Fair Assessment Policy

Fair Assessment Policy

1. Purpose

This policy ensures that all assessments conducted  are valid, reliable, fair, and inclusive, in accordance with the General Conditions of Recognition set by Ofqual and other UK regulators.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All qualifications awarded by the awarding body
  • Centres delivering and assessing qualifications
  • Learners undertaking assessments
  • Internal and external quality assurance staff

3. Principles of Fair Assessment

We commit to the following principles:

a. Validity

Assessments must measure what they are intended to assess and be appropriate to the qualification’s learning outcomes and level.

b. Reliability

Assessment outcomes should be consistent and replicable across different contexts, assessors, and over time.

c. Fairness

All learners must have equal opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and understanding without disadvantage.

d. Accessibility

Assessments must be designed and administered in ways that are accessible to all learners, including those with disabilities or additional support needs.

e. Transparency

Information about assessment criteria, processes, and appeals must be clearly communicated to centres and learners.

4. Responsibilities

a. Awarding Body

  • Develops and maintains assessment instruments and guidance
  • Ensures qualification standards are maintained across centres
  • Monitors centre performance through external quality assurance

b. Centres

  • Deliver assessments according to the awarding body’s requirements
  • Provide reasonable adjustments where appropriate
  • Ensure assessors are trained and competent
  • Maintain accurate assessment and learner records

c. Assessors

  • Assess evidence against agreed criteria consistently
  • Provide clear, constructive feedback
  • Engage in standardisation activities as required

5. Reasonable Adjustments and Special Consideration

  • Reasonable adjustments will be made to ensure no learner is disadvantaged due to disability or condition, in line with the Equality Act 2010.
  • Special consideration may be granted if a learner’s performance is affected by unforeseen circumstances.

6. Malpractice and Maladministration

We have zero tolerance for malpractice or maladministration. All allegations will be investigated thoroughly, following our Malpractice Policy. Sanctions may apply to centres, staff, or learners as appropriate.

7. Appeals

Learners have the right to appeal assessment decisions. All centres must operate a clear and accessible appeals process, with further escalation to the awarding body if required.

8. Monitoring and Review

This policy is reviewed annually or in response to regulatory updates. Feedback from learners, centres, and quality assurance personnel informs improvements.

Approved by: Head of Quality
Effective from: 12th May 2025
Next Review Date: 12th May 2026