Cookie Policy

1. Introduction

The Academy ("we," "us," "our") is committed to providing a user-friendly experience on our website while safeguarding your privacy. This Cookie Policy explains how we use cookies and similar tracking technologies on our website, what data they collect, and how you can manage your cookie preferences. By continuing to browse our website, you consent to our use of cookies as outlined in this policy.

2. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that are placed on your computer, smartphone, or other devices when you visit a website. They allow the website to recognise your device, store your preferences, and enhance your user experience by remembering information between visits. Cookies can be either "persistent" (stored on your device for a fixed period) or "session" (deleted when you close your browser).

3. Types of Cookies We Use

We use various types of cookies to improve our website and services. These cookies can be categorised as follows:

• Essential Cookies: These cookies are necessary for the website to function properly. They enable core functionalities, such as security, network management, and accessibility. Without these cookies, some services you request cannot be provided.
• Performance and Analytics Cookies: These cookies collect information about how you use our website, such as which pages you visit most often and if you receive error messages from web pages. The data collected is aggregated and anonymous, helping us to improve our website's performance and the user experience.
• Functional Cookies: Functional cookies allow the website to remember your choices (such as your language preference or region) and provide enhanced, more personalised features. They may also be used to provide services you have requested, like watching a video or commenting on a blog.
• Targeting or Advertising Cookies: These cookies are used to deliver advertisements that are more relevant to you and your interests. They can also be used to limit the number of times you see an advertisement and help measure the effectiveness of advertising campaigns. They may be placed by us or by third-party advertising networks with our permission.
• Social Media Cookies: These cookies allow you to share content from our website on social media platforms. They may also be used by social media platforms to track your browsing activity and build a profile of your interests.

4. How We Use Cookies

We use cookies to:

• Ensure that our website functions correctly and securely.
• Improve the overall user experience by remembering your preferences and settings.
• Gather statistical data on how our website is used so we can enhance its performance and content.
• Deliver personalised content and targeted advertising.
• Enable social sharing features and interactions with social media platforms.

5. Third-Party Cookies

Some cookies on our website are placed by third-party service providers. These third parties may include analytics services like Google Analytics, advertising networks, and social media platforms. These cookies are managed by the respective third parties and are subject to their privacy policies. We use the following third-party services that may place cookies on your device:

• Google Analytics: Helps us understand how visitors interact with our website by collecting and reporting information anonymously.
• Facebook Pixel: Tracks conversions from Facebook ads, optimises ads based on collected data, and builds targeted audiences.
• YouTube: Stores preferences for viewing embedded videos on our website.

6. Managing Your Cookie Preferences

You have the right to manage your cookie preferences and can do so in the following ways:

• Browser Settings: Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings. You can choose to block or delete cookies, including cookies used for advertising purposes. However, please note that disabling certain cookies may affect the functionality of our website and your ability to use some features.
• Opt-Out Tools: For third-party cookies used for advertising purposes, you can opt out of targeted ads by visiting websites such as YourAdChoices or Network Advertising Initiative.
• IP Addresses: Our website automatically detects the IP Address and domain name of users when they connect to the Internet. An IP Address is a unique number assigned to your computer. This information is stored in server activity logs, enabling us to process data for statistical purposes. The data helps us understand various metrics, such as the number of page views, visits to different sections of our website, the reasons for the visit, and the points of access.
• Security: We employ industry-standard information security technologies to safeguard your data. These include firewalls, access control methods, and encryption mechanisms designed to prevent unauthorised access. By using our website, you agree to these security measures and their role in protecting your personal information.

Changes to the Cookie Policy

This Cookie Policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in legislation or our practices. We recommend reviewing this policy regularly. Significant changes will be communicated either through the website or via email to registered users.

For any questions or further assistance, please contact us at: privacy@theacademy.ac.nz.

This policy is subject to change. Any modifications will be communicated via our website. This version aims to reflect our commitment to protecting your personal information. Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Last updated August 2024