New biometric system
Some of you may have wondered what the gadgets which have been installed next to the door of each classroom are for. Well, from the Summer term which begins on 7 June 2010, we will be using this hi-tec equipment to monitor and record your attendance in class. During the next enrolment period, when you collect your new timetable, at the same time we will be capturing your fingerprint. Many of you will already be familiar with this type of process if you have come into the UK or renewed your student visa since the introduction of the biometric card.
Some FAQs
Why is LIC introducing a biometric system?
As part of our longstanding commitment to quality control, we have decided to invest in a biometric system, as this type of technology has become more available and reliable in the past couple of years. This type of system will assist us in ensuring that attendance records are accurate and fair. Since each individual has a fingerprint which is unique to them, a biometric system will protect you from identity fraud and means there is no risk of mistaking you for someone else with the same or a similar name.
Who will have access to the data collected?
Only authorised College personnel will have access to the data. We will only share your data if this complies with current UK legislation such as the Data Protection Act 1989.
Is the data secure?
Yes. All your data is kept on an encrypted server.
How long will you keep data?
We will only keep your biometric data for as long as you are a student with us.
Will the teacher still keep a paper register?
Yes, the teacher will still take a manual register but if you have not logged in to the class using your fingerprint ID, your attendance will not count.
What happens if I am late to class?
If you are more than 15 minutes late to class, the system will record you as absent.
What happens if I don't want to give you my fingerprint ID?
If you are unwilling to provide a biometric ID, you will not be able to log in to each class session and will be recorded as absent. After 10 missed contacts you will be reported to the UKBA.
If you have any questions or concerns about the biometric system, please feel free to see me in confidence.
Paula Hughes
Registrar
London International College
