Oldham specialist school passes national exam standards inspection

An Oldham specialist school providing education for vulnerable young people has passed an inspection from the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ), the national exams watchdog on May 21 during a live AQA GCSE English Language examination.

Chances Mentoring is a specialist school in Chadderton, which also offers alternative provision for pupils who may not thrive in a traditional classroom setting.  

The visit was unannounced by inspectors, whose evaluation confirmed that the school adheres to every national benchmark regarding the security, delivery, and environment of examinations.  

Inspectors noted strict security over live exam materials, confirmed all mandatory warning notices were displayed and verified that invigilator training had been completed ahead of schedule, on May 11 and May 12. 

The JCQ report noted several areas of good practice, with only minor administrative suggestions, including moving a delivery log to the main reception, putting forward further streamline operations. 

Callum Siddall, proprietor of Chances Mentoring, said: "Our students often come to us needing a fresh start, and they deserve an exam environment that is completely bulletproof. This perfect score proves to our young people, their families, and our partners that we deliver the absolute highest standards when it matters most." 

The JCQ Centre Inspection Service monitors exam standards across the United Kingdom on behalf of major awarding bodies including AQA, CCEA and WJEC. 

For specialist schools, a positive inspection outcome is critical in ensuring pupils - many of whom face significant personal challenges - receive valid and nationally recognised qualifications.