GCSE English pupils will be allowed to type their exam answers on a computer – but it must not be the end for children’s handwriting

Mellissa Prunty, the chair of the National Handwriting Association and divisional lead for occupational therapy at Brunel University, has responded to the news that Pearson (Edexcel exam board) is planning to allow students sitting GCSE English Language and Literature to take on-screen exams by summer 2025. Other GCSE courses would be available on screen by 2030. The exam board argues that it is offering choice and greater access for all pupils. Mellissa Prunty has made a statement for the Telegraph, also featured in a Daily Mail article, saying that handwriting is one of many literacy skills that young people need to have, and that it isn’t a question of choosing one method over another. She stresses the importance of learning and using handwriting from a young age.