Reasonable Adjustments & Special Considerations Policy
Introduction
This policy outlines the procedures to be followed by learners and staff when applying reasonable adjustments and special considerations.
A-Security Solutions Ltd is committed to ensuring fair and equal access to assessment for all learners while maintaining the integrity, validity, and reliability of qualifications.
Reasonable Adjustments
Definition
A reasonable adjustment is a measure put in place to reduce the impact of a disability, learning difficulty, or other challenge that may place a learner at a disadvantage during an assessment.
Adjustments are designed to provide access to assessment, not to give an unfair advantage.
Types of Reasonable Adjustments
Reasonable adjustments may include:
- Changes to standard assessment arrangements
- Adaptation of assessment materials
- Provision of additional support during assessment
- Modification of the physical assessment environment
- Changes to assessment methods
- Use of assistive technology
Examples include:
- Additional time (e.g. extensions)
- Alternative assessment locations
- Use of coloured overlays or low-vision aids
- Assistive software or ICT-based responses
- Large print or Braille materials
- Readers, scribes, or interpreters
- Practical assistants, transcribers, or prompters
- Audio-format materials or coloured paper
- Language-modified assessment materials
- British Sign Language (BSL) support
Approval Process
- All reasonable adjustments must be approved in advance by the Internal Quality Assurer (IQA)
- Adjustments must be implemented before the assessment takes place
- Each request is considered on an individual basis
learner does not need to be formally classified as disabled to be eligible, and not all learners with disabilities will automatically qualify for adjustments.
Key Principles
A reasonable adjustment must:
- Not affect the validity or reliability of the assessment
- Not influence the assessment outcome
- Not provide an unfair advantage over other learners
All work produced under reasonable adjustments will be assessed using the same standards as other learners.
Responsibility
A-Security Solutions Ltd is responsible for:
- Identifying and facilitating appropriate adjustments
- Ensuring compliance with awarding organisation requirements
- Maintaining fairness and consistency across all assessments
Special Considerations
Definition
Special consideration applies when a learner experiences temporary or unforeseen circumstances just before or during an assessment, which may impact their performance.
Eligible Circumstances
Special consideration may be granted in cases such as:
- Temporary illness or injury
- Bereavement or personal distress
- Significant disruption during the assessment
- Unforeseen events beyond the learner’s control
learner may be eligible if:
- Their performance has been adversely affected
- Pre-approved arrangements were inadequate
- They were unable to complete part of the assessment due to circumstances beyond their control
Application Process
- Applications must be made on a case-by-case basis
- A separate application is required for each learner
- Requests can be submitted during or after the assessment
- A-Security Solutions Ltd will submit a formal request to the awarding organisation
Important Considerations
- Special consideration cannot be applied for permanent disabilities or learning difficulties (these fall under reasonable adjustments)
- The level of adjustment granted will reflect the severity and impact of the circumstances
Commitment to Fairness
A-Security Solutions Ltd is committed to ensuring that all learners are treated fairly and equitably, while upholding the standards and integrity of all qualifications.