By the end of this Masterclass, you will be able to:

 •  Identify and interpret the key features and priorities within the 2026–27 JCQ regulations  •  Apply the regulations more confidently within real centre contexts  •  Strengthen the evidence held on file for common access arrangements  •  Avoid pitfalls frequently highlighted during centre inspections  •  Make and justify access arrangements decisions with greater professional confidence

Your place includes:

•  3 hours of SASC-authorised CPD •  Live online Masterclass •  Opportunity to have your questions answered during the session   •  60 days’ access to the recording for review and consolidation •  Supporting materials for use throughout the year  •  End-of-session knowledge check quiz •  CPD certificate of attendance

Beyond a Summary of the Regulations

A structured exploration of what the JCQ regulations mean in practice, including areas requiring careful professional judgement.

Confident and Defensible Decision-Making

Focused on evidencing, risk awareness and inspection-readiness, the session supports centres in applying the regulations with clarity and confidence.

Time to Reflect and Embed

With 60 days’ access to the recording and supporting materials, participants can revisit key sections, consolidate understanding and embed confident practice throughout the autumn term.

Why This Masterclass Matters

Each year, the JCQ Access Arrangements regulations set the framework for practice within centres. The 2026–27 regulations will shape centre processes and professional decision-making for the academic year ahead. This Masterclass provides clear, regulation-informed guidance to support confident and inspection-ready implementation from the start of the academic year. Through a structured and detailed examination of the regulations, the session will identify key areas of focus for 2026–27, highlight areas requiring careful consideration, and explore evidencing and inspection-aware decision-making in practical terms. The focus is on clarity and application, enabling participants to approach the year with assurance. Designed for SENCos, Access Arrangements Coordinators, assessors and others involved in the access arrangements process, the Masterclass provides a professional and supportive space in which questions are welcomed and practical judgement is discussed openly. With specialist input from Nick Lait (JCQ) during the session, the Masterclass combines regulatory perspective with centre-based implementation considerations to support confident and defensible practice.

Presented by Lia Castiglione

Lia Castiglione is an educational consultant specialising in examination access arrangements, working with schools, colleges and awarding bodies across the UK. She provides assessment, consultancy and training focused on accurate and confident practice within the JCQ regulatory framework. Her work with centres on evidencing, policy development and inspection readiness informs her training, ensuring guidance is grounded in real-world application as well as regulatory understanding.

Nick Lait 

Head of JCQ Examination Services Providing specialist regulatory input during the session.

Masterclass Structure

  1. 1

    Welcome and Course Information

    1. (Included in full purchase)
  2. 2

    Live session access

    1. (Included in full purchase)
  3. 3

    Supporting Documents

    1. (Included in full purchase)
  4. 4

    Masterclass Recording

    1. (Included in full purchase)
  5. 5

    Knowledge Check and Consolidation

    1. (Included in full purchase)
  6. 6

    CPD Certificate and Feedback

    1. (Included in full purchase)
    2. (Included in full purchase)
    3. (Included in full purchase)

Feedback from Previous Annual Update Masterclasses

Selected feedback from professionals attending previous update training.

As someone new to Access Arrangements and assessing, I found the session immensely reassuring. Lia’s expertise and clarity provided real confidence.
Specialist Assessor

West Midlands

The focus on updates and their interpretation — particularly around evidence requirements — was extremely helpful.
Assistant SENCo

West Midlands

Lia presents complex regulatory information with clarity, depth and just the right pace.
Access Arrangements Coordinator

Warwickshire

A thorough overview of the regulations, with worked examples that made the changes clear and practical to apply.
Access Arrangements Coordinator

Merseyside

Frequently asked questions

Q1. Is this Masterclass suitable for those new to access arrangements? This Masterclass is designed for professionals who are already working within access arrangements and who have a working knowledge of the JCQ regulations. Those new to the role will find our Foundations in Access Arrangements course a more appropriate starting point. Q2. Will there be an opportunity to ask questions? Yes. There will be opportunities to raise questions during the live session, including practical queries arising from your centre context. Q3. Will I have access to the recording afterwards? Yes. Delegates will have 60 days’ access to the recording, allowing time to revisit key sections and consolidate understanding across the term. Q4. Is this course SASC authorised? Yes. This Masterclass is SASC authorised and provides 3 hours of core CPD. A certificate will be sent by email on course completion. Q5. Who is this Masterclass most relevant for? The session is particularly relevant for SENCos, access arrangements coordinators, and assessors working with schools and colleges who want to ensure their practice is confident, compliant and inspection-ready.

Book your place

Join the 2026-27 Annual Access Arrangements Masterclass and approach the new academic year with clarity and confidence.  Early Booking Rate: £100 Available until Friday 3 July 2026 Standard Rate: £120 Includes 60 days’ access to the recording. A 10% discount available for additional delegates from the same centre. Please contact us at [email protected] if booking multiple places. INVOICE BOOKINGS If your organisation prefers to pay by invoice, please complete the Invoice Booking Form at: castiglione-consulting.com/invoice