BCM Ltd Recognition of Prior Learning Policy

Introduction

This policy outlines the procedures relating to the use of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as evidence towards entry to a programme of study and the achievement of qualifications.

Tutors and assessors discuss previous learning and experience with learners during enrolment and before registration with awarding organisations. Learners are informed about how RPL and credit transfer may contribute towards qualification achievement, including associated processes, requirements, and costs.

Types of RPL Evidence

Recognition of Prior Learning allows learners to use previously gained knowledge, skills, and achievements as evidence towards qualifications. RPL is based on evidence of learning rather than experience alone.

Certificated Learning

Certificated learning includes qualifications previously achieved through regulated awarding organisations, colleges, universities, or higher education institutions. Credit transfer may also allow previously gained credits to contribute towards another qualification.

Non-Certificated

Non-certificated learning includes education or training activities that do not lead to formal certification, such as workplace training, internal courses, or professional development activities.

Experiential or Informal Learning

Experiential or informal learning refers to knowledge and skills gained through work experience, personal activities, or life experiences. Evidence must still be produced and authenticated by an assessor to demonstrate competence.

Evidence Requirements

Assessors must confirm that all evidence provided through RPL is valid, current, reliable, authentic, and sufficient to meet qualification requirements and awarding organisation standards.

Certificated Learning

Learners must provide qualification certificates, credit certificates where applicable, and qualification specifications or content details. Certificates alone are not considered sufficient evidence without supporting documentation.

BCM Academy Ltd reserves the right to authenticate qualifications to ensure they were awarded by recognised awarding organisations or higher education institutions.

Non-Certificated and Experiential Learning

Evidence from projects, workplace activities, practical tasks, or informal learning may be assessed against qualification criteria. Assessors may conduct discussions with learners to confirm understanding and authenticate evidence.

Process of Claiming and Assessing RPL for achievement

Step 1: Induction/Prior to Registration

Tutors discuss RPL opportunities with learners, create assessment plans identifying possible units or criteria that may be achieved through RPL, explain deadlines, and provide guidance on the assessment process, quality assurance requirements, costs, and appeal rights.

Step 2: Assessment of RPL Evidence

Assessors review and map evidence against qualification criteria, determine whether additional assessment is required, seek IQA approval where necessary, and provide learners with feedback regarding achieved and outstanding criteria.

Step 3: Recording Quality Assurance of RPL Evidence and Decisions

Assessors complete assessment records showing where RPL evidence has been used, ensure all RPL decisions are internally quality assured, submit evidence mapping to awarding organisations where required, and communicate outcomes to learners.

Right of Appeal

Learners who are dissatisfied with RPL decisions or believe procedures have not been applied fairly may submit an appeal through the BCM Academy Ltd Appeals Procedure.