Pearson Plc
England
Job type:
Full Time, Part Time, Permanent
Start date:
04 November 2025
Apply by:
3 November 2025
Job overview
Job Description: Test Administrator (Scotland)
TIMSS 2027 Field Trial, March 2026
PIRLS 2026 Main Study, May–June 2026
Background
Pearson is responsible for the delivery of two international assessment studies in schools in Scotland:
PIRLS – The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) assesses the reading achievement of pupils at about age 10 (P5 in Scotland), every five years across about 60 countries. In addition to reading achievement, PIRLS gathers information on how pupils' performance is related to their attitudes, gender, and background. PIRLS includes questionnaires for pupils, teachers, headteachers, and parents/carers, providing rich contextual data for interpretation of the assessment.
TIMSS – The Trends in Maths and Science Study (TIMSS) assesses the performance in maths and science of pupils at ages 10 and 14 (P5 and S2 in Scotland) every four years across about 60 countries. It provides internationally comparative data on pupils' achievement in maths and science, and how their performance is related to their attitudes, gender, and background. TIMSS also includes questionnaires for pupils, teachers, headteachers, and parents/carers, offering valuable perspectives on the teaching of mathematics and science.
Pearson is recruiting external Test Administrators to administer these studies in schools in Scotland.
More information:
In each study, the pupil assessment is delivered online and split into two assessment sections followed by a questionnaire. Test Administrators (TAs) need to be confident using technology. Training will be provided, and schools will have an IT technician available on the day. Online training is mandatory to ensure standardisation in delivery.
Purpose
Test Administrators (TAs) administer pupil online assessments and questionnaires within designated schools, ensuring that international procedures are fully followed. Personnel will be trained remotely and must complete pre-training activities and attend a live training/Q&A session two to three weeks prior to each test window. Preparation includes reading the TA manual and completing short online assessments.
TAs will be trained and contracted separately for each study, allowing participation in one or both depending on availability and location.
Main Responsibilities
Liaise with the School Coordinator or Headteacher regarding test day arrangements (room bookings, layout, IT access).
Ensure sufficient computers/laptops are available for all pupils.
Confirm pupils are sitting their assigned online assessment.
Administer assessments and questionnaires according to international standards and maintain their security.
Record timing of sessions accurately.
Record pupil participation and complete administrative paperwork.
Return administration documents to Pearson after completion.
Remind schools that teacher, school, and parent/carer questionnaires need completion by the test date.
Set up and administer Pearson-supplied devices when required.
Relevant Experience
Experience teaching or working in a school classroom.
Confident with IT applications, particularly onscreen assessments.
Experience invigilating tests or examinations.
Competencies Required
Ability to adhere to procedural standards.
Confident troubleshooting basic technology issues.
Excellent verbal communication skills.
Strong organisational and administrative skills.
Ability to identify, communicate, and escalate issues effectively.
Ability to work within set timeframes.
Essential Requirements
Availability for at least one of the following studies:
TIMSS: Remote training in February 2026; availability Monday–Friday (minimum 3 days/week) from 2 March to 2 April 2026.
PIRLS: Remote training in April 2026; availability Monday–Friday (minimum 3 days/week) from 6 May to 19 June 2026.
Arrival at school by 08:00; finish around 13:00.
Car and driving licence (use of public transport encouraged where practical).
Current Scottish PVG scheme certificate covering work with children.
Commitment to safeguarding and welfare of all pupils.
Desirable Requirements
Occasional overnight stays may be required to reach schools by 08:00. Test Administrators should indicate if they are able to stay overnight (expenses paid).
Work to be Contracted
Pearson will collect information on availability and provide contracts for one or both studies, depending on demand and location.
Application Guidance
It is essential for Test Administrators to have classroom-based experience.
When completing the application form:
Select "Yes" when asked, "Do you have vocational or industrial/occupational experience in the sector(s) for which you are applying?"
Select "Work based Experience – Classroom based experience" from the drop-down list.
Recruiter contact:
Call us
About Pearson Plc
Pearson Plc
80 Strand
London
WC2R 0RL
United Kingdom
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