Hello Tutor will cooperate fully with UAE law enforcement and share any relevant session recordings where a criminal offence may have occurred.
4.14 Hello Tutor has a designated Safeguarding Officer who is responsible for handling all safeguarding concerns raised through the platform and for liaising with relevant UAE authorities where necessary.
4.15 Hello Tutor will endeavour to ensure that all complaints and safeguarding reports are considered promptly and in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
4.16 Hello Tutor will regularly review this Policy and our Terms and Conditions to ensure they remain adequate, up to date, and aligned with current UAE safeguarding standards and legislation.
5. Tutor Responsibilities
5.1 Tutors are independent contractors and are not employees of Hello Tutor. Tutors are solely responsible for their own actions both on and off the platform.
5.2 If tutors contact or teach students who are under 18, they must ensure that those students are represented by a parent or legal guardian who has given their consent for the student to receive tuition.
5.3 Tutors may cancel a session if no parent or legal guardian is present during a lesson with a learner who is under 18 and either the tutor or the learner does not feel comfortable continuing.
5.4 Tutors are responsible for ensuring that all personal information they provide on the platform, including their profile, qualifications, and personal statements, is accurate, complete, and not misleading. They must update this information promptly to maintain its accuracy.
5.5 Tutors must not post, share, or transmit any defamatory, offensive, inappropriate, or illegal material through the platform, including in messages, profile content, or session communications.
5.6 Tutors must immediately report to Hello Tutor any defamatory, offensive, or illegal material they encounter on the platform.
5.7 Tutors must disclose to Hello Tutor any criminal convictions or cautions they hold at the time of registration, and must disclose any convictions or cautions received at any time after registering on the platform for as long as they remain a registered tutor.
5.8 Tutors must disclose to Hello Tutor any other relevant information that may lead Hello Tutor to determine that they are not suitable to provide tutoring services through the platform.
5.9 All tutors must have a valid background check dated within the last three years. This must meet the requirements set out in the Terms and Conditions. Failure to maintain a valid background check will result in the immediate suspension of the tutor's profile until this requirement is met.
5.10 Tutors must hold and maintain a valid work permit or freelance permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), or an equivalent permit issued by the relevant free zone authority, that legally entitles them to provide tutoring or educational services in the UAE on a self-employed or freelance basis. Tutors must provide Hello Tutor with evidence of their permit status upon request. Failure to hold or maintain a valid and applicable permit will result in the immediate suspension of the tutor's profile until this requirement is met.
5.11 Tutors must use their own judgement about whether they wish to offer their tuition services to each individual student. Tutors must take every reasonable precaution to ensure they work in a safe environment and are responsible for taking out and maintaining their own insurance to cover the work they undertake.
5.12 Tutors must ensure that their session environment does not display any inappropriate images, materials, or documents that could be visible to students during an online session.
5.13 Tutors must treat all students fairly and without prejudice or discrimination on the basis of age, culture, ability, gender, language, racial origin, religious belief, or any other characteristic.
5.14 Tutors must ensure that all reasonable steps are taken to protect students from harm, discrimination, and demeaning treatment and to respect their rights at all times.
5.15 Tutors must value students and take their contributions seriously during sessions.
5.16 Tutors must ensure they work in partnership with parents and guardians where the student is under 18, as this is essential for the protection and welfare of young learners.
5.17 Tutors must ensure the language they use in all communications with students is appropriate, professional, and not offensive or discriminatory.
5.18 Tutors must not make any improper or inappropriate suggestions to students at any time.
5.19 Tutors must ensure that any contact or communication they have with a student is appropriate to their role as a tutor and confined to the subject area for which they have been engaged.
5.20 Tutors must ensure there is no inappropriate communication between themselves and any student, whether on or outside the platform, and must report any unsolicited communication from a student to Hello Tutor if appropriate.
5.21 Tutors must not attempt to contact students or parents outside of the Hello Tutor platform using personal contact details obtained through the platform, without the explicit consent of the student or parent and Hello Tutor.
5.22 Tutors are responsible for their own online and offline security in connection with their use of the platform.
5.23 Tutors must report any complaint in line with our Terms and Conditions.
5.24 Tutors must report any safeguarding concern or suspected illegal activity immediately to Hello Tutor at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
6. Student Responsibilities
6.1 Students must be at least 18 years old to register for an account and book a tutor for themselves or another learner. Learners under the age of 18 must be represented by a parent or legal guardian who provides their consent for the learner to receive tuition. Hello Tutor is not responsible for any dispute regarding parental consent.
6.2 Students must ensure that all personal details and contact information they provide on the platform are accurate and kept up to date.
6.3 Students must ensure there is no inappropriate communication between themselves, a learner they represent, and the tutor, whether on or outside the platform, and must report any unsolicited contact from a tutor if appropriate.
6.4 Students must exercise their own judgement regarding the accuracy of information provided on the platform. Hello Tutor cannot guarantee that all content on the platform is complete, accurate, or up to date.
6.5 Students must use their own judgement about the suitability of any tutor they book. Although Hello Tutor undertakes certain checks before approving a tutor's profile, students are responsible for verifying any claims made by a tutor that may influence their decision to proceed, including qualifications and experience. We recommend doing so prior to, or at the beginning of, their first session with a tutor.
6.6 Students are solely responsible for all content they post on the platform, including messages sent, and must not post any defamatory, offensive, misleading, or illegal material.
6.7 Students must immediately report to Hello Tutor any defamatory, offensive, or illegal material they encounter on the platform.
6.8 Any student who is the parent or legal guardian of a learner under the age of 18 who has a session with a tutor should not leave the child in the unsupervised sole care of that tutor. They must remain available so that the learner can report any inappropriate behaviour or concerns, and learners must report any concerns to a parent or guardian immediately.
6.9 Students must ensure the physical or digital environment in which sessions take place is appropriate and safe.
6.10 Students must ensure that tutors are treated with respect and are not subjected to abusive, offensive, or discriminatory behaviour or language.
6.11 Students must not make any improper or inappropriate suggestions to tutors at any time.
6.12 Students are responsible for their own security in connection with their use of the platform, both online and offline.
6.13 Students must report any complaint in line with our Terms and Conditions.
6.14 Students must report any safeguarding concern or suspected illegal activity immediately to Hello Tutor at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
7. Parent and Guardian Responsibilities
Any reference to learners in this section refers to learners who are under the age of 18.
7.1 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for selecting a tutor and making any reasonable checks to satisfy themselves that the tutor is suitable for the learner, including reviewing the tutor's identity verification and background check status as displayed on the platform.
7.2 The parent or legal guardian must ensure that the learner is fully aware of Hello Tutor's Safeguarding Policy before using the platform.
7.3 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for the welfare and wellbeing of the learner at all times during any session conducted through the platform.
7.4 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for the physical or digital environment of the learner during a session and must ensure it is safe, appropriate, and free from any risk.
7.5 The parent or legal guardian should, where they consider it appropriate, be present or remain available during a session so that the learner can report any concerns immediately and so that they can ensure both the learner and the tutor are behaving appropriately.
7.6 The parent or legal guardian must not leave a child under the age of 18 in the unsupervised sole care of a tutor during an online session. Learners must be able to report any concerns to a parent or guardian without delay.
7.7 The parent or legal guardian must use their best endeavours to ensure the learner treats tutors with respect and does not subject any tutor to abusive, inappropriate, or discriminatory behaviour or language.
7.8 The parent or legal guardian must ensure the learner has no inappropriate communication with any tutor outside of the Hello Tutor platform messaging and lesson sessions.
7.9 The parent or legal guardian must report any unsolicited communication between the tutor and the learner to Hello Tutor if appropriate.
7.10 The parent or legal guardian must report any dispute with a tutor to Hello Tutor in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
7.11 The parent or legal guardian must report any inappropriate behaviour or suspected illegal activity by a tutor to Hello Tutor immediately at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
7.12 The parent or legal guardian consents, on behalf of the learner, to the recording of online sessions for safeguarding and quality purposes, as described in clause 4.11 of this Policy.
7.13 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for ensuring that all personal information provided on behalf of the learner is accurate and kept up to date.
8. Reported Breach
8.1 Any student or tutor reported for a breach of this Safeguarding Policy will be immediately suspended from the platform pending investigation by Hello Tutor and, where appropriate, the relevant UAE authorities. The User will be informed of their suspension. The User who reported the breach may be informed of the outcome where appropriate.
8.2 Hello Tutor reserves the right to make a final decision on the action taken in respect of minor breaches of this Safeguarding Policy.
8.3 Any student or tutor reported for illegal activity whilst using the Hello Tutor platform may be permanently barred from the service, reported to UAE law enforcement, and reported to any other relevant UAE authorities or organisations.
8.4 Hello Tutor will cooperate fully with any investigation carried out by UAE law enforcement or regulatory authorities and will provide access to session recordings, communications, and other relevant data where required to do so by law.
8.5 Where a safeguarding concern relates to a child or young person, Hello Tutor will prioritise the immediate safety and welfare of that individual above all other considerations when determining the appropriate course of action.
9. Updating This Policy
9.1 This Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed by Hello Tutor on a regular basis to ensure it remains adequate, relevant, and aligned with current UAE safeguarding standards and legislation.
9.2 Where material changes are made to this Policy, Hello Tutor will notify Users via the platform or by email prior to the changes taking effect.
9.3 The date of the most recent update is always shown at the top of this page. Continued use of the platform following notification of any changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Policy.
10. Contact Us
10.1 For any safeguarding concerns, reports of inappropriate behaviour, or questions relating to this Policy, please contact our Safeguarding Officer immediately at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
10.2 For general enquiries about the platform, contact us at support@hellotutor.me.
10.3 You may also write to us at: Hello Tutor LLC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
10.4 Hello Tutor will acknowledge all safeguarding reports as a priority and will respond to general enquiries within 2 working days.
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Book a free consultation and we'll take it from there. Over 5,000 families have trusted us to make the match.
Safeguarding Policy
This Safeguarding Policy outlines the standards and responsibilities that help ensure the safety, wellbeing, and protection of all students using the Hello Tutor platform. It applies to Tutors, Students, parents, and guardians, and sets clear expectations for maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment at all times.
1. Overview
1.1 Hello Tutor LLC ("Hello Tutor", "we", "us", "our") is committed to providing the highest standard of safeguarding across all aspects of our platform. The safety and wellbeing of every user, and in particular children and young people, is our paramount concern.
1.2 Our platform, services, and all coordinating policies have been designed to ensure that students, parents, legal guardians, and tutors can interact in a safe, trusted, and respectful environment.
1.3 This Safeguarding Policy applies to all individuals who access or use the Hello Tutor platform, whether as a student, parent, legal guardian, or tutor ("Users").
1.4 By registering for or using our platform, all Users confirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to the terms of this Policy.
2. Legislation
2.1 Our platform and coordinating policies have been developed to ensure we comply with all relevant safeguarding and child protection legislation applicable in the United Arab Emirates.
2.2 This Policy is informed by UAE Federal Law No. 3 of 2016 on Child Rights (Wadeema's Law), which establishes the rights of children to protection from all forms of harm, abuse, and neglect.
2.3 This Policy also takes into account the UAE Cybercrime Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021), relevant provisions of the UAE Penal Code, and any applicable regulations issued by the UAE Ministry of Community Development.
2.4 This Safeguarding Policy should be read in conjunction with our Terms and Conditions and our Privacy Policy.
2.5 We reserve the right to amend this Policy at any time. Users will be notified of material changes via the platform or by email.
3. Aims of Policy
3.1 Hello Tutor seeks to provide the best service possible and to create a safe experience in which children and young people can learn and develop.
3.2 This Policy aims to ensure we safeguard all Users of the Hello Tutor platform, including students, parents, legal guardians, and tutors, while they engage with our platform and participate in Lessons.
3.3 This Policy outlines the safeguarding responsibilities of Hello Tutor, tutors, students, and parents and legal guardians, and it is important that all Users familiarise themselves with its contents before using the platform.
3.4 If any User has a concern regarding the safety or welfare of a child or young person, they must contact Hello Tutor immediately at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
3.5 Contravention of any of the terms contained within this Policy may result in immediate suspension of access to, and permanent removal from, our platform and services.
4. Hello Tutor's Responsibilities
4.1 Hello Tutor will decide when a tutor's profile is sufficiently complete and verified to be made live on the platform and accessible by other Users.
4.2 Hello Tutor will use reasonable endeavours to verify the identity of all tutors before approving their profile, including checking government-issued identity documents and relevant qualifications.
4.3 Hello Tutor requires all tutors to have completed a background check dated within the last three years before they are permitted to conduct sessions through the platform. Background checks must meet the requirements set out in our Terms and Conditions. Tutors must provide Hello Tutor with evidence of their background check status upon request.
4.4 Hello Tutor requires new tutors to provide two written references from individuals who are not family members, confirming the referee's relationship to the tutor and consenting to the reference being shared with prospective students. Hello Tutor is not responsible for the accuracy or content of these references.
4.5 Hello Tutor requires all tutors who are not UAE nationals to hold a valid work permit or freelance permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), or an equivalent permit issued by the relevant free zone authority, that legally entitles them to provide tutoring or educational services in the UAE on a self-employed or freelance basis. Tutors must provide Hello Tutor with evidence of their permit status upon request. Failure to hold or maintain a valid and applicable permit will result in the immediate suspension of a tutor's profile until this requirement is met.
4.6 Hello Tutor will rank tutors on the platform based on a combination of profile completeness, student ratings, and the number of lessons taught. Positive student ratings, prompt responses, repeat bookings, and a greater volume of lessons delivered will contribute to a higher ranking. Hello Tutor reserves the right to change the ranking methodology at any time.
4.7 Hello Tutor encourages students and parents to leave a review of any tutor they have sessions with. "Review" means any review, comment, or rating.
4.8 Hello Tutor will take precautions it considers reasonable to protect the personal information of all students, parents, and tutors on the platform.
4.9 Hello Tutor will protect all personal data in accordance with applicable UAE data protection legislation and our Privacy Policy.
4.10 Hello Tutor will monitor messages and activity posted on the platform and sent between students and tutors. Hello Tutor does so to facilitate introductions between students and tutors, to prevent misuse of the platform, and to safeguard all Users, particularly those who are under 18.
4.11 Hello Tutor will record all online sessions (except where an unforeseen technical malfunction occurs) and store those recordings for a minimum of 28 days and a maximum of one year. These recordings remain the property of Hello Tutor.
4.12 Hello Tutor may review any recorded session at any time for the purposes of improving our service or where a complaint or safeguarding report has been made.
4.13 Hello Tutor will deal with reports of possible illegal activity promptly, focusing on the safety and wellbeing of all Users. Hello Tutor will cooperate fully with UAE law enforcement and share any relevant session recordings where a criminal offence may have occurred.
4.14 Hello Tutor has a designated Safeguarding Officer who is responsible for handling all safeguarding concerns raised through the platform and for liaising with relevant UAE authorities where necessary.
4.15 Hello Tutor will endeavour to ensure that all complaints and safeguarding reports are considered promptly and in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
4.16 Hello Tutor will regularly review this Policy and our Terms and Conditions to ensure they remain adequate, up to date, and aligned with current UAE safeguarding standards and legislation.
5. Tutor Responsibilities
5.1 Tutors are independent contractors and are not employees of Hello Tutor. Tutors are solely responsible for their own actions both on and off the platform.
5.2 If tutors contact or teach students who are under 18, they must ensure that those students are represented by a parent or legal guardian who has given their consent for the student to receive tuition.
5.3 Tutors may cancel a session if no parent or legal guardian is present during a lesson with a learner who is under 18 and either the tutor or the learner does not feel comfortable continuing.
5.4 Tutors are responsible for ensuring that all personal information they provide on the platform, including their profile, qualifications, and personal statements, is accurate, complete, and not misleading. They must update this information promptly to maintain its accuracy.
5.5 Tutors must not post, share, or transmit any defamatory, offensive, inappropriate, or illegal material through the platform, including in messages, profile content, or session communications.
5.6 Tutors must immediately report to Hello Tutor any defamatory, offensive, or illegal material they encounter on the platform.
5.7 Tutors must disclose to Hello Tutor any criminal convictions or cautions they hold at the time of registration, and must disclose any convictions or cautions received at any time after registering on the platform for as long as they remain a registered tutor.
5.8 Tutors must disclose to Hello Tutor any other relevant information that may lead Hello Tutor to determine that they are not suitable to provide tutoring services through the platform.
5.9 All tutors must have a valid background check dated within the last three years. This must meet the requirements set out in the Terms and Conditions. Failure to maintain a valid background check will result in the immediate suspension of the tutor's profile until this requirement is met.
5.10 Tutors must hold and maintain a valid work permit or freelance permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), or an equivalent permit issued by the relevant free zone authority, that legally entitles them to provide tutoring or educational services in the UAE on a self-employed or freelance basis. Tutors must provide Hello Tutor with evidence of their permit status upon request. Failure to hold or maintain a valid and applicable permit will result in the immediate suspension of the tutor's profile until this requirement is met.
5.11 Tutors must use their own judgement about whether they wish to offer their tuition services to each individual student. Tutors must take every reasonable precaution to ensure they work in a safe environment and are responsible for taking out and maintaining their own insurance to cover the work they undertake.
5.12 Tutors must ensure that their session environment does not display any inappropriate images, materials, or documents that could be visible to students during an online session.
5.13 Tutors must treat all students fairly and without prejudice or discrimination on the basis of age, culture, ability, gender, language, racial origin, religious belief, or any other characteristic.
5.14 Tutors must ensure that all reasonable steps are taken to protect students from harm, discrimination, and demeaning treatment and to respect their rights at all times.
5.15 Tutors must value students and take their contributions seriously during sessions.
5.16 Tutors must ensure they work in partnership with parents and guardians where the student is under 18, as this is essential for the protection and welfare of young learners.
5.17 Tutors must ensure the language they use in all communications with students is appropriate, professional, and not offensive or discriminatory.
5.18 Tutors must not make any improper or inappropriate suggestions to students at any time.
5.19 Tutors must ensure that any contact or communication they have with a student is appropriate to their role as a tutor and confined to the subject area for which they have been engaged.
5.20 Tutors must ensure there is no inappropriate communication between themselves and any student, whether on or outside the platform, and must report any unsolicited communication from a student to Hello Tutor if appropriate.
5.21 Tutors must not attempt to contact students or parents outside of the Hello Tutor platform using personal contact details obtained through the platform, without the explicit consent of the student or parent and Hello Tutor.
5.22 Tutors are responsible for their own online and offline security in connection with their use of the platform.
5.23 Tutors must report any complaint in line with our Terms and Conditions.
5.24 Tutors must report any safeguarding concern or suspected illegal activity immediately to Hello Tutor at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
6. Student Responsibilities
6.1 Students must be at least 18 years old to register for an account and book a tutor for themselves or another learner. Learners under the age of 18 must be represented by a parent or legal guardian who provides their consent for the learner to receive tuition. Hello Tutor is not responsible for any dispute regarding parental consent.
6.2 Students must ensure that all personal details and contact information they provide on the platform are accurate and kept up to date.
6.3 Students must ensure there is no inappropriate communication between themselves, a learner they represent, and the tutor, whether on or outside the platform, and must report any unsolicited contact from a tutor if appropriate.
6.4 Students must exercise their own judgement regarding the accuracy of information provided on the platform. Hello Tutor cannot guarantee that all content on the platform is complete, accurate, or up to date.
6.5 Students must use their own judgement about the suitability of any tutor they book. Although Hello Tutor undertakes certain checks before approving a tutor's profile, students are responsible for verifying any claims made by a tutor that may influence their decision to proceed, including qualifications and experience. We recommend doing so prior to, or at the beginning of, their first session with a tutor.
6.6 Students are solely responsible for all content they post on the platform, including messages sent, and must not post any defamatory, offensive, misleading, or illegal material.
6.7 Students must immediately report to Hello Tutor any defamatory, offensive, or illegal material they encounter on the platform.
6.8 Any student who is the parent or legal guardian of a learner under the age of 18 who has a session with a tutor should not leave the child in the unsupervised sole care of that tutor. They must remain available so that the learner can report any inappropriate behaviour or concerns, and learners must report any concerns to a parent or guardian immediately.
6.9 Students must ensure the physical or digital environment in which sessions take place is appropriate and safe.
6.10 Students must ensure that tutors are treated with respect and are not subjected to abusive, offensive, or discriminatory behaviour or language.
6.11 Students must not make any improper or inappropriate suggestions to tutors at any time.
6.12 Students are responsible for their own security in connection with their use of the platform, both online and offline.
6.13 Students must report any complaint in line with our Terms and Conditions.
6.14 Students must report any safeguarding concern or suspected illegal activity immediately to Hello Tutor at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
7. Parent and Guardian Responsibilities
Any reference to learners in this section refers to learners who are under the age of 18.
7.1 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for selecting a tutor and making any reasonable checks to satisfy themselves that the tutor is suitable for the learner, including reviewing the tutor's identity verification and background check status as displayed on the platform.
7.2 The parent or legal guardian must ensure that the learner is fully aware of Hello Tutor's Safeguarding Policy before using the platform.
7.3 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for the welfare and wellbeing of the learner at all times during any session conducted through the platform.
7.4 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for the physical or digital environment of the learner during a session and must ensure it is safe, appropriate, and free from any risk.
7.5 The parent or legal guardian should, where they consider it appropriate, be present or remain available during a session so that the learner can report any concerns immediately and so that they can ensure both the learner and the tutor are behaving appropriately.
7.6 The parent or legal guardian must not leave a child under the age of 18 in the unsupervised sole care of a tutor during an online session. Learners must be able to report any concerns to a parent or guardian without delay.
7.7 The parent or legal guardian must use their best endeavours to ensure the learner treats tutors with respect and does not subject any tutor to abusive, inappropriate, or discriminatory behaviour or language.
7.8 The parent or legal guardian must ensure the learner has no inappropriate communication with any tutor outside of the Hello Tutor platform messaging and lesson sessions.
7.9 The parent or legal guardian must report any unsolicited communication between the tutor and the learner to Hello Tutor if appropriate.
7.10 The parent or legal guardian must report any dispute with a tutor to Hello Tutor in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
7.11 The parent or legal guardian must report any inappropriate behaviour or suspected illegal activity by a tutor to Hello Tutor immediately at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
7.12 The parent or legal guardian consents, on behalf of the learner, to the recording of online sessions for safeguarding and quality purposes, as described in clause 4.11 of this Policy.
7.13 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for ensuring that all personal information provided on behalf of the learner is accurate and kept up to date.
8. Reported Breach
8.1 Any student or tutor reported for a breach of this Safeguarding Policy will be immediately suspended from the platform pending investigation by Hello Tutor and, where appropriate, the relevant UAE authorities. The User will be informed of their suspension. The User who reported the breach may be informed of the outcome where appropriate.
8.2 Hello Tutor reserves the right to make a final decision on the action taken in respect of minor breaches of this Safeguarding Policy.
8.3 Any student or tutor reported for illegal activity whilst using the Hello Tutor platform may be permanently barred from the service, reported to UAE law enforcement, and reported to any other relevant UAE authorities or organisations.
8.4 Hello Tutor will cooperate fully with any investigation carried out by UAE law enforcement or regulatory authorities and will provide access to session recordings, communications, and other relevant data where required to do so by law.
8.5 Where a safeguarding concern relates to a child or young person, Hello Tutor will prioritise the immediate safety and welfare of that individual above all other considerations when determining the appropriate course of action.
9. Updating This Policy
9.1 This Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed by Hello Tutor on a regular basis to ensure it remains adequate, relevant, and aligned with current UAE safeguarding standards and legislation.
9.2 Where material changes are made to this Policy, Hello Tutor will notify Users via the platform or by email prior to the changes taking effect.
9.3 The date of the most recent update is always shown at the top of this page. Continued use of the platform following notification of any changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Policy.
10. Contact Us
10.1 For any safeguarding concerns, reports of inappropriate behaviour, or questions relating to this Policy, please contact our Safeguarding Officer immediately at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
10.2 For general enquiries about the platform, contact us at support@hellotutor.me.
10.3 You may also write to us at: Hello Tutor LLC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
10.4 Hello Tutor will acknowledge all safeguarding reports as a priority and will respond to general enquiries within 2 working days.
Ready to find the right tutor?
Book a free consultation and we'll take it from there. Over 5,000 families have trusted us to make the match.
Safeguarding Policy
This Safeguarding Policy outlines the standards and responsibilities that help ensure the safety, wellbeing, and protection of all students using the Hello Tutor platform. It applies to Tutors, Students, parents, and guardians, and sets clear expectations for maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment at all times.
1. Overview
1.1 Hello Tutor LLC ("Hello Tutor", "we", "us", "our") is committed to providing the highest standard of safeguarding across all aspects of our platform. The safety and wellbeing of every user, and in particular children and young people, is our paramount concern.
1.2 Our platform, services, and all coordinating policies have been designed to ensure that students, parents, legal guardians, and tutors can interact in a safe, trusted, and respectful environment.
1.3 This Safeguarding Policy applies to all individuals who access or use the Hello Tutor platform, whether as a student, parent, legal guardian, or tutor ("Users").
1.4 By registering for or using our platform, all Users confirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to the terms of this Policy.
2. Legislation
2.1 Our platform and coordinating policies have been developed to ensure we comply with all relevant safeguarding and child protection legislation applicable in the United Arab Emirates.
2.2 This Policy is informed by UAE Federal Law No. 3 of 2016 on Child Rights (Wadeema's Law), which establishes the rights of children to protection from all forms of harm, abuse, and neglect.
2.3 This Policy also takes into account the UAE Cybercrime Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021), relevant provisions of the UAE Penal Code, and any applicable regulations issued by the UAE Ministry of Community Development.
2.4 This Safeguarding Policy should be read in conjunction with our Terms and Conditions and our Privacy Policy.
2.5 We reserve the right to amend this Policy at any time. Users will be notified of material changes via the platform or by email.
3. Aims of Policy
3.1 Hello Tutor seeks to provide the best service possible and to create a safe experience in which children and young people can learn and develop.
3.2 This Policy aims to ensure we safeguard all Users of the Hello Tutor platform, including students, parents, legal guardians, and tutors, while they engage with our platform and participate in Lessons.
3.3 This Policy outlines the safeguarding responsibilities of Hello Tutor, tutors, students, and parents and legal guardians, and it is important that all Users familiarise themselves with its contents before using the platform.
3.4 If any User has a concern regarding the safety or welfare of a child or young person, they must contact Hello Tutor immediately at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
3.5 Contravention of any of the terms contained within this Policy may result in immediate suspension of access to, and permanent removal from, our platform and services.
4. Hello Tutor's Responsibilities
4.1 Hello Tutor will decide when a tutor's profile is sufficiently complete and verified to be made live on the platform and accessible by other Users.
4.2 Hello Tutor will use reasonable endeavours to verify the identity of all tutors before approving their profile, including checking government-issued identity documents and relevant qualifications.
4.3 Hello Tutor requires all tutors to have completed a background check dated within the last three years before they are permitted to conduct sessions through the platform. Background checks must meet the requirements set out in our Terms and Conditions. Tutors must provide Hello Tutor with evidence of their background check status upon request.
4.4 Hello Tutor requires new tutors to provide two written references from individuals who are not family members, confirming the referee's relationship to the tutor and consenting to the reference being shared with prospective students. Hello Tutor is not responsible for the accuracy or content of these references.
4.5 Hello Tutor requires all tutors who are not UAE nationals to hold a valid work permit or freelance permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), or an equivalent permit issued by the relevant free zone authority, that legally entitles them to provide tutoring or educational services in the UAE on a self-employed or freelance basis. Tutors must provide Hello Tutor with evidence of their permit status upon request. Failure to hold or maintain a valid and applicable permit will result in the immediate suspension of a tutor's profile until this requirement is met.
4.6 Hello Tutor will rank tutors on the platform based on a combination of profile completeness, student ratings, and the number of lessons taught. Positive student ratings, prompt responses, repeat bookings, and a greater volume of lessons delivered will contribute to a higher ranking. Hello Tutor reserves the right to change the ranking methodology at any time.
4.7 Hello Tutor encourages students and parents to leave a review of any tutor they have sessions with. "Review" means any review, comment, or rating.
4.8 Hello Tutor will take precautions it considers reasonable to protect the personal information of all students, parents, and tutors on the platform.
4.9 Hello Tutor will protect all personal data in accordance with applicable UAE data protection legislation and our Privacy Policy.
4.10 Hello Tutor will monitor messages and activity posted on the platform and sent between students and tutors. Hello Tutor does so to facilitate introductions between students and tutors, to prevent misuse of the platform, and to safeguard all Users, particularly those who are under 18.
4.11 Hello Tutor will record all online sessions (except where an unforeseen technical malfunction occurs) and store those recordings for a minimum of 28 days and a maximum of one year. These recordings remain the property of Hello Tutor.
4.12 Hello Tutor may review any recorded session at any time for the purposes of improving our service or where a complaint or safeguarding report has been made.
4.13 Hello Tutor will deal with reports of possible illegal activity promptly, focusing on the safety and wellbeing of all Users. Hello Tutor will cooperate fully with UAE law enforcement and share any relevant session recordings where a criminal offence may have occurred.
4.14 Hello Tutor has a designated Safeguarding Officer who is responsible for handling all safeguarding concerns raised through the platform and for liaising with relevant UAE authorities where necessary.
4.15 Hello Tutor will endeavour to ensure that all complaints and safeguarding reports are considered promptly and in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
4.16 Hello Tutor will regularly review this Policy and our Terms and Conditions to ensure they remain adequate, up to date, and aligned with current UAE safeguarding standards and legislation.
5. Tutor Responsibilities
5.1 Tutors are independent contractors and are not employees of Hello Tutor. Tutors are solely responsible for their own actions both on and off the platform.
5.2 If tutors contact or teach students who are under 18, they must ensure that those students are represented by a parent or legal guardian who has given their consent for the student to receive tuition.
5.3 Tutors may cancel a session if no parent or legal guardian is present during a lesson with a learner who is under 18 and either the tutor or the learner does not feel comfortable continuing.
5.4 Tutors are responsible for ensuring that all personal information they provide on the platform, including their profile, qualifications, and personal statements, is accurate, complete, and not misleading. They must update this information promptly to maintain its accuracy.
5.5 Tutors must not post, share, or transmit any defamatory, offensive, inappropriate, or illegal material through the platform, including in messages, profile content, or session communications.
5.6 Tutors must immediately report to Hello Tutor any defamatory, offensive, or illegal material they encounter on the platform.
5.7 Tutors must disclose to Hello Tutor any criminal convictions or cautions they hold at the time of registration, and must disclose any convictions or cautions received at any time after registering on the platform for as long as they remain a registered tutor.
5.8 Tutors must disclose to Hello Tutor any other relevant information that may lead Hello Tutor to determine that they are not suitable to provide tutoring services through the platform.
5.9 All tutors must have a valid background check dated within the last three years. This must meet the requirements set out in the Terms and Conditions. Failure to maintain a valid background check will result in the immediate suspension of the tutor's profile until this requirement is met.
5.10 Tutors must hold and maintain a valid work permit or freelance permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), or an equivalent permit issued by the relevant free zone authority, that legally entitles them to provide tutoring or educational services in the UAE on a self-employed or freelance basis. Tutors must provide Hello Tutor with evidence of their permit status upon request. Failure to hold or maintain a valid and applicable permit will result in the immediate suspension of the tutor's profile until this requirement is met.
5.11 Tutors must use their own judgement about whether they wish to offer their tuition services to each individual student. Tutors must take every reasonable precaution to ensure they work in a safe environment and are responsible for taking out and maintaining their own insurance to cover the work they undertake.
5.12 Tutors must ensure that their session environment does not display any inappropriate images, materials, or documents that could be visible to students during an online session.
5.13 Tutors must treat all students fairly and without prejudice or discrimination on the basis of age, culture, ability, gender, language, racial origin, religious belief, or any other characteristic.
5.14 Tutors must ensure that all reasonable steps are taken to protect students from harm, discrimination, and demeaning treatment and to respect their rights at all times.
5.15 Tutors must value students and take their contributions seriously during sessions.
5.16 Tutors must ensure they work in partnership with parents and guardians where the student is under 18, as this is essential for the protection and welfare of young learners.
5.17 Tutors must ensure the language they use in all communications with students is appropriate, professional, and not offensive or discriminatory.
5.18 Tutors must not make any improper or inappropriate suggestions to students at any time.
5.19 Tutors must ensure that any contact or communication they have with a student is appropriate to their role as a tutor and confined to the subject area for which they have been engaged.
5.20 Tutors must ensure there is no inappropriate communication between themselves and any student, whether on or outside the platform, and must report any unsolicited communication from a student to Hello Tutor if appropriate.
5.21 Tutors must not attempt to contact students or parents outside of the Hello Tutor platform using personal contact details obtained through the platform, without the explicit consent of the student or parent and Hello Tutor.
5.22 Tutors are responsible for their own online and offline security in connection with their use of the platform.
5.23 Tutors must report any complaint in line with our Terms and Conditions.
5.24 Tutors must report any safeguarding concern or suspected illegal activity immediately to Hello Tutor at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
6. Student Responsibilities
6.1 Students must be at least 18 years old to register for an account and book a tutor for themselves or another learner. Learners under the age of 18 must be represented by a parent or legal guardian who provides their consent for the learner to receive tuition. Hello Tutor is not responsible for any dispute regarding parental consent.
6.2 Students must ensure that all personal details and contact information they provide on the platform are accurate and kept up to date.
6.3 Students must ensure there is no inappropriate communication between themselves, a learner they represent, and the tutor, whether on or outside the platform, and must report any unsolicited contact from a tutor if appropriate.
6.4 Students must exercise their own judgement regarding the accuracy of information provided on the platform. Hello Tutor cannot guarantee that all content on the platform is complete, accurate, or up to date.
6.5 Students must use their own judgement about the suitability of any tutor they book. Although Hello Tutor undertakes certain checks before approving a tutor's profile, students are responsible for verifying any claims made by a tutor that may influence their decision to proceed, including qualifications and experience. We recommend doing so prior to, or at the beginning of, their first session with a tutor.
6.6 Students are solely responsible for all content they post on the platform, including messages sent, and must not post any defamatory, offensive, misleading, or illegal material.
6.7 Students must immediately report to Hello Tutor any defamatory, offensive, or illegal material they encounter on the platform.
6.8 Any student who is the parent or legal guardian of a learner under the age of 18 who has a session with a tutor should not leave the child in the unsupervised sole care of that tutor. They must remain available so that the learner can report any inappropriate behaviour or concerns, and learners must report any concerns to a parent or guardian immediately.
6.9 Students must ensure the physical or digital environment in which sessions take place is appropriate and safe.
6.10 Students must ensure that tutors are treated with respect and are not subjected to abusive, offensive, or discriminatory behaviour or language.
6.11 Students must not make any improper or inappropriate suggestions to tutors at any time.
6.12 Students are responsible for their own security in connection with their use of the platform, both online and offline.
6.13 Students must report any complaint in line with our Terms and Conditions.
6.14 Students must report any safeguarding concern or suspected illegal activity immediately to Hello Tutor at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
7. Parent and Guardian Responsibilities
Any reference to learners in this section refers to learners who are under the age of 18.
7.1 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for selecting a tutor and making any reasonable checks to satisfy themselves that the tutor is suitable for the learner, including reviewing the tutor's identity verification and background check status as displayed on the platform.
7.2 The parent or legal guardian must ensure that the learner is fully aware of Hello Tutor's Safeguarding Policy before using the platform.
7.3 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for the welfare and wellbeing of the learner at all times during any session conducted through the platform.
7.4 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for the physical or digital environment of the learner during a session and must ensure it is safe, appropriate, and free from any risk.
7.5 The parent or legal guardian should, where they consider it appropriate, be present or remain available during a session so that the learner can report any concerns immediately and so that they can ensure both the learner and the tutor are behaving appropriately.
7.6 The parent or legal guardian must not leave a child under the age of 18 in the unsupervised sole care of a tutor during an online session. Learners must be able to report any concerns to a parent or guardian without delay.
7.7 The parent or legal guardian must use their best endeavours to ensure the learner treats tutors with respect and does not subject any tutor to abusive, inappropriate, or discriminatory behaviour or language.
7.8 The parent or legal guardian must ensure the learner has no inappropriate communication with any tutor outside of the Hello Tutor platform messaging and lesson sessions.
7.9 The parent or legal guardian must report any unsolicited communication between the tutor and the learner to Hello Tutor if appropriate.
7.10 The parent or legal guardian must report any dispute with a tutor to Hello Tutor in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
7.11 The parent or legal guardian must report any inappropriate behaviour or suspected illegal activity by a tutor to Hello Tutor immediately at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
7.12 The parent or legal guardian consents, on behalf of the learner, to the recording of online sessions for safeguarding and quality purposes, as described in clause 4.11 of this Policy.
7.13 The parent or legal guardian is responsible for ensuring that all personal information provided on behalf of the learner is accurate and kept up to date.
8. Reported Breach
8.1 Any student or tutor reported for a breach of this Safeguarding Policy will be immediately suspended from the platform pending investigation by Hello Tutor and, where appropriate, the relevant UAE authorities. The User will be informed of their suspension. The User who reported the breach may be informed of the outcome where appropriate.
8.2 Hello Tutor reserves the right to make a final decision on the action taken in respect of minor breaches of this Safeguarding Policy.
8.3 Any student or tutor reported for illegal activity whilst using the Hello Tutor platform may be permanently barred from the service, reported to UAE law enforcement, and reported to any other relevant UAE authorities or organisations.
8.4 Hello Tutor will cooperate fully with any investigation carried out by UAE law enforcement or regulatory authorities and will provide access to session recordings, communications, and other relevant data where required to do so by law.
8.5 Where a safeguarding concern relates to a child or young person, Hello Tutor will prioritise the immediate safety and welfare of that individual above all other considerations when determining the appropriate course of action.
9. Updating This Policy
9.1 This Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed by Hello Tutor on a regular basis to ensure it remains adequate, relevant, and aligned with current UAE safeguarding standards and legislation.
9.2 Where material changes are made to this Policy, Hello Tutor will notify Users via the platform or by email prior to the changes taking effect.
9.3 The date of the most recent update is always shown at the top of this page. Continued use of the platform following notification of any changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Policy.
10. Contact Us
10.1 For any safeguarding concerns, reports of inappropriate behaviour, or questions relating to this Policy, please contact our Safeguarding Officer immediately at safeguarding@hellotutor.me.
10.2 For general enquiries about the platform, contact us at support@hellotutor.me.
10.3 You may also write to us at: Hello Tutor LLC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
10.4 Hello Tutor will acknowledge all safeguarding reports as a priority and will respond to general enquiries within 2 working days.
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