Qualifications and examinations regulator Ofqual has stated that it “will take action” if it finds that the higher proportion of independent school pupils being given extra time in exams is due to unfairness The Independent has reported.

Ofqual’s chief regulator Sir Ian Bauckham said “extra work” is being undertaken as he is “concerned” at the gap between independent and state school candidates who are granted special exam access arrangements.

Figures published by Ofqual in November showed that 41.8% of all candidates in independent centres – most of which are independent schools – were granted extra time in their exams in the last academic year, compared with 26.5% of candidates in non-selective state schools.