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 day 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.
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 confidently within real centre contexts, informed by practical discussion • 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 • Reflect on how student voice can inform professional judgement while maintaining regulatory compliance
Why attend in person?
This Birmingham Masterclass is deliberately designed as a small-scale, professionally focused training day. Seating is arranged in cabaret-style tables, creating space for discussion, collaboration and shared professional insight. The format allows time to explore the practical judgement behind compliant access arrangements practice, not simply the wording of the regulations. Questions are welcomed throughout the day, including during breaks, and time is built in for clarification and professional dialogue. The aim is that you leave clear on the regulatory requirements and confident in applying them.
Your place includes:
• 5 hours of SASC-authorised core CPD • Full-day face-to-face Masterclass in a small-scale setting • Cabaret-style tables to support professional discussion, networking and collaboration • Detailed morning analysis of the 2026–27 JCQ regulations and their implications for practice • Applied afternoon session exploring practical implementation and emerging themes • Opportunities to raise questions throughout the day • 60 days’ access to the recorded version of the 2026–27 Masterclass following the event • Supporting materials for use throughout the academic year • Knowledge check and CPD certificate • Refreshments provided during breaks (tea, coffee and biscuits) and water available throughout the day
More Than an Update
A detailed examination of what the 2026–27 regulations require in practice, with attention to nuance and professional judgement.
Clear, Defensible Decisions
Focused on evidencing and inspection-awareness, supporting confident and accountable access arrangements practice.
Designed for Application
A full-day format with time for reflection, discussion and consolidation, reinforced by 60 days’ access to the recorded Masterclass.
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.
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.
West Midlands
Lia presents complex regulatory information with clarity, depth and just the right pace.
Warwickshire
The focus on updates and their interpretation — particularly around evidence requirements — was extremely helpful.
West Midlands
A thorough overview of the regulations, with worked examples that made the changes clear and practical to apply.
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. Questions are welcomed throughout the day. The small-scale format is designed to allow time for clarification, discussion and professional dialogue. Q3. Will I have access to the recording afterwards? Yes. All face-to-face delegates receive 60 days’ access to the recorded version of the 2026–27 Masterclass following the event, allowing time to revisit key sections and consolidate understanding. Q4. Is this course SASC authorised? Yes. This Masterclass is SASC authorised and provides 5 hours of core CPD. A certificate will be sent by email on course completion. Q5. What are the timings for the day? Registration opens at 9:30am. The Masterclass runs from 10:00am to 4:30pm. Q6. Is lunch provided? Lunch is not provided. You are welcome to bring your own lunch, and there are nearby options to purchase food locally. Lunch can be eaten at the venue. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided during the morning and afternoon breaks, with water available throughout the day. Q7. How many places are available? Places are limited in order to maintain the small-group, cabaret-style format and allow meaningful professional discussion. Q8. Who is this Masterclass most relevant for? This Masterclass is particularly relevant for SENCos, Access Arrangements Coordinators, assessors and others involved in the access arrangements process who wish to ensure their practice is confident, compliant and inspection-ready for 26–27.
Book your place
Join the Birmingham face-to-face 2026-27 Annual Access Arrangements Masterclass and approach the new academic year with clarity and confidence. City of Westminster Archives Centre, London Registration from 9:30am | 10:00am–4:30pm 5 hours SASC-authorised core CPD Early Booking Rate: £145 Available until Friday 5 July 2026 Standard Rate: £165 Places are limited to maintain the small-group, cabaret-style format. All delegates receive 60 days’ access to the recorded version of the Masterclass following the event. 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
£145.00