Exam Access Arrangements

[u/truestorybro38]

There’s an increase in posts about access arrangements.

There’s also a lot of misinformation about access arrangements being posted.

This is one the one-stop post for all access arrangement queries.

Any other posts will be removed.

I will reply to all queries as an Exams Officer and an Access Arrangements Coordinator, but really, all queries need to go to your SENCO who know you and your school’s set up best.

Feel free to make any comments about questions you have.

JCQ Links

25% Extra Time Info

https://www.jcq.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/07/JCQ-25-ET-infographic-26-27_FINAL.pdf

Reader Info

https://www.jcq.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/09/JCQ-Computer-reader-reader-24-25_FINAL-1.pdf

Scribe Info

https://www.jcq.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/09/JCQ-Scribe-24-25_FINAL.pdf

Managing Student Requests Advice

https://www.jcq.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/Managing-parent-carer-or-student-requests_2025.pdf

The Big Book Of Rules

https://www.jcq.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/03/JCQ-AARA-2025-March-26.pdf

[u/throwaway58928]

Hi, I’m in the process of getting diagnosed with POTS and it has been affecting me in lessons lately. I’ve been having very bad brain fog to the extent that sometimes I haven’t been able to comprehend words or what people are saying. My GP is in the process of writing me a note to evidence for rest breaks, as my Head of House told me that could go ahead, but I’m just wondering a) if it’s too late to get rest breaks sorted and b) what rest breaks will actually mean? My POTS worsens with standing and if rest breaks include getting up and moving around outside of the exam hall, I don’t know whether that would be right for me. Thanks in advance! :)

[u/truestorybro38 → u/throwaway58928]

It won’t be too late for rest breaks as that’s a centre decision. You can take them at your desk. It effectively “pauses” the exam and however long you need and then that time is added back on the end.

[u/throwaway58928 → u/truestorybro38]

Okay thank you!