Admission Policy

Riseladder School of Business and Technology

1. Policy Overview

Riseladder School is committed to fair, transparent, and inclusive admissions practices that widen access to education while upholding the academic standards required by Pearson BTEC qualifications. Our policy ensures that all applicants regardless of background or route into education are assessed equitably, and are supported to succeed once admitted.

2. Programmes Covered

This policy applies to all Pearson-regulated qualifications offered at Riseladder:

  • BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Business
  • BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Business
  • BTEC Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership

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3. General Admission Principles

  • We operate an inclusive entry policy to encourage diverse participation in higher education.
  • All applicants are assessed based on prior learning, professional experience, motivation, and academic potential.
  • Admissions are made without bias and in full compliance with the Equality Act 2010.
  • Applicants with disabilities or learning differences are encouraged to disclose early so that reasonable adjustments can be arranged. 

4. Entry Requirements

4.1 Level 4 HNC in Business

Applicants must meet at least one of the following:

  • A minimum of one full A-Level pass or an equivalent Level 3 qualification (e.g., BTEC National Diploma or Extended Diploma)
  • Access to Higher Education Certificate awarded by a recognised UK further education provider
  • Completion of GCSE English and Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above is desirable (if not met, support will be offered)
  • Non-traditional applicants with at least 3 years of relevant work experience may be considered (see Section 6)

4.2 Level 5 HND in Business

  • A full Level 4 qualification in Business or a related field (e.g., HNC in Business)
  • Applicants with partial achievement of Level 4 units may be considered via Credit Transfer or RPL

4.3 Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership

Applicants should possess:

  • A recognised UK bachelor’s degree or equivalent (Level 6) in business or a related discipline
  • A Level 6 qualification from a professional awarding body (e.g., ILM, CMI, CIM)
  • Applicants without a formal degree but with 5+ years of relevant senior managerial experience will be assessed through interview and/or written diagnostic task

5. Application Process

Step 1 – Application Submission

Applications may be submitted via the online portal or in downloadable format. Supporting documents include:

  • Academic certificates and transcripts
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • One professional or academic reference
  • Personal statement explaining motivation and career goals
  • Proof of identity (passport or national ID)

Step 2 – Application Review

  • Applications are reviewed within 7 working days
  • Additional evidence or clarification may be requested
  • Shortlisted applicants may be invited for a screening interview or academic discussion

Step 3 – Admissions Decision

  • A formal decision (conditional/unconditional/decline) is issued
  • Successful applicants will receive an Offer Letter, Course Handbook, and an Enrolment Pack

Step 4 – Induction and Orientation

  • All new learners must complete a structured induction programme, which includes academic orientation, use of the VLE (Moodle), and a diagnostic skills assessment to determine academic support needs.

6. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Riseladder supports and applies Pearson’s RPL policy to acknowledge prior certificated or experiential learning. Applicants may be awarded credit toward a qualification where:

  • Learning outcomes have been fully or partially met
  • Evidence is authentic, current, sufficient, and relevant
  • RPL requests do not exceed 50% of the total qualification credits (unless otherwise agreed with Pearson)

RPL Process:

  • RPL Application Form completed by the learner
  • Supporting documentation submitted (certificates, portfolio, employer statement)
  • Assessed and verified by the programme team and internal verifier
  • Outcome recorded, and learning plan adjusted accordingly

7. Admissions for Non-Traditional Applicants

We actively support non-traditional learners, including those who:

  • Do not hold formal qualifications but have substantial work or life experience
  • Are returning to education after a gap
  • Possess qualifications gained outside the UK education framework

Applicants in this category will undergo a skills mapping process, including:

  • Submission of a professional CV and experience portfolio
  • A diagnostic written task to assess communication and analytical skills
  • Interview with a Programme Leader to assess suitability and discuss support needs

If accepted, these learners will receive additional study skills support and a personal academic tutor.

8. English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through:

  • IELTS score of 5 or above for Level 4–5; 6.0 or above for Level 7
  • Equivalent qualifications such as Pearson PTE Academic or Cambridge English
  • Alternatively, applicants may complete a Riseladder internal English diagnostic assessment

9. Feedback and Appeals

  • Applicants who are unsuccessful may request written feedback
  • If an applicant believes the decision was made in error or unfairly, they may submit a Formal Appealwithin 10 working days of notification
  • Appeals are reviewed by the Academic Director, and decisions issued within 15 working days

Contact – Admissions Office
admissions@riseladderschool.com
Riseladder School of Business and Technology
[Insert Phone Number]

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