Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
DAIS-POL-013
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy
Data and AI School of London, NCFE Approved Centre
Policy Owner: Lead Assessor
Version: 1.0 | Date: April 2026 | Review: April 2027
NCFE Risk Level: Medium
Mode of Delivery: Fully Online
13.1 Purpose and Scope
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows a learner to use evidence of prior knowledge, skills, or experience to obtain credit towards an NCFE qualification, reducing duplication of effort. This policy sets out how RPL is applied in a manner that maintains assessment integrity, in compliance with NCFE's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy.
13.2 What Can Be Recognised
RPL may be used to demonstrate competence in a unit or part of a unit, provided:
The evidence directly maps to the assessment criteria of the unit
The evidence is current, relevant, and of sufficient quality
The evidence was generated by the learner themselves
The limits set in the NCFE Qualification Specification are not exceeded
RPL cannot be used to claim an entire qualification without any new assessment taking place.
13.3 Acceptable Evidence Types
Previous qualifications or awards (certified digital copies required)
Work products such as project documentation, code repositories, reports, or presentations
Testimonials or references from current or previous employers
Professional records such as CPD logs or job role descriptions
Previous assessor feedback from a prior learning programme
All evidence must be uploaded digitally to the learner's e-portfolio via the VLE.
13.4 The RPL Assessment Process
1. The learner submits a written RPL claim using the RPL Application Form on the VLE, identifying the units and criteria their prior evidence addresses.
2. The Lead Assessor reviews the claim and supporting evidence against the relevant assessment criteria.
3. Where evidence is sufficient, the Lead Assessor records the credit on the learner's digital record.
4. Where evidence is insufficient or partially sufficient, the Lead Assessor advises the learner on what additional evidence or assessment activity is required.
5. All RPL decisions are subject to IQA sampling.
13.5 Authenticity Verification
As RPL evidence is submitted digitally, the Lead Assessor takes reasonable steps to verify its authenticity. This may include contacting a previous employer or institution to verify a qualification or reference, where the learner has consented to this.
13.6 Record Keeping
All RPL applications, evidence, decisions, and IQA verification are stored on the learner's digital record. Records are retained for a minimum of 3 years and available to NCFE upon request.
This policy is reviewed annually. Next review: April 2027. Approved by: Head of Centre. © Data and AI School of London, April 2026. NCFE Approved Centre.