Become a marker

There are many benefits to marking for SQA, including:

• Professional development - learn about assessment and quality assurance techniques.
• Insights - help improve your students' results and experiences.
• Confidence - help your colleagues implement and understand SQA processes.
• Satisfaction - help SQA maintain the quality of qualifications.
• Rewards - we pay you for your commitment and effort.
• Flexible working

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

Learn more about being a marker

Further information can be found by visiting our marking course on SQA Accademy 

To be a marker, you need:

• a minimum of 2 years current teaching experience at the level you wish to mark (this can include a probationary year if the whole course has been delivered).

Please note: if you are currently delivering on a part time basis you must be able to demonstrate experience in delivering the full course.

• to demonstrate excellence in assessing to the national standard.
• to work professionally and co-operatively with other appointees and SQA staff.
• to demonstrate excellent organisational and administrative skills with an ability to meet deadlines.
• a home computer or laptop with internet connection and a private email address.

Each year, on completion of the duties outlined in the marker contract, markers will be measured against the following Key Performance Measures (KPMs) and informed of the outcome in relation to their performance.

• Mark the 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 behaviours outlined in the Terms and Conditions of Appointment which support SQA’s values.

Tina, Drama teacher, Aberdeen

'I have become a more confident teacher as I have a better understanding of what the standard is and how to apply it, which I can then pass onto my pupils who also benefit.'

Read about Tina's experience as a marker with SQA

Lexi, Dance teacher, Aberdeenshire

'The professional development you receive from marking the scripts (QPs) and also partaking in professional dialogue with colleagues who share your passion, in my opinion is the best CPD you can receive.'

Read about Lexi's experience as a marker with SQA

Jon, Physical Education teacher

'It’s 100% an opportunity I would recommend, especially those in the early stages of their careers who want to upskill themselves on certificated awards.'

Read about Jon's experience as a marker with SQA

Jillian, Modern Languages teacher, Glasgow

'Becoming a marker for SQA has benefited me in so many ways – it is the best CPD I have ever done! It has allowed me to deepen my knowledge of the SQA exam system, gain invaluable experience, improve my teaching, network and make new connections.'

Read about Jillian's experience as a marker with SQA