JCQ Instructions for Conducting Examinations (ICE) – Introduction 

The JCQ Instructions for Conducting Examinations (ICE) is the essential guidance document for running exams from our member awarding organisations, covering GCSEs, A-levels, and vocational assessments. This comprehensive resource establishes standards and procedures to ensure consistent, secure examination practices in schools, colleges and other educational establishments across the UK.  

Essential for heads of centre, examination officers, invigilators, and support staff, the ICE provides detailed instructions covering everything from exam preparation, invigilation, through to post-examination procedures. It is supported by checklists, training videos, and other practical resources.  

The document serves as the cornerstone for maintaining examination integrity and upholding the credibility of UK qualifications for millions of students annually. 

For a printable version of the ‘ICE’ document please click here. 

Please note the ICE Booklet will be refreshed 

All of the information available on the current webpage ( ‘ICE’ – Instructions for conducting examinations – JCQ Joint Council for Qualifications ) needs to be available in this section in the new webpage in designed format.  The following text should be used to introduce the other resources:  

Supporting Resources for ICE Implementation 

Beyond the comprehensive ICE guidance document, we provide a range of practical resources organised into clear sections to support exam officers in implementing these instructions effectively across schools, colleges and other educational establishments.  

Video Guidance 

The JCQ Exam Day Guidance video provides visual instruction on ensuring examinations run smoothly. This resource covers essential preparation steps including exam room requirements, desk layouts, secure storage procedures, and the critical two-person verification process. The Procedures for Handling Exam Papers video demonstrates proper protocols for managing question papers securely throughout the examination process. 

Practical Tools and Forms 

The Downloads section contains essential operational tools including receipt logs for tracking assessment materials at delivery and by exams officers, incident recording forms, emergency evacuation procedures, and the Second Pair of Eyes Check form for verifying correct question papers. These spreadsheet and Word document templates ensure centres maintain proper records and security protocols. 

Quick Reference Materials 

Supporting infographics provide visual guidance on key processes such as handling secure electronic materials, removing question papers from storage, examination timing protocols, and tracking the journey of question papers through the centre. These materials offer immediate visual reference for complex procedures, complementing the detailed written instructions in the main ICE document. 

These supporting resources work alongside the ICE document to provide comprehensive practical support for exam officers, ensuring consistent implementation of exam procedures across all our member organisations’ qualifications.