For some students, additional arrangements and reasonable adjustments may be put in place to ensure they can fully access tests and examinations. These may include additional time, the use of a reader or scribe, rest breaks, access to a word processor, or practical assistance for students with a physical disability at the time of the assessment. All students on the SEND register are granted 25% additional time for end-of-term assessments in order to support fair access.

Eligibility for formal Access Arrangements is assessed by key staff at the beginning of Year 10, with students on the SEND register are assessed by an Educational Psychologist where appropriate. Applications are made in line with examination regulations, and parents and carers are informed in writing if Access Arrangements have been approved for their child.

Access Arrangements are designed to reflect a pupil’s normal way of working in the classroom and must be based on an established and evidenced need. They do not provide an advantage, but instead remove barriers to learning, ensuring fair and equitable access to assessments.