Appeals Policy

SPM Development Services Limited Assessment Policy May 2025

Reviewed and Updated: September 2025
Next Review: September 2026, or sooner if awarding body guidance changes.

Purpose

This policy enables learners to question or appeal against an assessment decision. It
ensures openness, fairness and integrity of qualifications through a clear appeals process.
All learners have the right to appeal if they believe they have been treated unfairly or that
an assessment decision is wrong.

Grounds for Appeal

  • A learner may appeal where they feel:
  • They have been treated unfairly
  • An assessment decision is wrong or invalid
  • The assessment process was unfair or not carried out properly
  • The methods of assessment were inappropriate
  • The assessment process was unreliable or inconsistent
  • The course content did not meet the outline provided

Accessibility

Learners may ask for support in making an appeal, such as help from a parent, carer, advocate or support worker. Appeals will be explained clearly during induction and this policy will be available on the SPM website.

Safeguarding

If an appeal raises a safeguarding concern, this will be referred immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and dealt with in line with the Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy (2025).

Procedure

  • Stage 1 – Informal Resolution:
  • In the first instance, learners should discuss concerns with their tutor.
  • The tutor will respond within five working days, verbally and in writing. Stage 2 – Formal Appeal:
  • Stage 2 – Formal Appeal:
  • If the issue is not resolved, a formal appeal may be made in writing to Simon Piper-Masha at SPM Development Services Ltd.
  • Appeals may be sent by email (simon@spmdevelopmentservices.co.uk) or post (90 East India Way, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 6RZ).
  • Appeals will be acknowledged within five working days.
  • A written outcome will be given within 14 working days.
  • Stage 3 – Escalation:
  • If still dissatisfied, learners may escalate to the awarding body within 14 days of SPM’s response.
  • The awarding body will then investigate according to their own procedures. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure fairness, clarity and compliance with awarding body requirements.