North Leamington School BTEC Registration and ...€¦ · • Audit certificate claims made to the awarding body • Audit the certificates received from the awarding body to ensure

27/11/2018 Final C:\Users\jbassnls\Desktop\NLS BTEC Policies 2018-19.docx Last Reviewed: 27/11/2018 by A Hawkins

North Leamington School

BTEC Registration

and

Administration Policy

Academic Year 2018-19


This policy is reviewed annually to ensure compliance with current regulations

Approved/reviewed by Date

Andrew Hawkins November 2018

Date of next review October 2019

Key staff involved in BTEC Registration, Administration and Verification

Role Name(s)

Quality Nominee Andrew Hawkins

Data and Exams Manager Amanda King

Exams Officer Katie James

Lead Internal Verifier Various – Subject specific

Programme Leader Various – Subject specific


CONTENTS 1. Core Purpose……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………….. 1

2. Aim………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 1

3. Roles and Responsibilities……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 1

3.1 Quality Nominee………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 1

3.2 Lead Internal Verifier………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 2

3.3 Programme Leader…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2

3.4 Subject Assessor………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3

3.5 Data and Exams Manager ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3

3.6 Exams Officer ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3

4. NLS BTEC Registration and Certification Policy ……………………………………………………………………. 4

4.1 BTEC Registration and Certification Procedures ……………………………………………………………. 4

4.1.1 Initial Registration Procedure ………………………………………………………………………………. 4

4.1.2 Transfer Procedure ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5

4.1.3 Withdrawal Procedure …………………………………………………………………………………………… 5

4.1.4 New Arrivals Procedure …………………………………………………………………………………………. 5

4.1.5 Unit Certification and Final Certification Procedure ………………………………………………. 5

4.1.6 Discovery of Inaccurate Early/Late and Fraudulent Registrations and Certificates

Procedures ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6

5. NLS BTEC Registrations for External Assessments Policy ………………………………………………………. 7

5.1 Procedures ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 7

5.1.1 Initial Registration Procedure ………………………………………………………………………………….7

6. BTEC Assessment Policy (Internal Assessment) ………………………………………………………………………9

6.1 Assessment Procedure ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9

6.1.1 Assessment Plan Procedure …………………………………………………………………………………….9

6.1.2 Assignment Brief Procedure …………………………………………………………………………………… 10

6.1.3 Submission of Evidence Procedure …………………………………………………………………………. 10

6.1.4 Resubmission of Evidence Procedure ………………………………………………………………………11

6.1.5 Procedure for Resubmission ……………………………………………………………………………………11

6.1.6 Conditions for Retaking a new Assignment (QCF) …………………………………………………… 11

6.1.7 Conditions for Retaking a new Assignment (NQF)…………………………………………………… 11

7. Internal Verification Policy ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 12

7.1 Internal Verification Procedures ……………………………………………………………………………………… 12

7.1.1 Responsibility of LIV ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 13

8. Plagiarism and Malpractice Policy …………………………………………………………………………………………. 14

8.1 NLS Commitment to Minimising the Risk of Malpractice …………………………………………………. 14

8.2 Definition of Malpractice by Learners ……………………………………………………………………………… 15

8.3 Definition of Malpractice by Centre Staff ………………………………………………………………………… 16

8.4 Procedures for Investigating Cases of Malpractice …………………………………………………………. 16

8.4.1 Investigating an Alleged Malpractice ……………………………………………………………………… 16

8.4.2 Proven Malpractice …………………………………………………………………………………………………17

8.4.3 Staff Malpractice …………………………………………………………………………………………………….17

9. Appeals Policy ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 18

9.1 Appeals Procedure ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 18

9.1.1 The Learner does not agree with an Assessment Decision ……………………………………. 18

27/11/2018 Final 1 C:\Users\jbassnls\Desktop\NLS BTEC Policies 2018-19.docx Last Reviewed: 27/11/2018 by A Hawkins

1. Core Purpose

This document defines the policies and procedures for the conducting of BTEC programmes of study

and associated examinations and assessments at North Leamington School (NLS), according to the

rules and regulations prescribed by Pearson and the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ). The policy

is available to view on the NLS website:

https://northleamingtonschool.warwickshire.sch.uk/index.php/about-us/policies

2. Aim

NLS seeks to ensure that:

individual learners are registered on the correct BTEC programmes of study

all personnel involved with the administering, assessing and certificating of the programmes of

study adhere to the rules and regulations laid down by Pearson and the JCQ

systems are put in place for the secure tracking of learner registrations, internal assessment

decisions, external examinations and certification

internal assessments are conducted according to the national standards, are fair and free from

bias

external examinations are conducted according to the rules enforced by Pearson and the JCQ

an effective malpractice policy is enforced for internal and external assessment when deemed

necessary

3. Roles and Responsibilities

This section defines the roles and responsibilities of all key personnel involved in the conducting of

BTEC programmes of study at NLS.

3.1 Quality Nominee

The Quality Nominee (QN) must be a member of the School Leadership Team. The QN has the following responsibilities:

to ensure that BTEC programmes are managed effectively

to actively encourage and promote good practice at NLS

to act as the main person involved with Quality Review and Development and to liaise directly

with the Centre Quality Reviewer

to liaise with the appropriate NLS personnel and Pearson staff to ensure that:

all programmes are approved and registrations are accurate and up to date all staff are aware of Pearson requirements and are aware of the support and guidance

available there is an accredited Lead Internal Verifier (LIV) in place for each Principal Subject Area,

where required assessment and internal verification is effective on all Edexcel BTEC and vocational

programmes Standards Verification is completed successfully Pearson’s approval conditions and policy requirements are being implemented consistently

and effectively.



3.2 Lead Internal Verifier

The Lead Internal Verifier (LIV) is the person appointed by NLS for each subject area who has the

authority to oversee assessment outcomes, is registered with Pearson and has undergone the

necessary standardisation processes as required by Pearson. Each LIV must oversee effective

internal verification systems in their Principal Subject Area as defined in:

NLS BTEC Registration and Certification Policy

NLS BTEC Registration for External Assessments Policy

NLS BTEC Assessment Policy

NLS BTEC Internal Verification Policy

NLS BTEC Plagiarism and Assessment Malpractice Policy

This includes the training and supervision of Subject Assessors (SAs) where applicable. The main

responsibilities of the LIV are:

to register with Edexcel through OSCA and confirm registration every year to undertake induction training through booking on to an event (once only) to complete the accreditation process: practice exercise and assessment exercise (normally only

once every three years) (QCF) to complete NQF training material and to share standardisation materials with the programme

team to make other assessors and verifiers aware of the practice exercise, for example through a

team development event to ensure that there is an assessment and verification plan for the programmes in the sector

which is fit for purpose and meets requirements – see the NLS BTEC Assessment Policy to sign off the plan and check that it is being followed at suitable points to undertake some internal verification and/or assessment for individual units within at least

one of the programmes as per the NLS BTEC Internal Verification Policy to ensure that records of assessment and samples of learner work are being retained for use

with Standards Verification if necessary to plan to set aside examples of work that has been verified to different levels and grades to liaise with the Standards Verifier to ensure that appropriate sampling takes place, if and

when sampling is required to make arrangements for handover to a deputy or replacement if unable to carry out the role to access standardisation materials and work through these with the programme team annually

The LIV may or may not be a Programme Leader (PL).

3.3 Programme Leader

The Programme Leader (PL) has overall responsibility for the effective delivery and assessment of BTEC qualifications. Where possible, the PL will also act as the LIV. The key responsibilities of the PL are:

to liaise with the QN to be made aware of information updates and quality assurance requirements

to liaise with relevant Edexcel appointed staff undertaking quality assurance, including Standards Verifiers


to ensure that there are sufficient resources to deliver the programmes and units being operated - this includes ensuring that staff have the necessary expertise and, where relevant, qualifications

to review the reports arising from quality assurance and ensure that appropriate actions are taken

to liaise effectively with the examinations officer regarding the registration and certification of learners as per the NLS BTEC Registration and Certification Policy

To liaise effectively with the examinations officer to ensure the accuracy of entry for external examinations according to the NLS BTEC Registration for External Assessments Policy

To liaise effectively with the examinations officer to ensure the accuracy of registration and certification of learners – refer to the NLS BTEC Registration and Certification Policy

3.4 Subject Assessor

A Subject Assessor (SA) who may or may not be a Lead Internal Verifier must ensure that all

assessments are carried out in accordance with the NLS BTEC Assessment Policy.

3.5 Data and Exams Manager

The Data and Exams Manager (DM) has overall responsibility for Exams and must ensure that,

working in conjunction with the Exams Officer (EO), all procedures for the registering of learners,

exam entries, the notification of assessment results to Pearson and award certification, are followed

according to the following policies:

NLS BTEC Registration and Certification Policy

NLS BTEC Registration for External Assessments Policy

3.6 Exams Officer

The Exams Officer (EO) is the person designated by NLS to take responsibility for the correct

administration of learners with Pearson and will act as the administrator for Edexcel Online.

The responsibilities of the Exams Officer are:

to liaise with LIVs to maintain information on which programmes are running and when they start and finish

to register learners by 1 November (for programmes starting in September) or within one month of enrolment (for other start times as advised by the LIV or DM)

to register learners for the correct programmes, checking that these are the specific titles and versions that learners are following

check registrations carefully to ensure that all data is accurate and follow correct procedures if amendments are required

for relevant programmes, give Edexcel Online access to the QN and LIVs so that they can register on to the OSCA system

to give and maintain access rights to Edexcel Online to all other BTEC staff as necessary; this should not normally include access to the registration or certification of learners

for programmes that include externally assessed units, ensure that all exam entries are made according to Pearson requirements


4. NLS BTEC Registration and Certification Policy

Aim: To register individual learners to the correct programme within the agreed timescales

To claim valid learner certificates within agreed timescales

To construct a secure, accurate and accessible audit trail to ensure that individual learner registration and certification claims can be tracked to the certificate which is issued for each learner.

In order to do this, NLS will: • Register each learner within the awarding body requirements

• Provide a mechanism for programme teams to check the accuracy of learner registrations

• Make each learner aware of their registration status

• Inform the awarding body of withdrawals, transfers or changes to learner details

• Ensure that certificate claims are timely and based solely on internally verified assessment

records

• Audit certificate claims made to the awarding body

• Audit the certificates received from the awarding body to ensure accuracy and completeness

• Keep all records safely and securely for three years post certification.

This policy will be reviewed every 12 months by the QN.

4.1 Procedures for Registration and Certification

These procedures are in place to enable NLS to comply with the registration and certification

requirements of both Pearson and the JCQ and to prevent inaccurate or false: registrations, external

assessment entries, or certification.

4.1.1 Initial Registration Procedure

1. At the start of the academic year, EO to check course/qualification code(s) with PL for all new

courses.

2. EO to confirm with the PL the candidates to be registered.

3. EO to register learners with Pearson (Edexcel online) by 31 October.

4. During November, EO to send the PL the list of registrations for checking.

5. PL to confirm accuracy of registrations with EO and notify any changes required.

6. EO to make any changes and re-submit the list of registrations to the PL for final sign-off, by 30

November.

7. At final registration sign-off, PL to print, sign and date the registration list.

8. EO to scan and save a copy in the Exams Folder.

9. PL to retain the signed copy in the Programme File and notify students of their registration

numbers.

10. EO to record details of each course registration on the BTEC Registration Tracking Sheet, held in

the Exams folder.


11. Thereafter, it is the responsibility of the PL (or DM when making timetable changes) to notify the

EO by email of any changes:

Transfers – refer to section 4.1.2

Withdrawals – refer to section 4.1.3

New arrivals – refer to section 4.1.4

4.1.2 Transfer Procedure

1. PL to immediately notify EO of any transfers. 2. EO to make the change online and re-submit the list of registrations to the PL for sign-off, within

2 weeks of notification. 3. EO to scan and save latest copy in the Exams Folder. 4. PL to retain the signed copy in the Programme File. 5. EO to record details of the change to registration on the BTEC Registration Tracking Sheet, held

in the Exams folder.

4.1.3 Withdrawal Procedure

1. PL (or DM when making timetable changes) to immediately notify EO of any withdrawals. 2. EO to make the change online and re-submit the list of registrations to the PL for sign-off, within

2 weeks of notification. 3. EO to scan and save latest copy in the Exams Folder. 4. PL to retain the signed copy in the Programme File. 5. EO to record details of the change to registration on the BTEC Registration Tracking Sheet, held


4.1.4 New Arrivals Procedure

1. DM or PL to immediately notify EO of any new course joiners or leavers. 2. EO to make the change online and re-submit the list of registrations to the PL for sign-off, within

2 weeks of notification. 3. EO to scan and save latest copy in the Exams Folder. 4. PL to retain the signed copy in the Programme File and notify student of their registration

number. 6. EO to record details of the change to registration on the BTEC Registration Tracking Sheet, held


4.1.5 Unit Certification and Final Certification Procedure

1. LIV to ensure unit assessment records support learner achievement before completing each

Student Tracker.

2. LIV to pass Student Tracker to PL for checking.

3. PL to check accuracy of Student Tracker and once confirmed as accurate, pass completed

trackers to E.Trackers to be retained for a three-year period.

4. PL to email completed trackers to EO by 31 May.

5. EO with PL to submit final certification claims via Edexcel online by 30 June.

6. Once certificates are received, EO to check accuracy against assessment records.


7. EO to notify Pearson of any inaccuracies immediately and recheck amended certificates on

receipt.

8. EO to issue all correct certificates to learners.

4.1.6 Discovery of Inaccurate, Early/Late and Fraudulent Registrations and Certificate Procedures

1. Where any inaccurate, early/late or fraudulent registrations or certification claims are

discovered, QN to escalate to Head of Centre (Head Teacher).

2. Head Teacher to instigate internal malpractice procedure and report to Pearson.

Links:

This policy/procedure is available to view on the NLS website:


BTEC procedures for Exams Officers are also available online:

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/home.html

Commented [AH1]:

Commented [AK2]:




5. NLS BTEC Registration for External Assessments Policy

Aim: To register students for the External Assessment components of BTEC programmes

In order to do this, the centre will: • identify those units that have an external assessment component

• inform the exam office of the students to be entered for an external assessment unit before the

registration deadline

provide a mechanism for programme teams to check the accuracy of learner registration

make each learner aware of their registration

inform the awarding body of withdrawals, transfers or changes to learner details

• ensure provision is made for externally assessed units to be undertaken following examination

Regulations

• ensure Students are given the opportunity to retake external assessments – charges will be

made according to the school charging policy

Access arrangements must be made for all students for whom this applies

Audit the certificates received from the awarding body to ensure


5.1 Procedures

These procedures are in place to ensure NLS is fully compliant with the registration requirements of

both Pearson and the JCQ for external assessments, in order to prevent inaccurate or false external

assessment entries.

5.1.1 Initial Registration Procedure

1. EO to liaise with PL to confirm dates for BTEC externally set assessments.

2. EO to register learners for the assessment and provide PL with the confirmation list.

4. PL to check the accuracy of the registrations and notify the EO of any changes required.

5. EO to make any changes and re-submit the list of registrations to the PL for final sign-off.

6. At final registration sign-off, PL to print, sign and date the registration list.

7. EO to scan and save a copy in the Exams Folder.

8. PL to retain the signed copy in the Programme File.

9. EO to record details of each course registration on the BTEC Registration Tracking Sheet, held in

the Exams folder.

10. Thereafter, it is the responsibility of the PL (or DM when making timetable changes) to notify the

EO by email of any changes which relate to transfers, withdrawals and new arrivals, as detailed

in Section 4.

3. In November, or when in year changes are made EO informs PLs of registration numbers. PL

informs students of their registration number.

4. PLs ensure attendance data is accurately maintained in SIMS.


Links:

This policy/procedure is available to view on the NLS website:


BTEC procedures for Exams Officers are also available online:





6. BTEC Assessment Policy (Internal Assessment)

Aim: To ensure that assessment methodology is valid, reliable and does not disadvantage or

advantage any group of learners or individuals To ensure that the assessment procedure is open, fair and free from bias and to national

standards. To ensure that there is accurate and detailed recording of assessment decisions. In order to do this, the centre will: • Ensure that learners are provided with assignments that are fit for purpose, to enable them to

produce appropriate evidence for assessment.

Produce a clear and accurate assessment plan at the start of the programme/academic year

Detailed feedback can be given during the teaching and learning phase prior to starting an assignment e.g. “Mock” assignments and/or tasks.

Produce clear published dates for hand out of assignments and deadlines for assessment • Assess learner’s evidence using only the published assessment and grading criteria.

• Ensure that assessment decisions are impartial, valid and reliable.

• Not limit or ‘cap’ learner achievement if work is submitted late.

• Develop assessment procedures that will minimise the opportunity for malpractice.

• Maintain accurate and detailed records of assessment decisions.

• Maintain a robust and rigorous internal verification procedure.

• Annually provide samples for Standards Verification/ external examinations as required by the

awarding body

• Monitor standards verification reports and undertake any remedial action required • Share good assessment practice between all BTEC programme teams.

• Ensure that BTEC assessment methodology and the role of the assessor are understood by all

staff.

• Provide resources to ensure that assessment can be performed accurately and appropriately.

• All assessment and grading criteria to be clearly identified on the assignment brief


6.1 Assessment Procedure

Assessment is carried out through various types of assignments. The process is explained to students

as part of their induction process and given to students in the student handbook.

6.1.1 Assessment Plan Procedure

1. The PL must prepare an assessment plan at the start of each programme. The assessment plan

must include:

Programme title

Unit number and title

Assignment title

Targeted learning aim/outcomes


Date for Internal Verification (IV) of assignment brief.

Hand out date

Internal assessment hand in date or external assessment date

Date for the IV decision

Planned resubmission date

Resubmission date for internal verification

Assessor name

Internal verifier name

6.1.2 Assignment Brief Procedure

1. Assignment briefs are issued by the PL once the course content has been delivered.

2. Each assignment brief must include:

• Qualification being studied

• Unit covered

• Date issued, hand in date and assessment date

• Scenario

• Description of task

• Description of evidence to be submitted

• Criteria covered

• Resources list

6.1.3 Submission of Evidence Procedure

Only one submission is allowed for each assignment and the assessor must formally record the assessment result and confirm the achievement of the specific assessment criteria.

Each learner must submit: an assignment for assessment which consists of evidence towards the targeted assessment

criteria a signed and dated declaration of authenticity for each assignment which confirms they have

produced the evidence themselves

The assessor must: formally record and confirm the achievement of specific assessment criteria complete a confirmation that the evidence they have assessed is authentic and is the

learner’s own work

The assessor must not provide feedback or guidance on how to improve the evidence to achieve the qualification


6.1.4 Resubmission of Evidence Procedure

1. The LIV can only authorise a resubmission if all of the following conditions are met: ● the learner has met initial deadlines set in the assignment, or has met an agreed deadline

extension ● the tutor judges that the learner will be able to provide improved evidence without further

guidance ● the assessor has authenticated the evidence submitted for assessment and the evidence is

accompanied by a signed and dated declaration of authenticity by the learner. 2. If a learner has not met the conditions listed above, the LIV must not authorise a resubmission.

6.1.5 Procedure for Resubmission

If the Lead Internal Verifier does authorise a resubmission, it must be: ● recorded on the assessment form ● given a deadline for resubmission within 10 working days* of the learner receiving the results of

the assessment ● undertaken by the learner with no further guidance. * 10 working days must be within term time, in the same academic year as the original submission

6.1.6 Conditions for retaking a new assignment (QCF)

If a learner has met all of the submission conditions, but still not achieved the targeted pass criteria following resubmission of an assignment, the LIV may authorise one retake opportunity to meet the required pass criteria.

6.1.7 Conditions for retaking a new assignment (NQF)

Retakes are not permissible on NQF courses

Links:

Pearson Qualification Subject pages: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/home.html

BTEC Centre Guide to Internal Assessment:

https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/BTEC-

Firsts/news/Guide_to_Internal_Assessment_for_BTEC_Firsts_and_Nationals.pdf

Assessment and verification templates:

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/support/support-topics/assessment-and-verification/btec-

assessment-and-verification-tools.html


https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/BTEC-Firsts/news/Guide_to_Internal_Assessment_for_BTEC_Firsts_and_Nationals.pdf

https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/BTEC-Firsts/news/Guide_to_Internal_Assessment_for_BTEC_Firsts_and_Nationals.pdf

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/support/support-topics/assessment-and-verification/btec-assessment-and-verification-tools.html



7. Internal Verification Policy

Aim: To ensure there is an accredited LIV in each principle area (Entry Level to Level 3).

To ensure that internal verification is valid, reliable and covers all assessors and programme activity.

To ensure that the internal verification procedure is open, fair and free from bias.

To ensure that there is accurate and detailed recording of internal verification decisions.

In order to do this, the centre will ensure that: • where required by the qualification, a LIV is appropriately appointed for each subject area, is

registered with Pearson and has undergone the necessary standardisation processes ● each Lead Internal Verifier oversees effective Internal Verification systems in their subject area ● staff are briefed and trained in the requirements for current internal verification procedures ● effective Internal Verification roles are defined, maintained and supported ● internal verification is promoted as a developmental process between staff ● standardised internal verification documentation is provided and used ● all centre assessment instruments are verified as fit for purpose ● an annual internal verification schedule, linked to assessment plans, is in place ● an appropriately structured sample of assessment from all programmes, units, sites and

Assessors is internally verified, to ensure centre programmes conform to national standards ● secure records of all Internal Verification activity are maintained ● the outcome of Internal Verification is used to enhance future assessment practice. This policy will be reviewed every 12 months by the QN.

7.1 Internal Verification Procedures

The internal verification process is monitored by the QN and a team of LIVs. The QN leads a team of

recognised internal verifiers to ensure standardisation of procedures across all programmes. BTEC

internal verification forms are standardised across the centre and all assessors are involved in the

Internal Verification (IV) process.

The IV process in each programme is led by the LIV who will ensure that the IV process identified in

the assessment plans and IV schedule is implemented.

The process is externally monitored by Pearson through the standards verification process.

Key dates and actions:

September

1. QN to update organisational chart to ensure that all programmes have a designated LIV.

2. QN to check that all LIVs are registered on Edexcel Online (EoL).

3. LIV to undertake OSCA accreditation as required.

4. QN to download BTEC guides for Internal Verification (IV) and distribute to PLs and LIVs.

5. PLs to check that all IV procedures meet current requirements.

6. PLs to download and complete standardisation tasks from EoL.

7. PLs to complete standardisation tasks with their team, complete Standardisation Task

Document and return to QN.

8. QN to retain copy of Standardisation Task Document in QN Annual File.


October

1. PLs to submit IV schedules to QN.

2. QN to check IV schedules are appropriate and link to Assessment Plans.

3. QN to retain copy of IV schedules for QN Annual Folder

December

1. Quality Assurance 1 Health Check by Senior Leader (SLT) and Faculty Leader (FL).

2. SLT to inform QN of any issues and to complete Action Plan.

April

1. SLT and FL to make a Quality Assurance 2 Health Check where the progress of any actions

identified by the Quality Assurance Health Check 1 is checked.

2. SLT to inform QN of any arising issues and complete Action Plan.

May (or as required)

1. LIV to provide samples as required by the Standards Verifier (SV)

2. QN to complete an Action Plan as required from any feedback from SV.

7.1.1 Responsibility of LIV

The LIV must ensure that IV of assignments and assessment decisions are completed according to

the IV schedule during the year.

Links:

BTEC Centre Guide to Internal verification:



BTEC Centre Guide to Internal Verification:

https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/Support/Quality%20Assurance/BTEC-Centre-

Guide-to-Standards-Verification.pdf

Assessment and verification tools/templates:



BTEC Centre Guide for Lead Internal Verifiers:

https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/Support/Quality%20Assurance/BTEC-Centre-

Guide-to-Lead-Internal-Verifier-final-v1.2.pdf



https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/Support/Quality%20Assurance/BTEC-Centre-Guide-to-Standards-Verification.pdf

https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/Support/Quality%20Assurance/BTEC-Centre-Guide-to-Standards-Verification.pdf



https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/Support/Quality%20Assurance/BTEC-Centre-Guide-to-Lead-Internal-Verifier-final-v1.2.pdf

https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/Support/Quality%20Assurance/BTEC-Centre-Guide-to-Lead-Internal-Verifier-final-v1.2.pdf


8. Plagiarism and Assessment Malpractice Policy

Aim: • To identify and minimise the risk of malpractice by staff or learners. • To respond to any incident of alleged malpractice promptly and objectively. • To standardise and record any investigation of malpractice to ensure openness and

fairness. • To impose appropriate penalties and/or sanctions on learners or staff where incidents

(or attempted incidents) of malpractice are proven. • To protect the integrity of this centre and BTEC qualifications.

In order to do this, NLS will: • Seek to avoid potential malpractice by using the induction period and the learner handbook to

inform learners of the centre’s policy on malpractice and the penalties for attempted and actual incidents of malpractice.

• Show learners the appropriate formats to record cited texts and other materials or information sources.

• Ask learners to declare that their work is their own. • Ask learners to provide evidence that they have interpreted and synthesised appropriate

information and acknowledged any sources used. • Conduct an investigation in a form commensurate with the nature of the malpractice allegation.

Such an investigation will be supported by the Head of Centre and all personnel linked to the allegation – refer to Section 8.4.1.

• Where malpractice is proven NLS will follow a predetermined procedure in order to apply penalties/sanctions – refer to Section 8.4.2.

8.1 NLS Commitment to Minimising the Risk of Malpractice

NLS has procedures in place to minimise the risk of learner malpractice and does so by following these principles: 1. NLS seeks to avoid potential malpractice by informing learners of the centre’s policy on

malpractice and the penalties for attempted and actual incidents of malpractice. This takes place every September, during the learner’s induction and is also reinforced periodically thereafter (see also point 3 below). Learners are told that if they do not conform to the malpractice policy then a range of sanctions may be applied by the Awarding Body and ultimately they could fail their BTEC course: • the student may be withdrawn from one or all of their current examination series. • the piece of work may be awarded zero marks. • the Student is barred from being entered for the qualification for a specified period.

2. Subject teachers are required to design assignment briefs and processes which help reduce assessment malpractice and plagiarism.

3. NLS ensures that students have appropriate study skills training and that information and support is available for all students to prevent incidents of assessment malpractice and plagiarism. This includes showing learners the appropriate format to record cited texts and other materials or information sources.

4. Subject teachers actively reinforce the malpractice policy at regular points as appropriate.


5. Subject teachers remind students that: • their work should not be copied from other students • they should not give their computer password anyone else - this prevents other students

accessing their work 6. Subject Teachers must ensure that the assessment work students produce is their own and any

material reproduced from other sources needs to be credited by the use of: • a footnote • a sources statement • a bibliography

7. Subject teachers MUST ask students to declare that their work is their own by completing a Centre Declaration Sheet which confirms that: • the work is their own • the work is authentic • the work meets the assessment specification

8. Teaching staff must take reasonable steps to monitor student work to ensure there is no assessment work plagiarism or malpractice. Detection methods include (but are not limited to): • standardisation of marked work • comparisons between student assessment submissions • checking work for unfamiliar words and grammar • changes in the quality of work produced • identification of unreferenced familiar text.

9. Staff teaching on BTEC courses must follow a robust quality assurance process including IV, audited record keeping, tracking/monitoring of certification claims, in order to minimise and identify any malpractice.

10. The QN is responsible for ensuring that all teaching staff understand the malpractice policy. Any suspected staff malpractice will be reported to the Head of Centre (Head Teacher) who will instigate an investigation into the suspected malpractice and report it to Pearson if deemed necessary.

8.2 Definition of Malpractice by Learners

This list is not exhaustive and other instances of malpractice may be considered by this centre at its discretion: • Plagiarism of any nature. • Collusion by working collaboratively with other learners to produce work that is submitted as

individual learner work. • Copying (including the use of ICT to aid copying). • Deliberate destruction of another’s work. • Fabrication of results or evidence. • False declaration of authenticity in relation to the contents of a portfolio or coursework. • Impersonation by pretending to be someone else in order to produce the work for another or

arranging for another to take one’s place in an assessment/examination/test.


8.3 Definition of Malpractice by Centre Staff

This list is not exhaustive and other instances of malpractice may be considered by this centre at its discretion: • Improper assistance to candidates. • Inventing or changing marks for internally assessed work (coursework or portfolio evidence)

where there is insufficient evidence of the candidates’ achievement to justify the marks given or assessment decisions made.

• Failure to keep candidate coursework/portfolios of evidence secure. • Fraudulent claims for certificates. • Inappropriate retention of certificates. • Assisting learners in the production of work for assessment, where the support has the potential

to influence the outcomes of assessment, for example where the assistance involves centre staff producing work for the learner.

• Producing falsified witness statements, for example for evidence the learner has not generated. • Allowing evidence, which is known by the staff member not to be the learner’s own, to be

included in a learner’s assignment/task/portfolio/coursework. • Facilitating and allowing impersonation. • Misusing the conditions for special learner requirements, for example where learners are

permitted support, such as an amanuensis, this is permissible up to the point where the support has the potential to influence the outcome of the assessment.

• Falsifying records/certificates, for example by alteration, substitution, or by fraud. • Fraudulent certificate claims, that is claiming for a certificate prior to the learner completing all

the requirements of assessment. This policy will be reviewed every 12 months by the QN.

8.4 Procedures for Investigating Cases of Malpractice

The following sections define the procedures in place for dealing with incidences of malpractice at NLS:

8.4.1 Investigating an Alleged Malpractice

An investigation must be conducted (supported by the Head of Centre) by all personnel linked to the allegation and which is commensurate with the nature of the malpractice allegation. 1. The PL will inform the QN and the Head of Centre that malpractice is suspected/alleged. 2. The QN will make the individual fully aware at the earliest opportunity of the nature of the

alleged malpractice and of the possible consequences should malpractice be proven. 3. The QN will give the individual the opportunity to respond to the allegations made. 4. The QN will inform the individual of the avenues for appealing against any judgement made. 5. The QN will fully investigate the suspected malpractice and document all evidence.


8.4.2 Proven Malpractice

Where malpractice is proven, the following procedure will be followed in order to apply penalties/sanctions: 1. Parents/Carers will be informed by letter that malpractice has occurred. 2. The student’s work will be withdrawn and the student will be given the opportunity to repeat

the assignment. 3. Previous assignments will be re-checked for malpractice and may also be rejected if similar

concerns are identified. 4. Details will be recorded in the learners e-portfolio 5. In cases where there is a second or further offence the school will contact the examination

board.

8.4.3 Staff Malpractice

1. In cases where staff malpractice is identified they will be subject to the staff disciplinary policy. 2. Upon full investigation, the Awarding Body may be notified.

Links:

Pearson Centre Guidance on dealing with Malpractice and Maladministration in Vocational Qualifications: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/support/support-topics/exams/examination-guidance/malpractice-and-plagiarism.html#sts=Additional%20guidance Plagiarism Factsheet: https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/Support/Quality%20Assurance/Plagiarism-Factsheet.pdf NLS Disciplinary Policy: H:\Policies\LA Policies\Disciplinary Procedure - December 2014.pdf

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/support/support-topics/exams/examination-guidance/malpractice-and-plagiarism.html#sts=Additional%20guidance

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/support/support-topics/exams/examination-guidance/malpractice-and-plagiarism.html#sts=Additional%20guidance

https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/Support/Quality%20Assurance/Plagiarism-Factsheet.pdf

https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/Support/Quality%20Assurance/Plagiarism-Factsheet.pdf


9. Appeals Policy

Aim: • To enable the learner to enquire, question or appeal against an assessment decision • To attempt to reach agreement between the learner and the assessor at the earliest opportunity • To standardise and record any appeal to ensure openness and fairness • To facilitate a learner’s ultimate right of appeal to the awarding body, where appropriate • To protect the interests of all learners and the integrity of the qualification.

In order to do this, NLS will: • Inform the learner at induction, of the Appeals Policy and procedure (Student Handbook)

• Record, track and validate any appeal

• Forward the appeal to the awarding body when a learner considers that a decision continues to

disadvantage her/him after the internal appeals process has been exhausted

• Keep appeals records for inspection by the awarding body for a minimum of 18 months.

• Have a staged appeals procedure.

• Will take appropriate action to protect the interests of other learners and the integrity of the

qualification, when the outcome of an appeal questions the validity of other results.

• Monitor appeals to inform quality improvement.


9.1 Appeals Procedure These procedures are in place to enable NLS to comply with the appeals requirements of Pearson.

9.1.1 The Learner Does Not Agree with an Assessment Decision

1. The Learner requests that an assessment decision be reconsidered, highlighting evidence to

support the claim. This must be in writing to the Subject Teacher. The teacher has 7 days to

reconsider and adjust the grade if appropriate. A written response will be given to the Learner,

explaining why the decision has been made.

2. If no progress is made the matter will be passed to the PL who will work with the Subject

Teacher and Learner to resolve the issue. This will take place within 5 days.

3. If no progress is made the matter will be passed to a panel including the QN and the LIV. Parents

will be informed at this stage.

4. If the student is still not happy with the outcome, then the Awarding Body will also become

involved. The student will be informed in writing that the decision of the Awarding Body is final.

The outcome of any appeal will be notified in writing and should any grades needs amending then

records will be updated.

Links:


BTEC qualification specifications:

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/subjects.html

Enquiries and appeals about Pearson vocational qualifications and End Point Assessment Policy:

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/support/support-topics/understanding-our-

qualifications/policies-for-centres-learners-and-employees.html/student

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/subjects.html

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/support/support-topics/understanding-our-qualifications/policies-for-centres-learners-and-employees.html/student

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/support/support-topics/understanding-our-qualifications/policies-for-centres-learners-and-employees.html/student

Documents

North Leamington School BTEC Registration and ...€¦ · • Audit certificate claims made to the awarding body • Audit the certificates received from the awarding body to ensure