What to Do If You Disagree with an Assessment Decision: Appeals Process Explained

If you ever feel that an assessment decision does not reflect your work fairly, there is a clear appeals procedure you can follow. This process is designed to give learners confidence that their concerns will be listened to and addressed at the right level. Below, we’ll walk you through each stage of the procedure, supported by a simple flow chart and a video guide from our training channel.

What Is the Appeals Procedure for Assessment Decisions?

The appeals procedure is a formal process that allows you to challenge an assessment decision if you disagree with the outcome. It ensures that every learner has the right to be heard and that decisions are reviewed fairly and consistently.

Step 1: Speak Directly to Your Assessor

The first step is to talk to the assessor who made the decision. In many cases, a simple discussion can resolve misunderstandings, and your assessor may be able to provide additional feedback to help clarify why the decision was made.

Step 2: Escalate Your Appeal to the Centre IQA

If you are still unhappy after speaking with your assessor, the next step is to raise your concerns with the Internal Quality Assurer (IQA). The IQA is responsible for checking that assessments are carried out fairly and consistently across the centre.

Step 3: Take Your Appeal to the Centre Manager

Should you still feel dissatisfied, your next point of contact is the centre manager. They will review your case independently, ensuring that both you and your assessor have been treated fairly and that procedures have been followed.

Step 4: Appeal to the Awarding Organisation

If the issue cannot be resolved within the centre, you have the right to take your appeal to the awarding organisation. This is the final stage of the procedure, where your case will be reviewed externally. The awarding body will make an impartial decision based on the evidence provided.

Flow Chart of the Appeals Procedure

Here’s a visual breakdown of the steps:

It can be scary to disagree with your assessor, so here is the flowchart for an appeal, that you should be given when you start with any training provider.

Watch Our Video Guide on the Appeals Procedure

We’ve also created a detailed video guide explaining how the appeals process works in practice. You can watch it below for a step-by-step explanation and further reassurance:

It is important that you know your rights when you sign up to a course. Appeals procedures should be available for all candidates.

Why This Procedure Matters

The appeals procedure isn’t just about challenging decisions — it’s about fairness, transparency, and giving every learner the confidence that their work has been assessed properly. By following each stage in order, you can be sure your voice is heard and your concerns are taken seriously.

Final Thoughts

Disagreeing with an assessment decision can feel stressful, but remember: there is a clear process in place to support you. Start by speaking with your assessor and, if needed, follow the steps outlined in the flow chart until your appeal is resolved. Whether it ends at the first stage or goes through to the awarding organisation, the system is there to protect your rights as a learner.

As an IQA I have investigated many appeals so this is not something we worry about in the training industry.

What Next..

If you would like to learn about any of our electrical courses or to sign up to start your career as an electrician please do have a look here for our courses and here to ask one of us to contact you.

Many thanks and best of luck.