(with specific reference to Access to HE programmes)

Recognition of Prior Learning is the generic term to describe approaches to learning achievement outside the requirements of a specified qualification for the purposes of demonstrating learning equivalence which meets those requirements. There are two distinct processes and it is important that all stakeholders are clear on the difference between them.

Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) is the process by which noncertificated learning achieved in a range of learning contexts is recognised in relation to meeting the credit requirements for a qualification. This would include all cases where evidence of learning is available – for example from the workplace or from voluntary/community work – but no qualification has been achieved. In this process, credit is awarded in relation to the qualification in recognition of learning achievement and learners do not have to repeat the units for which equivalent achievement has already been demonstrated. It will therefore contribute to the number of credits that learners require to complete the qualification. Evidence of learning must be included in the learner’s portfolio and mapped against one or more units within the qualification.

Recognition of Prior Certificated Learning – also referred to as Exemption – is the process through which previously assessed and certificated learning is recognised as equivalent in relation to meeting the requirements for the achievement of a qualification. This would include all cases where an award or qualification has been achieved and a certificate awarded through a recognised awarding body. Where previous learning has already been certificated, no credit is awarded in relation to the qualification, but learners are exempted from relevant credit requirements. It will not therefore contribute to the number of credits that learners require to achieve the qualification.

If a provider does wish to offer APL to a learner this request must be highlighted at the beginning of the programme so that the external moderator can be advised of this. The external moderator will then need to see the relevant certificate(s) (for exemption) and/or evidence of the previous non-certificated learning mapped against the unit(s) (for APEL).