36.3.5 School, college, university or other educational institution

A broad view should be taken of the type of institution which is included in this description, the key element is that it is an educational institution.

'Education' has the dictionary meaning:

1. the act or process of educating or being educated; systematic instruction. ... 3.a development of character or mental powers. b. a stage in or aspect of this (travel will be an education for you).

'Educate' has the dictionary meaning:

1. give intellectual, moral, and social instruction to (a pupil, esp. a child), esp. as a formal and prolonged process. ... 3. train or instruct for a particular purpose. 4. advise, give information to.

An educational institution could be expected to exhibit the following characteristics:

• it has a predominant aim of imparting knowledge
• it provides instruction in an area of knowledge or activity
• the instruction is provided by suitably qualified people in an organised or systematic manner and on a regular or continuing basis
• the institution itself has a definite and systematic structure (although it need not be an incorporated body).

There is no requirement that the body must be formally registered as a school or university by a government agency. However, any such body would necessarily fall within the provision by virtue of such registration.

An educational institution could be one part of a larger body which is not otherwise educational in focus.