Learner Support and Adjustments

Our commitment

We treat learners fairly and aim to remove avoidable barriers to learning and assessment.

Before the course

We give learners a simple way to tell us about a disability, health condition, language need, learning need or other support requirement.

Learners do not have to share more personal information than is needed to arrange suitable support.

We encourage requests to be made early, but we will consider needs raised during a course wherever possible.

Deciding adjustments

We discuss the learner's needs with them and agree practical support where possible.

Adjustments may include:

• accessible course information;
• extra explanation or written prompts;
• suitable seating or room access;
• rest breaks;
• additional practice time;
• adapted learning materials;
• a different but equally valid way to demonstrate knowledge.

An adjustment must not remove an essential practical skill or change the competence required for certification.

During training

Trainers use clear language, check understanding and create a respectful learning environment.

Learners should be able to ask questions without embarrassment.

Support arrangements are shared only with people who need the information to provide the support.

Assessment

Assessment remains fair and based on the same required outcomes for all learners.

Where an adjustment is used, we record the adjustment and the reason in a proportionate way.

When we cannot provide an adjustment

Where a requested adjustment is not possible or would remove an essential competence requirement, we explain the reason and consider another option.

The learner may ask us to review the decision or use our Complaints and Appeals Policy.

Dignity and discrimination

We do not tolerate discrimination, harassment or disrespectful behaviour.

Concerns are handled promptly and fairly.

Records

We keep only the information needed to arrange support, record the decision and show that the process was fair.

Sensitive information is protected and not kept longer than needed.

Review

We review this policy at least once a year and sooner if learner feedback or experience shows that it should change.