As a current GCSE Art student, I understand how an exam environment can affect the performance of students. We used to have the privilege of listening to music during our exams, a simple comfort that eased the stress of the situation and fostered creativity. However, this was deemed as cheating when an incident occurred where one individual exploited this privilege to listen to a tutorial during an exam, and, as a result, this was taken away from all of us. Yet, it seems unfair to penalise the larger group for the actions of one individual.

Edexcel, the examination authority, could create a library of approved songs that we could listen to during exams. This would prevent any potential for cheating, but still offer the much-needed relief that music can provide during high-stress exam periods. Studies, including those published in the Journal of Consumer Research, have shown that ambient noise or music can enhance creativity and performance (Mehta, R., Zhu, R. (2012). Effect of Noise on Intellectual and Creative Task Performance. Journal of Consumer Research.). 

I believe this could be a solution that adheres to exam conditions while meeting the emotional needs of students. In a system where creativity should be emphasized, this could be a beneficial step forward. Let's not punish the many for the actions of one. Sign this petition if you, like me, believe that GCSE Art students should be allowed to listen to music during exams, whilst ensuring the integrity of the examination process.