Securing exam access arrangements and how to 'inspection-proof' your folder of evidence
As KS4 approaches, it is vital that the SENCO and exams officer work together to ensure that all pupils who need them get the most appropriate examination access arrangements, to remove any barriers they experience which may prevent them from fully accessing an exam or assessment. Having a sound knowledge of the JCQ regulations is essential, of course, but even if you have read it from cover to cover, the whole process can be quite daunting, especially if you are new to role.
Access arrangements are ‘reasonable adjustments’ put into place to create a level playing field for pupils with a special education need or disability, however they must not compromise the integrity of the exam itself. For example, a pupil who is slow to process information or to read text may need additional time in order to access the exam materials, or a pupil with ADHD may need rest breaks and a prompter. Whatever is required, this should reflect the pupil’s normal way of working in lessons and should not be put into place just for an exam or assessment.
Whilst several arrangements (e.g. reader/scanning pen, prompter, laptop) can be put into place using data and information collated by the school, some (e.g. extra time, a scribe) usually require specific evidence provided by an assessment carried out by a suitably qualified assessor (or a specialist medical professional) and within a certain time-frame. Administering access arrangement assessments for exams and completing the final section of what is known as ‘Form 8’ is something I have lots of experience in: please contact me if you are interested in finding out more. It is also necessary for schools to register or request access arrangements using the Access Arrangements Online (AAO) tool. (More detailed information is provided in the JCQ regulations.)
Schools are required to put together a folder of evidence which is subject to external inspection. Malpractice is taken seriously and so it is imperative that the process of recording and collating this information is done meticulously and that it is well-organised and easy for an inspector to negotiate. Inspectors can visit at any time of the year and will look carefully at the AAO applications made, cross-referencing them to your folder of evidence. They may also request to see a copy of your laptop policy (which it is compulsory for a setting to have) as well as the annual training which any adult supporting in an exam (e.g. as a reader, scribe or personal assistant) must have had.
Having an extra pair of eyes to scrutinise (supportively!) your access arrangements evidence folder each year is well worth investing in, even if it just for your own peace of mind as a SENCO! Please contact me for an informal discussion on how I can support you with access arrangement assessments, training for your support staff team, or more general support regarding access arrangements.