This article is part of a series covering off some key questions and areas of interest for parents and whānau. For more information, see the Resources for parents and whānau section.
Students with additional learning needs may face challenges in accessing and demonstrating their learning during assessments. These needs can include:
- Learning difficulties, such as dyslexia or processing disorders
- Physical impairments, such as limited mobility or fine motor difficulties
- Sensory challenges, including visual or hearing impairments
- Medical conditions, such as chronic illnesses, fatigue, anxiety, or ADHD.
Special Assessment Conditions (SAC) are designed to provide tailored supports that help students overcome these challenges and fully engage in their learning.
What are Special Assessment Conditions?
SAC provide learners with additional needs more flexible ways to engage with and demonstrate their learning during assessments. They do not make assessments easier or compromise their validity, but ensure all students have a fair opportunity to showcase their abilities.
SAC address a variety of needs, including physical, sensory, medical, and learning challenges. These conditions apply to both internal and external assessments, including NCEA and New Zealand Scholarship exams.
Examples of SAC include:
- Reader or writer assistance
- Rest breaks
- Access to quiet spaces
- Braille or enlarged exam papers
Some supports, like a reading assistant, may also be part of a student’s regular learning support throughout the year. Since every student’s needs differ, SAC can be tailored for specific assessments—for instance, using a computer for one assessment and a writer for another.
Who can you talk to about support with Special Assessment Conditions?
When your child begins secondary school, or as soon as possible, let the school or kura know about your child’s learning needs.
Contact one of the following:
- the school office
- your child’s form teacher
- the year level Dean
- the Head of Learning Support
- the Learning Support Coordinator
- the school Guidance Counsellor
- the school Nurse.
How can you get support with Special Assessment Conditions?
- Encourage your child to discuss their needs with their subject teachers
- Discuss with the school or kura which SAC would be most helpful for their internal and external assessments.
Accessing Special Assessment Conditions
There should not be a need for additional medical costs to access SAC, and there is no application fee.
Schools and kura can apply to NZQA for Special Assessment Conditions on behalf of learners. NZQA reviews these applications and approves or declines them.
For students entering Year 11, schools and kura also have the option to determine and notify NZQA of SAC directly as part of a trial process.
Your school or kura is responsible for:
- Identifying student need and providing appropriate support
- designing inclusive environments that reflect knowledge of their students
- monitoring student progress and adjusting supports as required
- discussing SAC options with students and whānau
- gathering evidence of student needs to support notifications or applications.
Understanding and accessing SAC can make a meaningful difference in your child’s educational journey. Open communication with your school and active collaboration can ensure that your child receives the support they need to succeed.