about us

arc exams is a private examination centre located four miles south east of Birmingham city centre. Formerly known as the Academic Enrichment Centre we are dedicated to providing excellent assessment facilities, primarily aimed at those learners not participating in mainstream education ie Home Educated learners, private candidates or, indeed, anyone in full-time education who is self-studying for a subject not offered by their school/college.

From an idea first conceived and realised in 2014 by company founder, Taqeed Uddin, a former Mathematics graduate/tutor, we have offered examination/assessment opportunities to learners since that time so have plenty of examination knowledge and experience to draw upon. We have four permanent staff members, professionally trained and all holding enhanced DBS status, to help guide you through the examination process and ensure you are prepared to sit your exam(s) on the day!

arc exams are able to assess the majority of subjects offered by Awarding Organisations, ensuring most learner assessment requirements can be catered by arc exams alone, providing a ‘one-stop shop’ service. Whilst we predominantly cater for A Level, GCSE and International GCSE and A Level science Practical Endorsement entries, we also welcome applicants for Functional Skills and AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) examinations using our dedicated IT suite. We are also approved to conduct University of Oxford Admission Tests.

Booking your exam requirements at arc exams is straightforward, just simply register using our online application form .

Our Fees List, offering competitive and transparent pricing, details all subjects/levels we currently offer. If there is any subject/qualification you are looking to sit that is not listed please get in touch, we’ll always endeavour to assist wherever possible.

We look forward to welcoming you to arc exams. If you have a query regarding any aspect of the examination process feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to help.

Taqeed Uddin

Owner

I have spent over 15 years in teaching and tutoring, primarily mathematics. After three years lecturing at Solihull College I recognised there was a need for an assessment venue, in Birmingham, to facilitate examinations for those outside of mainstream education. In 2017 I established the Academic Enrichment Centre which morphed into arc exams in September 2023.

My aim is to deliver a successful examination experience for all candidates, empowering them to achieve the grades they deserve. I’m also looking to establish partnerships with respected Distance Learning Partners/tuition groups/exam support services, enabling arc exams to provide an assessment service that is second to none.

Van Vara

Examination Officer

I have over 15 years’ experience in Further Education, working for one of the country’s largest adult learning providers. With over 10 of those years employed directly as an Examination Officer, I have acquired extensive knowledge of administering, managing, and delivering academic and vocational examinations and assessments. Successful learner outcomes and providing a positive examination experience is paramount to me, a philosophy I will continue to nurture at arc exams.

Gill Hesketh NEA/AA/CPAC

Co-ordinator

Having spent 20+ years in education and training I took up the role of the Academic Enrichment Centre’s Examination Officer in 2018. From September 2023 I moved into a newly created, part-time, role at arc exams as their NEA/AA/CPAC co-ordinator. This involves me overseeing candidates Access Arrangement requests, co-ordinating Non-Examined Assessment submissions and organising delivery of A Level Science practical’s (CPACs).

Lee Hitchen

Business Director

I’ve spent over 25 years in the examination business. The first 20, working as a Business Analyst for one of the UKs leading Awarding Organisations, primarily focussed on analysing examination data/statistics and formulating pricing. The next five years were spent working for a private examination centre, helping them achieve significant growth in both entries and centre venues. Latterly I have joined arc exams and am involved in all aspects of the business to support colleagues, drive growth and improve the customer experience.

Lubna Azam

Computer-Based Assessment Co-ordinator

Having a firm grounding in information technology, I was appointed to the role of Co-ordinator for Computer-Based examinations in 2018. My role primarily focusses on administering, arranging and conducting Functional Skills examinations, both English & Mathematics, as well as AAT accounting/bookkeeping assessments. I assist and guide learners in all aspects of their examination journey, ensuring they achieve their maximum potential.

Julie Jones

Access Arrangements Manager

For nigh on 20 years I have worked in the field of special educational needs. Up until 2021 the majority of my SEND career was spent in mainstream secondary. During this time I worked alongside the Educational Psychologist completing literacy skills assessments. In 2018 I completed the Level 7 Postgraduate Award of proficiency in Assessment for Access Arrangements (PAPAA), taking on the role of Assistant SENCO and qualified assessor for exam access arrangements.

As a qualified assessor for access arrangements I am currently self-employed, but also serve as the Access Arrangements Manager for arc exams. I oversee all areas of SEND and ensure all access arrangements are tailored to each student’s individual needs. I regularly attend CPD courses to ensure the best possible service and advice is provided.