Recognition of prior learning (Condition TQ7)

Rules and guidance about recognition of prior learning in Technical Qualifications

Condition TQ7 - Recognition of prior learning

  1. TQ7.1 In respect of the content for the core specified for each Technical Qualification that it makes available, or proposes to make available, an awarding organisation must establish, maintain, and comply with a policy for the recognition of prior learning where appropriate.
  2. TQ7.2 For the purposes of this condition –
    1. (a) ‘ content for the core ‘ means the content identified as such in the Outline Content as expanded by the awarding organisation in its specification for the qualification, and
    2. (b) ‘recognition of prior learning’ has the same meaning as in Condition E10.2

Guidance on recognition of prior learning

Under Condition TQ7.1, an awarding organisation must establish, maintain and comply with, a policy for the recognition of prior learning in respect of content for the core where appropriate.

Under Condition TQ7.2, ‘recognition of prior learning’ has the same meaning as in Condition E10.2. Under that definition, prior learning will include prior attainment.

In its policy, an awarding organisation should specify the criteria that it will use to determine whether or not to accept prior learning (for example the evidence requirements) in relation to content for the core that it considers is transferable to a different Technical Qualification.

This will involve a judgment by the awarding organisation on whether or not particular content is transferable from the Technical Qualification that the Learner has previously studied to that which he or she is now studying. In doing so, an awarding organisation should take account of the content, and follow any requirements set by theInstitute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education in this respect, and revise its policy where the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education revises its requirements.

Where satisfied that the content in question is transferable, the awarding organisation should then consider whether to accept the particular application for recognition of prior learning in respect of that content.