Understanding the Changes in JCQ ICE Regulations and Training for 2024/25

Each year, the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) updates its Instructions for Conducting Examinations (ICE) to ensure exam security, integrity, and fairness. For 2024/25, several key changes have been made, impacting regulations and training requirements for staff involved in administering exams. In this blog, we will explore the major differences between the 2023/24 and 2024/25 regulations and training needs.

Key Changes in JCQ ICE Regulations

1. Security of Exam Papers and Electronic Materials

• 2023/24: Exam papers had to be securely stored, and electronic materials were managed following JCQ guidelines.

• 2024/25: Stricter security requirements have been introduced, including:

  • Ensuring electronic files are accessed only within a secure environment.

  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is now mandatory for staff handling electronic assessment materials.

  • Devices used for MFA must not be shared among staff.

2. Handling and Removing Question Papers

• 2023/24: Question paper packets were to be removed from secure storage a maximum of 60 minutes before the exam.

• 2024/25: There is a new requirement that two staff members must verify question paper packets before opening them, enhancing security and reducing errors.

3. Timetable Clashes and Supervision

• 2023/24: Candidates with timetable clashes were subject to overnight supervision arrangements.

• 2024/25: There is now an explicit restriction preventing early start times for Mathematics and Further Mathematics exams, unless the candidate has an extreme clash exceeding six hours.

4. Technology Usage in Exams

• 2023/24: Calculator usage rules were revised to account for technological advancements.

• 2024/25: Smart glasses and other wearable technology are now explicitly prohibited in exam rooms.

5. Invigilation and Candidate Identification

• 2023/24: Invigilators were required to ensure fair conduct but had some flexibility in training requirements.

• 2024/25: Centres must now have a written procedure for confirming candidate identities, and invigilators must strictly adhere to it.

Training Updates for Exam Officers and Staff

1. Additional Training for Handling Secure Electronic Materials

Given the increased emphasis on digital security, staff handling online assessment materials must undergo mandatory training on:

• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) implementation.

• Secure printing and storage of electronic question papers.

2. Invigilator Training Enhancements

To align with the stricter invigilation rules, training for invigilators now includes:

• How to conduct two-person verification of question paper packets.

• Increased vigilance against smart devices, including smart glasses.

• Ensuring proper identification checks using the centre’s newly required written procedure.

3. New Guidelines for Functional Skills Assessments

For Functional Skills assessments, additional guidance has been introduced for:

• Who can invigilate these exams (i.e., Functional Skills tutors cannot invigilate their own subject’s exam).

• How assessments are administered, including secure storage for on-demand exams.

Conclusion

The 2024/25 JCQ ICE updates reflect a stronger emphasis on security and integrity in exam administration. The implementation of MFA for digital materials, stricter handling of question papers, and enhanced training requirements for invigilators and exam officers all contribute to this goal. By staying informed and ensuring compliance with these changes, centres can help maintain the fairness and credibility of examinations.

Action Points for Centres:

✅ Review new electronic materials handling protocols. ✅ Update candidate identification procedures. ✅ Train invigilators on new security checks. ✅ Ensure staff handling electronic materials are MFA compliant.

For full details, visit JCQ’s official website.