Plagiarism
Plagiarism occurs when someone presents another person’s work as their own. This includes copying written content, ideas, or work products without properly acknowledging the original source. TQUK classifies plagiarism as cheating and treats it as a serious form of academic misconduct.
What plagiarism looks like
Examples of plagiarism include copying text word‑for‑word without referencing it, taking material from websites, books, or another apprentice’s work without acknowledgment, or making small changes to someone else’s words to appear original. It also includes unauthorised collaboration with others, asking someone else to complete work on your behalf, or using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT, Copilot, or Gemini to generate or significantly alter assessment work unless explicit permission has been granted. Presenting AI‑generated content as your own without declaring its use is also considered plagiarism.
Plagiarism is not always intentional. Many cases happen because an apprentice misunderstands how to correctly reference sources or is unclear about what plagiarism involves. Time pressure, poor research or study skills, overreliance on source materials, or difficulty distinguishing between common knowledge and intellectual property can all contribute to unintentional plagiarism. However, deliberate plagiarism may occur when an individual knowingly copies work, believes they will not be caught, or views plagiarism as an acceptable shortcut to success.
Regardless of intent, plagiarism is taken seriously. Apprentices are responsible for ensuring that all submitted work is their own and that any sources used are clearly and correctly referenced.
Detection of plagiarism
Assessors and Internal Quality Assurers (IQAs) use a range of methods to identify potential plagiarism. Indicators may include work that is of a significantly higher standard than previous submissions, sudden changes in writing style, use of unfamiliar terminology, or American spelling. A lack of understanding when questioned about submitted work or inconsistencies between controlled and uncontrolled assessments may also raise concerns. In relation to AI misuse, responses that are overly generic, lack personal context, or cannot be clearly explained by the apprentice may be investigated further.
To support fairness and integrity, plagiarism detection and AI detection tools may be used alongside reviews of previous work and direct questioning. Where concerns arise, apprentices may be asked to discuss their work, explain their thinking, or provide drafts, notes, and references to confirm authenticity.
Outcomes
If plagiarism is identified as unintentional, the apprentice may be given the opportunity to revise and resubmit their work with guidance and support from their training provider. All such cases are formally recorded. Where plagiarism or misuse of AI is confirmed as intentional, it will be managed under TQUK’s academic misconduct procedures, which may result in serious consequences, including assessment invalidation.
Maintaining academic integrity protects both apprentices and the value of their qualifications. Proper referencing, honest work, and understanding acceptable support tools are essential to successful assessment outcomes.