§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what arrangements are in place to assist pupils/students with specific learning disabilities, with particular reference to dyslexia, when they are completing tests or examinations; and if he will make a statement. [80818]
§ Mr. Stephen TwiggA wide range of special arrangements are in place to assist pupils with special educational needs, including those with specific learning difficulties, such as dyslexia, when they come to take tests and examinations
The arrangements for dyslexic candidates taking public examinations are determined by the relevant awarding bodies. The most common arrangement permitted for such candidates is additional time in which to complete the examination. The use of readers, writers and word processors are also permitted in exceptional circumstances. Appropriate evidence must support each case, and the decision rests with the awarding body
Special arrangements are also permitted in relation to the National Curriculum Assessment Key Stage tests. Details of these are set out in the "Assessment and Reporting Arrangements" booklets produced by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, sent to all schools in England in October of the year before the tests are due to be taken. When considering what special arrangements might be needed, the focus should always be on the needs of the individual child. Arrangements might range from additional time to the use of readers, amanuenses, transcripts, communicators, signers, and rest breaks.