Information for Current Students
This page provides essential information to help students feel prepared, confident and fully informed ahead of their examinations. Below, you will find guidance on what equipment to bring, rules around mobile phones and important details about special consideration.
If you have any questions, please speak to a member of staff or the Exams Team by visiting the Exams officer or by emailing
- Exam Equipment Students must bring the correct equipment to all examinations. This includes a clear pencil case, black pen(s), pencil, ruler and any other standard stationery required for their subject. Students may also bring a clear, label‑free water bottle. For Mathematics exams, a calculator is permitted unless otherwise stated on the paper. Bringing the correct equipment helps ensure exams run smoothly and without unnecessary disruption.
- Mobile Phones Mobile phones must not be carried by learners during any examination. This includes phones kept in pockets or anywhere on their person. If a learner is found with a mobile phone by an inspector, this will be reported to the Exams Team who are required to notify the awarding body. This may lead to disqualification and a mark of zero for the exam paper.
- Special Consideration
What is Special Consideration?
Special consideration is a post-exam adjustment to a student’s mark or grade.It may be applied when:
- A student has been fully prepared and completed the course
- But their performance is affected by something beyond their control at the time of the assessment
It is not a guarantee and only small adjustments can be made.
When Can Special Consideration Be Applied?
Students may be eligible if affected by:- Illness or injury at the time of the exam
- Bereavement (close family)
- Serious personal or domestic crisis
- Significant disturbance during an exam
- Accidents or exam issues (e.g. wrong paper, equipment failure)
- International-level sporting commitments
- Approved access arrangements not provided
When Will It NOT Be Applied?
Special consideration will not be given for:- Long-term illness affecting revision (unless it worsens at exam time)
- Poor teaching, staff shortages, or missed learning
- Misreading the timetable or missing the exam
- Holidays or personal events (e.g. weddings)
- Exam stress alone
- Minor disturbances (e.g. brief noise)
- Not completing coursework
- Joining the course late
If a Student Sits the Exam but is Affected
A small percentage of marks may be added:- 5% (very rare) – e.g. terminal illness, recent death of close family
- 4% – very serious issues (major surgery, severe illness)
- 3% – serious but more common issues (injury, bereavement, mental health flare-up)
- 2% (most common) – illness on the day, concussion, distress
- 1% – minor issues (noise, mild illness)
Only one adjustment is applied (not cumulative).
If a Student Misses an Exam
Special consideration may still be possible if:- The absence is for a valid reason (e.g. illness)
- The college supports the application
- The student has completed a minimum amount of the course assessment
Typical requirement:
- At least 15% of the total qualification must already be completed
(some qualifications require 25%)
If this is not met, the student will usually need to retake the exam.
Important Limitations
- Special consideration cannot fix major gaps in learning
- It only provides a small adjustment
- In some cases, it may be better not to enter a student for an exam
How to Apply
- Applications are made by the college, not parents
- Must be submitted online to the exam board
- Must include evidence (e.g. staff statement, medical note if available)
- Students/parents should inform the college as soon as possible
👉 Parents/students must speak to the college, not the exam board.
Key Advice for Parents
- Inform the college immediately if a student is unwell or affected
- Encourage students to attempt the exam if possible
- Keep communication clear and timely
- Provide any supporting information requested
In the event of severe weather, the safety of our students and staff is our top priority. This page provides the latest updates on college opening arrangements, delays or closures during adverse conditions such as snow, ice or storms.
We pride ourselves on providing a high quality, confidential, impartial, and supportive Careers Advice and Guidance service.
You don’t have to let a lack of money stop you from coming to College. Funding may be available if your financial circumstances make it difficult for you to complete your College course.
These are the general term dates for our colleges. Some courses have different start dates - check with your tutor for definitive term times.
Your Students’ Union is here to support and represent you and is a big part of college life.
We are committed to doing everything we can to make sure all of our students (and staff) are kept safe and protected from harm.
