Principal Examiner - BTEC Level 3 Nationals in Computing (AAQ)

About Pearson

Pearson is dedicated to lifelong learning and educational innovation across a wide range of general and vocational qualifications recognized both in the UK and internationally. We strive to advance teaching and learning through technology and creative approaches.

Role Purpose

The Principal Examiner role is focused on maintaining the consistency and standards of externally assessed units and modules, ensuring alignment with unit specifications and assessment criteria, specifically for BTEC Level 3 Nationals in Computing - Unit 2 Computer Network Security and Encryption (60306T). This position includes overseeing examiner standardisation and supporting unbiased, valid, and reliable assessment results.

Responsibilities

• Upkeep of professional integrity representing Pearson positively in all activities.
• Familiarise and comply with all Pearson policies and guidelines prior to contract commencement.
• Protect confidentiality regarding centres and learner information.
• Participate in requested training sessions and meetings relevant to the position.
• Meet deadlines conscientiously and ensure high-quality work.
• Promote and uphold diversity, equity, and inclusion standards professionally.
• Use personal IT equipment suitable for Pearson software with proper security and connectivity.
• Maintain effective communication with Pearson staff and centres for all allocated tasks.
• Report any suspected malpractice, maladministration, or safeguarding concerns promptly.
• Assure timely delivery of assigned units or components.
• Update marking schemes based on candidate responses and supervisor feedback.
• Lead and partake in pre-standardisation, standardisation meetings, appeals, post-series reviews, and examination appeal boards as necessary.
• Perform validity checks on marking items as agreed in meetings.
• Conduct quality assurance marking and related supervisory tasks.
• Prepare standardisation documentation and provide support to supervisors and examiners.
• Sample and review initial marking performances and re-examine as appropriate within the Pearson marking framework.
• Oversee the progress of supervisors and examiners throughout the marking process.
• Review candidate responses for clarity and provide escalation support within quality assurance.
• Support multiple versions of examination papers during the contract period.
• Report outcomes post-standardisation and marking completion, completing feedback forms for supervisors and examiners.
• Contribute to awarding activities by writing reports, recommending grade boundaries, and participating in awarding committees.
• Complete a Senior Assessment Associate review reflecting on self-performance with the assessment team.
• Submit performance reports for examination series and candidates.
• Respond to complaints when required, providing formal written support.

Skills and Competencies

• Proven expertise in quality assurance and assessment processes.
• Background in moderation and marking regulatory qualifications.
• Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
• Experience coordinating and delivering training such as standardisation workshops.
• Thorough understanding of the relevant subject specification and assessment criteria.
• Evidence of leadership in quality assurance activities is preferred.
• Advanced IT proficiency is advantageous.
• Experience in leadership roles within qualification delivery is desirable.
• Familiarity with regulatory compliance considerations.
• Report writing experience in regulated environments.

Educational and Professional Requirements

• Vocational role applicants require at least one full academic year of recent teaching experience (within the past 8 years) in the relevant subject or sector, or equivalent comprehensive knowledge of Pearson assessment and quality practices within the past 5 years.
• Evidence of relevant continuing professional development (CPD) within the last 12 months.
• A UK-recognized teaching qualification is mandatory.
• For general qualifications (e.g., GCSE, A Level), applicants should hold a degree and a UK-recognized teaching qualification.
• Successful candidates will be requested to provide evidence of qualifications and experience.

Additional Information

Applicants will join a growing community of examiners, moderators, and verifiers supporting Pearson’s assessment services.

Application deadline: 16 August 2026 at midnight.