A Marker marks candidates’ work in line with detailed marking instructions and in accordance with SQA policy and procedures.
The prime role is to ensure consistent application of national standards when marking candidate submission(s).
These activities will be under the direction of the Principal Assessor or one of their senior team and staff from SQA’s Qualifications Development and Operations business directorates as appropriate.
Outline of duties
Attend appropriate standardisation meeting(s) as required
Mark to national standards in line with general marking instructions
Complete marking duties in accordance with specified procedures and timescales
Submit a detailed Marker report in accordance with specified procedures and timescales
Selection Criteria
Marker candidates must:
Have a minimum of 2 years current teaching experience in delivering the qualifications at the level they wish to mark (if currently delivering on a part time basis be able to demonstrate experience in delivering the full course).
Be able to demonstrate excellence in assessing to the national standard.
Be able to work professionally and co-operatively with other appointees and SQA staff
Be able to demonstrate excellent organisational and administrative skills with an ability to meet deadlines.
Have a home computer or laptop with Broadband internet connection and a private email address.
Key Performance Measures for Markers
Each year, on completion of the duties outlined in the Marker contract specification, the Marker will be measured against the following Key Performance Measures (KPMs) and informed of the outcome in relation to their performance.
Mark agreed allocation in line with detailed marking instructions.
Submit marks, return marked materials where appropriate and complete administrative tasks by specified dates and in accordance with SQA policy and instructions.
Submit a detailed marker report on completion of marking allocation, providing feedback on examination performance.
Demonstrate behaviors’ outlined in the Terms and Conditions of Appointment which support SQA’s values.
E-marking
The majority of exam scripts are now marked using an online marking system. E-marking maximises efficiency, effectiveness and security, and helps us to ensure quality assurance.
Steps to becoming a marker
The graphic below shows the key steps to becoming an e-marker.
How long do I need to be teaching in order to be able to apply to mark?
In order to be an SQA marker, you need to have a minimum of two years experience of teaching the subject at the level you wish to mark.
Can I apply to mark when someone else in my department already marks?
Yes, as long as you are still able to attend the mandatory marker meeting. If you do not attend the markers meeting you will not be permitted to mark for that year.
When will I get my invitation to mark for next year?
We send invitations to mark from mid-November onwards.
Do I have to reapply to mark each year?
No, if you successfully achieve the Key Performance Measures (KPMs) set you will automatically be re-invited to mark the following year. We will inform you if you do not achieve the KPMs set.
Can I mark more than one component?
Yes, many of our markers mark more than one component. We just need to be sure that the marking periods do not overlap.
Can I mark more than one level?
Yes, many of our markers mark more than one level. We just need to be sure that the marking periods do not overlap.
Can I mark more than one subject?
Yes, if you are qualified in more than one subject and teach the subjects you wish to mark then this is possible as long as the marking periods do not overlap.
How many scripts do I have to mark?
This varies from subject to subject and across levels. We calculate the number of scripts you mark based on a script throughput rate. This equates to the time spent marking so that most markers will spend roughly the same amount of time marking for us.
