Helping students get the support they need to succeed
Exams are challenging enough without extra barriers. For some children and young people, learning difficulties or processing differences mean they need additional support to perform at their best. Exam Access Arrangements (EAAs) provide adjustments such as extra time, a reader, or a scribe, so that students are assessed on their knowledge and skills rather than the difficulties that hold them back.
We offer private exam access arrangements assessments across the UK, carried out by Dr Abigail Wilson, HCPC-registered Educational Psychologist. Our assessments are recognised by schools and exam boards and can provide the evidence required under JCQ guidelines.
👉 Book an Exam Access Assessment today:
📧 contact@ballooneducationalpsychology.com
What Are Exam Access Arrangements?
Exam Access Arrangements are adjustments made during exams to ensure that students with learning difficulties or other needs are not unfairly disadvantaged. These arrangements are not about giving an advantage, but about creating a fair opportunity for each student to show what they know.
Common types of reasonable adjustments include:
- Extra time for students with slower processing speeds or working memory difficulties.
- A reader or computer reader for students who struggle with decoding written text.
- A scribe or word processor for students with difficulties in writing or handwriting speed.
- Rest breaks or separate rooms for students affected by anxiety, attention difficulties, or fatigue.
To receive these adjustments, schools must apply through the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ). They will usually need evidence from a professional cognitive assessment carried out by an educational psychologist. A private exam access assessment can provide the independent evidence your child’s school needs to support their application.
Why Choose a Private Exam Access Assessment?
Schools can provide assessments for exam access arrangements, but waiting lists are often long and deadlines can be missed. Choosing a private exam access arrangements assessment ensures your child receives the support they need in good time.
Benefits of a private assessment:
- Faster process – appointments are available quickly, so reports can be ready before school or exam board deadlines.
- Recognised evidence – our reports are fully compliant with JCQ guidelines and accepted by schools across the UK.
- Independent and professional – assessments are carried out by Dr Abigail Wilson, HCPC-registered Educational Psychologist, providing trusted evidence for schools and exam boards.
- Tailored to your child – we focus on your child’s individual learning profile, ensuring recommendations are specific and practical.
A private assessment is often the difference between missed opportunities and the right support being in place.
👉 Enquire today about booking a private exam access arrangements assessment.
Types of Exam Access Arrangements We Assess For
Every student’s needs are different, and the right access arrangements depend on how their learning profile affects exam performance. Our assessments provide the evidence schools need to apply for the following reasonable adjustments:
Extra Time
For students with slower processing speed, working memory difficulties, or other learning needs. Extra time allows them to complete exam papers without being placed at a disadvantage.
Reader or Computer Reader
For students with dyslexia or other reading difficulties. A reader or technology-assisted option ensures they can understand exam questions clearly.
Scribe or Word Processor
For students who struggle with handwriting, spelling, or the physical act of writing. Using a scribe or word processor allows them to focus on demonstrating their knowledge.
Rest Breaks or Separate Room
For students with ADHD, anxiety, or health conditions that make it hard to sustain focus. Rest breaks or alternative settings can reduce pressure and improve performance.
All of these exam adjustments are provided in line with JCQ requirements, and our reports are written to meet the standards that schools must follow when submitting applications.
How the Exam Access Assessment Works
Our process is designed to be clear, supportive, and aligned with JCQ requirements so that your child’s school can use the results with confidence.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We begin with a conversation to understand your child’s background, exam history, and any previous support in place. This helps us target the assessment to their needs.
Step 2: Cognitive Assessment
Your child completes a series of standardised tasks that measure areas such as processing speed, working memory, and literacy skills. This forms the evidence required for exam access arrangements such as extra time, a reader, or a scribe.
Step 3: Discussion with Parents and School
Where appropriate, we liaise with parents and school staff to ensure the findings fit with your child’s everyday learning needs and the school’s application process.
Step 4: Written Report
You will receive a detailed, independent report that is fully JCQ-compliant and can be used by schools when applying for exam adjustments.
Step 5: Next Steps and Support
We explain the results clearly and provide guidance on how the evidence can be used by the school to make an exam access application. We also suggest strategies to help your child in their wider learning.
Who Needs an Exam Access Assessment?
An exam access arrangements assessment is suitable for students who may struggle to demonstrate their true ability under standard exam conditions. These assessments can be particularly important for:
- Students with dyslexia or literacy difficulties – where reading and writing speed affects exam performance.
- Students with slower processing speed or working memory difficulties – who may need extra time to complete exam papers.
- Students with ADHD or attention difficulties – who benefit from rest breaks or separate exam rooms.
- Students with anxiety or emotional needs – where the exam environment makes it harder to focus or perform.
- Students preparing for 11+, GCSEs, or A-Levels – where schools require independent, professional evidence to support reasonable adjustments.
If your child has a history of struggling with timed tasks, or if teachers have raised concerns about their performance under exam conditions, a private assessment can provide the evidence needed to support them.
Exam Access Arrangements FAQs
Can exam access arrangements be assessed privately?
Yes. A private exam access arrangements assessment provides the same evidence as one carried out by a school. Our reports are written to meet JCQ requirements and are accepted by schools and exam boards across the UK.
How do I apply for exam adjustments for my child?
Parents cannot apply directly. The school or college must submit the application to the exam board. However, they need professional evidence to support the request. Our independent report provides the documentation schools require.
What types of exam adjustments can be recommended?
Adjustments may include extra time, a reader or computer reader, a scribe or word processor, rest breaks, or a separate room. The right arrangements depend on your child’s learning profile and needs.
Are exam access arrangements available for all levels of study?
Yes. Arrangements are commonly made for the 11+, GCSEs, and A-Levels, but can also apply to other examinations where evidence of need exists.
How much does an exam access assessment cost?
Costs vary depending on the type of assessment. Please see our fees page
Book an Exam Access Arrangements Assessment
If your child is preparing for the 11+, GCSEs, or A-Levels and you believe they may need exam access arrangements, a professional assessment can provide the evidence required by schools and exam boards.
Dr Abigail Wilson, HCPC-registered Educational Psychologist, carries out independent cognitive assessments that are fully JCQ-compliant and recognised across the UK. With clear recommendations and a detailed written report, you can ensure your child has the right support in place before exam day.
👉 Take the first step today:
📧 Email: contact@ballooneducationalpsychology.com
