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Reasonable Accommodations at Certificate Examinations (RACE)

The RACE scheme ensures that students with special educational needs can access State examinations (Junior Cycle, Leaving Certificate, and Leaving Certificate Applied) on an equal basis with their peers. These accommodations do not give an unfair advantage, they simply remove barriers caused by a disability or condition.

Purpose of RACE

The aim is to allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills without being disadvantaged by a disability or condition. The integrity of the exam is maintained, and the same standards apply to all candidates.

Who Can Apply?

Students who have a disability or condition that significantly impacts their ability to sit exams under standard conditions. Examples include:

  • Physical difficulties (e.g., Dyspraxia/DCD, motor dysgraphia)
  • Learning difficulties (e.g., dyslexia)
  • Hearing or visual impairments
  • Medical or mental health conditions

Applications are made through the school (except for external candidates who apply directly to the SEC).

Types of Accommodations

Accessing print Enlarged or Braille papers, modified formats.

Accessing sound Reader or reading assistance, exemption from aural components for hearing-impaired students.

Communicating answers

  • Use of a word processor (with spell-check disabled)
  • Voice-activated technology or recording device
  • Scribe (only in exceptional cases)

Assistive technology Reading pens, magnifiers, screen readers.

Practical supports Helper in practical exams, drawing aids for subjects like DCG or Construction Studies.

Spelling and grammar waiver For language subjects, where appropriate.

Alternative exam settings Hospital or special centre in exceptional circumstances.

Application Process

  1. School identifies need and gathers evidence (educational assessments, medical reports, history of support).
  2. Application submitted by school to SEC within set timelines.
  3. SEC reviews and decides on eligibility.
  4. Written decision issued to school and candidate.
  5. If approved, arrangements are put in place for the exam.

Appeals

If refused, parents/students can appeal to the Independent Appeals Committee.

Further recourse: Ombudsman or Ombudsman for Children.

Important for Students with Dyspraxia/DCD

Apply under Physical Difficulty for supports like:

  • Word processor or voice-activated device.
  • Helper in practical exams.
  • Drawing aids for technical subjects.

If co-existing with dyslexia, apply under Learning Difficulty for:

  • Reader assistance.
  • Spelling and grammar waiver.

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