Assessment Arrangements Procedure for Candidates with Additional Needs

1. Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to ensure that candidates with additional support needs are provided with appropriate assessment arrangements that enable them to demonstrate their knowledge and skills without compromising the integrity of the qualification.

The International College, Siam University, is committed to ensuring fair access to assessment in accordance with the requirements of the QUALIFICATIONS SCOTLAND (QUALIFICATIONS SCOTLAND).

2. Scope

This procedure applies to all candidates enrolled in QUALIFICATIONS SCOTLAND programmes, including:

• Higher National Certificates (ADVANCED CERTIFICATE)
• Higher National Diplomas (ADVANCED DIPLOMA)

It covers the identification, approval, implementation, communication, and review of assessment arrangements for candidates with additional needs.

3. Definition of Assessment Arrangements

Assessment arrangements are adaptations to the standard assessment process that allow candidates with additional support needs to demonstrate their competence.

These arrangements must not compromise the assessment standards of the qualification.

Examples may include:

• additional time for assessments
• use of assistive technology
• provision of a reader or scribe
• alternative assessment formats
• separate assessment venues
• modified presentation formats

4. Identification of Additional Needs

Candidates’ additional support needs may be identified through several mechanisms:

• information provided during programme application or registration
• candidate self-disclosure during induction
• referral by academic staff or programme coordinators
• documentation from medical or educational professionals

Candidates are encouraged to declare any additional needs early so that appropriate arrangements can be planned.

5. Assessment Arrangements Process

Step 1 – Identification

At the start of the programme, candidates will be invited to disclose any learning difficulties, disabilities, or other additional support needs during:

• programme application
• student induction
• meetings with academic advisors.

Step 2 – Discussion and Documentation

The candidate will meet with:

• the Programme Leader, or
• the Student Support Services Staff member
• Center Coordinator to discuss the nature of the support required.

Supporting documentation may be requested where appropriate.

Step 3 – Agreement of Assessment Arrangements

Appropriate assessment arrangements will be determined based on:

• the candidate’s individual needs
• the requirements of the qualification
• guidance from the QUALIFICATIONS SCOTLAND.

The agreed arrangements will be formally recorded in an Assessment Arrangements Record Form.

Step 4 – Communication

Once approved, the arrangements will be communicated to:

• relevant assessors
• internal verifiers
• invigilators (where applicable)

while ensuring confidentiality and data protection.

Step 5 – Implementation

Assessors and programme staff will implement the agreed arrangements during assessment activities.

The arrangements will ensure that the candidate has equitable access to the assessment without altering the assessment standards.

Step 6 – Monitoring and Review

Assessment arrangements will be reviewed periodically to ensure that they remain appropriate.

Reviews may occur:

• at the start of each academic year
• when assessment methods change
• when the candidate’s circumstances change.

6. Recording and Documentation

The center will maintain records of:

• identified additional needs
• agreed assessment arrangements
• implementation of arrangements
• periodic review of arrangements

These records will be securely stored in accordance with institutional data protection policies.

7. Responsibilities

8. Confidentiality

All information relating to candidates’ additional support needs will be handled confidentially and shared only with staff directly involved in implementing the assessment arrangements.

9. Monitoring and Compliance

This procedure will be monitored through:

• internal quality assurance processes
• programme monitoring
• external verification by the QUALIFICATIONS SCOTLAND.

The procedure will be reviewed annually to ensure continued compliance with QUALIFICATIONS SCOTLAND requirements.