Access arrangements for pupils with hearing loss taking GCSE, A Level, or SAT exams.
GCSEs and A levels arrangements
The main principle is that barriers caused by a hearing loss should be reduced or removed without giving candidates an unfair advantage.
Candidates should be able to access the paper using the normal methods of working used in school.
Schools need to apply for the following arrangements.
| Adjustment | Evidence needed | Additional information |
|---|---|---|
| Extra time (25%) | SENCo letter or EHCP with letter from Sensory Support Service | Normal way of working |
| Reader | Letter from Sensory Support Service | Language and vocabulary difficulties which have a substantial and long term adverse effect on ability to access written text. Standardised score less than 85 in reading accuracy or speed or comprehension. |
| Live speaker | No evidence required but need to apply for extra time | Normal way of working |
| Oral Language Modifier | Apply to exam board in special circumstances | Standardised score less than 69 in reading comprehension or vocabulary |
Other modifications:
- a word processor
- a Sign Language Interpreter
- a practical assistant
- modified language papers
- supervised rest breaks
- a scribe who must be fully aware of the guidelines and have experience of being a scribe
Find more information on:
- the Joint Council for Qualifications access arrangements page
- the National Sensory Impairment Partnership (NatSIP) examination access page
- the NDCS exam access arrangements page
SATs arrangements
A pupil doesn't need to have an EHCP to have access arrangements. However, the impact of their hearing loss must be considered disabling'.
To qualify, the arrangements must reflect the pupil's normal way of working.
Key Stage 1
No specific application is necessary.
Pupils can have:
- additional time (25%)
- reader
- compensatory marks for spelling
Find more information about Key stage 1 tests: access arrangements Go to https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/key-stage-1-tests-access-arrangements (opens new window) on GOV.UK
Key Stage 2
Pupils with an EHCP will automatically qualify for any of the following arrangements which reflect normal classroom practice:
additional time (up to 25%)
- reader
- scribe
- prompter
- apparatus in maths
- compensatory marks in spelling
Applications must be made if the pupil does not have an EHCP.
Find more information in the government guidance on Key Stage 2 assessments.
Contact assessments@education.gov.uk with any questions.
Compensatory marks for the spelling paper
Compensatory marks may be awarded to pupils who have a profound hearing impairment and:
- do not use lip-reading or sign language, or
- can only use finger-spelling signing
They are available for the spelling paper of English grammar, punctuation and spelling test.
Compensatory marks are based on the average raw score achieved by pupils who take the test. Awarding compensatory marks allows pupils to get an overall scaled score for the English grammar, punctuation and spelling test.
You can find more information on the NDCS page on exam access arrangements.