Overview 

Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, anyone can request access to information held by public authorities. The Act sets out the requirements for the publication of information held by, or held on behalf of, public authorities, and defines the implications for public and private sector organisations, as well as for individuals, in relation to the handling of requests for information. The requirements set out by the Act include the publication and maintenance of publication schemes, the need to respond to requests for information and disclose information requested subject to the appropriate application of legal exemptions.  

The BCS Certificate in Freedom of Information provides a qualification that demonstrates a level of application and knowledge obtained by those responsible for dealing with freedom of information within an organisation 

Entry Requirements 

There are no formal entry requirements however, it is strongly recommended that candidates attend a BCS accredited training course. Some knowledge of the FOI law and applying this in a work context would be beneficial. 

Learning Objectives 

1. Legislation, codes of practice and ethics within public authorities 

1. Scope and principles of the freedom of information act 

1. Obligations and responsibilities of an FOI officer 

1. Disclosure, non-disclosure and exemptions in relation to FOI requests 

1. Key legislation including Environmental Information Regulation and Data Protection  

1. Enforcement and appeals process 

Course Duration 

Guided learning – 40 hours 

Independent learning – 16 hours 

Exam – 90 minutes 

Exam Format 

90 minute scenario based ‘closed book’ digital exam: 

– 6 multiple choice questions (State and Describe) 

– 12 multiple response questions (Explain) 

– 3 scenario-based questions (Apply and Analyse)