Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Glimmerleaf Institute ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy and personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website glimmerleaf-institute.com or use our services.

By using our website or services, you consent to the data practices described in this policy.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Personal Information

We may collect personal information that you provide directly to us, including:

• Name and contact information (email address, phone number, mailing address)
• Demographic information (age, gender, nationality)
• Educational background and English proficiency level
• Payment information for course enrollments
• Communications with our support team

2.2 Automatically Collected Information

We automatically collect certain information when you visit our website:

• IP address and browser information
• Device type and operating system
• Pages visited and time spent on our website
• Referring website and search terms used
• Cookies and similar tracking technologies

2.3 Educational Records

For enrolled students, we maintain:

• Course enrollment and completion records
• Assessment scores and progress reports
• Attendance records for classes and sessions
• Assignments and project submissions

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your personal information for the following purposes:

• Providing educational services and course materials
• Processing enrollments and payments
• Communicating about courses, schedules, and important updates
• Personalizing your learning experience
• Improving our website and services
• Complying with legal obligations and regulatory requirements
• Marketing our services (with your consent)

4. Information Sharing and Disclosure

4.1 Service Providers

We may share your information with trusted third-party service providers who assist us in:

• Payment processing and financial services
• Website hosting and technical support
• Email marketing and communication services
• Learning management system providers

4.2 Legal Requirements

We may disclose your information when required by law or to:

• Comply with legal processes or government requests
• Protect our rights, property, or safety
• Investigate potential violations of our terms of service
• Respond to claims or legal proceedings

4.3 Business Transfers

In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your information may be transferred to the new entity, subject to the same privacy protections.

5. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information:

• Encryption of sensitive data in transit and at rest
• Regular security assessments and updates
• Access controls and employee training
• Secure payment processing systems
• Regular backups and disaster recovery procedures

However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your browsing experience:

6.1 Types of Cookies

• Essential Cookies: Necessary for website functionality
• Analytics Cookies: Help us understand website usage
• Marketing Cookies: Used for targeted advertising (with consent)
• Preference Cookies: Remember your settings and preferences

6.2 Cookie Management

You can control cookies through your browser settings or our cookie consent tool. Disabling certain cookies may limit website functionality.

7. Your Rights and Choices

Depending on your location, you may have the following rights:

• Access: Request a copy of your personal information
• Correction: Update or correct inaccurate information
• Deletion: Request deletion of your personal information
• Portability: Receive your data in a structured format
• Opt-out: Unsubscribe from marketing communications
• Restriction: Limit how we process your information

8. Data Retention

We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to:

• Provide our services and maintain your account
• Comply with legal and regulatory requirements
• Resolve disputes and enforce our agreements

Student records are typically retained for 7 years after course completion, as required by Australian education regulations.

9. Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed to children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If we become aware that we have collected such information, we will take steps to delete it promptly.

10. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than Australia. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information during international transfers.

11. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies before providing any personal information.

12. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will notify you of significant changes by:

• Posting the updated policy on our website
• Sending email notifications to registered users
• Updating the "Last Updated" date at the top of this policy

13. Contact Information

If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us:

14. Australian Privacy Principles

As an Australian organization, we comply with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). This includes:

• Open and transparent management of personal information
• Anonymity and pseudonymity options where practicable
• Collection limitations and notification requirements
• Data quality and security obligations
• Individual access and correction rights

You have the right to make a complaint to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) if you believe we have not handled your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act.