National Home Study College

Apologies, that link doesn't need a full stop at the end so it is http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/8425130.stm
or go to www.bbc.co.uk and search for National Home Study College.

Posted by Anonymous at 15:54 on 04-Jan-2010

Problem is the law is so weak he is probobly taking money from others already, August knows that he will only get a wrap over the knuckles and is laughing all the way to the bank with OUR money - write to the minister as the other post says perhaps as he has done it before they may do more!

Posted by Anonymous at 17:42 on 04-Jan-2010

I've just written in to watchdog... i think everyone should write in, so that this scum bag gets caught!

Posted by CookieMonster at 21:43 on 04-Jan-2010

How do i claim for a refund? i completed my course in 2008 and recieved a fake diploma. does anyone know who to contact.

please let me know

Posted by CookieMonster at 21:02 on 05-Jan-2010

According to their website the company is now in receivership but I have just been in touch with Companies House and this was news to them.

Astra Corp is still very much active and still trading, however legal action against them is pending.

It may be logical to assume that Mr August may be providing other products via other online sites to recup his losses, therefore please be cautious and if you don't know the company check it against companies house.

If you have paid for your course via credit card you can claim your money back.

Posted by Anonymous at 13:51 on 07-Jan-2010

7/1/10 They have not gone into Administration and the Insolvency Office have not received any information. I have contacted the police, Companies House and the Company Insolvency complaints department. The Reg No of his vehicle was on the TV programme.

Posted by Beaulieu at 18:33 on 07-Jan-2010

the plot thickens then....

Posted by Shell at 22:36 on 12-Jan-2010

Hi

I am pleased to see that at least the BBC have investigated, its a start. I have written to my local MP today for his advice will keep everyone posted. It is also interesting to note that they have not gone into Administration its a bit strange the plot does definitely thicken!

Posted by BIG6148 at 13:20 on 13-Jan-2010

OMG! i am horrified to read all of this! i too signed up for national diploma in veterinary care with national home study. i have spent so much time doing assignments etc. aswell as using sentimental savings to fund this course. i sent my last asignments in November 2009 and never heard anything from them. Phone number is no longer in use, emails are being ignored and website is non existing! can anyone advise what to do next - who i need to contact to see if i can get any refund if possible. . any info appreciated. thanks

Posted by Anonymous at 15:40 on 13-Jan-2010

I was given a course for my birthday from my boyfriend, Philip August took money a total of 3 times for us and in the end we had to get our Credit Card company to retreive it!Philip August needs to get his comeuppence!

Posted by user #6224 at 18:51 on 13-Jan-2010

i have taught my daughter at home since she was 4 years , she is now 15 and she had been enjoying doing 2 courses. however we are all very dissapointed.
i managed to speak to someone claiming to be a john siemens 2 months ago, but after watching the bbc news yesterday i immediatly realized it was mr phillip august i spoke with pretending to be someone else, he spoke identicle and had the same laughter in his voice .
what a slim bag.
i have been in contact with various consumer rights etc,they seem very interested that he has now scammed a child

Posted by fraggle rock at 10:32 on 14-Jan-2010

If anyone here is on facebook, make sure you join the group for people who have been scammed by this lot, there's lots of people with similar stories, and updates of peoples progress. Search for National Home Study and it should come up.

Posted by amy999 at 12:19 on 14-Jan-2010

I received a certificate from National Home Study College in November for a Tutor Marking Course, but it was not the usual certificates produced, this one was from The European College Collective and the Academic Registrar was the National Home Study College, BCM National Home Study, London, WC1N 3XX.
So i hope this helps in anyway towards finding the new company they are opening up.

Posted by Anonymous at 12:25 on 23-Jan-2010

I was near the end of completing a two year course in Animal Care. It now appears I have wasted time & money on a diploma thats not recognised by any official body!

Since reading all your comments I have written to Consumer Direct (who report to Trading Standards and Office of Fair Trading), Watchdog, Panorama, Don't Get Done Get Dom and my Local MP! I urge everyone else to do the same and hopefully this will start an investigation.

I have read that you can get money back through your credit card provider, unfortunately I longer hold the credit card I used to pay the enrolment fee. I'm going to contact them later and see if theres anything they can do but I'm not holding my breath!

If anyone would like email addresses to write to, or just to chat please email me at kar230881@yahoo.co.uk

Posted by kar2308 at 13:09 on 26-Jan-2010

Just checked Companies House for you all and they are down as still Trading. However, when I spoke to them they said they had had a few enquiries about a Mr P August and a Mr Siemens from fraud officers and an MP. So looks like someone is on to them. I know it has been mentioned before but anyone who paid by card must get their numbers cnaged as these guys can still sting you for payments. My CC has just refunded me for my course but it has been so much hassle to get the money. They are obviously still out there generating some other online scam. All I can say is make sure any course you do is UK registered with the qualifications department on U.Gov - about the only one I can fine with everthing registered is the Open University. Good luck getting your money off these crooks
ASTRA CORPORATION LIMITED
BCM NATIONAL HOME STUDY
27 OLD GLOUCESTER STREET
LONDON
WC1N 3XX
Company No. 03203736

Posted by Anonymous at 09:27 on 28-Jan-2010

THnak for their full address, not far from there, will take a look

Posted by Anonymous at 09:35 on 28-Jan-2010

i had a visa debit card with halifax and i got a refund guys,i told them i paid for a course which i didnt receive, which is true i only received the first part! explained its a scam etc and i had my money within a week. Best of luck

Posted by Anonymous at 05:52 on 29-Jan-2010

many have been refunded on their visa but for us who paid by debit its a problem, im going to see my bank to see how we claim on a debit card.
also, did anyone study the animal courses? i signed up for Animal acare and Animal Psychology which was listed under The National Home Study site and i also signed up for the Veterinary Assistant course which came under a different website called AnimalCollege.co.uk - yes been fleeced by both, but ive just looked at the print out of the Animal college site and the phone number is the same as The National Home study number, so these rogues have been trading not only under National Study site but also the Animal college website too. my solicitor got no-where with my claim but i still keep sending him updates and have sent him the BBC interview of Phillip August for him to keep on my file. Dont lose touch with your solicitors everyone even if things arnt moving on, every bit of evidence is vital. also print off a bank statement of your payment to the home study as evidence, you can do this online, just put in the date of when you paid, the statement is good as it comes up National Home Study.
The BBC interview was great, but if August is so well known for doctoring certificates why is he still freely roaming about, if the BBC interviewer can walk into that car showroom and confront August in the face then why arnt the police going in and dragging the thieving git out of there and throwing him into a waiting prison van outside. Wheres the dam law in all this?

Posted by jojo16 at 16:03 on 07-Feb-2010

Anyone heard from Watch dog? i complained back in November but no reply. ive also been on Consumer.com where you can register bogus firms, so ive registered the Home Study on their site to stop other vunerable people falling into our trap.

Posted by jojo16 at 16:16 on 07-Feb-2010

Please note that The national home study college HAS NOT gone into administration, they are still trading and their status on companies house is "active".
It appears they have set up business elsewhere and not paid their bills.
Their website now just says "not available" as they could be getting ready to set up a new one!
We all need to contact trading standards and consumer direct so we can get this company stopped!!

Posted by dannyboy2004 at 23:12 on 27-Feb-2010

I enrolled paid about £250, did over 600 hundred hours study and ahve nothing to show for it. what can be done????

Posted by Elaine at 17:03 on 03-Mar-2010

I have and many others have written to local trading standards and your local MP, also try consumer direct too, im still trying to pursue these people with little help from some organisations, but I wont give up.

Posted by dannyboy2004 at 17:50 on 03-Mar-2010

Hey, I have been doing a HR course with this company and went onto the web last night to look up there website to find its no longer there and then found this forum, I am completely gob smacked, how did I not see the company was a fake, I have spent hours and hours doing this course which I am nearly finished to find out its a scam and a complete fake, I am so upset. We need to make sure this guy gets whats coming to him for this, he has hurt so many people, not only financial but this will have an effect on our jobs as well I'm sure.
I am going to write to Trading Standards and not sure what else to do, want to complain to someone but to who?
Who will do anything about this guy and what he has done to all of us? Has anyone had any replies from there complaint letters to Trading Standards and any others you have sent?

Posted by user #6432 at 12:23 on 12-Mar-2010

i have taught my daughter at home since she was 4 years , she is now 15 and she had been enjoying doing 2 courses. however we are all very dissapointed.
i managed to speak to someone claiming to be a john siemens 2 months ago, but after watching the bbc news yesterday i immediatly realized it was mr phillip august i spoke with pretending to be someone else, he spoke identicle and had the same laughter in his voice .
what a slim bag.
i have been in contact with various consumer rights etc,they seem very interested that he has now scammed a child.

Posted by fraggle rock at 10:29 on 14-Jan-2010

Philip August is apparently setting up a new business, so watch out everyone.

Posted by amy999 at 16:54 on 29-Dec-2009

Just received my letter from them saying they have went into administration etc and been given 3 options depending on how the course was paid, on how to try to get a refund. Not holding my breath but I'll give it a go!

Posted by Kiemc02 at 17:41 on 30-Dec-2009

i havent received any correspondnce from them regarding them going into administration - those who have could u shed some light so i can write to them? we have been out of pocket for far too long as it is!! thanks

Posted by Shell at 06:08 on 31-Dec-2009

Hi,
I signed up with the 'college' in July for the Tutor marking course. Despite paying a deposit I never received any course materials and couldn't get hold of anyone when I called. Now I've just come across this site and now realise that I've been scammed! The NHS college shouldn't be allowed to get away with conning people out of their hard earned money! I'll try writing to the address on the website. Please let me know what else I can do to get my money back. GRRRRRR!!!

Posted by SLR66 at 04:23 on 01-Jan-2010

:(

Posted by CookieMonster at 23:06 on 03-Jan-2010

I am so shocked to hear that National Home study college could do such awful thing to students.I was enrolled child psychology course and since i was doing so well i started recieveng letters for me to enroll on a Higher diploma course, which i did. I recieved my diploma in the post last year in January. After that I recieved letters in the post offering me to do the Fast track in Tutor marking course.

I too had to contact the college at numerous times for my assignment to be marked. Funny isnt it how when you miss a payment they hassle you like crazy, but whe it comes to marking they take their time.

I knew it was too good to be true, as i was recieveing A-grades in all my assignments,and the comments were literally the same.

I want my money backkkkk arghhh i'm so angry... my diploma was worth nothing.

is there any way i could claim my money back?? :(

Posted by CookieMonster at 23:15 on 03-Jan-2010

I too writting to Watchdog...

Posted by CookieMonster at 00:14 on 04-Jan-2010

Do you have any documentation on the length of the Tutor Marking Course. My bank has jpromised me some money back if I can get it. Otherwise, see my comments at the end. We can take a group action against them.

phone me on 07882284642

Posted by user #5612 at 19:53 on 06-Jan-2010

I too have been scammed by the National Home Study College, I completed the counsellling course and also the child care whichI recieved freebut not before getting my money back as the college took two payments, I stupily went on to do the Tutor marking Programme which I did recieve the cousr work for but I have been unable to get any feed back from the college. That is what brought my attention to this site. I like many other found that the college as siste trading and that the qualifications are not recongnised. I am in the process of trying to recover the money I gave to this college in good fiath and was hoping that other had been successful in doing so. good luck to everyone who has been scammed by this man and I think we should all stick together in recover our money and put a stop to this man from trading again.
Debbie

Posted by debbie at 13:50 on 07-Jan-2010

Definitely! I first did a 'diploma' in advanced Psychoogy which my school paid for back in 2005/6. I feel very stupid and naive now. I also bought 2 '1/2 price courses'in 2008. I then started getting these 'your performance to date puts this well within your capabilities. we aim to have you up and running in early 2010 and you can expect to receive between 10k and 40k a year.' I wasnt stupid enough to put in to do a job share at work but as I'm about to adopt I thought this would be a brilliant way of earning money at home.
Luckily, doing essays on the importance of feedback etc and then getting a repy saying 'A grade, now move onto assignment 2' started to ring alarm bells, and I asked if they werent giving me feedback then I was finding it suspicious as this was what I was working towards giving other people. When they repeatedly didnt respond, I started putting rubbish into my assignments, not quite as stupid as 'pigs are flying over East Sussex' but nearly as stupid. I rang the DFSS to see if they are registered, but they put me onto comsumer direct who told me to write a letter quoting chapter and verse of the law and expecting an answer within 14 days. Of course this never came. I then rang them back and they put in the phone number (which doesnt exist if you ring it) and they told me it was down as an aromatherapy and counsellor services as well. They told me to do some detective work, and get back onto them. They told me to resend the letter;I now know they wont reply but it gives the whole case extra 'whack' I hope. Not being funny, but I have a degree and a proper diploma-I'm not daft-most of the courses, even the 'advanced' courses are so easy-how many people are being conned? I'll back anything anyone is doing. I think they should compensate as well as refunding the cost of the 'courses' and accompanying books (I've paid out for every book that they've suggested as some of us take these things seriously dont we?

Posted by Anonymous at 21:26 on 09-Feb-2010

And I'll go to Watchdog and BBC Newsnight (not in person) with anyone else who wants to. I sent my letters to the Marsh Road address-will it reach its destination (in theory) if I send it to 27 Old Gloucester Road?
ALSO NB. I GOT ESSAYS FROM TUTOR MARKING COURSE AS RECENTLY AS OCT 09 but it was always A grade even when I deliberately sent in rubbish as a 'test' Let me know what to do and I'll join in

Posted by Anonymous at 21:39 on 09-Feb-2010

Good to hear :)

Posted by typolisa at 11:27 on 14-Dec-2009

I was also on the tutor course. How did you submit your claim for compensation and what goverment department did you complain to so I might do the same. This mob need to be taken to task.

Posted by boyjohn at 19:55 on 14-Dec-2009

Hello

I too was on their Tutor Course and wondered how you can claim your fees back. I also did another course through them and was awarded a Diploma which is useless and I would like my money back for that one too. I wrote to the MP for Pinner which is NOT Nick Hurd anyway he told me that to complain about National Home Study College you have to go through your local MP and details were apparently forwarded to him but as yet I have had NO reply. Would be grateful for any advice

Posted by BIG6148 at 18:03 on 17-Dec-2009

Hi

Has anyone received a letter today from National Home Study College advising them that they have ceased to trade from 1st December 2009 etc and how to claim back monies you have paid? Let me know Thanks

Posted by BIG6148 at 11:21 on 18-Dec-2009

Hi I have also received a letter and in the process of writing a letter to request the refund on the first course and the tutor marking course i did as they owe me £480

Posted by dannyboy2004 at 12:03 on 18-Dec-2009

Hi

I contacted paypal today as per their letter and they inform me that they have never heard of such rubbish. I have sent them a copy of the NHS letter so I will keep everyone informed of what happens next. The mystery deepens. I have also contacted my MP and told him about this letter.

Posted by BIG6148 at 18:25 on 18-Dec-2009

I am also on their tutor course. Got as far as the first section and only discovered about this just now by accident!

Posted by Rhian at 17:56 on 28-Dec-2009

I've had a browse through all the comments now... what's the best course of action? Is the address on their website in London genuine or not?

Posted by Rhian at 18:31 on 28-Dec-2009

Hi
Can you tell me how you claimed for a refund? I was also on the tutoring course, and had previously completed the fashion design, drawing and cutting course, and have a (fake) certificate. If anyone would like copies of my correspondenseof them lying to me, to submit with your claims please contact me. I cant believe these theives have got away with this for so long.

Posted by amy999 at 15:55 on 29-Dec-2009

There are now two Government Departments interested in the case. I can't say which at this time as investigations are going on both here and abroad. It looks like there is more to the directors than first thought.

I have sent a letter to the "college" requesting a refund from the administrators. If I don't hear soon there will be further action taken.

Posted by DR at 20:11 on 29-Dec-2009

I have had problems with this guy too. I received an introductory diploma a couple of years back, all seemed above board and I applied for a higher diploma straight away. It was only when I didn't get my last set of marks back last November that I started to become concerned, saw this discussion and also other articles about Mr August and the college that I realised I had been well and truly done. A friend of mine put me in contact with my local chambers of commerce who recommended I report it to the police as well as trading standards. I have this morning had confirmation from the police that a criminal act has been carried out by this guy and they are now investigating a fraud case on my behalf. I suggest everyone who is a victim of this evil man contact their police and tell them that other criminal investigations are taking place, its more likely to have better clout in court!

Posted by Amberdog at 09:24 on 09-Feb-2010

I have been a victim of this guy's scamming and at first didn't know where to turn. Having sought advice from a friend who has contacts in the local Chambers of commerce, I contacted Trading Standards and the police. The police have jumped on this and raised a formal criminal investigation on this guy, I believe for 'fraud by misrepresentation'. I urge anyone who has been at the receiving end of his scams to go straight to their local police and explain that other forces are running investigations, it will give a bigger clout if this guy ever ends up in court again. Trading standards by the way haven't even acknowledged my complaint!

Posted by Amberdog at 09:37 on 09-Feb-2010

I was also on the tutor course and completed the 600 hours. What can be done???? my e-mail is elaine390@btinternet.com. Who does one contact as the college is not replying. I have e-mailed and written

Posted by Elaine at 17:06 on 03-Mar-2010

Don't forget nationalhomediplomas (John Simemens) seem to be the same lot - SO AVOID

Posted by Anonymous at 09:45 on 02-Dec-2009

Can anyone tell me how to find a trustworthy distance learning college with real accredited qualifications?

Latest on NHS - my local trading standards is looking into it and my bank (Halifax) is going to try and get my money back from them and is going to keep me informed. Fingers crossed.

Posted by typolisa at 13:47 on 02-Dec-2009

Hi i dont know if anyone has posted this but found phlip august email on the net
paugust@nationalhomestudy.co.uk
Its on a website detailing domain information such as how many times they have changed their name and so on.
http://whois.domaintools.com/homestudynet.com

Posted by dannyboy2004 at 19:04 on 02-Dec-2009

CHECK OUT NEXT WEEKS "TV CHOICE" MAGAZINE 5-11TH DEC, ON THE BACK PAGE (under letters)THEY ARE DOING A NEW PROGRAMME ABOUT CONSUMER COMPLAINTS AND ARE ASKING FOR PEOPLE TO TAKE PART ON THE SHOW, SO IVE E.MAILED THE COMPANY AND TOLD THEM ABOUT ALL OUR STORIES AND GIVEN THEM THE PLEBBLE SITE TO CHECK OUT TO SEE IF ITS WORTH DOING A STORY. I HOPE YOUR ALL UP FOR IT IF THE SHOW GETS BACK TO ME.
HERES THEIR E.AMIL ADDRESS IF YOU WANT TO ALSO SEND THEM YOUR STORY...dom@flametv.co.uk THE SHOW IS CALLED "DONT GET DONE GET DOM".
I RECKON ITS WORTH A SHOT.

Posted by jojo16 at 22:21 on 02-Dec-2009

Hello there, I am not sure, if this is getting anywhere...
I have also been taken in by the NHS. Is there any point in trying to take some action? And WHAT can we do?

Posted by Romy at 19:16 on 03-Dec-2009

Jojo I'm willing to back anyone else up with this nightmare company, should you be contacted. I would love to have these people get what they deserve.

Posted by Kiemc02 at 14:46 on 08-Dec-2009

Hi, I have just been to see my MP about this, as adviced by MP Nick Herd. My MP said that he will look into it, but that we need to get an someone like Dom or Watchdog to look into this and get it on tv. So if everyone sends an email to Dom@flametv.co.uk, with enough of us sending it they will hopefully look into it. I have sent an email to them and they said if its something they can look into they will get back for more details. So everyone get emailing and hopefully we can get them exposed.

Posted by sj at 10:24 on 11-Dec-2009

By the way I have now contacted:
Hazel1andJ1@aol.com,
Watchdog,
Consumer Direct,
Trading Standards and
Nick Hurd.

Anyone else who might be able to help?

Posted by typolisa at 13:35 on 29-Nov-2009

NO-ONE HAS HEARD ANYTHING FROM THEIR COURSES SINCE AUGUST SO YOUR LIKE US ALL, WE HAVE ALL BEEN GETTING "MARVELOUS" GRADE "A" FOR EVERY ESSAY WEVE COMPLETED, SO WHERE IS THE NHS BASED AT NOW, ANYONE HEARD FROM WATCHDOG.?
WONDER WHY THE NHS HAS SHUT DOWN THEIR SITE- ITS CAUSE THE VULTURES HAVE BEEN GOT UPON BY US LOT. I CAN SEE THEIR CUMUPENCE MAKING A START AND ABOUT TIME TOO. NO GOOD NHS RUNNING AND HIDING, ITS HUNDREDS OF US AGAINST YOU 3.DOWNHILL AS FROM NOW.

Posted by jojo16 at 19:30 on 29-Nov-2009

i have just contacted watchdog again and told them the NHS have shut their po.box number and website down and pleaded with them to start getting our stories together QUICKLY before we lose track of this bogus firm and their where abouts altogether.

Posted by jojo16 at 19:48 on 29-Nov-2009

They have shut down and a previous director of NHS John Siemens has set up nationalhomediploma.co.uk doing exactly the same scam. Lets hope that the various agencies are going to do something about this con and get all the money back they have extorted through their lies about their qualifications being nationalaly recognised etc. Keep on at Watchdog and all the others, espechialy Nick Hurd the MP, no ones heard from him so lets make him work for his money.

Posted by Anonymous at 19:51 on 29-Nov-2009

On the National home study college website they have now posted:
"IMPORTANT NOTICE, Despite the best efforts of staff, and the support of the many thousands of genuine students who have enjoyed their studies , National home study have suspended all services with immediate effect, all enquiries should be addressed to:
The managing director,
BCM National home study, London, WC1N 3XX"
Firstly genuine students yeah we are genuine its the people running it that arnt, the managing director, no name surprise surprise and we know they have suspended services!
National diplomas site has gone too and a message on there as I posted in an earlier bulletin.

Posted by dannyboy2004 at 14:40 on 30-Nov-2009

It's one thing to suspend services, but to cut and run with everyones money is another. Everyone still needs to keep complaining as this is absolutely out of order (to put it politely!).

Posted by Studentpowers at 21:05 on 30-Nov-2009

How many of you are going through the court system . I feel I may be the only one!! It would be a comfort if I knew. Hazel1andJ1@aol.com

Posted by hazel3603 at 10:24 on 01-Dec-2009

Hi, no your not the only one, I just sent a letter to say I will be starting court procedures, which that have recived. But I guess that Im never seeing my money again!! I have also written watchdog and am dealing with consumer direct.Got to say I feel like a total fool

Posted by sj at 11:00 on 01-Dec-2009

I too have been trying to contact NHS for ages. I have recieved no replies to any emails or messages left on the phone system. I am half way through my Fellowship programme which i paid over £500 for.
I'm not sure of the next steps and who to contact but looking at the above information i will be contacting:
- trading standards
- watchdog
- the one show

I doubt that any of us will see our money again but we need to try and stop this happening again!!
Several links that may be of use:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/x-ray/sites/allarticles/updates/10p16_distance_learning.shtml

An article about Mr August!

http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=775478

A thread from another forum (quite a bit older though!!)

I have also been talking to my colleague who is an Ofsted inspector and she has looked up some info (see below link)

http://wck2.companieshouse.gov.uk/b00a9372eba59bbede5d7bc40ebbded7/compdetails

This shows that their accounts statement is overdue from Feb 2009.

Not good!!

I will also be looking into taking Legal Action against the company.

I would be grateful to know how everyone gets on, we may need to club together on this.
I am thinking of setting up a facebook page to keep everyone in touch!

Emily
emzy_emz_@hotmail.co.uk

Posted by emzyemz at 14:24 on 01-Dec-2009

Hi guys. I've only just come across this site but it would seem i'm not alone with the problems i'm having with NHS. I have been trying for over a year to get a refund of the money taken from my account without my authorisation. I've spoken to Consumer Direct, my bank and someone from the county however a year on im no closer to seeing this money. I started a claim through the courts however it was returned to me to serve seeing as the so called addressee had gone. What a surprise!!!
If anyone has any idea what to do next, or if they have had any luck then please let me know.
Surely if we all stick together we can get them.

Posted by Abs007 at 18:48 on 01-Dec-2009

Hello

I have just received a phone call from Consumer Direct asking me to send a letter before action to NHS so I will be joining the rest of you in trying to get my money back and also expose these people for what they really are. Lets all stick together and prove a point!

Posted by BIG6148 at 11:37 on 02-Dec-2009

Emily, I looked at your last link and couldn't find them. I was on Companies House trying to find their company registered number which I am being asked for.

I am getting very frustrated as I paid from a joint account which I am no longer with and this morning I spoke to a lovely guy from Halifax about it who basically said if the other person on the joint account called (it's now only in his name) we'd get the money back. Now he has called and the woman he spoke to said it was too long ago and they can't get the money back. Grrr.

Next to try - Citizens advice.

Posted by typolisa at 17:11 on 02-Dec-2009

AND - I've just found there is a Facebook group already! Look up National Home Study on facebook and join the rant

Posted by typolisa at 18:15 on 02-Dec-2009

HERES SOMETHING NEW TO TRY,DOES ANYONE BUY THE TV MAGAZINE "TV CHOICE" ? WELL IF YOU LOOK IN NEXT WEEKS 5-11THDEC LISTING ON THE BACK PAGE UNDER LETTERS PAGE THERES THE BIT THAT SAYS "WANT TO BE ON TV".
THEY ARE DOING A NEW PROGRAMME ON CONSUMER COMPLAINTS, AND THE PROGRAMME IS CALLED "DONT GET DONE, GET DOM".
SO IVE E.MAILED DOM AND TOLD HIM ALL ABOUT US STUDENTS AND WHATS HAPPENING AND GIVING HIM THE PLEBBLE SITE TO CHECK OUT, I TOLD HIM WE WOULD ALL BE ABLE TO GIVE HIM A FANTASTIC STORY OF THIS SCAM.
IF YOU WANT TO E.MAIL THIS PROGRAMME THIS IS THE ADDRESS.....DOM@FLAMETV.CO.UK
ARE YOU ALL UP FOR IT IF HE GETS BACK TO ME???????

Posted by jojo16 at 22:11 on 02-Dec-2009

TYPOLISA

I have copied and pasted this from Companies House:

Name & Registered Office:
ASTRA CORPORATION LIMITED
BCM NATIONAL HOME STUDY
27 OLD GLOUCESTER STREET
LONDON
WC1N 3XX
Company No. 03203736

They are registered under the name Astra Corporation.
I also have their UKPRN (UK Provider Reference Number) which is on my original course print out from the website - 10004513.

Hope that helps!

Emily

Posted by emzyemz at 22:52 on 02-Dec-2009

Having just checked out the postcode on Royal Mail this is a bit odd. Number 26 has a postcode of WC1N 3AN, Number 28 has a postcode of WC1N 3AS. I have found a company registered at Number 27, the postcode is WC1N 3AX.....not 3XX as stated on Companies House and their website!!

Posted by emzyemz at 22:58 on 02-Dec-2009

Thanks Emily.

I'll email Dom - tho I don't really want to be on TV :S !!

Posted by typolisa at 09:40 on 03-Dec-2009

Hello there, I am joining the club. I also have been taken in by the NHS...

Posted by Anonymous at 19:14 on 03-Dec-2009

Hi, still had no joy with them sending back my money. Jojo I'll email dom aswell, will give my story bout them, (dont want to be on tv though!) But by having more emails may get us to get them to look into it.

Posted by sj at 14:51 on 07-Dec-2009

hi guys, i have also had problems with NHS college they took money out of my hubbys account without authorisation which means they kept bank details as we paid on card over the phone, they also sold me a bookkeeping course that aint worth the paper its written on and when i asked for my refund they made excuses everytime, now i see they have ceased trading i feel like such a fool i cannot afford to lose £230 but fear i will never see it again, i have contacted 'dont get done get dom' and also trading standards, and will be joining the facebook blog too, we really need to stick 2gether on this 1 im with u all the way guys!!!

Posted by jb at 12:35 on 11-Dec-2009

Hi

I have received a letter today from NHS advising me that they have ceased trading from 1st December, as if we didn't know this and giving me 3 alternatives of how to claim back monies paid. I have contacted paypal and am awaiting the outcome. Has anyone else received this letter?

Posted by BIG6148 at 11:23 on 18-Dec-2009

I understand where you are coming from and trying to think of anything I can do to help everyone and myself as there are lots of us in this situation.
I completed a diploma and trying to get the cirtificate veryfied to see if its real.
Like many I was invited to do the marking course and cant complete it, ive sent them tons of emails and phoned them and no answer and its getting on my nerves.
Ive contacted watchdog as many have and reported to trading standards and going to contact my MP to.
Hopefully some results will come up soon.

Posted by dannyboy2004 at 17:45 on 23-Nov-2009

Unforunately there are lots of us now out of pocket with totally worthless qualifications. None of this colleges qualifications are UK recognised and all the work done by many of us was a complete waste of time. All we can do is keep on at trading standards, make sure credit cards are cancelled to stop them taking illgal amounts of money. Looks like National Home Study has closed and started up again with one of its directors under nationalhome diplomas - same courses , same mode of operation so avoid. I have learned some vlauable lessons, don't take flashy web sites and promises on them to be worth anything, never deal with online course providers that are not registered with the National Qualifications directorate and to search the web before bying anything on it. We must all keep on a Trading Standards, these guys are paid enough so get them working. Also try Nick Hurd the MP for Pinner he may be able to help - not heard back from him yet but I will keep emailing until I do here - again another lot that get paid too much! get them working for us. John and Veronica Siemens - the old partners of National Home Study with Mr P August seem to own the new company National home Diplomas or something like that so be warned. If you paid by credit card you may be able to get your money back via them. Good luck

Posted by Anonymous at 18:28 on 23-Nov-2009

My friend bought this to my attention last night. After i was complaining that i have heard nothing from my course for months and dispite numerous calls and emails, no responses. I got an email beginning of september advising that they were sorry for the delay but they are in the process of moving premises and inclosed my next lot of material. They advised me my grading and material will be sent via post and all students will be contacted once they are settled.
It is now November.
When the email was sent i thought nothing of it - fair do`s companies move premises, thanks for explaining etc etc. I grew impatient of still not having a response and here we are as i say my friend found this site and many more.
I like you all seem to have lost a lot of money and alot of time and effort. I feel so stupid and naive to let this company take advantage

Posted by Anonymous at 20:42 on 23-Nov-2009

I too feel stupid and join everyone in the fact that the college have "had us" I have had confirmation from the Royal Mail that the postcode they are advertising on their website is a PO Box postcode for British Monomarks Ltd and was cancelled on 19/9/09 I have the address for British Monomarks and may write to them will keep everyone posted if I find any news! I too have reported them to trading standards and I am contacting Watchdog and everybody else who may listen lets all stick together and do the same, they should not be allowed to get away with this.

Posted by BIG6148 at 12:21 on 25-Nov-2009

Hello everyone that has been done in by the NHS. I am joining the club. Until just now I did not want to believe that the whole thing is a fraud, though I have been having suspisions ever since I signed up. That was in August. First they took my money very quickly. Then I did not hear anything from them for 3 weeks. Phone calls were not being answered. After an angry email by me I was sent a flimsy folder with worthless study material which had nothing to do with the questions I was to answer for the assignments. Well, I could go on with my story, but I think, that all of you have had very similar problems. I would like to take some action, but like so many, I am a bit lost about what to do...

Posted by Romy at 19:03 on 03-Dec-2009

Contact all the people we've contacted - strength in numbers! Join us on Facebook too if you're on there - lots of details of what we're all doing. The group is called National Home Study (surprisingly!)

Posted by typolisa at 09:30 on 04-Dec-2009

I am sorry to say that I new this man very well when he was in his 20's I lost touch with him when he was sent away for 5 years, it would seem he has carried on with what he knows best, conning people ! ! ! he should not be aloud to run any business.

Posted by user #6151 at 12:34 on 23-Dec-2009

We knew about this. Hopefully we will see new headlines like this when they bring the new case against his company and its directors. They have much more evidence this time and with all the so called 'accidental' extra withdrawls and non repayment of money they should be kept in one of those nice Govermenemt hotels with iron curtains!

Posted by Anonymous at 16:10 on 23-Nov-2009

It obviously did not send the right message cause he's been doing it ever since and must have taken 100's of thousand of pounds from unsuspecting people. Now their new company nationahomediplomas is doing it all over again, the law seems so weak in the UK with this sort of activity. In Germany the directors would have got at least 5 years and a life ban from running this type of company.

Posted by Anonymous at 18:31 on 23-Nov-2009

my friend bought this to attention to me yesterday after i was complaining that its taken several months for my next lot of course work and dispite numerous calls and emails i have had no response i feel so naive to have been sucked in to such a scam when all i want as like the rest of you is to gain a good qualification in my own time to work towards a successful career.

Posted by Anonymous at 20:35 on 23-Nov-2009

INFACT, I AM SO SHOCKED AND DISTURBED ABOUT HEARING THAT THIS COLLEGE I HAVE BEING STUDYING FOR ALMOST ONE YEAR NOW AND LEFT WITH JUST 4 ASSINGMENTS TO COMPLTETE MY HIGHR DIPLOMA IN CRIMINOLOGY HAS GONE OUT OF TRADE. WELL WHAT IS THE WAY FORWARD NOW? NO RESPONS, NO VALIDATED TRANSCRIPT TO GO TO ANOTHER UNIVERSITY TO COMPLETE THIS COURSE I HAVE SACRIFICED MY LIFE , FAMILY PLEASURES, MONEY AND TIME AND POSSIBLY SLEEP JUST TO ATTAIN SOME FORM OF QUALIFICATION DUE TO FAMILY COMMITTMENT, NOW I LOOK STUPID AND FOOLISH FOR ALL THIS YEARS OF STUDY. WHY THE GOVERNMENT ALLOW PEOPLE LIKE THESE TO DESTROY OTHER LIVES JUST BECAUSE THEY WANT TO GET SOME FORM OF EDUCATION FOR THEMSELF AND BE ABLE TO PROVIDE QUALITY OF CARE FOR THIER FAMILES?
PLEASE CAN SOMEBODY HELP ME AS TO WHAT TO DO NEXT? CAN WE NOW BELIEVE IN ALL LONG DISTANCE LEARNING COLLEGES. FOR EXAMPLE OPEN UNIVERSITY AND MANY OTHERS. CONTACT ME ON 07958500337.PLEASE I NEED YOUR HELP AS TO HOW TO DEAL WITH THIS ISSUE.
MANY THANK

Posted by ferdinard at 16:46 on 25-Dec-2009

Help urgently needed. If you took the tutor marking course and have any documentation from them on the length of the course, I need it to send to my bank to get a visa refund.

Anyone else, we can all sue togethr as a group action. There is a legal reason why we can sue them as individuals even though the company has gone into liquidation. Also, If you have paid by card, credit or debit you should be able to get some money back.

Ring me on 07882284642

Posted by user #5612 at 19:51 on 06-Jan-2010