Prelim Timetable & FAQ 2026
- Editor 1
- 16 minutes ago
- 2 min read
FAQ
Do we get to go on study leave?Â
No. There is no study leave for prelims. Pupils are either following their timetable or in an exam - nothing else.
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Where do the Prelims take place?Â
For SP prelims the Exam Hall is Hall 1 in PE.
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What does ‘exam conditions’ mean?
You will sit at an assigned desk. You will remain in Hall 1 for the duration of the exam, in silence, whether you finish early or not. Pupils should expect to sit for long periods in silence. Pupils must not speak to their peers at anytime during the exam for any reason. Pupils are not permitted to leave within the first 10 minutes or the final 10 minutes.Â
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Who invigilates the exams?
Prelims have external invigilation the same as the final SQA diet.
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What do I need to bring for the exam?
You don't need to worry about this. You will supplied with a black pen, paper and an exam paper. If required, you will also receive a calculator and/or ruler depending on the exam. Â
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What happens to my bag and coat?
You may bring all your personal property into Hall 1 and leave your bag and coat at the side as you would do in an SQA examination. You will be told to empty your pockets and put possessions into your bag or on the front desk with the invigilator. You cannot wear jackets, headphones or hats in the exam hall. You cannot have your phone with you at your desk or wear a smart watch - these items should be left in your school bag. All phones must be switched off.
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I don’t have a school bag - where will I leave my phone?
You can hand your phone to Mr Cunningham (prior to the prelim) or the invigilator who will put it on the front desk. Mobile devices must be switched off.
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Where do pupils go before the prelim?Â
Pupils should meet Mr Cunningham in the West Dining Area prior to the start of their exam to be registered for their exam.Â
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What happens if I need the toilet during the exam?
As with an SQAÂ exam, you should silently raise your hand and wait for support from the invigilator.Â
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What happens if I need help in the examination?
As with an SQAÂ exam, you should silently raise your hand and wait for support from the invigilator. Please be aware that invigilators can only give you a spare pen or more paper or a tissue. They cannot read questions or help you with answering questions.Â
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Can I take a drink or food into the Hall?
All drinks and food must be left in your school bag. As with SQA examinations you are permitted clear water in a clear bottle. Nothing else is permitted on or near your exam desk.
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What happens if I miss break or lunch?Â
Where break or lunch is missed that time will be given in West Dining Area at the end of the exam.
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What happens if I receive specific assessment arrangements?Â
You should report to Miss MacLennan (prior to the exam) who will tell you where to go.Â


