May 2026 Design and Technology update

In this update:

• Key dates
• Marks and samples submission for GCSE and A level Design and Technology NEA.
• Administrative Support Guide
• NEA exemplar library and delivery guide to support marking of NEAs
• Support for Centres Affected by the Conflict in the Middle East
• Non-examined Assessment and AI Use
• Have your say on SEND reform - Department for Education

Key dates

Marks and samples submission -  NEA

Please remember that you’ll need to submit your centre marks before we release the list of students selected for the moderation sample.

Once you submit your centre marks, your moderation sample will appear in Learner Work Transfer within 6 hours. Your Exams Officer will be notified once the sample is available. 

Read more in the latest update to centres

Administrative Support Guide (ASG)

The Administrative Support Guide for GCSE and A level Design and Technology covers useful information to guide you through the marking and sample submission processes. In addition to these processes, it covers useful information around sample size, naming conventions, links to learner work transfer and much more.

NEA exemplar library and delivery guide to support marking of NEAs

Centres are reminded to use the exemplar libraries and delivery guides for these qualifications when marking the NEA. These resources are designed to support confident benchmarking against the national standard.

Support for Centres Affected by the Conflict in the Middle East

We recognise that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to have a very real impact on students, families and centres.

Our dedicated support page brings together the latest guidance and arrangements for students whose learning and assessments have been disrupted.

This page will be updated as the situation continues to evolve.

View support for centres affected by the conflict in the Middle East

Design and Technology specific guidance is also available. Recording from the event on 22 April below:

Watch - Support for centres in the Middle East - D&T

Non-examined Assessment (NEA) and AI use

As NEA marks are submitted for the Summer 2026 series, please remind yourselves and students of the requirements around artificial intelligence (AI).

Any AI‑generated or AI‑assisted content must be clearly acknowledged, and misuse of AI is treated as malpractice and may result in sanctions.

Updated authentication forms now include specific references to AI, and teachers remain fully responsible for marking decisions.

AI guidance around GCSE and A level D&T can be accessed below.

Have your say on SEND reform - Department for Education

The Department for Education has launched a new consultation on reforming SEND support in England.

This is a chance for schools, colleges, families and professionals to share views on how the system can better meet the needs of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

Your feedback will help shape future policy and practice — and make sure real experiences are heard.

Find out more and share your feedback on SEND reform