Accreditation of prior learning and/or experience

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL), Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) and Accreditation of Prior Achievement (APA) are assessment processes that allow achievement from a range of activities, using any valid assessment method, to be recognised. Provided that the assessment requirements of a given unit or qualification have been met, the use of these processes is acceptable for accrediting part of a unit, unit(s) or a qualification.

Evidence submitted under these systems must be:

• valid
• authentic
• current
• relevant
• sufficient.

The centre assessor has responsibility for ensuring that all the requirements of a unit have been met and also for keeping appropriate records. It is also important that the internal quality assurance process takes into account the needs of the assessment strategies for the qualifications for which these are being accredited. (Further information on assessment strategies, where applicable, can be found in the product centre guide for the qualification or from the relevant standard-setting body.)

Centres are expected to establish their own policy with regard to APL, in line with Edexcel policy. Please refer to the document ‘APL 06/14 Policy on Accreditation of Prior Learning’ (below) for APL policy and guidance on establishing and implementing an APL process.

  
Claiming a qualification by APL

After assessment of the candidate’s previous achievements, registration should be made in the usual way. APL achievement may then be reported as normal achievement, via EDI or Edexcel Online (or form SRF, if necessary). The 10-week rule will apply.