Unsafe learning environment, loss of access, and refusal to refund
In my experience, the School of Canine Science (SOCS) does not provide a safe or accountable learning environment. Concerns were minimised, dissent was silenced, and responsibility was shifted onto students rather than acknowledged by the trainers.
I invested over £1,700 in SOCS courses between 2020 and 2024. The courses consistently directed students to Facebook groups for core content, peer learning, and trainer interaction. These groups were not optional extras but an essential part of the learning process.
In 2024, during the High Performers programme, SOCS released an AI update featuring a chatbot role-play that included content involving sexual assault. The material remained available for several days and was only removed after I raised a concern. Before receiving any apology, explanation, or opportunity for discussion, I was removed from all SOCS groups. Hours later, I was accused of instigating a “witch hunt” and of sharing screenshots with a former business partner—claims for which no evidence was ever provided. The only “apology” offered referred back to a vague trigger warning and did not take responsibility for the nature of the material. Instead, the response relied on blame-shifting, placing the focus on me rather than addressing the issue itself.
I submitted a refund request, citing the inappropriate content, the lack of accountability, the erosion of psychological safety, and the denial of access to essential course components. This was refused, with SOCS insisting that the Facebook groups were “optional,” despite courses linking directly to them and encouraging regular interaction. They also referred to an email that supposedly addressed my concerns, which they later admitted never existed.
No educational organisation should dismiss concerns about content involving sexual assault or retaliate against students who speak up. It is not too late for SOCS to take responsibility and resolve this in good faith.
2 december 2024
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