Each year, SENCOs begin the new term, hoping there haven’t been any major changes to the exam access arrangements assessment process…and fortunately this year, there have been very few. Nevertheless, despite this, it is of course essential that SENCOs and exams officers ensure they are up to speed with the changes immediately.
The best piece of news for SENCOs is that JCQ have dropped the requirement to keep on file supporting evidence to paint the ‘detailed picture of need’ where there is sufficient evidence in the form of standardised scores (i.e. two below average scores or one below and one low average score) to apply for 25% additional time. (There are other ‘rare and exceptional circumstances’ where this doesn’t apply – please see the full regulations for details AA_regs_22-23_FINAL.pdf (jcq.org.uk))
Also, there is now no need for a concise file note to be produced for a candidate who needs a reader/computer reader if they have a Form 8 (…a new version for this year) due to the application for 25% extra time and/or a scribe. The information relating to why they need a reader/computer reader can now be included in the new section of Part 1 of Form 8. (Supervised rest breaks still need recording on the concise file note though.)
There has been clarification this year about using subject teachers and teaching assistants well-known to the candidate to support as readers, scribes and practical assistants in exams: whilst this is not normally recommended, it is permitted. But, if this is in a 1:1 situation, a ‘roving invigilator’ is not sufficient. There needs to be a separate invigilator in the room at all times.
New centre-delegated arrangements include: the use of fidget toys (great for those who routinely use them in the classroom), non-electronic ear defenders/plugs (ditto) and squared paper (for candidates with visual/spatial difficulties that ordinarily use it in lessons).
And, just a reminder, you can keep electronic records instead of having a huge file of paper-based evidence – however, you need to be consistent. If you are saving forms/file notes/evidence on a computer, it’s best to create an e-folder for each individual candidate and ensure that it is easy for an inspector to navigate during their visit, if/when required. (And make sure another member of the senior team knows how to access it too!)
Please note, this is certainly not an exhaustive list of updates and changes (there are several others relating to word-processor policies, training for those supporting in exams, separate invigilation etc.) and there is a new data protection form for candidates to sign, for example - the above simply represents a personal opinion about the key bits of information a SENCO might need to know at the start of term. It is obviously recommended that SENCOs and exams officers undertake relevant CPD as soon as possible to ensure they are fully briefed on all of the recent amendments. I can personally recommend update courses run by Communicate-Ed which can be accessed either online or in person in Manchester or London - see Courses about Access Arrangements | Courses | Communicate-ed