Appeal Panel Member

Why this role exists

We are committed to ensuring every exam candidate is treated fairly, while maintaining exam integrity. To do this, we provide a formal means for candidates to appeal against their result should they feel that there was a procedural irregularity that adversely affected their performance. It is vital that the process for appealing against a result decision is transparent and consistent.

We therefore have in place an Appeals Panel that, working within the prescribed framework, scrutinises all evidence provided to decide collaboratively if a fail result awarded is substantiated and, when applicable, decide which of the four available outcomes would be most appropriate. (More information is available in the RCR’s Appeal Policy.)

Your impact

This is an important role that has a significant impact on candidates’ progression through the FRCR or DDMFR journey. By bringing independent judgement, fairness and careful consideration to each appeal, Panel members help ensure that candidates can have confidence in the transparency and integrity of the appeals process. Your contribution will support consistent, evidence-based decision making, while helping the RCR uphold high standards in assessment and protect the credibility of its exams. In doing so, you will play a meaningful part in supporting candidates, the College and the wider specialties we serve.

More information can be found in the candidate pack.

The RCR is seeking individuals with experience of applying the principles of natural justice, fairness and impartiality, in either an assessment or other setting, to join the RCR Exam Appeal Panel for Clinical Radiology, Clinical Oncology and DDMFR exams to provide a source of knowledge and insight to enable transparent, evidence-based decision making.

Key responsibilities:

• Become familiar with the FRCR and DDMFR exams, including formats and how pass marks are established, and associated documentation such as ‘purpose of assessment’ statements and exam regulations.

• Read and understand the Equality Act 2010 and RCR exams policies.

• Consider appeal documentation from appellants in line with due process, to include:

  • An appellant identity audit of all paperwork

  • An administrative audit of examiner scoring, and marks achieved compared to the passing standard

  • A review of the appellants correspondence regarding the procedural irregularity experienced

• Ensure every point of the appeal is considered, and that clear reasoning is applied regarding accepting or rejecting points raised, being cognisant of the principles of procedural consistency

• Contribute fully and constructively to discussions with other Panel members, such as College Officers, clinicians and RCR office staff, to reach balanced and reasoned decisions regarding each appellants outcome in line with the published appeals policy.

• Maintain confidentiality and follow GDPR legislation