Examination contingency plan: model and examples
Download and adapt our model exam contingency plan to keep compliant, and see examples of contingency plans from other schools.
Viewing article for:
Download our model plan
All examination centres must have an examination contingency plan. This is explained on the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) website. To understand requirements for other awarding organisations, you'll need to contact the organisation directly.
Our model plan is:
- Designed for you to adapt to suit your school's context
- Approved by Forbes Solicitors
Example plans
Maintained school
Our Lady's Catholic High School in Lancashire has an exam contingency plan with actions in case of situations including:
- Absence of exams officer and special educational needs co-ordinator (SENCO)
- Lack of trained invigilators
- IT system failure
Academy
Manchester Academy has an exams policy with a contingency plan for 2021-22. It covers events such as:
- Emergency evacuations of the exam room
- Exams officer absence
- Issues around the distribution of exam papers
Further reading: consult the DfE's guidance
Find out which further guidance the DfE recommends you read when drafting your contingency plan. There's a coronavirus-specific list, as well as a general one.