word processor for exams - normal way of working

[ArianaDumbledore]

TL;DR - how long would a student need to have been established using a word processor for to be able to allowed to use for exams?

DS2 is Yr9. He has Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and is quite hypermobile, particularly hands/shoulders. We had a private OT assessment done as he was struggling with handwriting. The OT recommended word processor/laptop due to his pain issues. She advised that when it became established as his normal way of working he would be permitted to use it for exams. I gave the school a copy of the report and had a meeting with the SENCo and said we were happy to fund/supply the laptop and have IT do anything they needed, we just wanted to get it in place. I was told they had one and not to worry they would get it sorted. Then 2nd lockdown happened.

I've chased it up but he still does not have access to a word processor. The SENCo is no longer in post and an assistant is covering but she is limited to what she can advise.

What I'm trying to find out is how long the requirement is that the student be using a laptop as their normal way of working? He has also now been diagnosed with Essential Tremors (constantly shaking hands) so he's struggling more with writing.

To update I've had some progress. The other complaint opened the door to raise it, and I was offered a meeting with the Assistant Principal. I've actually declined and said the school has all the information needed and re-stated the offer to supply a laptop.

I have 2 other DC who have EHCPs (not at this school) and I've not found meetings to be productive which is why I've responded as I have. They have 2 paediatrician letters, a neurologist letter, a GP letter and an OT assessment report.

Re the English assessment, it was the last question he'd apparently not written enough to mark. I don't agree with what they did and I think if he got zero that should have been recorded. But I'm not going to make waves. I had discussed with his English teacher at parents evening and she'd said she would be able to sort a laptop for her lessons but it's not happened. I should have followed up by email and I've just not been as on this as I should have been.