Reasonable Adjustment & Special Consideration Policy

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Reasonable Adjustment & Special Consideration Policy

How AMSC ensures fair and equal access to assessment for every learner, through reasonable adjustments and special consideration.

1

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline the framework under which Ace Management System Consultants (AMSC) will provide reasonable adjustments and special consideration to ensure fair and equal access to qualification delivery and assessment processes for all learners. The policy aims to eliminate barriers that could lead to disadvantage, discrimination, or misinterpretation, in line with legal, ethical, and competence standards.

2

Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All learners enrolled in qualifications delivered or assessed by AMSC
  • All staff involved in the design, delivery, and assessment of qualifications
  • All assessment formats, including written, oral, practical, or digital
3

Definitions

3.1 Reasonable Adjustments

A reasonable adjustment is defined as a measure or change implemented before an assessment to accommodate the needs of learners with long-term impairments, disabilities, or learning difficulties, so they can demonstrate their knowledge and skills without being unfairly disadvantaged.

Examples include (but are not limited to):

  • Allocating additional time to complete assessments
  • Providing assessment materials in alternative formats (e.g., Braille, large print)
  • Changing the method of assessment (e.g., oral assessment instead of written)
  • Use of assistive technologies or interpreters
  • Modifying room layout or lighting
  • Allowing colored overlays or transparent sheets
  • Providing readers, scribes, or additional support staff
Reasonable adjustments must be planned in advance and approved prior to assessment. Adjustments must not compromise the integrity or validity of the qualification.

3.2 Special Consideration

Special consideration refers to post-assessment measures taken when a learner has been temporarily disadvantaged during or immediately before the assessment due to unforeseen or exceptional circumstances.

Acceptable grounds may include:

  • Acute illness or injury
  • Bereavement or emotional trauma
  • Major incidents (e.g., accidents, security threats)
  • Technical failure during online assessments

Special consideration does not apply in cases where:

  • The learner is absent without a valid reason
  • The learner fails to meet competence criteria which are mandatory
  • The learner is underperforming due to long-term conditions already mitigated by reasonable adjustments
  • The learner chooses not to disclose their condition in a timely manner
5

Policy Principles

All reasonable adjustments and special considerations shall:

  • Reflect the learner’s genuine need without compromising assessment criteria
  • Be appropriate, proportional, and practical
  • Maintain fairness and integrity across the assessment process
  • Be based on documented evidence and subject to verification
  • Avoid giving an unfair advantage or undermining competence standards
6

Responsibilities

LearnerInform AMSC of their needs at the earliest opportunity
Instructor / AssessorIdentify learners who may require support and refer to Exams Officer
Exams OfficerCoordinate, approve, and document all applications for adjustments and special considerations
Academic Head / Quality LeadEnsure compliance with standards and assist with policy reviews
External VerifierMay request evidence as part of quality assurance audits
7

Procedure for Requesting Reasonable Adjustments

  • Initial Disclosure: Learner discloses need for adjustment (via application form or advisor).
  • Evidence Collection: Relevant medical or professional evidence submitted.
  • Review & Decision: Exams Officer assesses request, may consult academic staff.
  • Approval: Written confirmation of adjustment shared with learner and assessor.
  • Implementation: Adjustment applied for scheduled assessments.
  • Retention of Records: Documentation securely retained until learner exits the programme.
8

Procedure for Requesting Special Consideration

  • Incident Reporting: Learner or staff notifies Exams Officer within 5 working days of the event.
  • Supporting Evidence: Submit doctor’s certificate, legal documents, or other verification.
  • Evaluation: Request reviewed in line with awarding body guidance.
  • Decision: May include partial compensation, rescheduling, or result adjustment.
  • Notification: Learner informed in writing of the outcome.
9

Record Keeping and Confidentiality

All applications and supporting evidence shall be:

  • Treated confidentially and stored securely
  • Accessed only by authorized staff
  • Retained until the learner completes the qualification or formally withdraws
  • Made available to the External Verifier or Regulatory Body, with the learner’s consent
10

Review and Monitoring

This policy shall be:

  • Reviewed annually by the Academic Head and Exams Officer
  • Updated to reflect any changes in legislation or awarding body guidance
  • Evaluated periodically through internal audits and learner feedback
11

Contact Information

For any inquiries or to apply for reasonable adjustments or special consideration, please contact:

Exams Officer
Ace Management System Consultants (AMSC)
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