The following guidelines outline the principles and procedures governing assessment for Kind Learning Academy learners. They applies to all learners and staff involved in the delivery, assessment, and quality assurance of the Ascentis qualifications.

This guidance has been aligned with Ascentis quality assurance frameworks.

  1. Introduction
  2. Assessment Principles
  3. Formative and Summative Assessment
  4. Assessment Readiness and Timing
  5. Submission of Work
  6. Extensions and Late Submissions
  7. Resubmission and Further Attempts
  8. Feedback and Support
  9. Academic Integrity
  10. Special Considerations and Mitigation
  11. Quality Assurance
  12. Review and update of this policy

1. Introduction

1.1.  This policy has two main aims:

  • To reflect on Kind Learning Academy’s vision and mission statements in relation to widening participation.
  • To provide guidance based on the content of the DET Assessment Pack and standard practice in further education.

1.2.  Additionally, Kind Learning Academy will be bound by any regulations published by the awarding body for the qualifications it offers.

2. Assessment Principles

2.1. Assessments are designed to ensure that learners demonstrate achievement of the required knowledge, skills, and understanding in accordance with the qualification specification. All assessments must be:

  • Valid, reliable, and fair;
  • Inclusive and accessible;
  • Conducted in accordance with Ascentis and KLA-specific quality assurance procedures.

3. Formative and Summative Assessment Formative Assessment

Formative assessment

3.1 Formative assessment is used throughout the programme to monitor learner progress, identify areas for development, and inform teaching. It may include:

  • Informal questioning and discussion.
  • Draft submissions or planning documents.
  • Peer and self-assessment activities.
  • Tutor feedback on non-assessed tasks – not graded.

3.1.1.  Formative assessment does not contribute to final grading, but is essential in preparing learners for summative assessment;

Summative Assessment

3.2 Summative assessment is used to formally evaluate whether learners have met the learning outcomes and assessment criteria for each unit. It includes:

  • Written assignments;
  • Observations of teaching practice;
  • Portfolios of evidence;
  • Professional discussions.

4. Assessment Readiness and Timing

4.1. Assessments will be issued when the teacher or assessor deems the learner to be sufficiently prepared. Learners must not undertake summative assessment until they have completed the relevant teaching and learning activities.

5. Submission of Work

  • Learners will be provided with clear deadlines for each assessment task;
  • All submissions must be the learner’s own work, and comply with academic integrity standards;
  • Learners are expected to meet agreed deadlines. Where a learner is unable to do so, they must notify their tutor in advance.

6. Extensions and Late Submissions

  • Extensions may be granted at the discretion of the external awarding body where there is a valid reason (e.g., illness, personal circumstances);
  • Requests for extensions must be made in advance of the deadline, and supported by appropriate evidence where required;
  • Late submissions are not permitted without prior agreement under specified guidelines;
  • All assessments must be submitted on or before the published deadline.

7. Resubmission and Further Attempts

7.1. Learners who do not meet the required standard, including non-submission or first submission, may be permitted to resubmit their work.

7.2. The opportunity to resubmit is at the discretion of the external awarding body, and subject to the learner demonstrating readiness to do so.

7.3. The number of permitted assessment resubmissions is not fixed and may vary depending on individual learner circumstances and academic requirements. Learners must complete and submit all outstanding assessments, including any resubmissions, within two years from the date of their initial course enrolment or first recorded engagement, whichever is earlier.

7.4. This policy ensures sufficient opportunity for academic progression, while maintaining appropriate timeframes for completion.

8. Feedback and Support

  • Constructive and Developmental written feedback will be provided for all assessed work;
  • Feedback will identify strengths, areas for improvement, and actions required for resubmission where applicable;
  • Learners are encouraged to engage with feedback to support their development and progression.

9. Academic Integrity

9.1. All learners must adhere to Kind Learning Academy’s Malpractice policy.

9.2. Plagiarism, collusion, or any form of academic misconduct will be investigated and addressed in accordance with Kind Learning Academy’s Malpractice Policy.

10.Special Considerations and Mitigation

10.1. Learners experiencing unforeseen circumstances that impact their ability to complete assessments, may apply for special consideration.

10.2. Applications must be submitted in a timely manner, and supported by appropriate evidence.

10.3. Outcomes may include extensions, deferrals, or alternative assessment arrangements as deemed appropriate.

11. Quality Assurance

11.1. All assessment decisions are subject to internal quality assurance, and may be externally verified by Ascentis.

11.2. Kind Learning Academy will retain assessment records and learner evidence in accordance with regulatory requirements.

12. Review and Update of This Policy

12.1. This policy will be reviewed and updated periodically by the Quality Manager in consultation with key stakeholders. Proposed changes to it will be reviewed and ratified by theBoard of Directors.