To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what support is made available from central Government funds for examination officers; at what grades they are employed by local authorities; what arrangements are in place for (a) their continuing professional development and (b) the monitoring of standards; what steps he has taken to ensure recruitment and retention to support the introduction of diplomas; and if he will make a statement. (181016)

Examination officers are employed directly by schools and colleges. The grade at which they are employed is determined by their job description, which should be referenced against nationally agreed scales for salary and grading based on the specified duties and levels of responsibility.

The National Assessment Agency (NAA), a division of the qualifications and curriculum authority, is responsible for supporting the operational delivery of examinations locally, and within this remit to support examination officers. The NAA provides training courses for new examination officers, a field team which provides tailored support and advice, and online resources. A specific programme on the administration of the diploma is supporting retention through keeping examination officers fully informed about the arrangements for these new qualifications.

The monitoring of operational standards within the examinations system is undertaken by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ), representing the awarding bodies which provide general qualifications.