Exams Administration

Information and resources for exams officers to plan ahead and stay on track throughout the whole exams lifecycle, from entries to results day.

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On behalf of everyone here at AQA

Thank you for all of your hard work over the summer series.

This has been one of the biggest exam series to date: we’ve had 3.8 million qualification entries from just under 7,000 schools and colleges.

Exams Officer Engagement Team

AQA have invested in a new Exams Officer Engagement Team to develop a stronger connection to our Exams Officer community. We are your voice within AQA and are delighted to attend network events or support with the creation of new ones in your area. Every member of the team has been an Exams Officer before they joined AQA, so we understand the demands of the job, and the support you may need.

Our key areas of focus are:

Engagement and Collaboration
Network Events
Development and Support

What is a network event and why are they valuable to you as an Exams Officer?

Network event meetings give Exams Officers the chance to meet and support each other, share best practice, discuss challenges and celebrate successes.

If you’d like to be part of an Exams Officer network, or if you already manage or attend an independent network and would like us to join you, please complete our short form with your details and a member of the team will get back to you.

We know that there are already existing network events where our Exams Officer communities regularly meet. As it’s not always possible for us to attend these, we’re keen to establish new networks, to make sure you have a place to give your feedback, receive exam board updates and, most importantly, share best practice.

Our Customer Service team are also available to support you in their usual way including through our live chat on Centre Services, phone or email and are your first point of contact for enquiries.

If you’re not sure which team member looks after your centre, please contact us on our team email address examsofficerengagement@aqa.org.uk and the relevant team member will get back to you.

Meet the team

Gemma Miller

Exams officer Engagement Manager

Email: gmiller@aqa.org.uk

Before joining AQA in January 2024, I worked for 15 years at another Awarding Body where I undertook various roles in Customer Services and Assessment, always with a heavy focus on the Exams Officer and Customer Experience. My aim is to make AQA the easiest board to do Business with and ensure we put the Exams Officer at the heart of key decisions which affect your role and tasks you have to fulfill.

I have a superb team of experienced Exams Officers who are here to support you and be your voice.

Vic Taylor

Region: North East of England

Email: vtaylor@aqa.org.uk

Before joining AQA I spent 12 years in education, 7 of those as an Exams Officer. In mypreviouscentre I held a dual role and therefore understand the challenges faced by those responsible for more than one role.I’m dedicated to raising the profile of Exams Officers and giving stakeholders an opportunity to shape future developments. As part of my role,I’m keen to develop strong, professional working relationships with schools in the North East, Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire.

Jonathan Edwards

Region: Midlands

Email: jedwards@aqa.org.uk

I started as an invigilator and worked up to exams manager of an independent, private candidate centre before joining AQA. Being disabled and struggling with my own mental health, I empathise with how hard this process can be for everyone involved, no matter your situation. I’m keen to work with my Exams Officer community across the midlands to give you and your learners the best chance to succeed and make sure you’re fully supported in your role.

Jo Lemon

Region: North London and East of England

Email: jlemon@aqa.org.uk

I’ve been involved in exams for 14 years and from 2016-2024 as an Exams Officer for an independent school which offered Alevels, GCSE, and international qualifications. I have the utmost respect for anyone who becomes an Exams Officer, and I am committed to supporting them and helping AQA develop new processes and procedures with the learners, centre and the Exams Officer in mind.

Gemma Moody

Region: South London and South East

Email: gmoody@aqa.org.uk

Having worked as an Exams Officer in a large 11-16 state secondary school, I know first-hand how challenging, yet rewarding the Exams Officer role can be. I’m excited to work in collaboration with Exams Officers in the South East area, offering support and training. Whether you are new in post, or an experienced Exams Officer, I’m here to support you and your learners.

Samantha Vowles

Region: South West of England

Email: svowles@aqa.org.uk

Before joining AQA I worked as an Exams Officer for 25 years, in FE/HE Colleges and an 11-16 state funded boarding school. I’ve lived the struggles and challenges that Exams Officers face and want to help make your AQA journey the best it can be, by listening to your feedback and ideas, and by being your voice in AQA. I look forward to working with you and helping support you in your role.

Sarah Robinson

Region: North West of England

Email: sarah.robinson@aqa.org.uk

My career in Exams began in 2007 – initially as Exams Officer in a large independent school and then as Exams Manager in a busy Sixth Form College - and I have experience with a wide range of exams and assessments. Immediately prior to joining AQA, I was a JCQ inspector which gave me a valuable view of the Exams system from a different perspective. I am passionate about Exams Officers being recognised for their dedication and hard work, and I see my role as helping to create a ‘one team’ approach between AQA and Centres. If you’re in the North West, I’m ready to work with you.

Upcoming exams officer training

Visit our professional development page to see the training for Exams Officers that we have on offer. All courses are free of charge and are a variety of face to face sessions and online webinars.

Find training here