Becoming an Approved Assessment Centre. Application Guide

Transcription

1 Becoming an Approved Assessment Centre Application Guide

2 Contents 1. INTRODUCTION Requirements of All Assessment Centres Considerations for Assessment Centres CRITERIA FOR CENTRE APPROVAL STEPS TO CENTRE APPROVAL... 4 Application for Approval... 4 Approval Visit ORGANISATIONS ALREADY OFFERING UNITS AND/OR QUALIFICATIONS WITH OTHER AWARDING BODIES APPROVAL TO OFFER ADDITIONAL UNITS / QUALIFICATIONS FEES FURTHER INFORMATION... 6 Appendix 1 : Centre Approval and Verification Criteria... 7 Appendix 2: Customer Service Statement Appendix 3: Data Protection Policy Appendix 4: Equality Policy Appendix 5: Enquiries and Appeals Procedures Appendix 6: Complaints Policy Appendix 7: Malpractice Policy Appendix 8: Reasonable Adjustments and Special Considerations Policy Appendix 9: Fees... 35

3 1. INTRODUCTION Organisations must gain approval from ProQual to become a ProQual centre before they can offer any ProQual qualifications. Approval must be gained for each qualification that a centre wishes to offer. This document is for use by organisations seeking approval to offer qualifications awarded by ProQual. 1.1 Requirements of All Assessment Centres Centres must have systems for maintaining records of candidates and their achievements according to ProQual regulations. Centres must have policies that will ensure that there are no unnecessary barriers for any groups of candidates. Centres must also have suitable policies for health and safety, appeals/complaints and equality and diversity. For each competence-based assessed unit centres must be able to provide at least one assessor and one internal verifier who is suitably qualified for the specific occupational area. Assessors and internal verifiers for competence-based units or qualifications will normally need to have appropriate QCF assessor or verifier qualifications, such as: o Award in Assessing Competence in the Work Environment o Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement o Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement o Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practices o Certificate in Leading the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practices Adequate systems must be in place to implement and monitor the parity of treatment of learners with regard to entry selection, participation, access to assessment and success. Approved centres must ensure that no unfair discrimination is applied in considering learners for registration, and that no irrelevant information is brought to bear by assessors whilst assessing learners. ProQual will provide an External Quality Assurance Verifier (EQAV) who will make regular visits and will oversee the assessment process. The EQAV may also visit during the approval process and will agree action plans with the centre where any issues need to be addressed. 1.2 Considerations for Assessment Centres A senior member of staff should have overall responsibility for the organisation s operation as an assessment centre, and should nominate a person to be the lead contact between the centre and ProQual. Staff working as assessors, verifiers and mentors have to be able to devote a substantial amount of time to support candidates and carry out the assessment thoroughly and fairly. Where the assessor needs to observe a candidate at work, the centre must ensure that appropriate permission is obtained and that confidentiality is assured.

4 2. CRITERIA FOR CENTRE APPROVAL 2.1 ProQual has an obligation to the regulatory bodies to ensure that assessment is undertaken to national standards. Potential centres therefore undergo a rigorous approval process. Following approval assessment will be subject to regular monitoring. 2.2 Organisations wishing to become approved centres will therefore need to show that they can meet the approval criteria detailed in Appendix 1 Centre Approval and Verification Criteria. The centre will need to have a single named point of accountability for quality assurance (usually a centre coordinator or manager) to provide guidance, information and support for candidates wishing to undertake QCF units the ability to plan and review the delivery of QCF units appropriate resources human, administrative and technical access to expertise in the field covered by the QCF units an understanding of assessment, using a range of valid and reliable methods rigorous quality assurance procedures a commitment to equal opportunities and access to assessment 3. STEPS TO CENTRE APPROVAL Application for Approval 3.1 Organisations should complete the Centre Approval Application Form. ProQual will assign an EQAV who is an expert in the occupational field covered by the specific units that a centre wishes to deliver. ProQual may call for additional information, and will be able to provide additional support and guidance, as appropriate (normally by , post or telephone) to assist in the completion of the form. Approval Visit 3.2 If sufficient evidence has been provided then an approval visit by an EQAV will be arranged. During the centre approval visit the EQAV or other ProQual representatives will need to meet the centre staff, including those contributing to the work of any satellite centres involved in delivering the units. The staff will be those who undertake assessment, quality assurance (internal verifiers) and co-ordination/administration. The centre will be expected to ensure that the co-ordination of functions and administration of the centre are carried out satisfactorily and will co-ordinate communications with ProQual through the EQAV.

5 3.3 The EQAV will produce a report on the approval visit that: makes a recommendation with regard to the approval of a specific unit or group of units identifies any issues arising out of the approval visit sets out an agreed action plan 3.4 The report and recommendation will then be considered by the ProQual Governing Body, which has the authority to grant formal approval. If, for any reason, approval cannot be given the prospective centre will be provided with a copy of the report and recommendations as to what needs to be done to satisfy the approval criteria. 4. ORGANISATIONS ALREADY OFFERING UNITS AND/OR QUALIFICATIONS WITH OTHER AWARDING BODIES 4.1 If an organisation is already a centre offering units and/or qualifications through another awarding body and wishes to offer them through ProQual then they are still required to complete the Centre Approval Application Form. 4.2 Depending on evidence provided an approval visit may be arranged or the application may be dealt with by correspondence. 5. APPROVAL TO OFFER ADDITIONAL UNITS / QUALIFICATIONS 5.1 A centre already approved by ProQual for one or more units may wish to gain approval to offer additional units or qualifications. 5.2 The centre should use the Unit/Qualification Approval Form to indicate the additional unit(s) or qualification(s) for which approval is sought, and any additional resources (e.g. staff, facilities) that may be required. 5.3 If the additional unit or qualification closely relates to any for which the centre is already approved then the application may be dealt with by correspondence. 5.4 If the additional unit or qualification is not closely related to that for which the centre is already approved then an appropriately experienced specialist adviser may be asked to assist the EQAV in considering the application.

6 6. FEES 6.1 Contact us for the current Fee Schedule. 7. FURTHER INFORMATION Further information on ProQual is available from: ProQual Awarding Body Cave House Annie Med Lane South Cave HU15 2HG Web: Telephone:

7 Appendix 1 : Centre Approval and Verification Criteria 1. PLANNING 1.1 Management Systems Criteria The centre s aim and policies in relation to unit credits and qualifications are supported by senior management and understood by the assessment team The centre s access and fair assessment policy and practice is understood and complied with by candidates and assessors The centre must be recognised by the learner registration service to apply for Unique Learner Numbers (ULNs) The roles, responsibilities, authorities and accountabilities of the assessment and verification team across all assessment sites are clearly defined, allocated and understood Internal verification / standardisation procedures and activities are clearly documented, consistent with national requirements and ensure the quality and consistency of assessment There is effective communication within the assessment team and with ProQual. Possible sources of evidence A unit/qualification development plan confirmed with, and supported by, senior management. Documented quality procedures. Progress reports and staff updates. Documented policies and procedures. Access and fair assessment policy review mechanisms. Details of registration with the learner registration service. Documented quality assurance procedures. An organisational chart. Documented and signed agreements indicating the lines of accountability of partner organisations in relation to the management of assessment and internal quality assurance. Records of all assessment sites and personnel. Contact arrangements between the centre, assessment sites, clients and candidates. CVs of the assessment and internal verification team. Internal verification plans and reports. A sampling strategy and schedule of activity. Records of assessment team meetings. Assessor networking opportunities. Records of editing processes for marked tests and assignments. Records of analysis of multiple choice tests. Staff handbooks and updates. Organisational charts. Minutes of team meetings. Records of communication with the awarding body.

8 1.2 Resources Criteria Resource needs are accurately identified in relation to the specific unit and resources are made available Equipment and accommodation used for the purposes of assessment comply with the requirements of relevant health and safety acts There are sufficient competent and qualified assessors and internal verifiers to meet the demand for assessment and verification activity A staff development programme is established for the assessment and verification team in line with identified needs Assessors and verifiers have sufficient time, resources and authority to perform their roles and responsibilities effectively ProQual is notified of any changes which may affect the centre s ability to meet the approved centre criteria. Possible sources of evidence Records of resource availability. Evidence of any additional resources obtained. Public employee liability certificates. Records of equipment and accommodation. Maintenance schedules. Health and safety policies. CVs and development plans for the assessment team. A list of qualified assessors and internal verifiers. Assessor/candidate ratios. Recruitment and selection procedures. Job descriptions and remits. Staff induction and guidance materials. Records of meetings/briefings/updates. Records of individual development plans. Action plans to acquire the appropriate qualifications. A record of assessor/candidate allocation. Candidate/assessor ratios and time allocation. Allocation of marking for any tests and assignments. Time allowed for editing and standardisation. Oral confirmation from assessors/verifiers. Notification of changes to the assessment and verification team. Notification of changes to resources.

9 2. DELIVERY 2.1 Candidate Support Criteria The centre must have systems for acquiring and confirming unique learner numbers Information, advice and guidance about QCF assessment procedures, achievement of units and accumulation of credits are provided to candidates and potential candidates Candidate s development needs are matched against the requirements of the unit(s) and an agreed individual assessment plan is established Candidates have regular opportunities to review their progress and goals and to revise their assessment plan accordingly Particular assessment requirements of candidates are identified and met where possible Provide candidates with feedback on progress and achievements There is an established appeals procedure which is documented and made available to all candidates. Possible sources of evidence Systems for checking existing ULNs. Documentation for acquiring ULNs for candidates who do not have one incorporating appropriate declaration. Candidate guidance and induction materials. QCF unit based framework information. Appeals procedures. Candidate initial assessment procedures. Candidate assessment plans. Candidate/trainee contracts. Equal opportunities and diversity procedures. Details of how any prior learning has been taken into account. Candidate assessment plan, frequency of review meetings; examples of revisions to assessment plans. Materials/equipment/facilities to support candidates with particular requirements. Updated assessment plans. Records of achievement. Marks and feedback on assignments and tests. Completion records. Documented appeals procedure, including details of grounds for appeal and timescales. Records of appeals made and their outcomes.

10 2.2 Assessment and Internal Verification Criteria Access to assessment is encouraged through the use of a range of valid assessment methods The centre is able to operate assessment instruments appropriate to the unit being assessed in line with ProQual requirements Queries about the unit specification, assessment guidance and accumulated credits are resolved and recorded Assessment is conducted by qualified and occupationally competent staff Assessment decisions and practices are regularly sampled and findings are acted upon to ensure consistency and fairness Internal verification is conducted by appropriately qualified and experienced staff Consistency of standards of assessment and security of assessments and assessment records must be assured Requests are complied with for access to premises, records, information, candidates and staff for the purpose of external verification Information regarding unit and qualification certification options is made available to candidates Information regarding the accumulation and transfer of credits is made available to candidates Suspected and alleged malpractice by a candidate is reported to ProQual. Possible sources of evidence Assessment plans and candidate assessment records. Provision for candidates with particular assessment requirements. Portfolio building and assessment guidance. Marking Schemes for assignments. Secure storage for unseen tests. Systems for ensuring authenticity of candidates work. Records of queries raised with awarding bodies. Records/minutes of queries raised with the internal verifier. Details of the occupational background, experience and qualifications of the assessment team. CVs. Internal verification plans. Records of assessment sampling and standardisation of marking where relevant. Minutes of assessment team meetings. Records of networking/standardisation events. Analyses of any multiple choice tests. Details of the occupational background, experience and qualifications of the internal verifiers. CVs. Systems for retaining candidates work. Records of test responses. Records of assignments and tests matching retained work. Data and information management systems. Candidate tracking systems. Assessment and internal verification records. Records of units registered/claimed awarded. Induction materials that explain unit certification and the rules of combination for a qualification being undertaken. QCF unit based framework information Exemptions information Malpractice policy provided to candidates. Records of investigation into suspected cases of malpractice.

11 3. MONITORING AND REVIEW 3.1 Records Criteria Candidate records and details of achievements/credit accumulation are accurate and kept up to date, securely stored in line with ProQual requirements, and available for external verification and auditing Assessment records are maintained in line with ProQual requirements and made available for the purposes of auditing Information supplied to ProQual for the purposes of registration and certification is complete and accurate and transmitted securely Information and recording systems enable candidates achievements to be monitored and reviewed in relation to the centre s equal opportunities policy and implementation action plan. Possible sources of evidence Candidate registration details including ULN. Candidate assessment records. Evidence files/portfolios. Security and access arrangements. Internal verification plan and sampling records. Minutes of assessment team meetings. Records of candidate entry/registration details and certificate claims including ULN. Achievement records in relation to the access and fair assessment policy. Statistical information on achievement and certification rates analysed by factors such as ethnic origin, disability and gender. Evidence of revisions to implementation plan. 3.2 Review Criteria Actions identified by external verification visits are disseminated to appropriate staff and corrective measures are implemented The effectiveness of the assessment strategy is reviewed against national requirements and corrective measures are implemented Candidate, employer and other feedback is used to evaluate the quality and effectiveness of unit provision against the centre s stated aims and policies, leading to continuous improvement The centre s achievements against its plan are monitored and reviewed and used to inform future centre qualification development activity. Possible sources of evidence External verification report(s) circulated to the assessment team and senior management. Action plans. Internal reviews of sampling strategies. EQAV reports. Evidence of corrective actions taken. Evaluation forms/surveys. User s charter/customer service statements. A qualification development plan. Internal audit/self-assessment arrangements. Records of findings against the approval criteria. Evidence of corrective actions taken/implemented. A revised qualification development plan.

12 Appendix 2: Customer Service Statement This charter sets out the ProQual s expected level of service. Our aim is to provide a service that is efficient, effective and responsive. 1. ProQual and Potential Assessment Centres ProQual will: provide potential assessment centres with detailed guidance on becoming an assessment centre and support where required; issue an information pack following an enquiry within five working days. The pack will include the information regarding the units requested, application form and guidance on completing the application form; acknowledge an application for centre approval within five working days; when all necessary information has been obtained ask the EQAV to set up an approval visit; ensure the Governing Body provides a decision on EQAV approval recommendations. Decisions of approval will be reached within fifteen working days of receipt of the EQAV s report. The approved centre will receive a formal letter and the ProQual Handbook within seven working days following approval. If a centre has not been approved then the centre will receive a letter within seven working days with an action plan required to be implemented prior to approval; assign an EQAV upon approval. 2. ProQual and Approved Assessment Centres ProQual and its assessment centres work in partnership to jointly promote the development, takeup and use of accredited units and qualifications. EQAVs contracted to ProQual will: set up approval visits within fifteen working days of centre approval application having been received by ProQual or within a time-scale agreeable to the potential assessment centre; carry out monitoring centre visits a minimum of two times per annum. An agenda for monitoring visits will be sent to ProQual and the approved centre two weeks prior to the visit. Next visit dates will be set at the end of each visit; complete a report and agree an action plan at the end of each visit. The action plan will be signed by both the EQAV and the Centre Co-ordinator; submit the reports to ProQual within ten working days of the visit. ProQual will: give all assessment centres access to an EQAV, the Quality Assurance Manager and Awarding Body Administrators; respond to all enquiries positively and as quickly as possible. In the first instance we will reply within five working days to enquiries in writing or by phone either with an answer or in more complex matters with an update;

13 in any matters involving an investigation keep approved centres informed of progress at least once a month; provide a forum for debate and discussion on standardisation relating to approved centre and awarding body practices and procedures; provide up-to-date guidance material and support in handling technical aspects of assessment; organise sector specific workshops for cross centre standardisation and help develop the skills in assessment and verification, to ensure best practice is shared across each individual sector, with the objective that these take place on an annual basis; provide full details of annual fees, costs and resources associated with implementation of a qualification, please see the attached document on registration and certification fees (see Appendix 8 - Fees Schedule); welcome customer feedback from approved and potential centres, candidates and other customers. Comments and suggestions should be addressed to the Quality Assurance Manager. Assessment Centres will: use ProQual promotional materials and the ProQual logo on their own materials in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the ProQual Handbook; download unit and qualification structures for candidates; ensure that materials given to candidates are of a high quality in terms of reproduction and encourage their use; complete ProQual candidate registrations; maintain complete, up-to-date records of units and qualifications and experience of each member of centre staff (this can be in CV format) and keep the EQAV and ProQual notified of any changes; forward CVs of potential assessors to ProQual for approval via the EQAV; ensure assessors have copies of the latest Standards and supporting paperwork; attend meetings for approved centres; uphold Equality policy; assist candidates with special assessment requirements; assist ProQual with advice or guidance where asked to do so. 3. Registration and Certification ProQual will: process candidate registrations and issue registration numbers within five working days from receipt of the registration form; invoice centres for candidate registrations; on receipt of a Completion Record from a centre invoice the centre for candidate units completed and despatch a certificate within fifteen working days.

14 4. Appeals and Complaints ProQual publishes an Appeals Policy and a Complaints Policy. ProQual will: Log all complaints. For complaints relating to our service and the performance of EQAVs: respond full, or provide a progress report within fifteen working days of receiving complaints; for more complex complaints, resolve the complaint through the ProQual Governing Body. For complaints relating to the services offered by assessment centres: ProQual will ascertain whether the complainant has exhausted the approved centre s complaints procedure; where the complainant has not given the centre an opportunity to resolve the complaint, ProQual will refer the complainant to the approved centre (although ProQual reserves the right to investigate serious complaints); where the approved centre s system has been exhausted ProQual will investigate the complaint; for all complaints, ProQual will respond fully, or provide a progress report within fifteen working days of receipt; for more complex complaints, ProQual will resolve the complaint within an agreed timescale.

15 Appendix 3: Data Protection Policy Personal Information When candidates are registered with ProQual an electronic record is created. The information that we then collect is based on the electronic registration information. ProQual holds general information about candidates, such as name; units/awards registered for; and equal opportunities information. Personal data storage is the responsibility of the ProQual Data Controller, who is the Administrative Officer. Personal information is used in the following ways: to respond directly to enquiries. This includes sending information about the qualifications and services which we offer; to process registrations and certifications; to confirm details against the Learner Registration Service Database; to undertake research in order to help us plan and improve our services; to upload success to the Candidate Achievement Record; to produce statistical information for our regulator (Ofqual), Sector Skills Councils, Standard Setting Bodies, Government Departments and funding bodies and to help us plan and improve our services. Our Principles ProQual is committed to the data protection principles, all personal information is held in secure computer and manual files and transfers of data within ProQual are made on a need to know basis. Overseas Transfers Whereas the Data Protection Act 1998 restricts the transfer of personal data outside the European Economic Area, transfers over the Internet may take place potentially to any country in the world. Whenever you opt to use the Internet therefore, your consent to such transfers is implied by your action. Security Data held on ProQual s web service is protected from unauthorised access. The data files are stored in an encrypted form to make them unreadable. Additionally, we can protect data in transit. Provided that your web browser supports the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) any data transmitted from your browser to the Web server, or from the server to your browser, will be encrypted. ProQual takes security very seriously. All staff are made aware of security procedures to be followed in the handling or personal information. Please note that Internet is never a 100% secure communication medium. By using it you agree that you will send any information by at your own risk. Whilst ProQual will take all reasonable precautions to ensure that other organisations with whom we deal have good security practices, we are not responsible for the privacy practices of those organisations whose websites may be linked to the site.

16 Access to Data Individuals have the right under the Data Protection Act to be supplied with a copy of their personal data held by ProQual. Requests should be made in writing to the Data Protection Officer, ProQual Awarding Body, Cave House, Annie Med Lane, South Cave, HU15 2HG or by to enquiries@proqualab.com. Further Information and Advice For further information and advice on data protection matters, contact the Data Protection Officer at the above address.

17 Appendix 4: Equality Policy In the performance of its regulated functions ProQual undertakes to comply with all current legislation related to equality and will not discriminate on grounds of gender, sexual orientation, colour, ethnic or national origin, age, marital status, family circumstances, social-economic background, disability, religious or potential beliefs or other irrelevant distinction. Centres are required to sign a commitment to comply with equal opportunities legislation in force at the time. EQAVs will include monitoring the operation of the equal opportunities at approved assessment centres. Principles The aim of the policy is to ensure that all individuals with whom ProQual has a relationship are treated solely on the basis of their merits, abilities and potential. ProQual is committed to: i) promoting equality and diversity in all aspects of its regulated functions and activities; ii) iii) iv) developing assessments that avoid creating unnecessary barriers to achievement and ensuring that assessments are free from bias; promoting access to assessment for all; ensuring that employment and contracting policies provide opportunity for all regardless of gender, colour, ethnic or national original, age, social-economic background, disability, religious or political beliefs, marital status, family circumstances, sexual orientation or any other irrelevant distinction Implementation The Equality Policy will be implemented in relation to: the provision of all services learners who apply for assessment the development of units, rules of combination, qualifications and all forms of assessments the monitoring of registration and certification data to ensure compliance with equality of opportunity the monitoring of any promotional or published material recruitment, selection and training of staff ProQual will ensure that its equal opportunities policy is communicated to all staff, external verifiers (EQAVs), approved assessment centres and to all learners. ProQual will ensure, through the centre approval process that approved assessment centres have and operate equal opportunities policies that are no less favourable than its own. Responsibility for monitoring the effectiveness of the policy and taking corrective action from its outcomes to maintain and improve it rests with the ProQual Governing Body.

18 Appendix 5: Enquiries and Appeals Procedures Enquiries If learners have enquiries about assessment decisions affecting their results they should first speak to their assessor to discuss the matter. The assessor should be able to explain any assessment decisions and if necessary explain to the learner what they must do in order to meet the required standard. All enquiries relating to assessment or other decisions should be dealt with at approved centre level, if the outcome is not satisfactory, then the centre should contact the General Manager who will initiate an investigation. Appeals ProQual requires approved centres to provide learners with clear procedures for dealing with enquiries and appeals concerning matters clearly covered by the criteria for centre approval. The first stage of the appeals procedure must be conducted at approved centre level. If the outcome is not satisfactory to all parties, then the centre must contact ProQual to take the appeal further. 1. Guidelines on grounds for learner appeal The most common problem is disagreement between a centre and a learner and/or between a learner and assessor on the outcome of an assessment decision. The approved centre will wish to acknowledge that there is scope for genuine disagreement and to do everything possible to understand the reason for and to resolve a particular disagreement both quickly and informally. However, the learner may insist on exercising his or her right to undergo a more formal process. Grounds for appeal shall include any breach by the centre of regulations or codes or practice. Learners should be informed on registration and the availability of the approved centre s appeals procedure, which will have been developed at the time of approval, and the awarding body s review procedure. It should be made clear to whom and in what form a request for an appeal or review should be lodged, how such as appeal will be dealt with, notification of decisions and forms of redress where an appeal is upheld. The approved centre must keep the appeals procedure on file and ensure it is monitored and regularly reviewed.

19 1.1 Review The conduct of appeals will routinely be monitored by external verifiers. However, a learner whose appeal has not been upheld by his or her approved centre may specifically request ProQual to review the conduct of the appeal. The request will be addressed to the external verifier through the approved centre and will include: the original appeal; the centre s findings; a summary report on the conduct of the appeal; a brief statement by the learner indicating where he or she believes there to have been shortcomings in the conduct of the appeal. The learner, the approved centre or the external verifier may request that the review be referred to the ProQual Governing Body. 1.2 Quality control and assurance Centres are expected to deal promptly with requests for the consideration of appeals, to maintain records of their conduct and outcomes, and to bring requests for review promptly to the attention of external verifiers. Stages for appeal for learners: i) Guidance to learners Learners to be advised, on registration, of the appeals policy of the approved centre and the ProQual Appeals Policy. ii) iii) iv) Lodging of appeal Where a learner believes that he or she has grounds for appeal, it should be brought to the attention of the centre co-ordinator within a stated maximum period of time (normally within a maximum of four weeks of the assessment decision). It will be the responsibility of the internal verifier to determine whether a special case has been established and to advise the learner. Outcomes The appeal to be considered by the internal verifier or group identified in the approved centre s centre procedures. The possible outcomes are either: recommendation that the appeal be upheld; or recommendation that the appeal not be upheld. Centre review notification This refers to formal written notification to the learner on the outcome of the appeal by the centre. If the recommendation is that the appeal be upheld, then the learner is also told of the proposed redress, e.g. arrangements for a re-assessment by a different assessor without further cost to the learner. If the recommendation is that the appeal not be upheld, then the learner is sent a written explanation, and is advised that the external verifier will be provided with all of the relevant documentation on the appeal. The external verifier may wish, or may be requested by the learner to review the matter. External verifiers will concentrate on the conduct of the centre

20 of the appeal in the light of its appeals policy, and will not normally conduct re-assessments or interview learners. v) Quality monitoring The approved centre recommendation on the outcome of the appeal is: notified immediately to the external verifier, together with relevant documentation. Recorded by the centre co-ordinator in quality assurance monitoring. vi) vii) External review The external verifier, on receipt of an appeal and approved centre recommendation, should: inform ProQual of the appeal and consult on the conduct of the review; determine whether the grounds for the appeal had been properly established; determine whether the approved centre dealt promptly and correctly with the appeal; determine whether sufficient information is available to enable him/her to endorse the approved centre recommendation; notify the approved centre immediately of his/her endorsement of the recommendation or request further information. Further and Independent Review Where a learner or approved centre believes that there is evidence providing a basis for a wider review then a request is made to ProQual that the matter be referred to an independent reviewer. An independent reviewer will be somebody who is not and has not been a member of the ProQual committees, or an employee or examiner at that awarding body, at any time during the past seven years. This request of a wider review will be acknowledged by ProQual within ten working days. The independent reviewer will determine how the review process (as in 6. above) is to be conducted, including right of representation. Where a matter of policy or principle is identified by the independent reviewer it will be referred, with appropriate recommendations to the ProQual Governing Body. The decision of the Committee is final. Where, in considering an appeal, an external verifier finds there to be a serious deficiency in the conduct of assessments by an approved centre, he or she should review the centre s arrangements, including a site visit and make recommendations to the Committee. The external verifier has the discretion to recommend suspension of approval pending resolution of the serious deficiency. The decision of the Committee is final. viii) Notification of the further and independent review The learner is sent written notification within five working days of the final decision by the ProQual Governing Body.

21 2. Guidelines on grounds for a centre appeal The following are examples of when a centre may want to appeal. The centre may be unhappy with: a decision concerning approval as a centre or extension of approval to assess an additional qualification or qualifications; the decision of an external verifier concerning the work of the approved centre. In such circumstances the external verifier concerned must ensure that the basis for the decision has been made entirely clear. If the external verifier s report does not enable him or her to resolve the matter to the satisfaction of the centre, the ProQual will send a written clarification to the centre coordinator detailing the basis on which the decision was reached. ProQual will ensure that everything possible is done to understand the reason for and to resolve a particular disagreement both quickly and informally. However, the centre may wish to insist on a more formal hearing. Grounds for appeal shall include any contravention by the awarding body of regulations or codes of practice. 2.1 Review An appeal by a centre against the decision of an external verifier will normally be dealt with by ProQual. They will review relevant documentation and seek an appropriate resolution of the matter. Where they are unable to reach an agreed resolution the matter may be referred to the ProQual Governing Body. 2.2 Quality control and assurance ProQual will summarise action on all enquiries and appeals in reporting to the ProQual Governing Body. This aspect of the work of the Committee will be covered in its self-assessment reports to regulatory bodies. 2.3 Stages for appeal and review for centres i) Lodging an appeal A centre must give notice to ProQual of its intention to appeal within a maximum of four weeks of the approval decision. ii) iii) Outcomes The appeal to be considered by ProQual. The possible outcomes are either: recommendation that the appeal be upheld; or recommendation that the appeal is not upheld. ProQual notification This refers to formal notification to the centre on the outcome of the appeal. If the recommendation is that the appeal be upheld, then the centre is also told of the proposed redress (e.g. arrangements for further consideration of the approval or other decision, without further cost to the centre). If the recommendation is that the appeal is not be upheld, then the centre is sent a written explanation within five working days.

22 iv) Quality monitoring The external verifier s recommendation on the outcome of the appeal is: notified immediately to the centre, together with relevant documentation; recorded by ProQual. v) Review The decision of ProQual s Governing Body is final.

23 Appendix 6: Complaints Policy Introduction ProQual requires approved centres to provide candidates with clear procedures for dealing with complaints concerning matters clearly covered by the criteria for centre approval. The first stage of the complaints procedure must be conducted at approved centre level. If the outcome is not satisfactory to all parties, then the approved centre must contact ProQual to take the complaint further. Complaints Records of the way in which complaints have been dealt with will form a part of the general management records of the approved centre. 1. Guidelines on grounds for a candidate complaint A registered candidate has the right of complaint where an approved centre has failed to meet the criteria on the basis of which it was approved. The following are examples of when a candidate may have grounds for a complaint: i) administrative shortcomings, for example inaccuracy in recording of candidate s progress, or unreasonable delay; ii) iii) iv) inadequate resources, such as inappropriate or insufficient physical (e.g. technical) resources, insufficient or inappropriately experienced and qualified staff; shortcomings in the conduct of the assessment, for example the non-availability of alternative assessment methods or the import of extraneous criteria by an assessor; discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, colour, ethnic background or national origin, age, marital status, family circumstances, social-economic background, employment status, responsibilities to dependants, disability or religious or political beliefs or other irrelevant distinction. The approved centre must keep the complaints procedure on file and ensure it is monitored and regularly reviewed. 1.1 Stages for complaints for candidates 1 Guidance to candidates Candidates to be advised, on registration, of the complaints policy of the approved centre and the ProQual complaints policy

24 2 Lodging of complaint A complaint can be made without prior notice. 3 Outcomes The complaint to be considered by the internal verifier or group identified in the approved centre s centre procedures. The possible outcomes are either: recommendation that the complaint be upheld; or recommendation that the complaint not be upheld. 4 Centre review notification This refers to formal written notification to the candidate on the outcome of the complaint by the approved centre. If the recommendation is that the complaint be upheld, then the candidate is also told of the proposed redress, e.g. arrangements for re-assessment by a different assessor without further cost to the candidate. If the recommendation is that the complaint not be upheld, then the candidate is sent a written explanation, and is advised that the EQAV will be provided with all of the relevant documentation on the complaint. The EQAV may wish, or may be requested by the learner, to review the matter. EQAVs will concentrate on the conduct by the approved centre in the light of its complaints policy and will not normally conduct re-assessments or interview learners. 5 Quality monitoring The approved centre recommendation on the outcome of the complaint is: notified immediately to the EQAV, together with relevant documentation; recorded by the Centre Co-ordinator in quality assurance monitoring. 6 External review On receipt of a complaint and approved centre recommendation an EQAV should: inform ProQual of the complaint and consult on the conduct of the review; determine whether the grounds for the complaint have been properly established determine whether the approved centre dealt promptly and correctly with the complaint; determine whether sufficient information is available to enable him/her to endorse the approved centre recommendation; notify the approved centre immediately of his/her endorsement of the recommendation or request further information. 7 Further and independent review Where a learner or approved centre believes that there is evidence providing a basis for a wider review then a request is made to ProQual that the matter may be referred to an independent reviewer. An independent reviewer will be a person who is not and has not been a member of ProQual s Committees, or an employee or examiner with ProQual at any time during the past seven years. This request of a wider review will be acknowledged by ProQual within ten working days. The independent reviewer will determine how the review process is to be conducted, including the right of representation. Where a matter of policy or principle is identified by the independent reviewer it will be referred, with appropriate recommendations, to ProQual s Governing Body. The decision of this Committee is final.

25 Where, in considering a complaint, an EQAV finds there to be a serious deficiency in the conduct of assessments by an approved centre, he or she should review the centre s arrangements, including a site visit and make recommendations to ProQual s Governing Body. The EQAV has the discretion to recommend suspension of approval pending resolution of the serious deficiency. The decision of ProQual s Governing Body is final. 8 Notification of the further and independent review The learner is sent written notification within five working days of the final decision by ProQual s Governing Body. 2. Guidelines on grounds for a centre complaint An approved centre has the right to complain where the awarding body has failed to meet the criteria set out in regulatory arrangements or codes of practice. The following are examples of when a centre may have grounds for a complaint: (i) (ii) administrative shortcomings, for example inaccuracy in certification, or unreasonable delay; conduct of the EQAV. ProQual has a complaints tracking system which is regularly monitored and reviewed. 2.1 Stages of complaint and review for centres 1 Lodging a complaint A complaint can be made without prior notice. 2 Outcomes The complaint will be considered by ProQual s Governing Body. The possible outcomes are either: recommendation that the complaint be upheld; or recommendation that the complaint not be upheld. 3 ProQual notification If the recommendation is that the complaint be upheld then the centre is also told of the proposed redress. If the recommendation is that the complaint not be upheld then the centre is sent written explanation within five working days. 4 Quality monitoring The EQAV s recommendation on the outcome of the complaint is: notified immediately to the centre, together with relevant documentation; recorded by ProQual 5 Review The decision of ProQual s Governing Body is final.

26 Appendix 7: Malpractice Policy This policy is designed to enable ProQual to reduce levels of malpractice through the effective detection of irregularities and the imposition of appropriate sanctions. For the purposes of this policy, malpractice is defined as the deliberate falsification of records in order to obtain certificates. Examples of malpractice include: claiming certification for non-active candidates; claiming a certificate for candidates who have not undergone appropriate assessment; claiming for incorrect units or qualification s; claiming for fictitious candidates. It is distinguished from maladministration, which is the accidental claiming or issue of certificates. Reporting Malpractice Approved centres and EQAVs have a responsibility to report any suspicion of malpractice to ProQual who will investigate any alleged irregularities and notify Ofqual which is the regulatory authority. ProQual will also advise Ofqual of the proposed action and an estimated timescale for the investigation. Any material collected by ProQual which is confidential to individuals or a centre, e.g. financial details, will be kept secure and not disclosed to a third party. Additionally, ProQual will guarantee that the identity of complainants will not normally be disclosed without their formal written agreement. Responsibilities ProQual requires its approved centres and/or EQAVs to report any malpractice suspected after candidates have been registered, making clear any possible implications of a failure to co-operate for the future issuing of certificates and the registration of candidates. Where malpractice or maladministration is suspected in a centre, ProQual will immediately suspend the centre from making any claims for certification and registration of new canidates. This is to allow an investigation to be initiated and for ProQual to ensure that adequate safeguards are in place to guarantee the validity of the certificates being claimed. Whilst the details may vary, the key factor to be decided by ProQual in determining when to investigate a centre, is when it has reasonable grounds to doubt the integrity of the assessment process. ProQual s Governing Body which is independent of the management of normal working relationships with centres and EQAVs is responsible for managing and carrying out investigations.

27 ProQual will prepare a final report of its investigation. This will supply the regulatory authorities with details of the investigation: the origin of the complaint or how the alleged irregularity was discovered; the investigations carried out; the evidence obtained; the conclusions drawn; the recommendations for action and resolution of the matter. ProQual will work to an estimated timescale of one month to report its findings and recommend action to the regulatory bodies but may require a longer timescale if the complaint is more detailed. Exceptionally the regulatory authorities may need to take over an investigation. In such circumstances they will provide a written instruction to ProQual to advise of this and the reasons for taking such action. ProQual will inform the regulatory authorities whenever it finds evidence that certificates may be invalid and agree the appropriate action with the regulatory authorities. Qualification certificates are in principle deemed invalid in the following circumstances: the evidence assesses is not the candidate s own work; the candidate is still working towards the qualification after the certificate has been claimed; the certificates have been claimed on the basis of falsified records; ProQual has issued certificated contrary to the Regulatory Arrangements or codes of practice. The responsibility for the assessment and certification of candidates is shared between ProQual, its approved centres and EQAVs. Centres therefore need to take their share of the responsibility when dealing with problems caused for candidates when certificates have been wrongly claimed. Where a decision is taken to invalidate certificates, ProQual will ensure that the following actions are taken, it will: follow the principle of seeking to protect the interests of candidates, in so far as is reasonable and possible in the circumstances; contact the candidates involved and notify them of the status of their certificates and of any arrangements for re-assessment and/or certification. ensure that the original certificates are cancelled on the database to ensure that duplicates cannot be issued; inform the regulatory authorities of the details of the invalidated certificates and, where appropriate, make the information available to public funding bodies.