To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what guidance his Department issues on assessing the ability of deaf children in examination in subjects where a listening component is generally required; and if he will make a statement. (216077)

The Department does not issue guidance on detailed issues relating to examinations; it is for the qualifications regulators and the awarding bodies to ensure that appropriate arrangements are made, in the light of their duties under the Disability Discrimination Act. The Joint Council for Qualifications issues advice on access arrangements on behalf of awarding bodies.

The Government have made clear that the content and curriculum of qualifications should offer all candidates the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills and understanding and display their strengths. When other reasonable adjustments have been considered but cannot be made, we would therefore expect the practice of exemptions from parts of an assessment, and the resulting enhancements of grades to continue.