Company number: 12497951
6 Sutton Park Road, Sutton, SM1 2GD

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Experience (RPE) Regulations

Policy Statement

The School is committed to recognising prior learning (RPL) and professional experience (RPE) by assessing relevant skills and knowledge for academic credit. This policy ensures that applicants can gain recognition for their previous educational and professional achievements, promoting fair and inclusive access to our programmes while upholding rigorous academic standards.

Principles

Equity and Fairness: Ensure that all applicants receive equal consideration regardless of their previous educational or professional background.
Transparency: Clearly communicate the criteria, process, and assessment methods for RPL and RPE to all applicants.
Rigorous Evaluation: Assess prior learning and experience against clearly defined academic standards and programme requirements.
Applicant Support: Provide guidance and assistance to applicants throughout the RPL and RPE process to ensure they can effectively demonstrate their qualifications.
Confidentiality: Handle all information related to applicants' prior learning and experience with the utmost confidentiality and privacy.
Consistency: Apply the RPL and RPE criteria and procedures consistently across all applications to maintain fairness and integrity.
Alignment with Programme Objectives: Ensure that recognised prior learning and experience align with the learning outcomes and objectives of the relevant academic programme.
Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and update the RPL and RPE policies and procedures to reflect changes in academic and professional standards.
Documentation and Evidence: Require thorough documentation and evidence to substantiate claims of prior learning and experience.
Appeals Process: Provide a clear and accessible process for applicants to appeal decisions made regarding RPL and RPE assessments.

Regulatory Context

This Policy has been developed in line with the applicable laws, regulations, regulatory advice, and sector best practices, including the following:

Authority	Name	Url
UK Government	Higher Education and Research Act 2017 (HERA) A UK legislation that reformed the higher education and research sector, particularly by establishing the Office for Students and UK Research and Innovation.
Office for Students (OfS)	Regulatory framework for higher education in England This framework outlines OfS' primary aim to ensure positive outcomes for students, including access, success, and progress in higher education. It covers quality academic experience, progress into employment, and value for money.
Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)	The Quality Code This code represents a shared understanding of quality practice across the UK higher education sector, protecting public and student interests and championing the UK's reputation for quality.
Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)	Advice - Admissions, Recruitment and Widening Access
Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)	Guide for higher education institutions Provides guidance for higher education providers on their obligations under data protection law.
Office for Students (OfS)	Sector-recognised standards The standards set with regards to B5 and B8 of the OfS' conditions of registration for higher education institutions.
Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)	Making Use of Credit: A Companion to the Higher Education Credit Framework for England This framework determines the use of credits for courses, measures student workload, facilitates transferability, and ensures eligibility for graduation by reflecting both contact hours and independent study requirements.
Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)	Higher Education Credit Framework for England: Advice on Academic Credit Arrangements This framework for credits assesses course value, evaluates student workload, impacts degree outcomes, supports institutional transfer, and determines graduation eligibility.

Authority

Name

Url

UK Government

Higher Education and Research Act 2017 (HERA)
A UK legislation that reformed the higher education and research sector, particularly by establishing the Office for Students and UK Research and Innovation.

Office for Students (OfS)

Regulatory framework for higher education in England
This framework outlines OfS' primary aim to ensure positive outcomes for students, including access, success, and progress in higher education. It covers quality academic experience, progress into employment, and value for money.

Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)

The Quality Code
This code represents a shared understanding of quality practice across the UK higher education sector, protecting public and student interests and championing the UK's reputation for quality.

Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)

Advice - Admissions, Recruitment and Widening Access

Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)

Guide for higher education institutions
Provides guidance for higher education providers on their obligations under data protection law.

Office for Students (OfS)

Sector-recognised standards
The standards set with regards to B5 and B8 of the OfS' conditions of registration for higher education institutions.

Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)

Making Use of Credit: A Companion to the Higher Education Credit Framework for England
This framework determines the use of credits for courses, measures student workload, facilitates transferability, and ensures eligibility for graduation by reflecting both contact hours and independent study requirements.

Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)

Higher Education Credit Framework for England: Advice on Academic Credit Arrangements
This framework for credits assesses course value, evaluates student workload, impacts degree outcomes, supports institutional transfer, and determines graduation eligibility.

Overview of Prior Learning and Experience Recognition

Title
Advice Purpose Applicants can seek Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Experience (RPE) for the following purposes: Entry Criteria: to meet programme entry requirements through prior learning or experience. Module Exemption: to avoid a core module based on prior learning or experience. Credit Award: to gain CATS credits towards a module based on prior learning. This ensures that applicants can leverage their previous knowledge and experience to fulfil entry conditions, avoid redundant modules, or earn credits, streamlining their academic journey.
Advice Information on the RPL and RPE School Process The School website and other information will provide clear guidance on applying for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Experience (RPE). This includes: Definitions of RPL and RPE. The application process for RPL and RPE. Required direct and indirect evidence. Assessment criteria for claims. Admission deadlines for programmes. Processing times for RPL and RPE applications. Administrative fees. Contact details for further information. Programme fees and charges will be set on a pro rata basis by the Finance Team. This ensures that prospective applicants have comprehensive and transparent information about the RPL and RPE process, including requirements, timelines, and costs, facilitating a smooth and informed application experience.
Advice Basis of Applications Applications for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Experience (RPE) can be submitted based on: Learning (RPL): Completed education or courses at another higher education provider, supported by formal documentation such as certificates. This documentation must include the institution’s name, the applicant’s name, details of the study (title and content), dates, and any credits awarded. Failed programmes or modules are not considered, and credits from one Master's award cannot be used for another. Experience (RPE): Informal learning from relevant work or life experiences not covered by RPL. This ensures that RPL and RPE applications are supported by verifiable and relevant documentation or experience, while excluding failed courses and inappropriate credit transfers, thereby maintaining academic integrity and relevance.

Title

Advice
Purpose

Applicants can seek Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Experience (RPE) for the following purposes:

Entry Criteria: to meet programme entry requirements through prior learning or experience.
Module Exemption: to avoid a core module based on prior learning or experience.
Credit Award: to gain CATS credits towards a module based on prior learning.

This ensures that applicants can leverage their previous knowledge and experience to fulfil entry conditions, avoid redundant modules, or earn credits, streamlining their academic journey.

Advice
Information on the RPL and RPE School Process

The School website and other information will provide clear guidance on applying for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Experience (RPE). This includes:

Definitions of RPL and RPE.
The application process for RPL and RPE.
Required direct and indirect evidence.
Assessment criteria for claims.
Admission deadlines for programmes.
Processing times for RPL and RPE applications.
Administrative fees.
Contact details for further information.

Programme fees and charges will be set on a pro rata basis by the Finance Team.

This ensures that prospective applicants have comprehensive and transparent information about the RPL and RPE process, including requirements, timelines, and costs, facilitating a smooth and informed application experience.

Advice
Basis of Applications

Applications for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Experience (RPE) can be submitted based on:

Learning (RPL): Completed education or courses at another higher education provider, supported by formal documentation such as certificates. This documentation must include the institution’s name, the applicant’s name, details of the study (title and content), dates, and any credits awarded. Failed programmes or modules are not considered, and credits from one Master's award cannot be used for another.
Experience (RPE): Informal learning from relevant work or life experiences not covered by RPL.

This ensures that RPL and RPE applications are supported by verifiable and relevant documentation or experience, while excluding failed courses and inappropriate credit transfers, thereby maintaining academic integrity and relevance.

Scope of Application: Boundaries and Exemptions

Title

Rule
RPL and RPE Can Only be Used for FHEQ Programmes

Applicants may apply for RPL and RPE only for the School's qualifications under the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ). RPL and RPE cannot be used for short courses.

This ensures that RPL and RPE are applied consistently and appropriately within the School’s recognised qualification framework, excluding short courses.

Rule
Core Modules Only

Students can apply for RPL and RPE for exemption only from core modules. RPL and RPE cannot be claimed for optional modules.

This policy ensures that RPL and RPE are used to address essential module requirements, maintaining the integrity of the programme structure.

Rule
RPL and RPE cannot be used for Final Projects

No credit can be awarded through RPL or RPE for final projects in undergraduate or postgraduate degree programmes.

This rule maintains the rigorous standards and integrity of final projects, ensuring they reflect the full scope of a student's learning and capabilities within the programme.

Advice
Recency

The School does not define a specific period for the currency of prior learning and experience.

The programme leader exercises academic judgement based on School standards, PRSB requirements, and evolving knowledge, recognising that skills and knowledge should be current and can change over time.

Rule
How Many Credits do RPL and RPE Provide

To qualify for an award from the School, the maximum number of credits that can be used under RPL and RPE are:

Award	Maximum Number of Credits Permitted by Way of RPL and RPE	Minimum Number of Credits that Must be Successfully Achieved at School
Taught masters’ degrees e.g. MSc	90	90 credits at Level 7
Postgraduate diplomas	60	60 credits at Level 7
Postgraduate certificates	30	30 credits at Level 7
Bachelors’ degrees with honours e.g. BSc Hons	240	120 credits (60 at Level 5 and 60 at Level 6)
Bachelors’ degrees	200	100 credits (40 at Level 5 and 60 at Level 6)
Graduate diplomas	40	40 credits (40 at Level 6)
Graduate certificates	20	20 credits (20 at Level 6)
Diplomas of Higher Education (DipHE)	160	80 credits (20 at level 4 and 60 at Level 5)
Certificates of Higher Education (CertHE)	60	60 credits (60 at Level 4)

To qualify for an award from the School, the credit limits are set to ensure standards and integrity of qualifications.

Rule
RPL and RPE Cannot be Used in Overall Award Algorithm

RPL and RPE credits must be ratified by the Module Examination Boards.

These credits count towards the requisite number for a qualification but do not affect the final award classification, except when based on credits previously earned at the School, which are included in the overall marks algorithm.

Procedures for Assessing Prior Learning and Experience

Title
Rule Processing Applications and Programme Leader Upon receiving an RPL or RPE application notification from the AGS, the Admissions Team will review the application and supporting documents for completeness. They may request further information from the applicant via the AGS if necessary. Applications for module exemptions or credit awards will be referred to the relevant programme leader for decision. The Admissions Team will decide on RPL and RPE applications related to entry criteria. All actions and notifications will be recorded in the AGS. This process ensures thorough review and accurate decision-making for RPL and RPE applications. By involving programme leaders for module exemptions and recording all actions, the procedure maintains clarity and consistency in admissions.
Rule Director of Education and External Assessor Any decision by a programme leader to admit an applicant based on RPL and RPE for module exemption or credit awards must be approved by the Director of Education and an external assessor. If either disagrees with the programme leader's decision, they may overturn it. The Director of Education's decision is final. This ensures that decisions are reviewed by multiple parties to maintain fairness and uphold academic standards. The final authority of the Director of Education guarantees consistency and adherence to institutional policies.
Rule Decisions and Appeals Acceptance based on RPL or RPE is not guaranteed and is subject to judgement. Once a final decision is made, it will be recorded in the AGS, and the applicant will be notified. They will be informed on how to request feedback and may follow the usual admissions appeal and complaints process as outlined in the Admissions Policy. This ensures transparency and clarity about the decision-making process while providing a structured way for applicants to seek feedback or challenge decisions.
Rule Analytics and Reporting All RPL and RPE applications must be processed through the AGS. This allows the School to collect essential data, such as claim numbers, success rates, processing times, and student satisfaction ratings. This data supports strategic planning, continuous improvement, and meets regulatory reporting requirements.
Rule Continuous Improvement The Admissions Team will monitor RPL and RPE data. This ensures the assessment process is fair and effective, the policy is consistently applied, and satisfaction rates remain high.
Rule Staff Training The Director of Education will provide appropriate development opportunities for all staff involved in RPL and RPE operations. This ensures that staff advising on, administering, or assessing RPL and RPE claims are well-equipped and knowledgeable in their roles.

Title

Rule
Processing Applications and Programme Leader

Upon receiving an RPL or RPE application notification from the AGS, the Admissions Team will review the application and supporting documents for completeness. They may request further information from the applicant via the AGS if necessary. Applications for module exemptions or credit awards will be referred to the relevant programme leader for decision. The Admissions Team will decide on RPL and RPE applications related to entry criteria. All actions and notifications will be recorded in the AGS.

This process ensures thorough review and accurate decision-making for RPL and RPE applications. By involving programme leaders for module exemptions and recording all actions, the procedure maintains clarity and consistency in admissions.

Rule
Director of Education and External Assessor

Any decision by a programme leader to admit an applicant based on RPL and RPE for module exemption or credit awards must be approved by the Director of Education and an external assessor. If either disagrees with the programme leader's decision, they may overturn it. The Director of Education's decision is final.

This ensures that decisions are reviewed by multiple parties to maintain fairness and uphold academic standards. The final authority of the Director of Education guarantees consistency and adherence to institutional policies.

Rule
Decisions and Appeals

Acceptance based on RPL or RPE is not guaranteed and is subject to judgement. Once a final decision is made, it will be recorded in the AGS, and the applicant will be notified. They will be informed on how to request feedback and may follow the usual admissions appeal and complaints process as outlined in the Admissions Policy.

This ensures transparency and clarity about the decision-making process while providing a structured way for applicants to seek feedback or challenge decisions.

Rule
Analytics and Reporting

All RPL and RPE applications must be processed through the AGS.

This allows the School to collect essential data, such as claim numbers, success rates, processing times, and student satisfaction ratings. This data supports strategic planning, continuous improvement, and meets regulatory reporting requirements.

Rule
Continuous Improvement

The Admissions Team will monitor RPL and RPE data.

This ensures the assessment process is fair and effective, the policy is consistently applied, and satisfaction rates remain high.

Rule
Staff Training

The Director of Education will provide appropriate development opportunities for all staff involved in RPL and RPE operations.

This ensures that staff advising on, administering, or assessing RPL and RPE claims are well-equipped and knowledgeable in their roles.

Prior Learning and Experience in Admission Requirements

Title
Rule Programme Entry Criteria Applicants not meeting entry criteria can submit other relevant evidence of prior learning and experience under this route. This allows them to prove their suitability for the programme. An administration fee, detailed on the School's website, covers the assessment costs.
Rule Solely for Admission Decisions: No Academic Credit Given RPL and RPE for entry criteria only determine if an applicant meets general entry requirements. No academic credit is awarded from processing these claims.
Rule Mandatory Need for Evidence Applicants must submit evidence for RPL or RPE to satisfy entry requirements. Evidence must include statements linking prior learning/experience to entry requirements, certificates, transcripts, and other supporting documents like portfolios or references.
Rule Assessing an Application The Admissions Team will assess RPL and RPE applications against entry criteria. They will review all submitted evidence, which may include interviews, tests, or portfolios. Rigorous standards apply, with academic judgement on equivalence. The programme leader or Director of Education may be consulted. Decisions are recorded in the AGS.
Rule Reporting RPL and RPE assessment decisions for entry do not need to be reported to Programme or Module Examination Boards or external examiners. No credit is awarded; the application only concerns programme admission.

Title

Rule
Programme Entry Criteria

Applicants not meeting entry criteria can submit other relevant evidence of prior learning and experience under this route.

This allows them to prove their suitability for the programme. An administration fee, detailed on the School's website, covers the assessment costs.

Rule
Solely for Admission Decisions: No Academic Credit Given

RPL and RPE for entry criteria only determine if an applicant meets general entry requirements.

No academic credit is awarded from processing these claims.

Rule
Mandatory Need for Evidence

Applicants must submit evidence for RPL or RPE to satisfy entry requirements.

Evidence must include statements linking prior learning/experience to entry requirements, certificates, transcripts, and other supporting documents like portfolios or references.

Rule
Assessing an Application

The Admissions Team will assess RPL and RPE applications against entry criteria.

They will review all submitted evidence, which may include interviews, tests, or portfolios. Rigorous standards apply, with academic judgement on equivalence. The programme leader or Director of Education may be consulted. Decisions are recorded in the AGS.

Rule
Reporting

RPL and RPE assessment decisions for entry do not need to be reported to Programme or Module Examination Boards or external examiners.

No credit is awarded; the application only concerns programme admission.

Recognition for Module Waivers

Title
Rule When Should an Application be Made RPL or RPE applications for module exemption must be submitted with the admission application. An administration fee, specified on the School website, applies. Admissions decisions may depend on module exemption outcomes and should be deferred until these decisions are made.
Rule Which Modules can be Exempted Students may only apply for RPL and RPE exemptions for core modules. Exemptions for optional modules or final project modules are not allowed. Optional modules broaden the student's knowledge and skills, while final project modules are essential for assessing overall competence.
Rule No Partial Credit RPL and RPE can only be granted for entire modules. Partial module credits are not awarded. RPL and RPE are applied to complete modules, ensuring a consistent and comprehensive assessment of the student's prior learning.
Rule Assessing an Application The module leader assesses RPL and RPE applications for core module exemptions. Evidence must show the applicant meets all module learning outcomes. Interviews, portfolio reviews, and references may be used. If granted, full credit is awarded, and the student is exempt from the module and its assessment. The decision is recorded on the AGS. The module leader ensures that RPL and RPE evidence confirms that the applicant meets all module requirements, maintaining academic standards.
Rule Decision Making Standard The module leader must assess RPL and RPE applications using the same rigorous standards as for summative assessments and consider the overall programme context too. The prior learning or experience claimed must be equivalent to the module's learning outcomes and standards. Applying consistent standards ensures that RPL and RPE meet the same academic criteria as in-module learning, maintaining the integrity and quality of the programme.
Rule Director of Education and External Assessor A decision by the module leader to admit an applicant based on RPL or RPE must be approved by the Director of Education and an external assessor. If they disagree with the decision, they may overturn it. The Director of Education’s decision is final. This ensures that admissions decisions are reviewed and validated by multiple authorities to maintain fairness and consistency.
Rule Reporting and Ratification RPL and RPE decisions that involve credit awards or transfers must be reported to the External Examiner by the module leader after summative assessments, and to the Module and Programme Examination Boards by the respective leaders. External examiners should have access to relevant assessments and documentation and be aware of the RPL and RPE criteria, but are not required to moderate these claims. All decisions must be ratified by the Module and Programme Examination Boards. RPL and RPE credits cannot be included in the overall marks algorithm, which means final marks and classifications will be based on fewer credits unless the RPL or RPE is based on previous credits earned at the School. This process ensures transparency and consistency in RPL and RPE credit decisions, maintains the integrity of assessment standards, and confirms that all credits used for final classifications are appropriately validated.

Title

Rule
When Should an Application be Made

RPL or RPE applications for module exemption must be submitted with the admission application. An administration fee, specified on the School website, applies.

Admissions decisions may depend on module exemption outcomes and should be deferred until these decisions are made.

Rule
Which Modules can be Exempted

Students may only apply for RPL and RPE exemptions for core modules. Exemptions for optional modules or final project modules are not allowed.

Optional modules broaden the student's knowledge and skills, while final project modules are essential for assessing overall competence.

Rule
No Partial Credit

RPL and RPE can only be granted for entire modules. Partial module credits are not awarded.

RPL and RPE are applied to complete modules, ensuring a consistent and comprehensive assessment of the student's prior learning.

Rule
Assessing an Application

The module leader assesses RPL and RPE applications for core module exemptions. Evidence must show the applicant meets all module learning outcomes. Interviews, portfolio reviews, and references may be used. If granted, full credit is awarded, and the student is exempt from the module and its assessment. The decision is recorded on the AGS.

The module leader ensures that RPL and RPE evidence confirms that the applicant meets all module requirements, maintaining academic standards.

Rule
Decision Making Standard

The module leader must assess RPL and RPE applications using the same rigorous standards as for summative assessments and consider the overall programme context too. The prior learning or experience claimed must be equivalent to the module's learning outcomes and standards.

Applying consistent standards ensures that RPL and RPE meet the same academic criteria as in-module learning, maintaining the integrity and quality of the programme.

Rule
Director of Education and External Assessor

A decision by the module leader to admit an applicant based on RPL or RPE must be approved by the Director of Education and an external assessor. If they disagree with the decision, they may overturn it. The Director of Education’s decision is final.

This ensures that admissions decisions are reviewed and validated by multiple authorities to maintain fairness and consistency.

Rule
Reporting and Ratification

RPL and RPE decisions that involve credit awards or transfers must be reported to the External Examiner by the module leader after summative assessments, and to the Module and Programme Examination Boards by the respective leaders. External examiners should have access to relevant assessments and documentation and be aware of the RPL and RPE criteria, but are not required to moderate these claims. All decisions must be ratified by the Module and Programme Examination Boards. RPL and RPE credits cannot be included in the overall marks algorithm, which means final marks and classifications will be based on fewer credits unless the RPL or RPE is based on previous credits earned at the School.

This process ensures transparency and consistency in RPL and RPE credit decisions, maintains the integrity of assessment standards, and confirms that all credits used for final classifications are appropriately validated.

Credit Allocation Through Prior Learning Recognition

Title
Advice Credits on the Basis of Certified Learning Applicants may request credits towards a School programme based on equivalent credits earned from another School programme or an accredited higher education institution. Exemptions can only be requested for core modules, not optional or final project modules, on undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. An administration fee for this assessment will be listed on the School website. This rule ensures that credit claims are relevant to the programme's core modules, maintaining the integrity of academic standards while providing clear information on associated costs.
Rule Assessing an Application Applications for RPL will be reviewed by the relevant module leader. Applicants must provide evidence showing: Successful assessment and awarding of academic credits Credits are current and documented formally (e.g., transcripts or certificates) Credits are equivalent to a core module offered by the School in terms of learning outcomes, level, and credit value Credits meet the School's standards of rigour RPL can only be granted for full core modules, not parts or final project modules. The module leader should apply the same rigorous standards as for summative assessments. They may request additional evidence, such as interviews or portfolio reviews. If granted, students will be exempt from the corresponding core module and its assessment. All decisions will be recorded in the AGS. This rule ensures that only relevant and rigorous RPL applications are approved, maintaining academic standards while providing clarity on the assessment process and documentation requirements.
Rule Equivalent Institution RPL applications will be accepted through credit transfer without further assessment if the evidence shows that the credits were awarded by: The School Another UK higher education institution with degree-awarding powers as per the FHEQ An internationally recognised institution deemed equivalent by the School For European qualifications, the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) may apply. All decisions will be recorded in the AGS. This rule streamlines the RPL process by accepting credits from recognised institutions and using established systems like ECTS, ensuring consistency and reducing unnecessary assessments.
Rule Director of Education and External Assessor Decisions by a programme leader to admit an applicant using RPL must be approved by the Director of Education and an external assessor. They can overturn the decision if they disagree, but the Director of Education’s decision is final. This ensures that RPL admissions are reviewed at multiple levels for fairness and consistency, with the Director of Education having the final say.
Rule Reporting and Ratification RPL decisions involving credit awards must be reported by the module leader to the External Examiner and the Module and Programme Examination Boards. External examiners will have access to relevant assessments and documentation but will not moderate RPL claims. All decisions must be ratified by the Examination Boards. RPL credits cannot be used in the overall marks algorithm, affecting the final classification. However, RPL based on previous credits earned at the School will be included in the marks algorithm. This ensures transparency and consistency in RPL credit awards, with necessary oversight by External Examiners and Examination Boards. It maintains fairness in the final classification process, while recognising previous School credits appropriately.

Title

Advice
Credits on the Basis of Certified Learning

Applicants may request credits towards a School programme based on equivalent credits earned from another School programme or an accredited higher education institution. Exemptions can only be requested for core modules, not optional or final project modules, on undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. An administration fee for this assessment will be listed on the School website.

This rule ensures that credit claims are relevant to the programme's core modules, maintaining the integrity of academic standards while providing clear information on associated costs.

Rule
Assessing an Application

Applications for RPL will be reviewed by the relevant module leader. Applicants must provide evidence showing:

Successful assessment and awarding of academic credits
Credits are current and documented formally (e.g., transcripts or certificates)
Credits are equivalent to a core module offered by the School in terms of learning outcomes, level, and credit value
Credits meet the School's standards of rigour

RPL can only be granted for full core modules, not parts or final project modules. The module leader should apply the same rigorous standards as for summative assessments. They may request additional evidence, such as interviews or portfolio reviews. If granted, students will be exempt from the corresponding core module and its assessment. All decisions will be recorded in the AGS.

This rule ensures that only relevant and rigorous RPL applications are approved, maintaining academic standards while providing clarity on the assessment process and documentation requirements.

Rule
Equivalent Institution

RPL applications will be accepted through credit transfer without further assessment if the evidence shows that the credits were awarded by:

The School
Another UK higher education institution with degree-awarding powers as per the FHEQ
An internationally recognised institution deemed equivalent by the School

For European qualifications, the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) may apply. All decisions will be recorded in the AGS.

This rule streamlines the RPL process by accepting credits from recognised institutions and using established systems like ECTS, ensuring consistency and reducing unnecessary assessments.

Rule
Director of Education and External Assessor

Decisions by a programme leader to admit an applicant using RPL must be approved by the Director of Education and an external assessor. They can overturn the decision if they disagree, but the Director of Education’s decision is final.

This ensures that RPL admissions are reviewed at multiple levels for fairness and consistency, with the Director of Education having the final say.

Rule
Reporting and Ratification

RPL decisions involving credit awards must be reported by the module leader to the External Examiner and the Module and Programme Examination Boards. External examiners will have access to relevant assessments and documentation but will not moderate RPL claims. All decisions must be ratified by the Examination Boards. RPL credits cannot be used in the overall marks algorithm, affecting the final classification. However, RPL based on previous credits earned at the School will be included in the marks algorithm.

This ensures transparency and consistency in RPL credit awards, with necessary oversight by External Examiners and Examination Boards. It maintains fairness in the final classification process, while recognising previous School credits appropriately.

Metrics and KPIs

The following metrics will be measured and regularly reviewed as key performance indicators for the School to ensure the effectiveness of this policy and associated operations.

Title
Applicant Satisfaction Score Measure satisfaction levels among applicants through surveys post-decision. Target: Achieve an average satisfaction score of 8 out of 10. Satisfaction scores provide direct feedback on the applicant experience. High scores suggest that the RPL and RPE process is meeting or exceeding expectations, supporting continuous improvement and positive perception of the School.
Application Approval Rate Track the percentage of RPL and RPE applications that are approved versus those rejected. Target: Achieve an approval rate of at least 75%. This KPI reflects the effectiveness of the RPL and RPE assessment process. A high approval rate indicates successful assessment and alignment with the criteria, which can increase applicant and student satisfaction.
Application Processing Time Measure the average time taken to process RPL and RPE applications from submission to decision. Target: Process applications within 20 working days. Monitoring processing time helps ensure efficiency and responsiveness, enhancing applicant satisfaction by providing timely decisions. Reducing processing time can improve overall administrative efficiency.
Number of Appeals and Complaints Monitor the number of appeals and complaints related to RPL and RPE decisions. Target: Limit appeals and complaints to less than 5% of total applications. Tracking appeals and complaints helps identify areas for improvement in the RPL and RPE process. A lower number of issues indicates a fair and transparent process, enhancing overall efficiency and applicant confidence.

Title

Applicant Satisfaction Score
Measure satisfaction levels among applicants through surveys post-decision. Target: Achieve an average satisfaction score of 8 out of 10.
Satisfaction scores provide direct feedback on the applicant experience. High scores suggest that the RPL and RPE process is meeting or exceeding expectations, supporting continuous improvement and positive perception of the School.

Application Approval Rate
Track the percentage of RPL and RPE applications that are approved versus those rejected. Target: Achieve an approval rate of at least 75%.
This KPI reflects the effectiveness of the RPL and RPE assessment process. A high approval rate indicates successful assessment and alignment with the criteria, which can increase applicant and student satisfaction.

Application Processing Time
Measure the average time taken to process RPL and RPE applications from submission to decision. Target: Process applications within 20 working days.
Monitoring processing time helps ensure efficiency and responsiveness, enhancing applicant satisfaction by providing timely decisions. Reducing processing time can improve overall administrative efficiency.

Number of Appeals and Complaints
Monitor the number of appeals and complaints related to RPL and RPE decisions. Target: Limit appeals and complaints to less than 5% of total applications.
Tracking appeals and complaints helps identify areas for improvement in the RPL and RPE process. A lower number of issues indicates a fair and transparent process, enhancing overall efficiency and applicant confidence.