Bishop Challoner Parent Letter

Dear Parent/Carer,

From Monday 9th February 2026, all Year 11 students will sit their second Grade Indicator (GI) exams (mock exams). The purpose of these exams is to measure the progress your child has made since the start of their GCSE courses and provide the school with important information about how we can best support them in the lead-up to their public examinations. The GIs also provide an important opportunity for students to experience formal exam conditions and prepare for their examinations at the end of the academic year. Please find attached an amended timetable for exams. Please note that Modern Foreign Language speaking exams will take place during this period to maximise student time and support preparation.

Please note that examination times vary by student. Your child has been given an individual timetable and should follow this carefully. If there are any discrepancies, please let Mr Fernando know as soon as possible.

The school day will begin at the usual time of 8.20am. During the registration period, students will make their way to the exam hall, where they will leave their bags and take only the required equipment inside.

After morning exams, students will go straight to break. Students with exams during lesson 3 should make their way to the canteen and will be dismissed to the exams from there. Students without exams during Lesson 3 will make their way to Lesson 3 and 4, as normal. During Lesson 4 students will make their way to the canteen for lunch and should remain there until they are sent to the exam hall for their second exam.

Timings of the Day:

8:20am – 9:00am: Registration for Exam 1

9:00am – 10:30am: Exam 1

10:45am – 11:10am: Break

11:00: Late Morning Exam into lunch [where applicable]

11:10am – 12:10pm: Lesson 3

12:10pm – 12:50pm: Lesson 4 into lunch

12:50pm – 3:00pm: Exam 2 into Lesson 5 or dismissal

Please see the final examination timetable for your child below. In addition, these are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Do the students have study leave?

No. Students will attend lessons between their exams where they will have an opportunity to revise for the next exam supervised by their classroom teacher.

What equipment does my child need?

All students must bring a black pen, pencil and ruler. These may only be brought into the exam hall in a clear plastic pencil case. Please ensure your child has a scientific calculator, protractor and compass as these are also required for some exams such as Mathematics and Science.

Students are not allowed electronic devices such as mobile phones, earphones or digital watches. If a student is found in possession of these items, they risk disqualification and confiscation.

If your child wishes to bring water, it must be in a clear plastic bottle with the label removed. Students who fail to bring the correct equipment may be disadvantaged as we will not be providing spare equipment to them. This is to ensure students get into the routine of being organised and ready for their public exams next year.

What if my child is ill?

If your child is ill, please follow the usual school procedures and phone the school on 0207 0791 9500.

We wish your child every success in their Grade Indicator Exams and thank you for your continued support.

Yours faithfully,

Mr A Fernando

Deputy Headteacher – Curriculum & Assessment

Ms T Harrison

Head of Year 11