Datalaw Appeals Policy 

 1 – Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline the procedures by which learners enrolled on any Datalaw qualification or apprenticeship programme can appeal academic or assessment-related decisions. The policy ensures that all appeals are handled fairly, consistently, and transparently, in accordance with Datalaw’s internal procedures and quality standards. 

 

2 – Scope

This policy applies to all learners undertaking any course, apprenticeship, or qualification delivered by Datalaw.
It covers appeals against decisions including, but not limited to: 

  • Assessment results (e.g., exams, coursework, portfolios, professional discussion, presentations). 
  • Decisions relating to reasonable adjustments or special consideration. 
  • Progression or achievement decisions. 
  • Decisions regarding resubmissions, resits, or re-enrolment. 
  • Any other academic or administrative decision affecting a learner’s progress or rights. 

 

3 – Definitions

  • Appeal: A formal request by a learner to review a decision related to their assessment, progression, or academic standing. 
  • Academic Decision: Any decision made by Datalaw assessors, coaches, tutors, or panels that impacts a learner’s assessment outcome, progression, or certification. 
  • Grounds for Appeal: Legitimate reasons upon which a learner may base an appeal (outlined below). 

 

 4 – Grounds for Appeal

Learners may submit an appeal if they believe one or more of the following apply: 

  1. Procedural Irregularity: Datalaw’s policies, assessment procedures, or awarding body regulations were not followed correctly. 
  2. Unfair Treatment or Bias: The learner believes that they were treated unfairly or inconsistently compared to others. 
  3. Extenuating Circumstances: The learner experienced personal or medical circumstances that adversely affected their performance and were not properly considered at the time of decision. 
  4. New Evidence: The learner can present new, relevant evidence that was not available during the original decision-making process. 

 

5 – How to Submit an Appeal

Step 1: Informal Resolution 

Learners are encouraged to first raise the issue informally with their tutor, coach, or course leader. Many concerns can be resolved quickly through discussion and clarification. 

 

Step 2: Formal Appeal Submission 

If the issue remains unresolved, the learner must submit a formal written appeal to the Datalaw Quality Assurance Manager within 10 working days of receiving the decision being appealed. 

The appeal must include: 

  • A clear explanation of the grounds for appeal. 
  • Supporting evidence (e.g., medical documentation, correspondence, or assessment feedback). 
  • The outcome sought by the learner. 

 

Step 3: Acknowledgement 

The Quality Assurance Manager will acknowledge receipt of the appeal within 5 working days, confirming the next steps and indicative timelines. 

 

6 – Appeals Review Process 

Step 1: Initial Review

The Quality Assurance Manager will review the appeal to determine whether it meets the grounds for consideration. If not, the learner will be informed in writing, with reasons. 

Step 2: Investigation

If the appeal is accepted, the Appeals Panel will investigate by: 

  • Reviewing all relevant documentation and assessment evidence. 
  • Consulting with relevant staff, Tutors, coachers etc. 
  • Considering any new evidence provided by the learner. 

Step 3: Decision

The Appeals Panel will decide one of the following outcomes: 

  • Appeal Upheld: The decision is overturned or amended (e.g., re-marking, resit opportunity, revised outcome). 
  • Appeal Not Upheld: The original decision stands. 
  • Further Action Required: Additional review or actions are recommended before a final outcome is reached. 

 7 – Notification of Outcome

Learners will receive a written outcome within 20 working days of submitting their formal appeal.
The notification will include: 

  • A summary of the findings. 
  • The final decision and reasons. 
  • Any follow-up actions or next steps. 
  • Information about further escalation if the learner is dissatisfied. 

If a learner remains dissatisfied after the internal process, they may escalate the matter to the relevant awarding organisation or external regulatory body, following their published procedures. 

 8 – Confidentiality and Data Protection

All appeal-related information will be treated as confidential and handled in accordance with the UK GDPR and Datalaw’s Data Protection Policy. Only those directly involved in the investigation and decision-making will have access to related information. 

 

9 – Timeframes Summary

Stage  Timeframe 
Learner submits appeal  Within 10 working days of decision 
Acknowledgement of appeal  Within 5 working days 
Outcome communicated  Within 20 working days of submission 

Extensions may apply in complex cases, but learners will be kept informed throughout. 

 

10 – Monitoring and Review

Datalaw will monitor the volume, nature, and outcomes of appeals to identify recurring themes or areas for improvement.
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Quality and Compliance Team to ensure continued fairness, transparency, and alignment with awarding-body requirements. 

 

11 – Publication and Accessibility

This policy will be made available on Datalaw’s website, within learner handbooks, and upon request. Learners will be informed of the policy at induction and reminded of the appeals process at key assessment points.  

 

Reviewed Date  10/11/2025  Next Review Due Date  10/11/2026 
Reviewed by  Chris MacDonald – Quality Improvement Manager  Signature  Chris MacDonald  

 

Datalaw 2025              Datalaw Appeals Policy – DPP003                               V1.0 101125