Supervised rest breaks might be a “more effective and appropriate” use of time during exams than 25% additional time, according to new guidance for schools on access arrangements.
The examinations watchdog, Ofqual, said schools should “trial and exhaust” supervised rest breaks before applying for extra time for children with SEND.
The ‘right arrangements’ for each candidate
The new guidance warned schools against over-applying for 25% extra time, and stated: “Where a candidate has an impairment other than a learning difficulty, special educational needs coordinators must have trialled and exhausted the option of supervised rest breaks through timed internal tests and/or mock examinations before making an application for 25 per cent extra time.”
It said supervised rest breaks were “often more effective and appropriate” for candidates who experience anxiety or attention difficulties, neurodivergent pupils and those with medical conditions or mental health needs.
“Allocating extra time simply extends the period a candidate must remain in a potentially stressful environment, which can intensify anxiety and reduce productivity,” the guidance said. “Extra time may not address the underlying issue, which is often related to difficulties with attention or emotional regulation.”
The guidance also reminded schools that evidence had to be produced of the candidate’s needs, and that they must consider arrangements “that will prepare candidates for the workplace”
New burdens on schools?
Sarah Hannafin, head of policy for school leaders’ union NAHT, said schools could potentially be in a “conflicting situation” as they must “meet student’s needs” while “navigating parents’ requests for their child’s access arrangements, which do not always match a student’s normal way of working”.
She added that “any improvements to the system must not disadvantage those students nor add to the workload of school staff”.
