The publication of GCSE results makes it apparent that there is a cohort of young people at Key Stage 4 (KS4) who do not achieve a Grade ‘G’ in GCSE. The composition of this group is mixed, and the reasons for low attainment are various and complex. This article is concerned with those students who do not achieve the standard required for a grade G on account of the severity of their learning difficulties. A consideration of the options for alternative accreditation at KS4 for such pupils was part of the brief given to the NFER in relation to the recently completedSmall Steps Surveycommissioned by SCAA. Felicity Fletcher‐Campbell, who, with Barbara Lee, was joint Project Leader, reports on the findings from part of the pr