Exam arrangements

Examination FAQ

Where can I find a timetable of all scheduled exams?
A general timetable of written exams is posted on our social media channels.

How do I know when I will have exams?
You will be issued with a timetable via your Form Tutor. You should check it to make sure that you have been entered for the correct units / subjects (and that none are missing). Also check your date of birth and that we have the correct spelling of your name. This should be your full legal name. If anything is wrong, or missing, please let your Form Tutor know. You must keep your timetable safe as you’ll need to refer to it throughout the exam series.

Am I allowed to bring food and drink into the exam hall?
You are allowed to take a bottle of water into the exam with you; in fact it’s recommended to keep good hydration levels. However, it must only be water and it must be in a clear bottle with no labels. Food will not be allowed, except if it’s for medical reasons that you’ve discussed with us first. Do ensure that you have a good breakfast and lunch on exam days.

What should I bring with me for my exam?
It is each student’s responsibility to have the correct equipment for each exam. Your teacher should talk this through with you prior to the exam. You should have black pens (biros, not gel pens), and it’s a good idea to have a spare pen, too. You may also need pencils, a ruler, a calculator (unless specified otherwise), erasers, compass and protractor and coloured pencils. If you bring a pencil case, it must be a clear plastic one, and should not contain any pieces of paper/notes. We do keep spares in the exam room, but it is better to be prepared and bring your own!

What happens if I arrive late for my examination?
If you realise you are going to be late, you should telephone the college immediately, so that we know you are on your way. What happens depends on how late you are, as the Exam Boards have very strict rules about whether you can sit the exam or not. In some instances, you may be allowed to start the exam a little late, but, in the case of arriving very late, you may not be allowed to sit that paper, which would mean that you wouldn’t get a grade.

What should I do if I am poorly on the day of the examination and I cannot attend or sit the exam?
Please contact the Exams Officer (Megan Lovatt) as soon as possible so that we are aware. You will need to provide medical evidence, such as a doctor’s letter, to support our discussions with the Exam Boards.

What should I wear for my exams?
Students should wear their normal College clothes, bearing in mind the suitability and comfort required for what might be a lengthy exam. Hats, scarves and coats are not permitted.

I sat my exams some time ago and I cannot find my certificates – how can I get replacements?
If you think you may not have collected your certificates from us in the first place, please contact the Exams Office to see if we’re still holding them for you. If you did collect them, we cannot unfortunately provide replacements. The Exam Boards don’t issue copies either, but “certified statements” instead. Please use this link to the OFQUAL website, which has all of the details, and further links to the relevant forms you’ll need to complete. Each certified statement will cost from £35 to £46, according to the Exam Board.

We aim to raise aspirations, expectations and achievement for all our students in a happy, caring and successful learning environment."