PrintExamination Appeals Policy
Stage 2 – Independent External Appeal Assessment
All appellants have the right to appeal against any Stage 1 decision given by CIPFA. If a student decides to request a Stage 2 assessment, the Quality Assurance Manager should be notified within the stipulated timescales.
The independent external assessor will carry out a full assessment of the process undertaken during the Stage 1 investigation. This could involve, but may be not restricted to, interviews with the following people:
- The Appellant
- The Quality Assurance Manager
- The Customer Services Manager
- The Assistant Director, Service Delivery
- The Chair of the Results Panel
- The Appellants Employer
- The Examiner
- The Moderator
- The Invigilator
- CIPFA Education & Training staff members
- Any member of the Results Panel
- Any external 3rd party deemed appropriate
Once the investigation has been completed, the independent external assessor will document all findings, and notify the Quality Assurance Manager of the outcome of their review. The Quality Assurance Manager will inform the appellant in writing, enclosing copies of all relevant documentation.
Stage 1 Decision Upheld
If the findings of the Stage 2 review concur with the decision of Stage 1, the appellant will be notified of the final outcome of their appeal*. The Assistant Director of Service Delivery and the Chair of the Results Panel will also be notified of the Stage 2 decision, and any subsequent recommendation.
*Please note that if the Stage 2 review ratifies the decision made at Stage 1, there is no option for any further appeal.
Stage 1 Decision Rejected
If the finding of the Stage 2 review conflicts with the decision of Stage 1, and the independent assessment believes CIPFA to be negligent or if the Stage 1 process was not fair or transparent, the appellant will be notified and may then request a Stage 3 hearing.