Exams Officer - Colchester

Start Date: ASAP
Salary Range: Competitive
Location: Colchester, Essex

Key Responsibility

To manage and coordinate the efficient administration of all internal and external examinations, ensuring examinations are conducted in accordance with awarding body regulations and school policies.

Role Purpose

The Exams Officer provides administrative and organisational leadership for the school’s examination processes. The role ensures that all examinations and assessments are planned, managed, and delivered accurately, securely, and in compliance with Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) and awarding body requirements.

The post holder will oversee exam entries, timetables, invigilation arrangements, results processing, and certification while maintaining high standards of confidentiality and integrity.

The role contributes positively to the ethos, aims, and wider work of the school.

Exams Officer – Key Responsibilities

Examination Administration

• Manage the full examination cycle for internal and external exams (GCSE, A-Level, vocational qualifications where applicable).

• Liaise with awarding bodies regarding entries, amendments, and regulations.

• Register candidates and submit examination entries accurately and within deadlines.

• Produce and distribute examination timetables for students and staff.

• Coordinate rooming, seating plans, and invigilation schedules.

• Ensure secure receipt, storage, and distribution of examination papers in line with regulations.

Results and Certification

• Manage the receipt, checking, and distribution of examination results.

• Coordinate post-results services, including reviews of marking and access to scripts.

• Distribute certificates to students and maintain accurate records.

• Produce examination reports and data for senior leadership as required.

Compliance and Regulations

• Ensure all examinations are conducted in accordance with JCQ regulations and awarding body requirements.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of exam regulations and changes in procedures.

• Develop and maintain examination policies and procedures.

• Manage secure storage of confidential materials at all times.

• Support compliance with access arrangements and special consideration processes.

Invigilation Management

• Recruit, train, and deploy examination invigilators.

• Ensure invigilators are briefed on regulations and procedures.

• Oversee the smooth running of examinations and address any incidents or malpractice concerns.

Data Management and Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate examination records using school MIS systems.

• Ensure candidate data is accurate and up to date.

• Produce reports as required for senior leadership and external agencies.

Communication and Support

• Act as the main point of contact for examination queries from staff, students, parents, and awarding bodies.

• Provide guidance to staff and students regarding examination procedures and regulations.

• Support teaching staff with internal assessment and coursework submissions where required.

Additional Responsibilities

• Attend staff training (INSET) and relevant meetings where required.

• Support the school during results days and key examination periods.

• Contribute to open evenings and information events where appropriate.

• Carry out additional duties as directed by the Headteacher or School Business Manager.

The duties outlined above reflect the current requirements of the role and may be reviewed through the performance management process.

Safeguarding Statement

The school in Colchester is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and satisfactory references.

Person Specification

Experience

• Experience working in a school administrative environment (desirable)

• Experience managing data or examinations processes (desirable)

• Experience working with confidential information

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent organisational and time management skills

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy

• Ability to manage deadlines and high-pressure periods

• Good understanding of data protection and confidentiality

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Competent IT skills, including use of MIS systems and Microsoft Office

• Ability to prioritise tasks and respond flexibly to changing demands

How to Apply

If you believe this School Exams Officer role in Colchester is a good fit for you, please submit your CV below.