New regulations for

[Joanna Knapik]

Good afternoon,

Is anyone aware of any recent changes to the regulations regarding Exam Access Arrangements (EAA) for EAL learners?

Based on my current understanding of the latest JCQ guidance (section 5.8), EAL students may be eligible for the use of a bilingual dictionary and 25% extra time in all GCSE subjects except English, RS, History, and Geography. Additionally, where the use of a bilingual dictionary is not permitted, they may still be granted 25% extra time to compensate.

To be eligible, students must meet the following criteria:

• Have been in the UK for less than three years at the time of their GCSEs

• Speak a language other than English at home

• Did not attend an international school

• Use of a bilingual dictionary is part of their normal way of working

• Were assessed on entry as Band A or B (New to English or Early Acquisition)

According to the JCQ, applications can be submitted online, and no additional supporting evidence is required to be kept on file.

However, I’ve been informed that when submitting applications, a request to complete Form 8 is triggered, which seems inconsistent — especially as Form 8 is clearly designated for candidates with learning difficulties.

Could anyone please confirm whether this is now a requirement set by JCQ for granting the use of bilingual dictionaries and 25% extra time for EAL learners?

Many thanks,

Joanna Knapik

EAL Teacher