UK Exam Season Spurs Parental Guidance and Phone‑Cheating Alerts

As A‑Level and Level 3 exams begin across the United Kingdom, experts stress the importance of parental support for young people. Hazel Roome, Skills Development Manager at the University of Derby, advises parents to establish steady routines, create quiet study spaces, offer practical revision help, and ensure balanced nutrition and downtime to reduce stress.

At the same time, Ofqual, the UK exams regulator, has issued a stark warning that any mobile phone or smart device – even switched off – is prohibited inside exam halls. Sir Ian Bauckham, Ofqual’s Chief Regulator, said, “Please leave your phone at home, or hand it in before you go into the exam hall.” Last summer 545 students were disqualified and 1,240 lost marks after being caught with devices, highlighting the severe academic consequences of breaching the rules.