Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

Personal Information

• Name and contact details (email, phone number)
• Educational background and learning needs
• Payment information (processed securely by third parties)
• Communication preferences

Usage Data

• Website usage statistics and analytics
• Reading assessment results and progress data
• Session recordings for coaching purposes (with consent)
• Technical information (IP address, browser type, device information)

2. How We Use Your Information

• Provide Visual Reading coaching and support services
• Process payments and manage your account
• Send important updates about your program
• Improve our services and develop new features
• Comply with legal obligations and DSA requirements
• Conduct research (anonymized data only)

3. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell your personal data. We may share information only in these circumstances:

• With your explicit consent
• With universities for DSA-funded students (as required)
• With payment processors for transaction processing
• With service providers who assist in delivering our services
• When required by law or to protect our rights

4. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your data:

• Encryption of data in transit and at rest
• Regular security assessments and updates
• Access controls and staff training
• Secure hosting with reputable providers

5. Your Rights

Under GDPR and UK data protection law, you have the right to:

• Access your personal data
• Correct inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your data
• Object to processing
• Data portability
• Withdraw consent at any time

6. Cookies and Tracking

We use cookies and similar technologies to improve your experience. See our Cookie Policy for details.

7. Data Retention

We retain your data only as long as necessary for the purposes outlined in this policy, typically for the duration of your program plus 7 years for educational records, or as required by law.

8. Contact Us

For any privacy-related questions or to exercise your rights, contact us:

9. Data Controller

Visual Reading Online LTD acts as the Data Controller for personal information processed in connection with our coaching services, student portals, course materials, and pay-per-view content. You can contact the Data Controller using the details in the Contact section above.

10. Lawful Bases for Processing

• Contract: To provide coaching, learning resources, and account access you request.
• Legitimate Interests: To improve our platform, prevent abuse, and keep services secure.
• Legal Obligation: To comply with accounting, taxation, and safeguarding requirements.
• Consent: For optional analytics, marketing, and recording of sessions where applicable.

11. International Transfers

When we transfer personal data outside the UK/EEA, we use appropriate safeguards such as Standard Contractual Clauses or rely on adequacy regulations. We require all processors to implement suitable technical and organisational measures.

12. Data Retention

• Account data: Retained while your account remains active and for up to 7 years after closure.
• Payment/transaction records: Retained for statutory periods (usually 6–7 years).
• Coaching notes/assessment data: Retained for program duration plus up to 7 years unless a longer period is required by law.
• Marketing preferences: Retained until you withdraw consent or opt out.

13. Children and Vulnerable Users

Our services are intended for students in further/higher education and adult learners. Where coaching involves younger learners, we require appropriate consent and will take additional measures to safeguard personal information.

14. Your Choices

• Update your profile and preferences in your account settings.
• Opt out of non-essential cookies via the cookie banner or browser settings.
• Unsubscribe from marketing communications at any time using the link in our emails.

15. Complaints

If you have concerns about our use of your personal information, please contact us first. You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).