Does Your Child Need Exam Access Arrangements? A Parent’s Guide

Exams are challenging for all students, but for some, additional barriers can make the experience significantly harder. If your child struggles with reading speed, writing stamina, concentration, anxiety, or has a diagnosed learning difficulty or medical condition, they may be eligible for exam access arrangements (EAAs).

At Top Class Learning, we support many students who receive adjustments such as extra time, a reader, or rest breaks. In this blog, we’ll explain what exam access arrangements are, who qualifies for them, and what steps to take if you think your child might benefit.

🎓 What Are Exam Access Arrangements?

Exam Access Arrangements (EAAs) are changes to the usual exam conditions designed to remove unnecessary disadvantage for students with specific needs. They aim to provide a level playing field — not an unfair advantage.

Examples include:

• Extra time (usually 25%, but more in some cases)

• A reader (someone to read the exam aloud, except in reading assessments)

• A scribe (someone to write down your child’s answers)

• Use of a word processor

• Supervised rest breaks

• A prompt (to keep them focused)

• Separate room or smaller group setting

• Modified papers (e.g. large print, coloured paper)

  
  

These arrangements are based on a child’s normal way of working and a formal assessment, if necessary.

🧠 Who Might Need EAAs?

A wide range of students may be eligible for EAAs, including those with:

• Specific learning difficulties (SpLDs) such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia

• ADHD or other attention-related conditions

• Autism spectrum conditions

• Speech, language or communication needs

• Mental health difficulties, such as anxiety or depression

• Visual or hearing impairments

• Medical conditions that affect stamina, mobility, or concentration

  
  

Eligibility is based on evidence of need, not a diagnosis alone.

🕵️‍♀️ How Do Schools Identify Who Needs Access Arrangements?

Schools are responsible for applying for access arrangements, usually via the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo). They gather evidence through:

• Teacher observations and concerns

• History of support or adjustments in class

• Assessment by a specialist (often a qualified assessor or educational psychologist)

• Standardised test results (e.g. reading speed, writing speed, processing ability)

  
  

Crucially, the school must show that the arrangement reflects the student’s normal way of working in class and internal assessments — not just during exams.

📋 What Should I Do If I Think My Child Needs Help?

If you believe your child is struggling in ways that affect their ability to perform in tests, take the following steps:

1. Talk to the School SENCo

• Arrange a meeting to explain your concerns.

• Give specific examples — e.g. “They run out of time in class tests,” or “They can’t read the questions fast enough.”

• Ask what support is already in place and whether a formal assessment is needed.

  
  

2. Ask for an Assessment (if appropriate)

• The school may arrange for a specialist teacher to assess your child’s needs.

• You can also pursue a private assessment, though schools are not obliged to accept private reports unless they meet strict JCQ requirements.

  
  

3. Keep Records

• Collect any letters, emails, or reports that support your child’s difficulties.

• Track when they’ve been given help (like extra time or a quiet room) in classroom settings.

  
  

4. Start Early

• Schools usually apply for access arrangements in Year 9 or early Year 10, so that support can be trialled before formal exams.

• For A-level students, arrangements are reviewed again, but may carry over with evidence of continued need.

  
  

📅 When Are EAAs Applied?

Access arrangements must be approved by JCQ (Joint Council for Qualifications) or the relevant exam board (for international exams or certain vocational qualifications).

• For GCSEs and A-levels, schools submit applications months in advance of the exams — typically by February of Year 11.

• Once approved, arrangements apply for all eligible exams in that series.

• Mocks and internal assessments should mirror these arrangements, to build familiarity and collect evidence.

  
  

🧘 What If My Child Has Exam Anxiety?

Mild nerves are normal, but clinically significant exam anxiety can affect a child’s ability to function during assessments. In severe cases, schools may consider:

• Rest breaks

• Smaller rooms

• Use of a prompt

• Separate invigilation

• Referrals to counselling or mental health services

  
  

However, exam nerves alone do not qualify for access arrangements unless they have a significant, long-term impact and are part of a diagnosed condition.

❓What If the School Disagrees?

If the school does not believe your child qualifies:

• Ask for a clear explanation and what evidence is required

• You may request a second opinion or consult an independent assessor

• Maintain a constructive dialogue — most schools want to help, but must follow strict regulations

  
  

🧑‍🏫 How Can a Tutor Help?

A skilled tutor can:

• Identify whether academic difficulties may be linked to access issues

• Provide strategies to support reading, writing, and exam technique

• Build confidence in areas where your child feels behind or overwhelmed

• Prepare students to revise effectively within their approved adjustments (e.g. writing to time with extra time in mind)

  
  

At Top Class Learning, we often work with students who receive EAAs. We tailor our teaching to match their needs, building skills and confidence in a safe, supportive environment.

✅ Final Thoughts

If you suspect your child might need exam access arrangements, trust your instincts — and act early. Whether it’s extra time, a reader, or a quieter space, the right support can remove unnecessary obstacles and help your child show what they’re truly capable of.

Top Class Learning is here to support families at every stage, from early concerns to post-assessment support. If you're unsure whether your child is getting the help they need, we’re happy to advise.

Contact us today to learn more about how our private tuition can support your child’s success — whatever their starting point.