Exams Officer

This post presents an opportunity to join a well-established independent school set in the foothills of Exmoor and the North Devon coastline. 

The principle and operational purpose of the Exams Officer role is to administer all aspects of external examinations. Further responsibilities are as follows:

Core Responsibilities

1. Exams Management

• Administer all aspects of external examinations, adhering to JCQ and awarding body regulations.
• Maintain confidentiality and security of examination materials.
• Act as the primary point of contact for external awarding bodies.
• Keep up-to-date with regulatory changes and implement them effectively.

2. Planning and Preparation

• Develop and maintain efficient systems for exams administration.
• Create and work to an annual exams plan, ensuring key deadlines are met.
• Communicate clear internal deadlines for exam-related information.
• Liaise with internal stakeholders, including the SENCo, to implement access arrangements and ensure inclusivity.

3. Entry and Registration

• Manage candidate registrations, entries, and withdrawals in line with awarding body requirements.
• Ensure timely submission of entries and amendments, minimising late fees.
• Co-ordinate with the Finance Department for fee payments.

4. Pre-Exams Logistics

• Recruit, train, and manage invigilators.
• Oversee timetabling, rooming, seating, and resourcing for examinations.
• Resolve timetable clashes and manage overnight supervision if needed.
• Distribute exam timetables and guidelines to candidates and parents.

5. Conduct of Examinations

• Ensure examinations are conducted in line with regulations.
• Deploy trained invigilators and manage unexpected issues.
• Investigate and report suspected malpractice.
• Handle emergency access arrangements during exams.

6. Results and Post-Exams

• Manage the distribution of results and certificates.
• Administer post-results services, including reviews and appeals.
• Support the analysis and reporting of exam results for internal stakeholders.

Other Responsibilities

• Regularly review and update exam policies and procedures.
• Provide advice and training to staff, students, and parents on examination protocols.
• Support mock exams and internal assessments.
• Participate in professional development and appraisal processes.

Key Skills Required

• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Knowledge of JCQ and awarding body regulations.
• General understanding of and/or willingness to learn exam software and MIS platforms.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management

Hours of work

This is mainly a part-time appointment (22.5 hours per week), working term time only. However full-time work is required during internal and external exam periods (e.g. early May to late June) and a further three weeks end of August/beginning of September. Extra hours worked can be taken in lieu at other times of the academic year. The school operates Monday to Friday, with normal hours between 8:30am and 5:00pm. Due to the requirements of the role, flexibility towards working hours is required.

In addition to a competitive salary, we provide free parking, daily lunch, access to our outstanding sports facilities and a comprehensive benefits package.