Supporting SEND Students with Exams

Exams may be stressful, but these tips can help

Preparing children and young people for GCSEs, A-levels and SATs is a stressful task for any parent. Of course, each child is an individual, with a unique combination of strengths and areas where they require more support. But in a system designed for neurotypical minds, supporting a child who has Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities ("SEND") provides a unique set of challenges. You can request adjustments and accommodations in the form of access arrangements, and the following tips also provide a general guide for how you can assist your child in navigating this stressful time with confidence:

Familiarise your child with exam conditions

The unfamiliar, intimidating environment of an exam hall may prove an extra difficulty for SEND children and young people who are sitting exams. Wherever possible, advocate for them to sit mock exams in identical conditions to their real exams be they SATS, GCSEs, A-levels etc in the same place and at the same time of day. Removing the element of the ‘unknown’ may help them manage their anxiety and have realistic expectations for what will happen on the day itself.

Create a positive study environment

A study environment in which a child or young person feels safe and comfortable will be essential in enabling them to revise effectively. What this means will vary from student to student – for example, some require silence to concentrate, whilst others are soothed by quiet music. A supportive study space does not and should not look the same for everyone, what is important is that it works for them and can be implemented easily and consistently.

Encourage Effective Revision Practices

Simply reading or highlighting notes is frequently an ineffective form of revision, particularly for SEND students. Instead, encourage your child or young person to use more structured ‘scaffolding’ techniques to revise – for example, practice questions or graphics. In order to increase confidence in students who are not naturally academic, it is helpful to start with less challenging questions and work upwards slowly, building on success.

Encourage Self Care

Revision is not the only important element of preparing for an exam. Ensuring – as far as possible – that your child or young person is exercising, getting a full night’s sleep (no all-nighters!) and finding time for activities they enjoy will help to ensure that they are in the best condition possible on the day of the exam.

Put it in Context

Whilst exams are undoubtedly important, many children and young people have been led to believe that their future success and happiness hinges on one set of grades. Do your best to make sure they understand that their value as a person extends far beyond this, and that educational/professional opportunities exist outside of mainstream academic achievement.

SEND Advocacy can help you to ensure that your child or young person with SEND receives the appropriate support that will enable them to thrive. If you need someone in your corner to help you secure the education your child deserves, contact SEND Advocacy today.