Interviewing Skills for Conduct Investigations
Foundations for conducting thorough, balanced, and professional investigations
The Office of the Independent Adjudicator's (OIA) Good Practice Framework sets the standard for fair institutional processes, while the Office for Students (OfS) Condition E6 mandates appropriate training for staff investigating harassment and sexual misconduct. At the heart of meeting these requirements is the ability to conduct fair and effective interviews with all parties within an investigation.
his 2-3 days course is designed for staff who conduct student conduct and complaint investigations. It focuses on developing effective communication skills (empathy, rapport, questioning) and utilising elements of structured interviewing models, including PEACE and Achieving Best Evidence (ABE).
If 3 days is chosen, attendees can apply these skills in a highly realistic, sector-specific case study through an immersive practical scenario and received expert feedback and support.
Course Learning Outcomes:
1. Understand the procedural frameworks (e.g., OIA, OfS Condition E6, institutional regulations) governing interviews within student conduct cases.
2. Learn and apply core communication skills (e.g., objectivity, active listening) necessary for conducting fair and impartial interviews with students.
3. Develop and maintain rapport and empathy to establish a safe, cooperative, and professional environment when interviewing students in sensitive conduct investigations.
4. Utilise effective questioning techniques to gather accurate information, whilst adhering to the core principles of procedural fairness.
5. Learn and demonstrate the PEACE model of interviewing and other structured frameworks such as Achieving Best Evidence (ABE)
Delivery Options
Online Delivery
This course is suitable for online delivery via Zoom
In-Person Delivery
Orava deliver on-site at your institution or any location of your choosing.
Use of a realistic case study, designed to meet your specific organisational needs.
Case Study
"The training was delivered expertly and at a steady pace. James is a very experienced and knowledgeable trainer and I felt that everything that I learned was relevant to my role".
Student Conduct and Complaints Investigator
"I can already see that my team are feeling more confident and better equipped to undertake the interview elements of our role, and it's opened up our conversations about our investigations and how we can improve what we do"
Student Conduct and Complaints Manager
★★★★★
★★★★★
Course Costs
On‑site delivery: £1,200/£1,800
Online delivery: £1,000/£1,500
All options include full course handouts, procedural guides and a certificate of completion.
Orava is not VAT registered, ensuring clear and straightforward pricing with no additional charges.
Complete the form below to discuss delivering this course for your organisation. We’ll talk through your needs and explore how this training can best support your team