Becoming an SQA marker - Craig's story

Our markers perform a role which is vital to the success of the exam diet. They ensure that candidates’ answers to the exams they sit are marked to a national standard, and within a specified timeframe.

Craig, a Graphic Communications teacher based in South Lanarkshire, has been teaching for 9 years. He says the process of becoming a marker was easy and, although he initially felt nervous, he has benefitted from being a marker immensely. His confidence has increased significantly, and it has benefited his pupils – shown by their much-improved results.

Why did you apply to become an SQA marker?

I wanted to learn exactly what SQA are looking to assess so that my pupils could receive the most accurate information and be confident in their teacher.

What were your perceptions of the role of an SQA marker?

My perceptions before marking was that SQA is an unknown group of people from a large company. Markers though are teachers like me, wanting what is best for our pupils and wanting to learn our trade to an expert level.

Can you describe the process to becoming a marker for SQA?

The process of becoming a marker was easy. I just applied via the website and received information on the next steps for my training.

How did you feel when you received your first exam scripts to mark?

When I received my first batch of scripts, I felt nervous. I felt nervous of the weight of responsibility I had in potentially deciding a pupil or candidates career path. But I was made to feel much more comfortable and realised I was following a process and there to uphold the standards for assessment.

How has becoming a marker for SQA benefited you?

I have benefited from being a marker immensely. I feel like an expert in my subject, and it has led to more leadership opportunities. I now take part in quality assuring assessment materials for SQA, verifying for another subject, and I deliver Career-long Professional Learning (CLPL) sessions in my local authority on how best to deliver certain subjects. My pupils have benefitted too which has been shown by their much-improved results.

What advice would you offer to colleagues who are considering applying to become an SQA marker?

To anyone who is considering becoming a marker - do it. Your confidence in delivering certificated subjects will increase significantly. I've heard before from colleagues 'I don't know the subject well enough. I couldn't mark it'. This is even more reason to do it. You'll learn very quickly, and you'll feel like an expert!

SQA has opportunities for markers across all subjects and levels, and full training will be provided. For further information, and to apply, you can visit our website, or contact us with queries.