Reasonable Adjustments and Special Considerations Policy

 

1. Purpose

This policy outlines the procedures for managing Reasonable Adjustments and Special Considerations to ensure fair and equitable access to assessments for all learners, in accordance with the Equality Act 2010 and regulatory requirements (e.g., Ofqual General Conditions of Recognition).

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All learners undertaking qualifications offered by Hydurage Limited
  • Approved centres and training providers
  • Internal and external assessors and quality assurers

3. Definitions

Reasonable Adjustments:
Pre-planned modifications or arrangements made before an assessment takes place to reduce the effect of a disability or difficulty that places a learner at a disadvantage.

Examples include:

  • Extra time
  • Use of a reader or scribe
  • Modified materials (e.g., large print)
  • Alternative assessment methods

Special Considerations:
Post-assessment adjustments made to the outcome of an assessment for a learner who was disadvantaged during the assessment due to unforeseen circumstances.

Examples include:

  • Illness or injury during the assessment
  • Bereavement or trauma
  • Disruption during the exam

4. Principles

  • Reasonable adjustments must not affect the integrity or validity of the assessment.
  • Adjustments must be tailored to the individual’s needs and be evidence-based.
  • Requests must be supported by appropriate evidence (e.g., medical reports, education statements).
  • Special considerations will not compensate for a learner’s lack of ability.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

  • Learners must inform their centre of any needs as early as possible.
  • Centres are responsible for identifying needs and submitting requests with supporting evidence.
  • Hydurage Limited will review, approve or decline requests and monitor implementation.

6. Procedures

A. Reasonable Adjustments

  1. Centres submit a Reasonable Adjustment Request Form at least 4 weeks before the assessment date.
  2. Requests must include:
    • Details of the learner’s condition
    • Evidence from a qualified professional
    • The specific adjustment requested
  3. Decisions are made within 10 working days.
  4. Centres must implement approved adjustments and retain records for audit purposes.

B. Special Considerations

  1. Requests must be submitted within 5 working days of the assessment date.
  2. Centres must provide:
    • A completed Special Consideration Request Form
    • Evidence of the event (e.g., doctor’s note, incident report)
  3. Each case is reviewed individually, and outcomes may include:
    • Minor mark adjustment
    • Allowing a re-sit without penalty
    • Extension of deadlines

7. Monitoring and Review

All applications and decisions will be monitored for consistency. The policy will be reviewed annually or in response to changes in legislation or regulatory guidance.

8. Complaints and Appeals

If a learner disagrees with the outcome of a request, they may appeal through Hydurage’s Appeals Policy.