When pupils from Year 9 onwards have low processing-speed scores, the school should review each pupil's current need, normal way of working and the appropriate JCQ evidence route. The screening result does not establish eligibility for extra time or another access arrangement.

Every decision must remain individual and follow the current regulations for the relevant qualification and academic year.

Review centre-based evidence

Bring together:

• current classroom difficulties;

• teacher and support-staff observations;

• internal tests and mock examinations;

• workbooks and task completion;

• adjustments already used;

• how the pupil uses those adjustments, and whether they find them helpful;

• evidence that the support is the pupil's normal way of working.

A low processing-speed score may contribute to this picture, but the school must show how the difficulty affects teaching, learning and assessment.

Understand Form 8

Where Form 8 is required:

• Part 1 records the centre-based evidence of need and normal way of working. Talamo screening results may contribute to this section, but they are only one part of the evidence.

• Part 2 records the appointed assessor's relevant assessment results. Talamo screening cannot replace this assessment.

• Part 3 is completed by the SENCo after the assessment and records the arrangement requested.

Part 1 must be completed before the formal assessment. A minimal or “skeleton” Part 1 is not sufficient.

Coordinate the process

The SENCo or access-arrangements lead should work with the appointed assessor, teaching staff and exams officer. Confirm:

• that the proposed arrangement addresses the identified barrier;

• that it is appropriate, practicable and the pupil's normal way of working;

• that the pupil has practised using it;

• that the assessor and assessments meet current requirements;

• that the evidence and application deadlines are met.

Do not assume extra time is the answer. Another adjustment may provide more appropriate access.

Current official guidance

Use the latest JCQ Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments guidance for the relevant academic year. From that page, open the current regulations, evidence requirements and Form 8.

JCQ requirements change between academic years. Check the publication dates and relevant awarding-organisation rules before assessment or application.

Programme options

• JCQ access-arrangements guidance: Current guidance for SENCos and exams officers covering Form 8, evidence of need, normal ways of working and applications for access arrangements.