handbook english 2011

NATIONAL EXAMINATIONSUNIT

2011 Administration Handbook for Schools

Grade 3ArabicMathematics

Grade 6ArabicMathematicsEnglishScience


Grade 12ArabicEnglishProblem Solving


Quality Assurance Authority for Education & TrainingQuality Assurance Authority for Education & Training

NATIONAL EXAMINATIONSUNIT


Grade 3ArabicMathematics



Grade 12ArabicEnglishProblem Solving

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CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 7

ABBREVIATIONS USED IN THIS DOCUMENT 8

PART 1: PRINCIPLES 9 - 11

1.1 Responsibilities of the School 9

1.2 Administrative Services Provided by NEU 10

1.3 Communication 10

1.4 Examination Material 10

PART 2: EXAMINATION REGISTRATIONS 12 - 13

2.1 Students 12

2.2 Registration 12

2.3 Late Registration and Registration Amendments 13

PART 3: CONDUCT OF EXAMINATIONS 14 - 24

3.1 Preparation for the Examination 14

3.2 At the Beginning of the Examination 17

3.3 During the Examination 21

3.4 At the End of the Examination 23

3.5 After the Examination 24

PART 4: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS AND SPECIAL CONSIDERATION 25 - 39

4.1 Principles 25

4.2 Introduction 25

SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS

4.3 Definition of Special Arrangements 25

4.4 Principles Governing Special Arrangements 25

4.5 Examination Criteria 26

4.6 How to Apply for Special Arrangements 26

4.7 Guidance on Particular Disabilities 27

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4.8 Regulations Governing the Use of Readers 30

4.9 Regulations Governing the Use of Writer/Scribe 32

4.10 Regulations Governing the Use of Computers, Word Processors

and ElectronicTypewriters 33

4.11 Regulations Governing the Production of a Transcript 35

4.12 Appeals against the Outcome of Applications for Special Arrangements 36

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

4.13 Definition of Special Consideration 36

4.14 Principles Governing Special Consideration 37

4.15 Eligibility for Special Consideration 37

4.16 How to Apply for Special Consideration 38

4.17 Appeals against the Outcome of Applications for

Special Consideration 39

PART 5: MALPRACTICE AND MALADMINISTRATION 40 - 43

5.1 Introduction 40

5.2 NEU Procedures for Dealing with Suspected Malpractice 40

5.3 Suspected Malpractice by Students 41

5.4 Maladministration and Malpractice by School Staff 42

5.5 Appeals against decisions of the NEU Malpractice Committee 43

PART 6: EXAMINATION RESULTS 44 - 47

6.1 Results Reports 44

6.2 Result Enquiries 44

PART 7:FORMS 48 - 71

FORM 1: Students Transfer Form 49

Notes on Completion of Form 1 50

FORM 2: Application for Special Arrangements for Temporarily and

Permanently Disabled Students 51


FORM 3: Writer/Scribe Cover Sheet 53


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FORM 4: Transcription Cover Sheet 55


FORM 5: Application for Special Consideration for Part Absent Students

and Students With a Temporary Disability or Affected by

Adverse Circumstances 57


FORM 6: Supplementary Attendance Register 59

FORM 7: Comments on the Examination 60

FORM 8: Notice to Students 61

FORM 9: Checklist for Invigilators 63

FORM 10: Suspected Malpractice Report Form 65

FORM 10.1: Malpractice Investigation Form (Student) 67

FORM 10.2: Malpractice Investigation Form (Invigilator) 68

FORM 11: Declaration of Interest in a Person Taking an

NEU Examination 69

FORM 12: Result Enquiry Form 70


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INTRODUCTION

The Quality Assurance Authority for Education and Training (QAAET) was established as an independent body to ensure that the quality of education and training in Bahrain meets international standards and best practice, in accordance with the vision set by the National Education Reform initiatives. Under Article (4) of Royal Decree No. 32 of 2008, the QAAET is mandated to review the quality of the performance of education and training institutions in the light of the guiding indicators developed by the Authority.

The QAAET comprises four Units, the Schools Review Unit (SRU), the Vocational Review Unit (VRU), the Higher Education Review Unit (HERU) and the National Examinations Unit (NEU).Further information about QAAET can be found at www.qaa.edu.bh

The National Examinations Unit is mandated to develop and carry out national examinations to assess performance levels for classes of primary and secondary education stages.

The four main objectives of the National Examinations Unit (NEU) are to:

• Independently and nationwide examine the four core subjects of Maths, Science, Arabic and English in Grades 3, 6 and 9 to evaluate learning progress against the national curriculum.

• Publish information on student, class and school performance.

• Establish and implement examination requirements for Grade 12.

• Work with different stakeholders to improve education in Bahrain.

The NEU evaluates the performance of students and schools against the national curriculum. The unit develops and publishes exam specifications that are based on the entire national curriculum in the subjects that are examined: Maths, Science, Arabic and English (at grade 3 Arabic and Maths only). From these the unit develops examinations and exam questions which fit the curriculum. National tests in the four core subjects are held every year in May and involve all students at all public schools in the country. The results of the national tests are reported to students and schools, and to the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the public, after approval by the Board of the QAAET. The reports identify key strengths and areas for improvement for students, schools and the overall education system.

This Administration Handbook for Schools provides School Principals, Teachers and School Administrative Staff with all the information they need to ensure that the administration of the national examinations runs smoothly for their Schools. Together with the subject-specific test specifications, it gives them a comprehensive understanding of the national examinations.

In April 2011 the NEU will run pilot tests for all Secondary schools at grade 12 in the subjects of: Arabic, English and Problem Solving. The first national tests with published results in these subjects will be held in 2012. Specific references to grade 12 subjects only are inserted in blue font in this Handbook; otherwise, all the provisions in the Handbook apply to every grade.

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NEU National Examinations Unit

MoE Ministry of Education

QAAET Quality Assurance Authority for Education and Training

ABBREVIATIONS USED IN THIS DOCUMENT (ENGLISH VERSION ONLy)

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PART 1: PRINCIPLES

1.1 RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SCHOOL

The School must adhere to the terms and conditions specified in this Handbook for Schools and furthermore undertakes to:

(a) correspond with students on every aspect of the examinations on behalf of the NEU;

(b) submit to NEU, in accordance with the instructions given when the information is requested, details of initial and final registrations (see Part 2) and any other information that NEU may reasonably require in relation to its examinations;

(c) issue to each student entered through the School details of the dates and times of his or her examinations;

(d) ensure that all students are aware that their data will be passed to third parties;

(e) make any applications for Special Arrangements and Special Consideration in accordance with the regulations and guidance (see Part 4);

(f) ensure that students have access to suitable accommodation and specified equipment and materials to take all examinations (see Part 3);

(g) ensure that all students in each examination are identified (see Part 3);

(h) report to NEU any established, suspected or alleged cases of malpractice by a student or of malpractice or maladministration by a member of staff discovered by the School, assist any investigation which results from that or from any malpractice suspected by NEU, and provide such information and advice as NEU may reasonably require (see Part 5);

(i) ensure that NEU is notified of any changes to contact details such as changes to email, telephone or fax numbers. NEU will accept notification in writing (or by fax) on official letter headed stationery from the School. Please note that for security reasons notification of changes can not be accepted by telephone or email;

(j) facilitate any inspection of the School by or on behalf of NEU. NEU will carry out unannounced inspections when examinations are being held and Schools must co-operate with any visit from an Inspector. NEU Inspectors may also inspect the arrangements for the security of examination material and for conducting examinations at times outside the examination period;

(k) be responsible for the proper administration and conduct of NEU’s examinations;

(l) ensure that the receipt and security of examination materials; the distribution of the question papers to the students; the collection of answer papers at the end of each examination and their appropriate despatch; as well as the maintenance of constant and effective supervision of the students; are all carried out in accordance with NEU’s regulations;

(m) be responsible for the appointment of suitable Invigilators and ensure that they are familiar with the instructions contained in Part 3;

(n) ensure that all Teachers involved in the delivery of subjects in the School understand that NEU examinations are based on the whole subject curriculum and not just on the course textbooks.

NEU expects that these responsibilities of a School are discharged by or through the School Principal. The School Principal is accountable to NEU for the correct administration of examinations. NEU will report all infringements and non-compliance to the MoE.

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1.2 ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES PROVIDED By NEU

NEU undertakes to:

(a) make appropriate administrative arrangements;

(b) inform and advise School Principals;

(c) make such special examination arrangements as Schools request from within the provisions available (see Part 4);

(d) provide School Entry Lists;

(e) provide examination timetables, instructions, question papers and other examination materials and documentation;

(f) issue results reports;

(g) maintain the integrity of its examinations.

1.3 COMMUNICATION

Any questions regarding the administration of the examinations please contact:

National Examinations Unit

Doha Plaza, 10th floor

Building 2334, Road 2830, Block 428

Seef District

Telephone: 17562339/17562340

Fax: 17562308

Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

1.4 EXAMINATION MATERIAL

1.4.1.OwNERSHIP

Ownership of all material delivered by NEU to a School shall remain with QAAET.

1.4.2 OwNERSHIP OF EXAMINATION MATERIAL

All material submitted for examination will become the physical property of NEU. Student answer papers will not be returned to Schools.

1.4.3 OwNERSHIP OF STUDENTS’ wORk

NEU reserves the right to use student answer papers or extracts from them on an anonymous basis in educational presentations, materials and products, which may be published in printed format or electronically. In addition, NEU reserves the right to use students’ work for educational purposes only; for example, standard setting, training of Teachers and Examiners,

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and to demonstrate standards in the process of recognition of NEU’s examinations by other organisations.

1.4.4 OwNERSHIP OF NEU EXAMINATION QUESTION PAPERS

All NEU question papers shall remain the property of QAAET until the question papers are released to Schools after the examination. Ownership of the question papers will remain with NEU.

1.4.5 OwNERSHIP AND USE OF NEU MATERIAL

Schools may reproduce copies of past question papers and other materials for which NEU holds ownership, for internal School purposes, provided that copies are:

• used exclusively by students at the School in connection with their class work or internal examinations;

• not offered for sale or distribution in any circumstances;

• inclusive of all NEU ownership symbols, acknowledgement and notices;

• not warranted by NEU; or,

• not passed to any third party.

Schools must not distribute past papers electronically, including on websites only accessible over a School’s intranet.

NEU is unable to give permission to reproduce:

• any third party copyright material contained within the past papers. These items can be identified by the copyright acknowledgements which appear either under each item, or at the back of the question paper;

• audio and video cassettes and tapes;

• CDs, DVDs and mini-discs;

• photographs.

If staff at Schools wish to use material owned by NEU in any publications they are developing, they shall request permission from NEU.

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PART 2: EXAMINATION REGISTRATIONS

2.1 STUDENTS

2.1.1 ELIGIBILITy

(a) There are no age restrictions on entering for examinations.

(b) Each student must be entered by a School.

(c) A student is not permitted to enter for the same examination at two Schools in the same examination session.

(d) All students must be registered for the correct Grade.

2.1.2 TRANSFERRED STUDENTS

Students may only be transferred to a School registered with NEU.

(a) A student who, after final registrations are made, transfers to another School becomes the responsibility of the receiving School.

(b) A transfer student form must be completed by the receiving School confirming acceptance of the arrangements. (A copy of the form can be found in Part 7, Form 1). When the form has been received by NEU, the registration will be moved from the original School to the receiving School.

(c) NEU is unable to accept a request for transfer received at NEU less than 30 days before the date of the first examination to be taken by the transfer student.

(d) NEU is unable to accept requests for partial transfers (for example taking just one question paper of an examination at another School).

2.1.3 CORRESPONDENCE ABOUT STUDENTS

All correspondence on any aspect of a student’s examination will be conducted between NEU and the School Principal or their deputy responsible for the student’s registration. Only in exceptional circumstances will NEU, at its discretion, correspond directly with students or their parents.

2.1.4 DISQUALIFICATION OF STUDENTS

Any student for whom malpractice has been confirmed may be disqualified from at least the question paper concerned (see Part 5).

2.2 REGISTRATION

2.2.1 INITIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION

NEU requires initial registration information to:

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• aid the planning of the examinations;

• plan the recruitment of examiners;

• print required quantities of question papers.

2.2 FINAL REGISTRATIONS

(a) Schools will be asked to check and submit final registrations for each examination session.

(b) It is the responsibility of the School Principal to ensure that accurate and complete final student entry data is submitted to NEU. All registration amendments must be submitted by the deadline for receiving amendments to avoid jeopardising the School’s student registrations.

(c) All registrations must reach NEU by the published closing date. Late registrations and changes to registrations can be made until 03 March 2011 (28 February for Grade 12), after which no further registrations or changes to registration will be accepted.

(d) Once all changes to student registration information have been received, revised school entry lists will be prepared by the NEU. These will show students in their correct classes and will be the School’s final record of student registrations during the examinations.

(e) Registration Closing Dates:

2.2.3 STUDENT NUMBERING

Every student in each School will be assigned a number which will be their CPR number.

2.3 LATE REGISTRATION AND REGISTRATION AMENDMENTS

No registrations or amendments will be accepted after 03 March 2011 (28 February for Grade 12).

Grade 3 and Grade 6 03 February 2011

Grade 9 10 February 2011

Grade 12 21 February 2011

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PART 3: CONDUCT OF EXAMINATIONS

3.1 PREPARATION FOR THE EXAMINATION

3.1.1 CONFIDENTIALITy STATEMENT

NEU will provide a Confidentiality Statement to Schools. Each School Principal and invigilator will be asked to sign a Confidentiality Statement. Copies of these statements must be kept in the School Examination File set up for each examination session.

3.1.2 COLLECTION OF QUESTION PAPERS AND EXAMINATION MATERIALS

Schools must inform NEU in advance of the name of the school representative(s) who will collect and return back the question papers for each day of the examination period. The representative must collect the question paper packets from the Distribution Centre on the morning of the examination between the times of 06:00 and 07:30 hours. All school representatives will be required to sign a Confidentiality Statement before they can take the question papers packets away. Schools should allow plenty of time for the collection of question papers to ensure that the examinations are not delayed.

NEU will advise schools of the address of the Distribution Centre by 04 April 2011.

Schools will be provided with the following materials:

• Question papers sealed in secure envelopes.

• Listening CDs sealed in secure envelopes (for all language tests except Arabic at Grade 12).

• List of question paper packets for the School.

• The address of the Centre where student answer papers need to be delivered after the • examination.

• Examination materials for all examinations will be provided on the first day of the examination timetable.

Before leaving the Distribution Centre, the representative must check that he/she has all the materials needed and also that he/she does not have any materials that belong to another School. The seal of each secure envelope must be intact and the packets undamaged. Any problems must be immediately reported to staff at the distribution centre.

Question paper packets should be given to each Invigilator as soon as possible. The Invigilator must ensure that they have been given the correct packet for their class and school.

Question paper packets must remain sealed until the examination is due to start. They must be opened in the examination room no more than 10 minutes before the start of the examination.

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3.1.3 EXAMINATION MATERIALS

On day one of the examination timetable, NEU will supply Schools with the following examination materials:

• Attendance Registers for each question paper.

• Student labels containing CPR and student numbers to be stuck on the front of each question paper (see also 3.2.3).

• Answer Paper return envelopes, clearly labelled for each subject and paper.

The examination materials for papers to be taken later in the timetable period must be locked in a secure place in the School until they are needed.

NEU must be informed immediately if the security of the examination materials is put at risk by fire, theft, loss, damage, unauthorised disclosure or any other circumstances

If a student is entered for NEU examinations at a School where a relative is employed, the School Principal must ensure that during the examination session the student’s relative does not have unaccompanied access to examination materials, either before the examination (for example, question papers), or after the examination (for example, student answer papers). If the relative is acting as the person responsible for examination administration, then appropriate arrangements must be made to ensure that another person is present for all the examinations administration relating to the student’s examinations. Any documentation submitted to NEU for the examinations, (for example, Special Arrangement forms), must be authorised by a member of School staff who is not a relative of the student. This includes medical certificates submitted for Special Arrangements and Special Consideration. (See also 3.1.4, 4.5 (d), 4.7 and 4.16 (e).)

3.1.4 ACCOMMODATION

3.1.4.1 EXAMINATION SCHOOL

All students must take the examination at the School at which they are registered unless prior permission has been obtained from NEU for students to take the examination elsewhere.

3.1.4.2 EXAMINATION ROOM

Any classroom or hall in which an examination is conducted must provide students with appropriate conditions in which to take the examination. It must be an environment in which the students feel comfortable, and attention must be paid to such matters as temperature, ventilation, lighting and the level of extraneous noise.

3.1.4.3 DISPLAy MATERIAL

There must not be any display materials, for example diagrams or wall charts, which might be helpful to students in the examination room. Particular care must be taken with those examinations that are held in learning resources centres.

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3.1.4.4 CLOCk

A reliable clock or some other mechanism for displaying the time must be visible to all students in the examination room.

3.1.4.5 EXAMINATION START AND FINISH TIMES

The Invigilator must ensure that the students are aware of the duration of the question paper and its start and finish times.

3.1.4.6 NOTICE TO STUDENTS

An A3 size poster Notice to Students must be displayed both inside and outside the examination room. A copy of this Notice to Students can be found in Part 7 (Form 8), and should be distributed to students (and parents) in the week before the first national examination takes place.

3.1.4.7 SEATING ARRANGEMENTS

The seating arrangements must be such as to prevent students from overlooking the work of others, intentionally or otherwise, or to be disturbed by other students.

Wherever possible:

(a) each student must have a separate desk or table of sufficient size to comfortably accommodate question papers;

(b) if, in exceptional circumstances, students are not working at individual desks, they must be sufficiently far apart so that their work cannot be seen by, and contact cannot be made with, other students;

(c) students must be seated in student number order, with student numbers labelled on each desk.

For listening examinations, the School must ensure that all students can hear the CD clearly.

Any student suffering from an infectious or contagious disease must take the examination in a separate room in which all the examination regulations can be applied. The student’s answer paper must be packed separately from other answer papers at the School and labelled accordingly, and advice should be sought from NEU.

The seating plan for each class should be kept in the School Examination File.

3.1.5 INVIGILATION ARRANGEMENTS

An Invigilator, who should not be the class or subject Teacher, must be in the room to supervise each examination. They must give their whole attention to the proper conduct of the examination and must not perform any additional task (for example, marking) in the examination room.

When only one Invigilator is present, he or she must be able to summon assistance easily, without leaving the examination room and without disturbing the students.

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A copy of Checklist for Invigilators must be available to each Invigilator in each examination room. Invigilators must be familiar with the regulations contained in Part 7 (Form 9) and the contents of the Notice to Students (Form 8). A copy of this Administration Handbook for Schools must be available to all Teachers and Invigilators in School and must be easily accessible.

A Checklist for Invigilators can be found in Part 7 (Form 9). It is intended to be used as a reminder for Invigilators and must only be used in conjunction with the regulations contained in this Administration Handbook for Schools.

Schools must complete and keep signed records of who invigilated each examination in the School Examination File and have them available for inspection by NEU at any time.

3.1.6 DECLARATION OF INTEREST

If a member of staff has an interest in a person taking an examination they must complete the Declaration of Interest form (a copy of this form can be found in Part 7 (Form 11). This must be handed to the School Principal who shall arrange for a copy of the form to be sent to NEU. The original of the form must be stored for a period of 1 year and must be available for inspection by NEU at any time.

If the School Principal has an interest they must also complete the Declaration of Interest form.

For the purpose of the Declaration of Interest, you have an interest in a person if that person is:

• a close relative, for example, children, grandchildren, cousins, or nieces and nephews;

• any person whose relationship to you could compromise the integrity of the School or NEU examinations; or,

• any person whose relationship to you could compromise your integrity or good name, as a School employee or otherwise, if the relationship were not disclosed.

A copy of all completed Declaration of Interest forms must be kept in the School Examination File.

3.2 AT THE BEGINNING OF THE EXAMINATION

Schools must ensure that students take NEU’s examinations at the session times indicated on the timetable.

3.2.1 IDENTIFICATION OF STUDENTS

The Invigilator must check the identity of every student in the examination room, using the CPR or ID card.

3.2.2 UNAUTHORISED MATERIALS

Students may take into the examination room only those articles, instruments or materials which are expressly permitted in the rubric of a question paper. Detailed information on the examination materials that students require in the examination room is provided on the cover of each question paper.

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Unauthorised materials, for example school bags, text books or mobile phones must be left either outside the examination room or with the Teacher/Invigilator. All mobile phones must be switched off.

If unauthorised materials have been taken into the examination room, such materials must be placed out of reach of the students before the examination commences.

3.2.3 STUDENT NUMBERS

All students should be reminded that their CPR number will be their unique student entry number. CPR numbers are used on the School Entry Lists, on Attendance Registers, and on labels to be stuck on the front of each question paper.

The Invigilator should ensure that the correct student label is attached to the front of each question paper (for grade 12 Problem Solving Paper 2 the label should be stuck on the front of the separate Answer Booklet). An example of the student label is shown below. The larger label contains full details of the student which should be checked for each student. ONLy the smaller label containing the student’s CPR number and bar code, should be stuck on the front of the student’s question paper in the space provided (for grade 12 Problem Solving Paper 2 the label should be stuck on the front of the separate Answer Booklet). where a student is absent for an examination, the smaller CPR label should still be stuck on the front of the question paper (or Answer Booklet for grade 12 Problem Solving Paper 2) and the invigilator must write “absent” in the box provided:

ALL question papers (including absentees and unused question papers) (and Answer Paper Booklets for Problem Solving Paper 2) must be returned to the NEU – the only exception to this is the Question Paper for Problem Solving Paper 2.

Invigilators must ensure that students do not write on the bar code. In addition students must be told not to write their name, student number or CPR number anywhere on the question paper. If a CPR label is missing for a student, the invigilator should tell the student to write the CPR number in the space provided for the label on the front of the question paper.

3.2.4 ATTENDANCE REGISTERS

Attendance Registers are for recording the presence of students, and must be completed in accordance with the instructions printed on them.

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Attendance Registers are provided in Grade, class and date order for all question papers (grade 12 students may have different Attendance Registers). Schools must check that they have received Attendance Registers for each question paper being taken at the School and report any deficiencies immediately to NEU. On the day of the examination the invigilator must ensure that the correct Attendance Register is being used for the paper being sat.

Students’ names are printed on the Attendance Registers and any errors in the names must be reported at once to NEU. If a student is not shown on the Attendance Register, his or her name and CPR number must be written on the Attendance Register and a formal registration made to NEU if this has not already been done. If a late registration or registration amendment has been made after this time, the student details, (including student name and CPR number), must be added on to the pre-printed Attendance Register. If there is not sufficient room on the pre-printed Attendance Registers, the Supplementary Attendance Register should be used to record the Attendance of any additional student(s). (A copy of this form can be found in Part 7, Form 6).

If a student is not present for the examination, he/she must be marked as Absent on the Attendance Register.

The Attendance Register must be checked and signed at the end of the examination. A copy of the Attendance Register must be retained in the School Examination File and a copy packed with the students answer papers.

3.2.5 SEATING PLAN

Schools must keep signed records of the seating arrangements in the School Examination File. It must be possible to provide a copy of the seating plan from this record. The seating plan may be required by NEU at any time. All seating plans must be kept in the School Examination File for the NEU to see at any time.

3.2.6 STATIONERy, MATERIALS AND OTHER EQUIPMENT

Details of the materials required by students are provided below. The Invigilator must ensure that only the specified items are issued to the students.

Students must provide themselves with pens, pencils and erasers. Students must write their answers legibly in blue pen (Grade 3 students only may use pencils). Red pen must not be used.

NEU will provide plastic envelopes with the appropriate labels for the return of student answer papers.

Students are permitted to use the additional materials detailed below:

• Grade 3 Arabic (all question papers) – Each student will need a pencil and an eraser Dictionaries are not allowed. Students will answer on the question paper.

• Grade 3 Mathematics (all question papers) – Each student will need a ruler, a pencil and an eraser. Calculators are not allowed. Students will answer on the question paper.

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• Grade 6 Arabic (all question papers) – Each student will need a blue pen. Dictionaries are not allowed. Students will answer on the question paper.

• Grade 6 Mathematics (all question papers) – Each student will need a ruler, a protractor, a pair of compasses, a set square, a pencil, an eraser and a blue pen. Calculators are not allowed. Students will answer on the question paper.

• Grade 6 English (all question papers) – Each student will need a blue pen. Dictionaries are not allowed. Students will answer on the question paper.

• Grade 6 Science (all question papers) – Each student will need a ruler, a pencil, an eraser and a blue pen. Calculators are not allowed. Students will answer on the question paper.

• Grade 9 Arabic (all question papers) – Each student will need a blue pen. Dictionaries are not allowed. Students will answer on the question paper.

• Grade 9 Mathematics (all question papers) – Each student will need a ruler, a protractor, a pair of compasses, a set square, a pencil, an eraser and a blue pen. Calculators are not allowed. Students will answer on the question paper.

• Grade 9 English (all question papers) – Each student will need a blue pen. Dictionaries are not allowed. Students will answer on the question paper.

• Grade 9 Science (all question papers) – Each student will need a ruler, a pencil, an eraser and a blue pen. Calculators are not allowed. Students will answer on the question paper.

• Grade 12 Arabic – Each student will need a blue pen. Dictionaries are not allowed. Students will answer on the question paper.

• Grade 12 English – Each student will need a blue pen. Dictionaries are not allowed. Students will answer on the question paper.

• Grade 12 Problem Solving – Each student will need a calculator, a ruler, a pencil, an eraser and a blue pen. For Paper 1 students will answer on the question paper. For Paper 2 students will answer on a separate Answer Booklet.

3.2.7 STARTING THE EXAMINATION

An examination is in progress from the time the students enter the examination room until all the student answer papers have been collected.

Before the Invigilator announces that an examination has started he/she must:

• ensure that the students are seated comfortably;

• check that the students have all the necessary materials to enable them to complete the examination;

• open the question paper packets and ensure that all students have the correct question paper. Please note that the question paper packet should be opened carefully by cutting across the top of the envelope with scissors.

• draw to the students’ attention the instruction and information printed on the front of the question paper, and ask them to check that they understand what they are being asked to do;

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• informstudentsthat:

(a) they must write their answers clearly,

(b) correcting fluid/correcting pens must not be used,

(c) highlighters and glue must not be used,

(d) all work must be done on the question paper (except Grade 12 Problem Solving Paper 2).

• remind the students that they must not correspond in any way with, seek assistance from, or give assistance to, another student whilst they are in the examination room; warn students that any unauthorised material not previously handed in must be handed in. This should include any food or drinks, which may only be allowed in the examination room with the specific approval of the School Principal.

• inform the students of the time allowed for the examinations and announce clearly that they may begin to write their answers;

3.3 DURING THE EXAMINATION

3.3.1 ATTENDANCE REGISTERS

Attendance Registers are for recording the presence or absence of students and must be completed in accordance with the instructions printed on them. At the start of the examination Invigilators must ensure that they have the correct Attendance Register for the Grade, teaching group, subject and paper being taken.

3.3.2 SUPERVISION OF THE STUDENTS

Invigilators must supervise the students throughout the whole time the examination is in progress and give complete attention at all times to this duty (see 3.1.5).

3.3.3 USE OF DICTIONARIES

Dictionaries (including electronic dictionaries) are not permitted in examinations.

3.3.4 LATE ARRIVAL OF STUDENTS

A student who arrives after the starting time for an examination may be allowed to enter the examination room and to take the examination. At the discretion of the Invigilator, additional time may be allowed at the end of the examination to compensate for the lost time. The student must be informed that their work may not be accepted.

A student who arrives for the examination after one or more students have already completed and left the examination room will not be allowed to take the examination.

In cases where a student is late for good reason, such as sudden illness or transport difficulties, so long as there has been no breach of examination security, the work completed in the whole of the examination, including that completed in any additional time allowed to compensate for late arrival, will be accepted.

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In cases where a student is late because of negligence or oversight, (including oversleeping and misreading of the timetable), as long as there has been no breach of examination security, the work completed in normal examination time will be accepted. The work completed in any additional time allowed to compensate for the late arrival will not normally be accepted.

In each case where a student who is admitted late into the examination room and is allowed additional time, the following rules apply:

• the answer paper must be submitted to the NEU in the normal way;

• any work completed after the actual examination finishing time must be indicated clearly on the answer paper by the Invigilator;

• the School Principal must enclose a full report in writing with the answer papers which should include the following information:

(a) the reason for the late arrival of the student, including any details of special arrangements made for the student to reach the School;

(b) the actual starting and finishing times of the examination;

(c) the time at which the late student started the examination;

(d) the time at which the late student finished the examination;

(e) a statement regarding any possible breach of examination security arising from the student’s late arrival, including information about the extent to which the student was under supervision from the actual starting time of the examination.

The student must be warned that NEU may not be prepared to accept the work.

3.3.5 STUDENTS ARRIVING AFTER THE EXAMINATION HAS FINISHED

A student who arrives late, after the other students have been released from the examination room, must be dealt with as an absentee and should not normally be allowed to take the examination.

3.3.6 LEAVING THE EXAMINATION ROOM

Students who leave the examination room temporarily must be accompanied by a member of staff. In cases where Special Consideration is applied for (such as illness) such students may be allowed extra time to compensate for their temporary absence.

Students may leave the examination early when they have finished answering the questions, if they so wish. However, students must remain in the examination room at least until half the examination time has elapsed.

3.3.7 IRREGULAR CONDUCT

Wherever practicable, the Invigilator must remove and retain any unauthorised material discovered in the possession of a student in the examination (see 3.2.2 and 3.2.6).

The Invigilator is empowered, after consultation with a member of the School senior staff, to expel a student from the examination room, but such action should only be taken when it is felt that it is essential or when the continued presence of a student would cause disruption to other students.

Failure to comply with the regulations may lead to the disqualification of the student.

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3.3.8 EMERGENCIES

The Invigilator must take the following action in the event of an emergency such as a fire alarm or other alert or serious disturbance:

(a) evacuate the examination room;

(b) ensure that all the question papers and student answer papers are left in the examination room and that the room is locked if possible (see also 3.3.8 (g));

(c) ensure that the students are supervised as closely as possible whilst they are out of the examination room so as to ensure there is no collusion or external communication;

(d) after the students have returned to the examination room and before the examination is resumed, indicate on the students’ work, where it is feasible to do so, the point at which the interruption occurred;

(e) note the time and duration of the interruption;

(f) allow the students the full working time prescribed for the examination;

(g) in the event of there being only a small number of students, consideration should be given to the possibility of taking the students, with question papers and answer papers, to another place in order to complete the examination;

(h) make a full report of the incident and of the action taken and provide this immediately to the NEU separate from the student answer papers.

3.4 AT THE END OF THE EXAMINATION

3.4.1 FINISHING THE EXAMINATION

Five minutes before the end of the examination the Invigilator must inform the students that there are five minutes remaining for the examination.

At the end of the examination, students must be told to stop writing and to place their pens/pencils on their desks immediately.

Where students who arrive late are permitted the full working time to complete their examination (see 3.3.4), such students must be allowed to continue after the normal finishing time and told to stop writing after the additional time allowed has been expended.

The Invigilator must instruct the students to ensure that all the required information has been entered on their answer papers.

3.4.2 COLLECTION OF STUDENT ANSwER PAPERS

Schools MUST ensure that all student answer papers are collected before the students are allowed to leave the examination room.

Answer papers must be sorted into the order shown on the Attendance Register (student number order), and checked to make sure that all answer papers are present and that the correct student label has been applied to the answer papers (and the word “absent” written on the label if appropriate). Unused question papers should also be put in the answer packet so that ALL papers are returned to NEU. For grade 12 Problem Solving Paper 2, all Answer Booklets must be checked and returned to NEU (with the word “absent” written on the label if appropriate), but the question papers should be retained by the school.

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After collation, the student answer papers, Answer Booklets for Problem Solving Paper 2, and unused papers must be placed immediately in the labelled envelope provided, with the completed Attendance Register and seating plan, and then the envelope securely sealed. The school should make a copy of each Attendance Register and seating plan for its own records.

Answer papers are confidential between the student and NEU. They may not be read or photocopied by any person before they are returned to NEU, unless this is specifically required by NEU.

3.5 AFTER THE EXAMINATION

3.5.1 PACkING OF ANSwER PAPERS

Invigilators should consider the following when packing student answer papers:

• the label on the envelope provided corresponds to the Grade, teaching group, subject and paper taken;

• student answer papers for different question papers must not be packed in the same envelope;

• the completed Attendance Register and seating plan must be enclosed with the student answer papers;

• the packets of student answer papers and unused papers must be securely fastened.

Correspondence, reports and forms (for example, Special Consideration application forms), must be sent separately to NEU and not enclosed with the student answer papers, unless specifically instructed or authorised by NEU to do so.

3.5.2 RETURN OF ANSwER PAPERS

After all examinations have been completed for a given day, the packets containing student answer papers and unused papers must be delivered by hand, by a representative from the School, to the allocated address. These packets must be delivered on the day of the examination. Schools will be informed of the address and opening hours when question papers are collected from the Distribution Centre.

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PART 4: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS AND SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

4.1 PRINCIPLES

The NEU wants its examinations to be accessible to all students who are able to benefit from them. It is recognised that some students with special needs and learning disabilities will not benefit from taking the examinations, and the School Principal is the person best placed to determine each individual case. School Principals are strongly encouraged to read the whole of Part 4 before deciding if a student with special needs or learning disabilities is to be entered for the NEU’s examinations.

4.2 INTRODUCTION

This section is designed to help those Schools entering students who have permanent disabilities or who suffer from medical conditions which affect performance at the time of the examinations or who have sat the examination(s) under adverse conditions, affected by illness, bereavement or other acceptable circumstances.

Schools should refer to the relevant section as the need arises. Once arrangements have been agreed by NEU, the regulations governing those arrangements must be observed. Failure to comply with the regulations may lead to the disqualification of the student.

Before applying for any provision, sections 4.3 to 4.17 should be consulted as appropriate.

SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS

4.3 DEFINITION OF SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS

Special Arrangements are made to allow students with substantial and long-term disabilities to gain access to the examination and to demonstrate their attainment in the best possible examination conditions. Special Arrangements include an extra time allowance, the provision of specially adapted papers, assistance with reading or writing, etc. All applications are considered on an individual basis, however, NEU will not consider arrangements that are not specifically requested by the School (see 4.5(c)).

4.4 PRINCIPLES GOVERNING SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS

(a) All students are assessed according to the same marking criteria.

(b) All students are assessed for what they know and can do, not for what they might have achieved, had circumstances been different.

(c) Special Arrangements must not give the student an advantage over other students.

(d) Special Arrangements must not interfere with the integrity of the examination (see 4.5) and will therefore be restricted in certain subjects.

(e) Applications for Special Arrangements with the reason being that Arabic is not the student’s first language will not be considered as valid grounds for an application.

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4.5 EXAMINATION CRITERIA

Special Arrangements will not be permitted if they compromise the examination criteria.

4.6 HOw TO APPLy FOR SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS

(a) Permission to allow a student Special Arrangements must be requested well in advance of the examination. NEU will not guarantee to deal with late applications, especially where modified papers are required. Please refer to the deadline dates in 4.6 (f).

(b) Applications must be made on the Special Arrangements form (a copy of this form can be found in Part 7, Form 2). Please ensure that the relevant form is used and that the form is completed correctly and in full. NEU cannot guarantee to consider a School’s request if it does not receive the correct information.

(c) Applications must be submitted by the School making the registration. No application will be accepted from students or their parents. If Special Arrangements are approved by NEU, the School may use their discretion as to whether the approved arrangements are administered to the student.

(d) All applications must be accompanied by supporting medical or psychological evidence.

Evidence submitted in support of Special Arrangement applications must not be written by a friend or relative of the student. Where this is unavoidable, the evidence must be counter signed and authorised by a senior member of School staff normally the School Principal. NEU reserves the right to refuse evidence that has been written by a friend or relative of the student.

(e) No Special Arrangements may be made unless NEU has given written consent, except for Emergency Special Arrangements for temporary disabilities (for example, sudden injuries such as broken arms or wrists).

Where possible, NEU should be contacted in advance to obtain advice and approval for the Special Arrangements. It is advisable to telephone NEU rather than to fax or email, so that the Special Arrangements application can be dealt with immediately. If permission is given verbally, the School must complete the Special Arrangements form, stating the arrangements that were given and send this to NEU along with the student’s medical certificate as soon as possible.

If it is not possible to contact NEU before the examination, the School may use their discretion on the day of the examination to grant arrangements that will alleviate the problem. However, Schools must ensure that the Special Arrangements do not interfere with the examination criteria of the examination in question (see 4.). For all cases the School must complete the Special Arrangements form stating the arrangements that were given and send this to NEU along with the student’s medical certificate as soon as possible.

Please note that regulations relating to any arrangement given must be adhered to. These regulations can be found in Parts 4.7 to 4.11. Failure to comply with the regulations may result in a malpractice investigation.

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Deadline for submitting applications for Braille or modified papers:

27 January 2011

(f) Deadlines for submitting applications for all other Special Arrangements (except emergency applications, see 4.5(e)):

24 February 2011

(g) Please read the notes printed on the back of the application forms before completion. Completed forms must be submitted to:




Seef District

Fax: 17562308

(h) Guidance on particular disabilities is given in 4.7. In addition to those disabilities outlined, NEU will consider, but not necessarily approve, applications for Special Arrangements for disabilities not mentioned in 4.7.

4.7 GUIDANCE ON PARTICULAR DISABILITIES

4.7.1 STUDENTS wITH PHySICAL DISABILITIES

(a) Students with severe disabilities may require a supervised rest break. The timing of the examination should be stopped and re-started when the student is able to continue. The student must remain under supervision at all times.

(b) If the student cannot write independently, an application to use a writer/scribe should be submitted. The School is responsible for selecting an appropriate writer/scribe and the Regulations Governing the Use of a Writer/Scribe (see 4.9) must be observed. A Writer/Scribe Cover Sheet must be attached to the answer paper. (A copy of this form can be found Part 7, Form 3.) The use of a writer/scribe will not be permitted in examinations where writing is part of the examination criteria (see 4.4.). Please refer to individual subject curriculum for details on examination objectives.

(c) If the student normally uses a word processor, an application may be made to request this arrangement for written examinations. The Regulations Governing the Use of Computers, Word Processors and Electronic Typewriters (see 4.10) must be observed. A copy of NEU’s letter approving the use of a word processor must be attached to the students answer paper.

(d) If the student can write, but the writing is not easy to read, the School may wish to provide a transcript. The Regulations Governing the Production of a Transcript (see 4.11) must be observed. A Transcription Cover Sheet must be attached to the transcript. (A copy of this form can be found in Part 7, Form 4).

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4.7.2 STUDENTS wITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT

(a) The needs of most students with a visual impairment will be met by an additional time allowance of up to 25%. In severe cases, this may need to be extended and for those using Braille papers 100% extra time may be required. The amount of time recommended must be stated on the application form.

(b) Supervised rest breaks may also be required. The timing of the examination should be stopped and re-started when the student is able to continue. The student must remain under supervision at all times.

(c) If the student cannot read independently or use Braille, an application to use a reader should be submitted. The School is responsible for selecting an appropriate reader and the Regulations Governing the Use of Readers (see 4.8) must be observed.

(d) If the student cannot write independently, an application to use a writer/scribe should be submitted. The School is responsible for selecting an appropriate writer/scribe and the Regulations Governing the Use of a Writer/Scribe (see 4.9) must be observed. A Writer/Scribe Cover Sheet must be attached to the answer paper. (A copy of this form can be found in Part 7, Form 3.) The use of a writer/scribe will not be permitted in examinations where writing is part of the examination criteria (see 4.8). Please refer to individual subject curriculum for details on examination objectives.

(e) If the student normally uses a word processor, or Braille and print machine, an application may be made to request this arrangement for written examinations. The Regulations Governing the Use of Computers, Word Processors and Electronic Typewriters (see 4.10) must be observed. A copy of NEU’s letter approving the use of a word processor must be attached to the students answer paper.

(f) If the student can write but the writing is not easy to read, the School may wish to provide a transcript. The Regulations Governing the Production of a Transcript (see 4.11) must be observed. A Transcription Cover Sheet must be attached to the transcript. (A copy of this form can be found in Part 7, Form 4.)

(g) Papers can be provided in the following formats:

• Braille question papers – visual information will be simplified or removed and presented as verbal information. Diagrams may be presented in a tactile form.

• Enlarged question papers in A3 size – the normal question paper is enlarged to A3 size.

• Students receiving modified question papers are still expected to answer the same questions, at the same level as other students not receiving Special Arrangements. The modified papers will not have different or easier questions.

IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT DEADLINES FOR SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS ARE OBSERVED BY SCHOOLS. IF THEY ARE NOT MET, NEU WILL BE UNABLE TO PROVIDE MODIFIED PAPERS (SEE 4.6 (f)).

(h) If students present answers in Braille, a transcript must be provided for the Examiner. The Transcription Cover Sheet must be used. (A copy of this form can be found in Part 7, Form 4). The Regulations Governing the Production of a Transcript (see 4.11) must be observed.

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4.7.3 STUDENTS wITH HEARING IMPAIRMENT

(a) Students with hearing impairment may use an extra time allowance of up to 25% if their literacy difficulties reduce the speed at which they read and comprehend written questions.

(b) In listening examinations, Special Arrangements may be made for students with hearing impairments, for example they may be allowed to take the examination in a separate room, or with headphones, and may request extra time.

(c) If Special Arrangements will not enable the student to take the listening examination, an exemption from the listening examination may be requested.

(d) Sign language must not be used in language examinations.

(e) Sign language may be used to help the student read the questions but must not be used to explain what the question is asking the student to do. Sign language must not be used to convey answers to written questions in any subject, for example, must not be used to ‘dictate’ answers to a writer/scribe.

4.7.4 STUDENTS wITH LEARNING DISABILITIES

Students with learning disabilities must have been assessed by an Educational Psychologist, a Clinical Psychologist or an Occupational Psychologist. The Psychologist’s report must accompany the application form and be dated within three years of the examination for which Special Arrangements are required.

NEU will accept a report from a suitably qualified specialist Teacher at the School for applications for the awarding of extra time or the use of a word processor, for students with learning disabilities. Details of the Teacher’s subject must be submitted with the report, along with a photocopy of their subject certificate. NEU will also accept a report written by a Teacher who has no formal qualification, but has had at least five years working experience in the area of Special Educational Needs. NEU require a written statement from the School Principal confirming this, if this option is taken. If more than extra time or the use of a word processor is required it is essential that a full Educational, Clinical or Occupational Psychologist’s report is provided.

Evidence submitted in support of Special Arrangement applications must not be written by a friend or relative of the student. Where this is unavoidable, the evidence must be counter signed and authorised by a senior member of School staff normally the School Principal. NEU reserves the right to refuse evidence that has been written by a friend or relative of the student.

(a) The needs of most students will be met by an extra time allowance of up to 25%.

(b) Students with severe learning disabilities may require reading assistance. The School is responsible for selecting an appropriate reader and the Regulations Governing the Use of Readers (see 4.8) must be observed. Readers will not be allowed in examinations where reading

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is part of the examination criteria (see 4.4) Readers will not be allowed unless the student’s reading skills (accuracy, speed or comprehension) have been measured in an examination conducted by an Educational Psychologist, a Clinical Psychologist or an Occupational Psychologist and are shown to be below average. Below average is classed using a nationally standardised examination and does not mean below average standard within a particular School. It is essential that examinations are conducted by the Psychologist to determine the student’s reading abilities and that these are detailed in the psychological report. If examination results are not included the application for a reader will be rejected.

(c) If the student normally uses a word processor, an application may be made to request this arrangement for written examinations. The Regulations Governing the Use of Computers, Word Processors and Electronic Typewriters (see 4.10) must be observed. A copy of NEU’s outcome letter approving the use of a word processor must be attached to the students answer paper.

(d) If the student can write but the writing is not easy to read, the School may wish to provide a transcript. If the transcript is requested in isolation, and no other arrangements are required (for example, extra time), then it is not necessary for the School to provide supporting evidence with the application form. However, the School is required to request permission from NEU using the Special Arrangements application form. The Regulations Governing the Production of a Transcript (see 4.11) must be observed. A Transcription Cover Sheet must be attached to the transcript. (A copy of this form can be found in Part 7, Form 4.)

(e) In exceptional cases, the School may wish to request permission to allow a writer/scribe to write for the student. The application form must be accompanied by evidence of the student’s work both with and without the use of a writer/scribe. It must be clearly stated how long each piece of work took to complete. The writer/scribe will not be allowed in examinations where the examination criteria include writing. This will only be considered if the student can dictate all grammar and punctuation and the words letter by letter. Where this has been done it must be noted on the writer/scribe cover sheet. A writer/scribe is not automatically permitted to act as a reader for the student unless NEU has given prior permission that the student may have the use of a reader. The Regulations Governing the Use of a Writer/Scribe (see 4.10) must be observed. A Writer/Scribe Cover Sheet must be attached to the students answer paper. (A copy of this form can be found in Part 7, Form 3.)

4.8 REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE USE OF READERS

A reader is a person who, on request, will read to the student:

• the entire or any part of the question paper;

• any part of the student’s answers.

For students requiring a reader and a writer/scribe, the same person may act as both (see Regulations Governing the Use of a Writer/Scribe, 4.9).

(a) Permission for the use of a reader must be obtained from NEU prior to the examination.

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(b) The use of a reader must not give a student an unfair advantage nor must it disadvantage the student.

(c) The use of a reader must modify neither the requirements for the subject being examined nor specific subject requirements. In some cases the understanding of the written word may be the skill being examined, for example, in language examinations (see 4.4).

(d) Additional time will be permitted for the use of a reader and will normally be up to 25% of the prescribed duration of the examination.

(e) A reader must be a responsible adult who is able to read accurately and at a reasonable rate and who, in the case of a scientific or mathematical subject, should ideally have a working knowledge of that subject.

(f) A reader is responsible to the School Principal and the person who is to act as the reader must be acceptable to the School Principal.

(g) A reader should not normally be the student’s own Teacher but there may be circumstances in which it is necessary to use the student’s own Teacher in that capacity. In such cases, NEU must be specifically consulted. On no account may a relative or friend of the student be used as a reader.

(h) A student using a reader must be accommodated in such a way that no other student is able to hear what is being read. A separate room and separate invigilation will be required. The reader may not also act as the Invigilator.

(i) During an examination, a reader:

• must read accurately;

• must only read the rubrics and questions, not explain or clarify;

• must not give factual help to the student or offer any suggestions;

• must not advise the student regarding which questions to do, when to move on to the next question, or the order in which the questions should be done;

• must only repeat instructions given on the question paper when specifically requested to do so by the student;

• for the visually impaired:

− must read, as often as requested, the questions and the answers already recorded,

− must, if asked, give information regarding time elapsed and remaining,

− is permitted to help a student using tactile diagrams, graphs and tables to obtain the information which the print/amended print copy would give to a sighted student;

• must, if requested, give the spelling of a word which occurs in the question paper – otherwise spellings must not be given;

• must be prepared for periods of inactivity during an examination;

• must immediately refer any problems in communication during an examination to the Invigilator. If in doubt always ask the Invigilator.

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(j) If the School Principal considers that the arrangements have not, for any reason, enabled the student to demonstrate his/her attainment in the examination, then a request for Special Consideration must be submitted to NEU with an explanation of the difficulties experienced by the student.

4.9 REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE USE OF A wRITER/SCRIBE

A writer/scribe is a designated person who writes down, types or word processes a student’s dictated answers to questions. Students are eligible to use a writer/scribe if they suffer from long-term or temporary disabilities that prevent them from communicating by any other means. If writing is a skill which is being examined and the use of a writer could modify the requirements of the subject being examined, the student will need to dictate all punctuation to be included in their responses and any assistance provided with spelling by the writer must be noted on the writer/scribe cover sheet. All assistance provided to the student by the writer/scribe must be described on the cover sheet in full. However a writer/scribe will not be possible in certain language examinations where it is not possible to dictate responses. For students requiring a writer/scribe and a reader, the same person may act as both. (See Regulations Governing the Use of Readers, 4.8.)

(a) Permission for the use of a writer/scribe must be obtained from NEU prior to the examination.

(b) The use of a writer/scribe must neither give a student an unfair advantage nor disadvantage the student.

(c) The use of a writer/scribe must modify neither the requirements for the subject being examined, nor the specific subject requirements. In some cases the writing of answers by the student may be the skill being examined, such as language examinations and therefore the use of a writer will not be permitted (see 4.4.).

(d) Additional time will be permitted for the use of a writer/scribe and will normally be up to 25% of the prescribed duration of the examination.

(e) A writer/scribe must be a responsible adult who is able to produce an accurate record of the student’s answers; who can write legibly, type or word process at a reasonable speed; and, in the case of a scientific or mathematical subject, should ideally have a working knowledge of that subject.

(f) A writer/scribe is responsible to the School Principal and the person who is to act as the writer/scribe must be acceptable to the School Principal.

(g) A writer/scribe should not normally be the student’s own Teacher but there may be circumstances in which it is necessary to use the student’s own Teacher in that capacity. In such cases, NEU must be specifically consulted. On no account may a relative or friend of the student be used as a writer/scribe.(h) A student using a writer/scribe must be accommodated in such a way that no other student is able to hear what is being dictated. A separate room and separate invigilation will be required. The writer/scribe may not also act as the Invigilator.

The need for a writer/scribe may not arise until immediately before or during an examination. The School should provide a writer/scribe, alternative accommodation and supervision and ensure that the Regulations Governing the Use of a Writer/Scribe are observed. The situation must be reported immediately to NEU (see 4.6 (e)).

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(i) During the examination, a writer/scribe:

•must neither give factual help to the student nor offer any suggestions;

• must not advise the student regarding which questions to do, when to move on to the next question, or the order in which the questions should be done;

•must write down, type or word process answers exactly as they are dictated (in some examinations this will involve students dictating their answers letter by letter, for example, in examinations where accuracy of the language is being examined);

• must draw or add to maps, diagrams and graphs strictly in accordance with the student’s instructions;

•must write, type or word process a correction on a typescript or Braille sheet if requested to do so by the student;

• must at the student’s request read back what has been recorded;

• must not expect to write throughout the examination as the student may require supervised rest breaks during the working of the examination;

•must immediately refer any problems in communication during the examination to the Invigilator. If in doubt always ask the Invigilator.


(j) The transcription produced by a writer/scribe must be despatched to NEU in the normal way with the completed a Writer/Scribe Cover Sheet attached to the students answer paper. (A copy of this form can be found in Part 7, Form 3.) A copy of NEU’s letter approving the use of a writer/scribe must also be attached to the transcript.

(k) If the School Principal considers that the arrangements made have not, for any reason, enabled the student to demonstrate his/her attainment in the examination, a request for Special Consideration must be submitted to NEU with an explanation of the difficulties experienced by the student.

4.10 REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE USE OF COMPUTERS, wORD PROCESSORS AND ELECTRONIC TyPEwRITERS

These regulations apply to those students who normally have the use of a word processor to produce written work, and who have been given permission to use it for written examinations. The use of the term ‘computer’ in these regulations should be taken to include word processors, personal computers (PCs) and other microprocessor-controlled devices producing output in text or other forms such as graphics and diagrams.

4.10.1 PRINCIPLES

(a) The object of Special Arrangements is to enable students with disabilities to demonstrate their attainment in relation to the examination objectives of a subject. This principle applies to the use of computers in the same way as it does to other types of Special Arrangement. It is the attainment of the student that must be assessed and the use of the computer must not result in a misleading examination of that attainment or confer an unfair advantage over other students.

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(b) It is expected that students who are able to produce work for examination by handwriting or drawing will do so. Students with disabilities may be permitted to produce their answers via a computer in cases where the disability means they cannot present answers in the usual way.

It is expected that the Special Arrangement requested for examinations will reflect the student’s usual method of working in the classroom.

(c) It is in the best interests of students to establish at an early stage whether Special Arrangements can be made.

(d) When considering an application for Special Arrangements that will involve more than the computer being used as a basic typewriter, NEU will need full details of the hardware and software requested for use by the student. This must include details of facilities such as spell checkers, dictionaries, thesauruses, calculators, etc., which are available. NEU will wish to determine what effect, if any, the use of the computer will have on its ability to assess the student fairly in each subject.

NEU reserves the right to seek independent advice concerning the operation of computers and software used by students in order to help it determine what Special Arrangements should be made.

(e) In language examinations none of the following facilities must be available to students using a computer to produce written work in a written examination: dictionaries, thesauruses, spell checkers, grammar checkers, or predictive text software.

(f) In addition to the restrictions detailed in (e), use of a word processor must not give the student access to any of the following, unless specifically stated in the subject or prior permission has been granted by NEU:

Dictionaries

Calculators

Spreadsheets

Graphics packages or computer aided design software

Voice activated software

The internet

(g) The student’s word processed answer paper must be submitted to NEU in the usual way. A copy of NEU’s letter approving the use of a word processor must be attached to the students answer paper.

4.10.2 OPERATION

(a) Where the use of a computer has been approved, NEU will award marks on the basis of the positive achievement demonstrated by the student. In order to ensure the fair application of marking schemes, Schools may, in some cases, be asked to supply additional information concerning the means used by students to answer particular examination questions.

(b) A computer may be used solely by the student who is the subject of the provision and not by someone acting on the student’s behalf. The student must therefore be proficient in the use of the computer and its software. Operator guides may not be used in examinations.

(c) The School must ensure that the computer is working correctly at the time of an examination.

(d) Students must have access only to those facilities that have been agreed in advance.

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(e) Similarly, students must not be able to gain access to existing files or documents. Hard disk systems must be cleared of files. Where a system operates from CD or USB, the student must be supplied with a formatted device containing only the software required for the examination concerned. Where a system operates from network files, only access to permitted files and software must be given.

(f) Students using computers in circumstances where their use may distract other students must be accommodated separately from others for formal examinations. NEU’s normal regulations concerning invigilation must be applied.

(g) The frequent saving of work is strongly recommended. Where available, an autosave facility can achieve this.

(h) The printing of answers may take place after the time allowed for the examination has expired. The student must be present in order to verify that his/her printing is complete.

The Invigilator must ensure that facilities such as those identified in 4.10.1(f), which have not been approved by NEU, are not used by the student.


4.11 REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PRODUCTION OF A

TRANSCRIPT

The purpose of a transcript is to aid the examiner in the marking of a student’s answer paper. The examiner will mark the student’s answer paper and will only refer to the transcript if it is impossible to decipher any part of the student’s response(s).

THE REGULATIONS BELOW APPLY EQUALLY TO THE TRANSCRIPTION OF A STUDENT’S ANSWERS IN BRAILLE.

(a) Permission to provide a transcript must be obtained from NEU prior to the examination.

(b) The transcript must be produced by a member of the School’s teaching staff who is familiar with the student’s handwriting or is fully competent in the Braille code for the subject concerned, or by a member of the Saudi Bahraini Institute for the Blind.

(c) The transcript must be produced in a separate copy of the question paper/answer paper or on lined or unlined white paper as appropriate.

(d) The transcript may be hand-written, typed or word-processed as appropriate. If hand-written, dark blue or black pen must be used. Pencil must never be used.

(e) The transcript must be produced immediately after the examination under secure conditions. The student must not be involved in the production of the transcript.

(f) A copy of the Transcription Cover Sheet Form, must be completed and securely attached to the front of the transcript together with a copy of NEU’s letter approving the transcription but not the application for Special Arrangements or the supporting evidence. The Cover Sheet must be signed by the Teacher preparing the transcript and counter-signed on behalf of the School Principal. (A copy of this form can be found in Part 7, Form 4.) Both the student’s answer paper and the transcript must be sent to NEU.

(g) Normally, the transcript will be of complete answers. In cases where only occasional words

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need to be transcribed, these may be written on a photocopy of the student’s answer paper. On no account must the student’s original answer paper be marked or annotated in any way.

(h) In language examinations the transcript must be a verbatim copy of the original answer paper. Any errors, including those of spelling, punctuation and grammar, must be transcribed as given by the student and must not be corrected.

(i) If, in subjects other than language examinations assessing the use of Arabic or English, the School considers that some interpretation is necessary, this should be discussed with NEU well in advance of the examination. The School should be prepared to supply samples of the student’s usual written work. Such interpretation should be confined to the correct spelling of individual words or, exceptionally, some re-phrasing rather than an indication of what the student intended to write.

(j) Any annotations by way of interpretation must be written on the verbatim transcript using a different colour pen, but not red or green pen. Pencil must not be used for this purpose.

(k) The transcript together with the documents referred to under point (f) above, must be securely attached to the back of the student’s answer paper and be included with the School’s answer papers for despatch to NEU in the normal way. The production of the transcript must not delay the despatch of scripts to NEU.


4.12 APPEALS AGAINST THE OUTCOME OF APPLICATIONS FOR SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS

(a) If, having received the result of any application, a School Principal wishes to appeal against that outcome, the School Principal may submit an appeal to NEU.

(b) Schools must submit appeals, in writing, within 10 days of the date of the notification of the decision.

(c) NEU will inform Schools of the outcome of their appeal within 10 days of the date of the appeal.

(d) The outcome of an appeal is regarded as final and NEU will not enter into further correspondence about an appeal with Schools after notification of the outcome of that appeal.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

4.13 DEFINITION OF SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

Special Consideration is a small adjustment to the marks achieved by a student to make some allowance for the fact that the student took the examination under adverse conditions, affected by illness, bereavement or other acceptable circumstances described below. When a student misses a question paper for an acceptable reason, an allowance may be made to take account of the missing question paper, subject to the regulations in 4.15.

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4.14 PRINCIPLES GOVERNING SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

(a) All students are assessed according to the same marking criteria.

(b) All students are assessed for what they know and can do, not for what they might have achieved, had circumstances been different.

(c) Special Consideration must not give the student an advantage over other students.

(d) Special Consideration must not interfere with the integrity of the examination and will therefore be restricted in certain subjects.

4.15 ELIGIBILITy FOR SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

(a) A student will be eligible for Special Consideration if:

•performance in a question paper is affected by circumstances beyond the control of the student, for example recent personal illness, accident, bereavement, serious disturbance during the examination (but see 4.15 (c));

•part of an examination is missed due to circumstances beyond the control of the student, for example recent personal illness, accident, bereavement subject to the minimum requirements in 4.15 (d);

•Special Arrangements which were made in respect of a permanent or long-term disability proved inappropriate or inadequate.

(b) A student will not be eligible for Special Consideration if:

•any part of the examination is missed due to personal arrangements including holidays, or unauthorised absence from any question paper;

•they have been disadvantaged due to reasons which were not beyond their control, for example misreading the timetable or question paper;

• no evidence is supplied by the School that the student had been affected at the time of the examination by a particular condition, for example epilepsy, diabetes;

•they have already received Special Arrangements for the same circumstance;

•the reason for the application is because Arabic is not the student’s first language.

(c) Students, either individually or as groups, will not be eligible for Special Consideration if:

•preparation for a question paper is affected by difficulties during the course, for example disturbance through building work, lack of proper facilities, changes in or shortages of staff, industrial disputes;

•the effect on the final examination cannot be reliably quantified by NEU;

•the incorrect question paper is completed;

• the students have not been adequately prepared for the examination.

(d) For Special Consideration to be granted in respect of a missed question paper, the student must have completed a minimum of 50% of the subject examination (and see 4.13 (b) and (c)).

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4.16 HOw TO APPLy FOR SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

(a) Applications must be made on the Special Consideration form. (A copy of this form can be found in Part 7, Form 5.) Please ensure that the relevant form is used and that the form is completed correctly and in full. NEU cannot guarantee to consider a School’s request if we do not receive the correct information.

(b) If a student is likely to be affected for the whole examination session, for example because of bereavement or long-term illness, state the students year Grade and submit the form at the start of the examination session. This will ensure that NEU receives all of the necessary information and that the information is up-to-date and correct.

(c) NEU will not accept Invigilator reports or applications included with answer papers as applications for Special Consideration. Schools must complete the correct form and send it directly to NEU.

(d) Applications on behalf of students affected by illness, including those Part Absent from an examination, must be supported by medical evidence. Failure to submit such evidence will disqualify any such student from receiving Special Consideration.

Evidence submitted in support of Special Consideration applications must not be written by a friend or relative of the student. Where this is unavoidable, the evidence must be counter signed and authorised by a senior member of School staff normally the School Principal. NEU reserves the right to refuse evidence that has been written by a friend or relative of the student.

(e) NEU will acknowledge all approved applications with a standard letter. It is not NEU’s policy to inform Schools of specific details regarding the actions taken during the Special Consideration process.

(f) If the application is rejected, NEU will inform the School of the reasons.

(g) Applications must be submitted by the School making the registration. No applications will be accepted from students or their parents.

(h) Deadline for submitting applications is the day after the last examination in the question papers affected (but see 4.16 (b)).

(i) Please read the notes printed on the back of the application form before completion. Completed forms must be submitted to:




Seef District

Fax: 17562308

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4.17 APPEALS AGAINST THE OUTCOME OF APPLICATIONS FOR SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

(a) If, having received the result of any application, a School Principal wishes to appeal against that outcome, the School Principal may submit an appeal to NEU.

(b) Schools must submit appeals, in writing, within 10 days of the date of the notification of the decision.

(c) NEU will inform Schools of the outcome of their appeal within 10 days of the date of the appeal.

(d) The outcome of an appeal is regarded as final and NEU will not enter into further correspondence about an appeal with Schools after notification of the outcome of that appeal.

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PART 5: MALPRACTICE AND MALADMINISTRATION

5.1 INTRODUCTION

Malpractice and maladministration are those actions that may threaten the integrity of NEU examinations. It is the responsibility of the School Principal to report immediately all cases of suspected malpractice and maladministration to NEU using form 10.

5.2 NEU PROCEDURES FOR DEALING wITH SUSPECTED MALPRACTICE

(a) NEU will acknowledge the receipt of reports of malpractice. When dealing with suspected malpractice, NEU will deal primarily with the School Principal or his/her nominated representative. It is the responsibility of the School Principal to carry out an investigation and submit a full written report with supporting evidence to NEU (using Form 10.1 or 10.2 as appropriate).

(b) If further investigation is necessary the results of the students concerned will be withheld pending the outcome of that investigation.

NOTE: Any documents requested must be sent to NEU within 10 days from the date of the request or it will be considered that the School/student has nothing to add and the Malpractice Committee will review the case on the basis of the evidence that has been presented.

(c) On the basis of the information received, the matter will be referred to the NEU Malpractice Committee, which will decide what action, if any, should be taken. Each case of suspected malpractice will be considered on an individual basis in light of all the information available.

(d) The following penalties may be imposed:

•a warning may be issued;

•marks may be deducted or no marks awarded for a question paper;

•students may be disqualified from the question paper in which the malpractice took place. In some cases the disqualification may be extended to the subject or all subjects taken in a session;

•in some serious cases involving theft, personation or the falsification of documents the police may be informed.

Other penalties may be imposed at the discretion of the NEU Malpractice Committee.

(e) School Principals will be informed of decisions in writing as soon as possible after decisions are made. It is the responsibility of the School Principal to correspond the outcome to the individuals concerned.

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5.3 SUSPECTED MALPRACTICE By STUDENTS

The following are examples of malpractice by students. The list is not exhaustive and other instances of malpractice may be considered by NEU at its sole discretion:

• obtaining unauthorised access to examination material;

• introduction of unauthorised material into the examination room;

• use of a calculator or other means of arriving at an answer when this is not permitted;

• collusion or attempted collusion with other persons during the examination;

• copying from another student;

• disruptive behaviour in the examination room;

• failure to abide by the instructions of the Invigilator;

• personation;

• plagiarism;

• failure to abide by the conditions of supervision designed to maintain the security of the examinations;

• the inclusion of offensive or obscene material in answer papers.

5.3.1 SUSPECTED MALPRACTICE IN EXAMINATIONS

(a) Cases identified by the School (use Form 10 only)

Any actual or suspected case of malpractice identified by the School must be reported in writing to:




Seef District

Fax: 17562308

Reports must be supported by statements from the Invigilators and students concerned. Any unauthorised material found in a student’s possession must be included with the report.

If the conduct of a student is such that his/her continued presence in the examination room would cause disruption to other students then he/she may be removed from the examination room. All cases of disruptive behaviour, whether or not the student was removed from the examination room, must be reported to NEU. Reports of cases of malpractice in written examinations, identified by the School, must include:

• a detailed account of the circumstances surrounding the suspected malpractice including, in the case of disruptive behaviour, an indication as to whether the behaviour continued after warnings were given, and a report of any investigation carried out by the School;

• written statements from the Invigilators and other staff concerned;

• handwritten statements from the students concerned or a statement from the student(s) indicating that they have been given the opportunity to make a statement;

• seating plans;

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• the procedures followed by the School for advising staff and students of NEU regulations for the conduct of its examinations. NEU will consider any statement of mitigating circumstances provided by the School and any recommendation as to the penalty the School considers appropriate. All final decisions concerning the case will be made by NEU.

(b) Cases Identified by NEU Examiners and Other Persons

Examiners are asked to identify suspected cases of malpractice in student answer papers and report them to NEU. These cases and any others reported by third parties will be referred back to the School Principal, who must inform the student(s) of the report, investigate them and then submit a report to NEU.

Reports from Schools following the investigation of cases of suspected malpractice notified to them by NEU must include:

• written statements that the student(s) involved has been notified of the report and that they are aware of the content of the report

• a detailed account of the investigation carried out by the School;

• written statements from the Invigilators and other staff concerned;

• handwritten statements from the student(s) concerned or a statement from the student(s) indicating that they have been given the opportunity to make a statement;

• seating plans;

• the procedures followed by the School for advising staff and students of NEU regulations for the conduct of its examinations.

NEU will consider any statement of mitigating circumstances provided by the School and any recommendation as to the penalty the School considers appropriate. All final decisions concerning the case will be made by NEU.

5.4 MALADMINISTRATION AND MALPRACTICE By SCHOOL STAFF

Any non-compliance with the guidelines for the ‘Conduct of the Examinations’, (see Part 3), or any action by a member of staff to contravene NEU regulations, will be deemed as maladministration or malpractice by the School.

(a) Any actual or suspected cases of maladministration or malpractice by a School’s staff must be reported in writing to:




Seef District

Fax: 17562308

(b) The School Principal will be advised of any subsequent investigation required by NEU and of the nature of the report to be submitted.

(c) On the basis of the evidence received, the NEU Malpractice Committee will consider each case and decide on the action to be taken.

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(d) NEU will endeavour to ensure that students are neither advantaged nor disadvantaged as a consequence of malpractice or maladministration by staff. However, it may be necessary to withhold the results for all students until the Committee has completed its consideration of the case.

(e) The following actions may be taken by the NEU Malpractice Committee:

• a warning as to their future conduct may be issued to the School or staff involved;

• members of staff may be debarred from involvement in the administration of NEU examinations for a specified period of time;

• the police and other relevant authorities may be informed.

5.5 APPEALS AGAINST DECISIONS OF THE NEU MALPRACTICE COMMITTEE

(a) Any appeal against a decision of the NEU Malpractice Committee will be considered by the NEU Malpractice Appeals Committee provided that it is endorsed by the School. When making an appeal, please provide NEU with any additional information or evidence you would like the Malpractice Appeals Committee to consider.

(b) Any appeal from a School must be in writing from the School Principal and must be made within 10 days from the date of the notification of decision.

(c) Once an appeal is submitted all communication relating to the case must be in writing.

(d) No communication with students or parents of students will be entered into regarding an appeal.

(e) NEU will inform the School of the outcome of their appeal within 10 days of the date of the appeal.

(f) The outcome of an appeal is regarded as final and NEU will not enter into further correspondence about an appeal with the School after notification of that outcome.

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PART 6: EXAMINATION RESULTS

6.1 RESULTS REPORTS

Following the marking of the student’s answer papers, NEU will produce four results reports, these being:

• Report to the Ministry of Education – This details the performance of Schools grouped by MoE district and national performance by skill and topic.

• School Report – This details the performance of teaching groups within a School in one subject compared with the MoE district and national averages.

• Student Report – This details the performance of one student compared with national averages covering all subjects.

• Teaching Group Report – This details the performance of a teaching group in one subject compared with school and national averages (not available for grade 12).

6.2 RESULT ENQUIRIES

NEU carries out extensive quality checks prior to result reports being issued. However, a Result Enquiry service is available to Schools in case it is felt that additional investigation into the Report of one or more specific students is appropriate. A fee will be charged for the services described in 6.2.2 below, refer to 6.2.3 for details.

6.2.1 SUBMISSION OF ENQUIRIES

(a) Application forms for Enquiries about Student Result Reports will be provided to Schools and will normally be despatched with the Student Reports. (A copy of this form can be found in Part 7, Form 12 ).

(b) Enquiries about Student Result Reports must be

• submitted on the appropriate form provided by NEU,

• submitted to NEU by the School Principal responsible for the student’s entry within two weeks of receiving the Result Reports.

Schools are advised that they must submit enquiries as soon as possible after the Student Result Reports have been issued.

(c) NEU will not consider

• any telephone requests for enquiries about results,

• any requests for enquiries about results involving any answer papers for which malpractice has been confirmed,

• any requests for enquiries about results from individual students or their parents.

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6.2.2 ENQUIRy SERVICES AVAILABLE

• Service 1 (No Result for a Subject)

This service will consist of:

- a check of all answer papers and attendance registers to confirm presence or absence of student;

- a check that the answer papers have been marked;

- a check that the total mark for each answer paper has been correctly recorded on the computer system;

- provision of an explanation of the ‘No Result this subject’ on the Student Report.

• Service 2 (Clerical Check)

A full clerical check. This service will consist of:

- a re-check that all parts of the answer papers have been marked;

- a re-check that the marks on the answer papers have been correctly totalled;

- a re-check that the total mark for each answer paper has been correctly recorded on the computer system;

- a re-check on the totalling of the answer paper marks for a subject;

- a re-check as to whether any allowances, for example, Special Consideration, have been applied.

• Service 3 (Review of Marking)

A review of the marking including a full clerical check. This service will consist of:

- a clerical re-check as detailed in Service 2 above;

- a re-consideration of the student’s mark for each question paper in the light of a checking of the students answer papers against the approved mark scheme. This will usually be undertaken by a Senior Marker for the subject, who will advise NEU whether the original marks should be amended.

6.2.3 FEES

A fee will be payable for each Enquiry about a subject answer paper.

For service 1 a fee of BD5 will be payable. This fee will be refunded if the original outcome of “No Result for a Subject” is found to be incorrect.

For service 2 a fee of BD10 will be payable. This fee will be refunded if the final mark is higher than the original mark.

For service 3 a fee of BD15 will be payable. This fee will be refunded if the final mark is higher than the original mark.

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6.2.4 TIME TAkEN TO DEAL wITH ENQUIRIES ABOUT EXAMINATION RESULTS

Enquiries will be dealt with by NEU strictly in the order in which they are received. NEU will not be able to guarantee the date by which the work will be completed but every effort will be made to report the outcome of the review of the marking as rapidly as possible and, wherever practicable, within 30 days of the receipt of the enquiry.

Once the Result Enquiry Form is processed at NEU, an acknowledgement letter will be sent to the School confirming the enquiry requested. If an acknowledgement letter is not received it could mean that the form has not arrived at NEU and that the enquiry may not have been processed. Therefore, it is essential that the School contacts NEU if an acknowledgement letter is not received within two weeks of submitting the enquiry.

Please note that the process of destroying answer papers begins in November for the April and May Examination Sessions. If an enquiry is subsequently received, it will not be possible for this to be processed as the answer papers will have been destroyed.

6.2.5 OUTCOME OF ENQUIRIES

(a) Any enquiry which leads to a change in the student’s mark (up or down) will be actioned.

(b) NEU will: notify the School Principal at once in writing of the outcome of the enquiry and issue a revised Student Report if a change in the student’s mark has occurred.

6.2.6 APPEALS AGAINST THE OUTCOME OF RESULT ENQUIRIES

If, having received the result of any enquiry, a School Principal wishes to appeal against that outcome, the School Principal may submit an appeal to the NEU Appeals Committee. Appeals must be submitted in writing within 10 days of the date of the notification of the outcome of the enquiry.

The appeal will focus on whether NEU used procedures which were consistent with NEU’s Code of Practice and applied its procedures properly and fairly in arriving at its judgements. The appeal must state in what way or ways the School believes this not to have been the case. The consideration of an appeal does not normally involve a further review of students’ work.

The appeal process will consist of two stages.

• Stage 1: The appeal will initially be considered by a senior member of NEU’s staff, who will notify the School in writing within 10 days of NEU’s receipt of the appeal whether it is being upheld.

• Stage 2: If the appeal is not upheld at Stage 1, the School Principal may make a further appeal to Stage 2, but must do so in writing within 10 days of the date of the outcome of the Stage 1 appeal. Stage 2 involves the presentation of the case to NEU Appeals Committee, which has an independent Chair.

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NEU will inform the School Principal in writing of the outcome of a Stage 2 appeal within 10 days of the date of receiving the Stage 2 appeal.

The outcome of an appeal is regarded as final and NEU will not enter into further correspondence about an appeal with the School Principal after notification of the outcome of that appeal.

It is the responsibility of the School Principal to forward the outcome of an appeal to the students and parents as soon as it is received. The School Principal must also notify the students and parents that this outcome is regarded as final.

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PART 7: FORMS

Copies of the following forms can be found in this section. These may be photocopied for use by Schools.

Form Number Form Description

FORM 1 Student Transfer Form

FORM 2Application for Special Arrangements for Temporarily and Permanently Disabled Students

FORM 3 Writer/Scribe Cover Sheet

FORM 4 Transcription Cover Sheet

FORM 5Application for Special Consideration for Part Absent Students and Students with a Temporary Disability or Affected by Adverse Circumstances

FORM 6 Supplementary Attendance Register

FORM 7 Comments on the Examination

FORM 8 Notice to Students

FORM 9 Checklist for Invigilators

FORM 10 Suspected Malpractice Form

FORM 10.1 Malpractice Investigation Form (Student)

FORM 10.2 Malpractice Investigation Form (Invigilator)

FORM 11 Declaration of Interest in a Person Taking an NEU Examination

FORM 12 Result Enquiry Form

Student Transfer Form

Please read the notes overleaf before completing this form.

1. Current Student Details (enter full details below)

School Number: School Name:

Student Name:

Student CPR Number: Grade: 3 6 9

2. Transfer to (enter the Accepting School details below)


School Address:

3. Authorising Signature

Name: Position:

Signature: Date:

Once signed, please photocopy this form as required and return the completed form to:

National Examinations UnitDoha Plaza, 10th floorBuilding 2334, Road 2830, Block 428Seef District

Fax: 17562308

Form 1

12

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Student Transfer Form


1. Current Student Details (enter full details below)


Student Name:

Student CPR Number: Grade: 3 6 9

2. Transfer to (enter the Accepting School details below)


School Address:

3. Authorising Signature

Name: Position:

Signature: Date:



Fax: 17562308

Form 1

12

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STUDENT TRANSFER FORM – NOTES ON COMPLETION OF FORM 1

• ThisformmustbecompletedbytheSchoolacceptingthestudent.

• Acceptanceofarequestfortransferisatyourdiscretion.

• Astudent’sregistrationcannotbetransferredfromoneexaminationsessiontoafutureone.

• AllpapersmustbetakenatyourSchool.

• Norequestsforpartialtransferwillbeallowed.

• The completed form must be received by NEU 30 days before the start of the firstexamination.

• TransferswillbeconsideredasanewregistrationundertheAcceptingSchool.

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Application for Special Arrangements for Temporarily and Permanently Disabled Students Please read the notes overleaf before completing this form.

Section A Student Details


Student Name:

Student CPR Number:

Section B Reason for Application

Temporary/Permanent Disability – Details/Circumstances

Is Supporting Evidence Attached? Yes / No

Have Special Arrangements been previously awarded to this student by NEU? Yes / No

If Yes please confirm the examination session(s) the Arrangements were granted for

Section C Special Arrangements Requested

Section D Subjects for which Application is Made

Subject Title Question Paper(s)

Form 2

Grade: 3 6 9 12

Section E Declaration

I unreservedly support this application and am satisfied that the information on this form is correct.

Name (School Principal):

Signed: Date:

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Application for Special Arrangements – Notes on Completion of Form 2

Before completing this form, Part 4 of the current edition of the Administration Handbook for Schools must be read to confirm that the student is eligible for Special Arrangements.

This Form should be used only when making applications for Special Arrangements in advance for students who are permanently disabled (for example, blind, hearing impaired, dyslexic), or students who have a temporary disability that will affect their access to the examinations (for example, a broken arm which means they are unable to write, or will take longer to write). If a student is disadvantaged due to a temporary illness (for example, chicken pox) an application for Special Consideration should be made, rather than Special Arrangements. Applications for Special Consideration are made after an examination has taken place and should be submitted on a Special Consideration form.

Applications on behalf of permanently disabled students must be made as soon as possible but no later than the following deadlines:

Braille/Modified papers 27 January 2011

All other Special Arrangements 24 February 2011

SECTION A: Enter the Grade, School Name, the School Number, Student Name and the Student CPR Number.

SECTION B: The circumstances/details must be supplied, for example, nature of disability.

Applications on behalf of students with permanent physical disabilities must be supported either by a certificate from a qualified medical practitioner or by a statement, signed by the School Principal, certifying the student’s disability. Students with learning difficulties must supply a psychological report, dated within 3 years of the examinations.

SECTION C: The Special Arrangements requested should be specified. A supplementary sheet should be used if necessary.

SECTION D: Details of all the subjects in respect of which this application is made should be specified. The question paper details should be entered in the appropriate column where applicable. This is especially important where modified papers are requested, these cannot be provided without this information.

SECTION E: No application will be considered unless it has the unreserved support of the School Principal. It is important that this section is signed and dated by the School Principal.





Seef District

Fax: 17562308

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Writer/Scribe Cover Sheet

For guidance on how to complete this form, please see overleaf.


Student Name:

Student CPR Number:

Subject Title

Question Paper

Comments (if appropriate)

Signed(Writer/Scribe)

Name(Block Capitals Please) Date:

Signed(School Principal)



Signed

Name(Block Capitals Please) Date

Form 3

Grade: 3 6 9 12

The attached copy of the above named student’s answer paper was prepared by a writer/scribe during the examination in accordance with the Regulations Governing the Use of a Writer/Scribe in Part 4 of the Administration Handbook for Schools.

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writer/Scribe Cover Sheet – Notes on Completion of Form 3

Notes for the School

• The form must be completed and securely attached to the FRONT of the student answer paper, which must be submitted to NEU in the normal way. A copy of NEU’s letter of approving the use of a writer/scribe should also be attached to the answer paper.

• The answer paper must be prepared in accordance with the Regulations Governing the Use of a Writer/Scribe in Part 4 of the Administration Handbook for Schools.

• It is essential that the information requested in the boxes at the top of the form is completed in full.

• In the box marked ‘Comments’, indicate whether any problems have been experienced with the production of the answer paper which you consider should be drawn to the attention of the Examiner and/or NEU. The reason why the use of a writer/scribe was necessary must not be given.

• The form must be signed by the person producing the answer paper and countersigned by or on behalf of the School Principal for the student answer paper to be accepted.

Notes for the Examiner

• In the box marked ‘Comments’, indicate any information which you consider should be drawn to the attention of staff in NEU.

• The form must be signed by the Examiner to indicate that the transcript and letter approving the use of a writer/scribe have been read.

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Transcription Cover Sheet



Student Name:

Student CPR Number:

Subject Title

Question Paper


Signed (Transcriber)

Name (Block Capitals Please) Date:

Signed(School Principal)



Signed

Name(Block Capitals Please) Date

Form 4

Grade: 3 6 9 12

The attached copy of the above named student’s answer paper was prepared by a transcriber during the examination in accordance with the Regulations Governing the Production of a Transcript in Part 4 of the Administration Handbook for Schools.

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Transcription Cover Sheet – Notes on Completion of Form 4

Notes for the School

• The form must be completed and securely attached to the FRONT of the transcript and attached to the BACK of the student’s answer paper, and despatched to NEU in the normal way. A copy of NEU’s letter approving the transcription should also be attached to the transcript.

• The transcript must be prepared in accordance with the Regulations Governing the Production of a Transcript in Part 4 of the current edition of the Administration Handbook for Schools.

• It is essential that the information requested in the boxes at the top of the form is completed in full.

• In the box marked ‘Comments’, indicate whether any interpretation has been shown on the verbatim transcript and any other information which you consider should be drawn to the attention of the Examiner and/or NEU. The reason why the transcript was necessary must not be given.

• The form must be signed by the person producing the transcript and countersigned by or on behalf of the School Principal for the transcript to be accepted.

Notes for the Examiner

• In the box marked ‘Comments’, indicate any information which you consider should be drawn to the attention of staff in NEU.

• The form must be signed by the Examiner to indicate that the transcript and letter of approval for the transcription have been read.

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Section A

Section B Examination for which Application is Made (Tick as Appropriate)

Section D

Subject TitleQuestion

PaperNumber

Date of Examination

Did not SitQuestion

Paper

Present butDisadvantaged

Sat part of theQuestion Paper(State amount oftime completed)

Is supporting evidence attached?

AWARDER’S RECOMMENDATIONS AND INITIALS (FOR OFFICE USE ONLY)

Yes / No

Form 5

Application for Special Consideration for Part Absent Students and Students with a Temporary Disability or Affected by Adverse Circumstances


Student Name:

Student CPR Number: Grade: 3 6 9 12

Section C Summarise Adverse Circumstances Affecting Examination Performance or Temporary Disability

Section E Declaration

I unreservedly support this application and am satisfied that the information on this form is correct.

Name (School Principal):

Signed: Date:

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Application for Special Consideration – Notes on Completion of Form 5

Before completing this form, Part 4 of the current edition of the Administration Handbook for Schools must be read to confirm that the student is eligible for Special Consideration.

This form s intended for use only when there are temporary disabilities or difficulties affecting a student which ought to be considered when grades are awarded. Applications for Special Arrangements for long-term/permanent disabilities (for example, dyslexia), which are known about in advance, should be made on the Special Arrangements form. Requests for Special Arrangements in advance, for example, extra time allowance for dyslexia, must be made on the Special Arrangements form. Students will not be eligible for Special Consideration if they have already received Special Arrangements for the same disability, unless the School feels that the Special Arrangement was insufficient.

SECTION A: Enter the Grade, School Name, the School Number, Student Name and the Student CPR Number.

SECTION B: Enter the Subject Title and Question Paper Number(s) for which the student is affected. Tick as appropriate one box only alongside each question paper indicating whether the student was (i) absent from the entire examination, or (ii) present but disadvantaged for the examination. If a student is partially absent from the examination as a result of being taken ill during the examination, the amount of time completed should be stated on the application form.

For Special Consideration to be granted in respect of a missed question paper, the student must have completed a minimum of 50% of the examination of the subject.

SECTION C: Summarise Adverse Circumstances Affecting Examination Performance should be brief but explicit. If a student has to stop work during an examination, say how much time was lost and whether this was made up at the end of the examination.

SECTION D: Applications on behalf of students affected by illness must be supported by medical evidence. Failure to attach such evidence will disqualify any such student from receiving Special Consideration.

SECTION E: No application will be considered unless it has the unreserved support of the School Principal.

Please ensure that all the information given on the form is correct. Failure to do this may result in the student being disadvantaged, as Special Consideration will not be given.

Once signed, please photocopy this form as required and return the completed form as soon as possible and in any case no later than one day after the last examination in the subject affected to:




Seef District

Fax: 17562308

Do not attach this form or any other form of documentation requesting Special Consideration to the student’s answer paper. Examiners are not able to give Special Consideration to students. The student will not receive Special Consideration unless this form and supporting medical evidence are sent directly to NEU.

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Supplementary Attendance Register

Grade Subject and Question Paper Title and Number

School Name School Number

Date of Question Paper

Student CPR Number

1. This form should be completed for any students who do not appear on your pre-printed Attendance Register.

2. Record in the ATTENDANCE column one of the following: � in present box for every student who is present. � in absent box for every student who is absent or withdrawn.

3. Make a photocopy of this form for the School Examination File.

Student NameAttendance

Present Absent

Form 6

Name of Invigilator

Signature Date

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Comments on the Examination

NEU is interested in Teachers’ comments on all aspects of the examination.

Please use a separate form for comments on the administration of the examination and for each Grade, Subject and Question Paper on which you wish to comment.

Please return this form to NEU as soon as possible after the examination and not later than five days after the end of the examination period. All comments will be taken into account, but NEU will not acknowledge or respond to comments individually.

Grade Subject and Question Paper Title and Number

Date of Question Paper

Comments

Continue overleaf if necessary

Name Position

School Name School Number

Date

Please return this form to:


Fax: 17562308

Form 7

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Form 8NOTICE TO STUDENTS

This notice has been written to help you. Read it carefully and do what you are asked.

If there is anything you do not understand, ask your Teacher before the date of your examination.

wARNING

• If you cheat, try to use any unfair practice, or break the rules in any way, you may be disqualified from all your subjects.

REGULATIONS

Make Sure you know The Rules. All points contained in this Notice are rules and must be followed.

• You must be on time for all examinations. If you are late, your work may not be accepted.

• You may take into the examination room only the materials and equipment which are allowed. You must not take into the examination room calculators, calculator cases or instruction leaflets, bags, pencil cases, personal TVs or computers, electronic or radio communication and/or recording devices including mobile telephones and their cameras, portable music players, or any other material or equipment. Anyone found in possession of any unauthorised material, even if switched off and you do not intend to use it, will be automatically disqualified from the subject being taken.

• Correcting fluid, correcting pens, highlighters or any similar items must not be used.

• You must not talk, correspond in any way with, seek assistance from, give assistance to, or disturb other students once the examination has started.

INFORMATION

Make Sure

• You know the dates and times of your examinations.

• You arrive at least 10 minutes before the start of each examination.

• You have your CPR or ID card with you.

• That if you arrive late for an examination, you should report to the Invigilator running the examination. If you arrive after the examination has ended, you will not normally be allowed to take it.

Provide what you Need

• Bring your CPR or ID card.

• Leave outside the examination room or with your Teacher or the Invigilator, anything that you do not need or which is not allowed.

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• Take into the examination room the pens, pencils, rulers and any instruments that you need for the examination.

• You must write in blue pen (or pencil for Grade 3). Correcting fluid must never be used during an examination and highlighter pens or glue must not be used unless specifically permitted by the subject.

• You must not borrow anything from another student during the examination.

Calculators, Dictionaries and Spell-checkers

• You must not use a calculator or the calculator function of another device, such as a mobile phone. Grade 12 students sitting the Problem Solving Papers 1 and 2 are permitted to use a calculator.

• You must not use a dictionary or computer spell-checker.

Examination Instructions

• Listen to the Invigilator and do what you are asked to do.

• Tell the Invigilator at once

- if you then you have not been given the right question paper or all the materials listed on the front of the paper;

- if the question paper is incomplete or badly printed.

• Read carefully the instructions printed on the question paper. Do what they ask you to do.

• You will given a label to place on the front of the question paper before the start of the examination. Do not write anything on this label. Do not write your name, student number or CPR number on your answer paper.

Advice and Assistance

• If on the day of the examination you feel that your work may be affected by ill health or any other reason, tell your Teacher and the Invigilator.

• If during the examination you have a problem and are in doubt about what you should do, put your hand up to attract attention. The Invigilator will come and assist you.

• You must not ask for, and will not be given, any explanation of the examination questions.

Leaving the Examination Room

• You must not leave the examination room until half the time allowed for the examination is over and the Invigilator gives approval.

• You must not leave the examination room in the final 10 minutes of the time allowed for the examination.

• When you leave the examination room you must give your answer paper to the Invigilator and any other (used or unused) materials provided for the examination. You must not attempt to remove or copy the content of the question paper in any form or media whatsoever.

A copy of this notice must be displayed inside and outside the examination room, and distributed to students (and parents) in the week before the first examination takes place.

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Form 9CHECkLIST FOR INVIGILATORS

This checklist summarises the most essential actions for the invigilation of examinations. Invigilators must be familiar with the current edition of the Administration Handbook for Schools and specifically with Part 3: Conduct of the Examinations, which should be referred to for detailed instructions and guidance.

A Arrangements for the Examination Room1 Check that any charts, diagrams, etc., have been cleared from the walls.

2 Check that you have on display the following:

(a) Notice to Students;

(b) a clock clearly visible to all students;

(c) the starting time and finishing time of the examination.

3 Check that you:

(a) have a copy of the current Administration Handbook for Schools;

(b) have any subject specific instructions;

(c) complete a seating plan of the students in the examination room;

(d) have an admin materials packet (containing Attendance Register and CPR labels).

B Identification of Students1 Check the identity of every student in the examination room, using their CPR or ID card.

C Before the Examination1 Check that you have been given the correct question paper packet for the class you are

invigilating.

2 Inform students that they are now subject to the regulations of the examination and draw their attention to the Notice to Students.

3 Warn students that any unauthorised materials must be handed to you.

4 Open the question paper packet in the examination room.

5 Refer to the front of the question paper for the precise requirements in respect of authorised materials.

6 Instruct students to stick the small CPR label ONLY on the front of the question paper in the space provided.

7 Draw attention to the Instructions on the front of the question paper.

8 Remind students to write in blue pen (or pencil for Grade 3).

9 Tell students when they may begin and how much time they have.

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D During the Examination1 Complete the Attendance Register.

2 Refer to Part 3 of the Administration Handbook for Schools if a student arrives late.

3 Be vigilant. Supervise the students at all times to prevent cheating and distractions.

4 Do not give any information to students about:

(a) suspected errors in the question paper, unless an erratum notice has been issued;

(b) any question on the paper or the requirements for answering particular questions.

5 Ensure that no question paper or student answer paper is removed from the examination room.

6 Ensure that a member of staff is available to accompany any student who needs to leave the room temporarily.

7 Refer to the Administration Handbook for Schools in the event of an emergency.

8 Students must not be allowed to leave the examination room after finishing until at least half the time allowed for the examination is over.

9 Students must not be allowed to leave the examination room during the final 10 minutes of the time allowed for the examination.

10 Inform students when they have five minutes remaining.

11 Instruct students to stop writing at the end of the examination.

E After the Examination1 Check and sign the Attendance Register. A copy of the Attendance Register must then be

made.

2 Instruct students to check that they have stuck the small CPR label on their answer papers (or if they have no CPR label, that they have written their allocated identification number).

3 Collect all answer papers and all unused question papers from the students as they leave the examination room.

4 Arrange student answer papers in Attendance Register order, place in the correct plastic answer paper envelope and seal.

5 Give the unused question papers and the sealed answer paper packet to the person responsible for examinations administration at the School.

6 Ensure that question paper content is not removed from the examination room.

F Use of Calculators and Dictionaries1 Students are not permitted to use calculators (with the exception only of grade 12 students

sitting the Problem Solving Papers 1 and 2).

2 Students are not allowed to use dictionaries or computer spell-checker in the examination.

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Form 10Suspected Malpractice Report Form


Grade*

Grade 3 Grade 6

* tick as appropriate

Subjects and Papers Affected

Subjects Title Question Paper Number Date of Examination

Student Details** if applicable

Grade 9 Grade 12

Student Name Student CPR Number Student Name Student CPR Number

Summary of Circumstances (Please give details of the reason(s) for suspicion and the evidence).

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Please attach to this form

1. Written statements from the Invigilators and other staff concerned.

2. Handwritten statements from the students concerned or a statement from the student(s) indicating that they have been given the opportunity to make a statement.

3. Seating Plans.

4. Procedures followed by the School for advising staff and students of NEU regulations for the conduct of its examinations.

Note:

NEU will consider any statement of mitigating circumstances provided by the School and any recommendation as to the penalty the School considers appropriate. All decisions concerning the case will be made by NEU.

School Principal’s Name Date

Signature

Once signed, please return the completed form and accompanying materials as soon as possible to:




Seef District

Fax: 17562308

If you have any queries regarding this procedure, please contact NEU.

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Form 10.1Malpractice Investigation Form (Student)


Grade/Class

Grade 3 Class ……. Class ……. Class ……. Class …….Grade 6

Subjects Title

Student Name Student CPR Number

Question Paper Number Date of Examination

Malpractice Case

Subject and Paper Affected

MP --.............................. MP --..............................

Grade 9 Grade 12

Student involved in the Malpractice case

Response

Student Signature School Principal Signature Date

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Form 10.2Malpractice Investigation Form (Invigilator)


Grade/Class

Grade 3 Class ……. Class ……. Class ……. Class …….Grade 6

Subjects Title

Invigilator Name Job Title Invigilator Phone Number

Question Paper Number Date of Examination

Malpractice Case

Subject and Paper Affected

MP --.............................. MP --..............................

Grade 9 Grade 12

Invigilator involved in the Malpractice case

Response

Invigilator Signature School Principal Signature Date

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Form 11

Declaration of Interest in a Person Taking an NEU Examination

After completing this form please pass the form to your School Principal.

School and Session Details

School Number School Name

Month of Examination Year

Declarer’s Details

Name of member of Staff

Position in School

Student’s Details

Student CPR Number Student Name

Declarer’s relationship to student

Grade* to be taken by the Student

* tick as appropriate

Declarer’s Signature Date

School Principal’s Signature Date

If you have an interest in a person taking an NEU examination you must complete this form. This form must be completed as soon as you know that the person concerned will be, or has been, registered for an NEU examination.For the purpose of the Declaration of Interest, you have an interest in a person if that person is: • a close relative, for example, children, grandchildren, cousins, or nieces and nephews;• any person whose relationship to you could compromise the integrity of the School or NEU examinations; or, • any person whose relationship to you could compromise your integrity or good name, as a School employee or otherwise, if the relationship were not disclosed.

A copy of this form must be sent to NEU. The original of this form must be stored for a period of 1 year and must be available for inspection by NEU at any time. A copy of this form must be kept in the School Examination File for the session.If you have any queries regarding this procedure, please contact NEU.Please fax this form to NEU on 17562308.

Grade 3 Grade 6 Grade 9 Grade 12

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Form 12Result Enquiry Form

School Number School Name

School Principal’s Name Date

Signature

Student CPRNumber

Student Name Grade and Subject Title Indicate Service Required

This form should be used for submitting result enquiries only. Please read the notes below and on the reverse of this form before completion.

The original of this form must be sent to NEU. A copy of this form must be kept in the School Examination File for the session.

If you have any queries regarding the Result Enquiry procedure, please contact NEU.

Please fax this form to NEU on 17562308.

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Submission of Result Enquiry – Notes on Completion of Form 12

1. Schools wishing to enquire about results of students must complete the form and forward the original copy to NEU. All enquiries must be made by the School Principal and must be received within 2 weeks of the school receiving its results. Enquiries cannot be accepted either by telephone or directly from individual students or parents.

2. The following services are available:

Service Number Description

1 An explanation of No Result for a subject

2 A full clerical check for an individual candidate

3 A review of the marking including a full clerical check for an individual candidate

3. Enter the School Name, the School Number, Student Name(s) and Student CPR Number(s), the Grade and Subject Title for which the enquiry is being made. For each student/subject indicate the result enquiry service required (1, 2 or 3).

4. All enquiries will be acknowledged and will be dealt with by NEU strictly in the order in which they are received. If you have not received an acknowledgement within two weeks you must contact NEU as the form may not have been received.

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