Student Denied Exam Access Due to Condition
A student who spells by blinking has been denied the opportunity to sit her history exam with proposed reasonable adjustments.
Romi Loffler, a student at Glasgow Clyde College, is facing challenges in taking her history exam due to her condition, which requires her to spell by blinking. Her mother, Tracey Campbell, who is affiliated with Rett UK, stated that Romi has been underestimated in many aspects of her life and that this situation is preventing her from proving her capabilities. "To have these extra barriers put in place is completely unfair and unjust," Campbell said, highlighting that other exam boards in England have allowed students to take exams over extended periods, one question at a time.
Glasgow Clyde College has described Romi as "highly capable and committed." Claire Donaghey, assistant principal for arts and continuing education at the college, noted that despite extensive discussions with Qualifications Scotland, the college's proposed mitigating arrangements were not deemed compatible with the requirements. "We remain fully committed to supporting Romi and will continue to work constructively with her, her family and Qualifications Scotland to explore every available option and achieve the best possible outcome for her," Donaghey added.
Qualifications Scotland stated that it is committed to making reasonable adjustments to ensure disabled learners have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and understanding. A spokesperson for the organization indicated that over 39,000 learners benefited from assessment arrangements this year. However, the spokesperson also emphasized the duty to maintain the integrity of qualifications, ensuring that any adjustments do not compromise standards.