Appeals Procedure

Shield Training Ltd is committed to ensuring that all assessment decisions are fair, consistent, and in line with awarding organisation requirements. Learners have the right to appeal assessment decisions if they believe they have been treated unfairly.

1. Purpose
This procedure outlines the steps learners must follow if they wish to appeal an assessment decision.

2. Grounds for Appeal
An appeal may be submitted if a learner believes:
An assessment was not conducted in accordance with awarding body standards
Assessment criteria were not applied correctly
There was a procedural error
There was bias or unfair treatment
Appeals must relate to assessment decisions, not general service complaints (which fall under the Complaints Policy).

3. Stage 1 – Informal Discussion
Learners should first raise the matter with their assessor within 5 working days of receiving the assessment decision.
Many concerns can be resolved at this stage.

4. Stage 2 – Formal Appeal
If the matter is not resolved, the learner must submit a formal written appeal via email to:
info@shieldtraining.co.uk

The appeal must include:
Full name
Course details
Date of assessment
Clear explanation of the grounds for appeal
Any supporting evidence
Appeals must be submitted within 10 working days of the original decision.

5. Investigation
The appeal will be reviewed by a qualified Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) or senior member of staff not involved in the original decision.
A full response will normally be provided within 10 working days.
Additional evidence may be requested where necessary.

6. Outcome
The outcome of the appeal may result in:
Confirmation of the original decision
Reassessment opportunity
Amendment of the decision
The decision will be confirmed in writing.

7. Escalation to Awarding Organisation
If the learner remains dissatisfied after completing our internal appeals process, they may escalate the matter to the relevant awarding organisation in accordance with their procedures.
Awarding organisation contact details can be provided upon request.

8. Record Keeping
All appeals are documented and retained in accordance with data protection and awarding body requirements.