An Exams Officer is responsible for the planning, administration, and secure delivery of examinations in a school, college, or training centre, ensuring all exams run fairly and in line with awarding-body regulations.
Core Responsibilities
Exam administration
Enter candidates for exams accurately and on time
Manage exam timetables, rooms, seating plans, and invigilation
Liaise with awarding bodies (e.g. JCQ, AQA, Pearson, OCR, WJEC)
Compliance & regulations
Ensure exams follow strict exam-board and JCQ rules
Maintain exam security (papers, storage, access)
Manage access arrangements and reasonable adjustments
During exams
Brief and supervise invigilators
Handle incidents, emergencies, and malpractice procedures
Ensure correct conduct and reporting
Post-exam duties
Dispatch scripts securely
Manage results days, enquiries about results (EARs), and appeals
Oversee certificates distribution and records retention
Data & communication
Maintain accurate candidate records
Communicate clearly with staff, students, parents, and exam boards
Key Skills & Attributes
Excellent organisation and attention to detail
Strong administrative and IT skills
Ability to work under pressure and meet fixed deadlines
Clear communication and diplomacy
Integrity and understanding of confidentiality
Qualifications & Experience
No single required qualification, but:
GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths are usually expected
Experience in school administration is highly valued
Training in JCQ regulations and exam-board systems (e.g. A2C, EDI)
Many Exams Officers gain certification through local authorities or professional bodies
Working Pattern
Often term-time plus, with peak workloads during exam seasons (e.g. May–June, January)
Can involve early starts and occasional extended hours during exams