Myths about examining and moderating
If you've ever thought about examining but rejected it as an option, why not examine the myths and see what some of our examiners and moderators have to say.
Myth: marking is too time-consuming
Examining is hard work for around three weeks. However, you'll get excellent support at every stage of the process. If you're well organised, it's a flexible way to earn money while gaining valuable professional development. It's a great way to earn extra income which will always come in useful.
If you don't want the year-round extra pressure of a promotion, examining gives you a career boost while only requiring intensive working for three weeks!
Robin Wichard GCSE History
Myth: people only become examiners for the money
The money is extremely useful. But it's the sheer reward of doing it that matters most.
Sheila Butler GCSE and A-level Religious Studies
Most examiners cite professional development as the key reason for getting involved in examining in the first place. Benefits include the insight gained into mark schemes, the stimulation of exercising professional judgement and the chance to network with subject colleagues.
I gained a much greater understanding of the specification and how to apply the assessment criteria to candidates' work.
Sue Neiland A-level Psychology
Perhaps the greatest single motivation is the constant thought that what I am doing is both worthwhile and important.
Joe McCann GCSE Religious Studies
Myth: examining involves too much admin
The process of marking is becoming more efficient. AQA is streamlining procedures by using technology to reduce the amount of administration.
The admin is much easier on screen.
A-level Geography
It's progress and that's the way we're moving forward – much more efficient and much more accurate.
Roger Taylor Chief Examiner
The lack of paperwork is a great blessing.
A-level Geography
Myth: my school loses out if I'm away from the classroom on examiner training
An increasing number of examiners are being standardised online removing the need for them to attend meetings and be away from the classroom. If you do need to attend a meeting on a school day, you can claim a Teacher Release Voucher. The voucher will cover the cost of a supply teacher but your centre can use it in whatever way it wishes. And examiners and moderators add value to schools by sharing their knowledge of what's needed to get the results that students' work deserves.
