UG Recognition of Prior Practice Policy & Procedure - March 2020 Approved

Sep 11, 2026

UG Recognition of Prior Practice Policy & Procedure defines an alternative entry route into Level 4 of BIMM University undergraduate courses for mature applicants. It sets eligibility requirements, explains recognition terminology, and outlines how learning gained through uncertified prior practice is evaluated. The policy specifies fairness, legal compliance, publication and publicity expectations, evidence quality criteria, and typical “shelf life” limits. It also describes portfolio requirements, assessment considerations, and actions for falsification or misrepresentation.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryLetters

FormatPDF

Pages9

Reading Time3 min

AccessFree to download

Section A: Introduction & Terminology

Introduction

Publicity

Terminology

Section B: Application Process

Criteria, Conditions & Restrictions for RPP

Criteria

‘Shelf Life’ of Prior Practice/Experiential Learning

Falsification or misrepresentation of evidence

Application Requirements

UG Recognition of Prior Practice Policy & Procedure Last approved: March 2020 Approved by: Academic Board Next review due: March 2024 Section A: Introduction & Terminology Introduction BIMM University recognises the value of learning wherever it occurs, either to meet course entry requirements (Recognition of Prior Practice) or to achieve credit towards named awards (Recognition of Prior Learning) . Recognition of Prior Practice is an alternative entry route onto Level 4 of a BIMM University undergraduate course for mature applicants who do not hold the minimum qualifications required to gain entry onto a course. A mature applicant must be 19 years of age by course start date for their RPP application to be considered. The University shall seek to operate its RPP Policy & Procedure in a way that is fair and in accordance with legal requirements and the University’s regulations at all times. This includes specific compliance with the Equality Act and the University’s Equal Opportunities & Diversity Policy, as well as a commitment that the University will foster stronger recruitment from groups currently underrepresented in higher education, by working to raise aspirations and break down barriers to participation such as those created by culture, geography, social and economic factors. Publicity Details about RPP, including information on where prospective students can obtain advice and guidance on submitting an application, any fees payable and time limits shall be published to applicants via the University’s prospectus and website. Terminology • Recognition-Refers to the process whereby applicants of all ages and backgrounds are eligible to receive recognition and/or formal credit for learning acquired in the past through work and other life experiences. • Recognition of Prior Practice (RPP) -Refers to the recognition of prior practice and experience gained outside the University through practice which is uncertified and not previously assessed. For example, learning from paid or unpaid work, community activities, leisure pursuits and other informal learning experiences related to the subject of study in the course of interest. Where ‘recognised’ prior practice meets the criteria above but there is no formal credit allocated, the University shall follow the procedures detailed in this policy to gauge the equivalent qualification level required for entry onto the undergraduate course applied for. Section B: Application Process Criteria, Conditions & Restrictions for RPP This procedure will ensure that the learning gained through practice presented as RPP demonstrates a satisfactory level of academic ability and aptitude (via the essay submission) required for Level 4 study (first year of a BIMM University undergraduate course), as well as related experience to the subject of study being at a level that may be equivalent to time spent, or learning outcomes similar to, the qualifications required to enter an undergraduate course. Applicants for RPP shall provide the following evidence that learning through practice has been gained to demonstrate equivalence. All evidence of learning shall be: • Written in English • Sufficient-Keep in mind that evidence presented (e.g. a portfolio or syllabus) should be concise and contain sufficient evidence for the purpose intended. • Recent-How recent the experience is can determine its value. Certain skills and knowledge, for example, can quickly become redundant. • Authentic-For certain evidence to be accepted it may require endorsement or a reference from relevant sources, e.g. employers or recognised professional bodies. • Relevant-The specifications of a job will determine the relevance of the evidence. Criteria When considering evidence for learning through practice, the RPP Assessor shall: • Assess the evidence submitted against the requirements of the relevant level of qualification needed to gain entry onto a BIMM University undergraduate

FAQs

Who is eligible to apply for Recognition of Prior Practice (RPP)?

A mature applicant must be 19 years of age by the course start date. RPP is intended for applicants who do not hold the minimum qualifications needed for course entry.

What evidence must applicants provide for RPP consideration?

Applicants must submit evidence written in English that is sufficient, recent, authentic (e.g., endorsed or referenced), and relevant to the course subject area. The evidence may include a portfolio or syllabus.

How long can prior practice be from the enrolment date to still count?

Recognition is normally considered for learning achieved within five years prior to enrolment. If older, it may be recognized only if the Course Leader/Assessor confirms continued relevance and/or the applicant demonstrates continuous updating and application.

Sep 11, 2026

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