GCSEs are public exams which have set start and end times dictated by the exam boards.
Morning exams start at 9am (students are expected onsite by 8am so they can attend the warm up session). Afternoon exams start at 1.00pm.
Lateness
If a student arrives to an exam after the paper has already been started they may not be allowed to enter the room so it is imperative that students arrive on time.
Exam room rules
- Students are not permitted to communicate with any other student during an exam.
- Students are also not allowed to have a mobile phone or any pieces of paper on their person. Mobile phones need to be handed in at reception where the student will receive a numbered card in exchange. This card must be placed on the student exam desk. Mobile phones are then locked away.
- If a student is found to be in possession of a mobile phone (or any other smart device including smart watches) we are duty bound to inform the exam board who may decide to invalidate their exam paper, even if the device is switched off.
- Students cannot leave an exam room early even if they have finished their paper.
- Students are not permitted to eat or drink during exams with the exception of water. The water should be in a transparent bottle with the label removed.
Uniform during the exams period
Students are expected to wear full school uniform throughout the exams period. The exception to this may be when the weather is particularly warm when students are permitted to remove their ties and blazers.
Equipment for exams
Stationery packs are provided on exam desks. If a student wishes to bring their own, then it must be in a clear plastic pencil case.
Scientific calculators are provided where the exam permits, however students can bring their own, with the lid removed.
Sickness
If a student is ill on the day of a written exam and is so sick that they cannot come to school, a parent or guardian must ring the school immediately to inform the Exams Officer. As evidence of the sickness a medical certificate should be obtained, which must be signed by the doctor. The certificate should be sent to the Exams Officer at the earliest opportunity so that the relevant exam board can be notified of the reason for the absence.
Examination clashes
If there is an examination clash, exams will be sat one after the other. The Examinations Officer will be aware of this situation and will speak to any student concerned.
Exam preparation
In the lead up to public examinations students will have the opportunity to attend revision sessions for each subject. These may take place before school, at lunchtime, after school or during the holidays. These are free of charge and of great use to students who may need extra support during the exam season. We also provide rooms for students to use for quiet independent revision.
Staff also run ‘warm-up’ sessions just prior to exam papers to prepare the students and ensure they are all present before the paper starts. For morning exams these start at 8am.
Students should also be revising at home, even if they are attending the revision classes at school. Staff work hard to teach students revision techniques that they can use at home so that students can become more independent. For more information on how you can support your child through exams at home please visit:
