Exam Access Arrangements

Exam access arrangements

Access arrangements are pre-examination adjustments designed to ensure that students with special educational needs, disabilities, or temporary medical issues can fairly demonstrate their knowledge without changing the demands of the exam. These might include tailored provisions such as extra time,a prompt, rest breaks, use of a reader pen, scribe, or modified papers like large-print or Braille. Access arrangments are based on a student's normal way of working and supported by evidence of need.

In line with the latest JCQ (Joint Council for Qualifications) regulations, students must undergo a formal assessment process to determine whether they are eligible for access arrangements. This assessment must be conducted by a qualified professional and is based on a clear evidence of need and the student’s normal way of working in the classroom.

Access arrangements must be applied for well in advance of public examinations, and not all requests can be approved. They are intended to provide a level playing field for all learners, ensuring compliance with the Equality Act 2010, while maintaining the integrity and rigour of the examination process.

For any queries regarding access arrangements, please see key contacts:

Mrs Vinci, SEND Administrator on: send@melbournvc.org

Mrs Stuart, Analytics Manager (exams manager) on: gstuart@melbournvc.org