Year 11 Exams 2026 Letter

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we approach the final stage of the GCSE course, we would like to recognise the sustained
effort and commitment students have demonstrated throughout their studies. This period
represents a crucial opportunity for focused and purposeful revision. Students have been
taught a range of effective strategies, including Rosenshine’s principles, and we encourage
you to support them in applying these at home through regular, structured, and manageable revision routines.

Please find attached the Summer 2026 GCSE examination timetable. This outlines all
morning and afternoon examinations, alongside the revision sessions available before and
after school, both prior to and during study leave. In some subjects, additional sessions will
also take place during the school day where appropriate. We will distribute individual
timetables to students on the 20th April.

Please note that there is one examination clash on Wednesday 20th May. A clear plan is in
place to support affected students, and a separate letter will be sent to those families with
full details of the arrangements.

The forthcoming examination series will be conducted fully in line with the regulations set
by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ). These regulations are not optional, apply
nationally to all students, and are designed to ensure fairness and integrity. It is essential
that students understand and follow these expectations, as failure to do so in the summer
series can result in serious consequences, including disqualification from individual papers
or, in extreme cases, from all examinations.

During examinations, students must follow all instructions from invigilators, remain silent
upon entering the examination room, and avoid any form of communication or misconduct.
Only permitted equipment may be brought into the exam room (such as black pens, pencils,
rulers, and approved calculators). Items such as mobile phones, smart watches, earphones,
revision materials, and any electronic devices capable of storing data are strictly prohibited.

We strongly encourage you to review the official JCQ guidance documents with your child:
• JCQ Information for Candidates
• JCQ Warning to Candidates Poster
• JCQ Unauthorised Items Poster

Students will also be briefed in school on expectations and procedures, including how to
respond in specific situations. In the unlikely event of an emergency evacuation during an
exam, students will follow school procedures adapted to maintain exam conditions.
Invigilators will provide clear instructions, and the examination will resume as soon as it is
safe to do so, in line with JCQ guidance.

Students will also be required to sign a student declaration form prior to the examination
series, and this must be completed before they are permitted to sit any examinations. A copy of this form is attached to this letter for your reference, and students will be asked to sign it during tutor time in school. The declaration confirms that they have read, understood, and agree to follow all JCQ regulations and expectations. It is an important part of the examination process, ensuring that students are fully aware of the rules regarding conduct, equipment, and academic integrity, as well as the potential consequences of any breach.

It is vital that students attend all examinations and arrive on time. If a student is running
late, parents/carers must contact the school immediately using the dedicated exams contact
number: 07724654008. This phone number will be operational between the 5th May and the
24th June in school hours only. We will advise on next steps and provide support where
possible, although entry to the exam after the start time is subject to exam board
regulations.

If a student is unwell and unable to attend an examination, the school must be informed as
soon as possible using the same number. Medical evidence may be required, and we will
support families in applying for special consideration where appropriate. Prompt
communication is essential to ensure the correct procedures are followed.

Please note that the official contingency day for the Summer 2026 examination series is
Wednesday 24th June. This day is designated by the exam boards to ensure that any
examinations disrupted by unforeseen national or significant local events (such as extreme
weather or other emergencies) can be rescheduled. It is therefore essential that all students
remain available up to and including this date, even if they believe they have completed all
of their exams. Families are strongly advised not to make any arrangements, including
holidays or travel, that would prevent students from attending on this day if required.

Finally, Results Day will take place on Thursday 20th August between 9am and 10:30am.
Students will be able to collect their results from school in the morning, and further details
will be shared closer to the time.

We are extremely proud of this cohort and the maturity they have shown in their
preparation. With continued focus and support, we are confident they will achieve their
very best outcomes. Thank you for your continued support during this important time.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the school.

Dominic Bailey: Deputy Headteacher