SQA Chief Invigilator

SQA CHIEF INVIGILATOR | Permanent, Exam Time Only

-Applications will be considered as and when we receive them, so early applications are encouraged.

-We reserve the right to close this vacancy upon receipt of sufficient suitable applications.

-The SQA Chief Invigilator will work only during fixed dates throughout the academic year i.e. Examination Time. Exact periods of work will be communicated by the Line Manager.

Job Purpose

• The SQA Chief Invigilator (CI) is responsible for the organisation and supervision of invigilation of all external assessments for National Qualifications, in accordance with SQA policy and procedures as detailed in the Invigilator Handbook.

• The activities will be under the direction of staff from SQA. Close liaison will be required with the Head of Centre and/or SQA Co-ordinator/Examinations Officer throughout the external assessment period to ensure the effective management of the external assessments.

• To support internal mock examinations for National Qualifications and any other internal assessments as agreed with the SQA Co-ordinator/Examinations Officer

Accountable To

Examinations Officer and Deputy Head (Academic)

Key Responsibilities

The following provides an overview of the main duties and responsibilities for the post holder but is not exhaustive and can be subject to change:

• Responsible for the secure storage and management of external assessments before and during the examination cycle ensuring compliance with SQA security requirements.

• Responsible for ensuring that external assessments, including those for Assessment Arrangements candidates, are conducted in accordance with SQA policy and procedures.

• Deliver a training session(s) to all Invigilators prior to the examination period.

• Allocate and advise Invigilators of their duties and dates required – updating as required throughout the examination cycle.

• Maintain an accurate record of training attended and sessions worked by all Invigilators throughout the examination period and verify all claims for fees prior to submission to SQA.

• Supervise Invigilators and conduct daily briefings to the Invigilation team prior to the start of each examination session.

• Responsible for the accurate submission of candidates’ external assessment materials to SQA.

• Responsible with the SQA Co-ordinator/Examinations Officer for the invigilators appointed by the school for the running of examinations.

• Take an ethical approach and work proactively to avoid malpractice among students and staff, taking all reasonable steps to prevent the occurrence of any malpractice/maladministration before, during the course of and after examinations have taken place.

In accordance with SQA’s guidelines, complete comprehensive reports on any irregularities in the conduct of an external assessment and submit to SQA where necessary. For example:

• any incident concerning possible malpractice

• any issue concerning the content of a question paper

• the unauthorised removal of a question paper or examination material from the examination room either by candidates, invigilation or centre staff

• faulty question papers, faulty digital question paper discs or faulty audio CDs

• any instances of sickness, interruptions or disturbances during an assessment

Successful candidates must:

• have internet access, basic IT skills and a personal email address

• have excellent organisational skills

• be suitable to work within an education environment

• be physically able to undertake the duties of the role

• not be an employee of the centre or associated with the centre

• live within easy reach of the centre

Competitive remuneration and benefits package including:-

• Staff lunches


• Access to school buses on school bus routes for all staff (small charge payable)


• Professional learning and development opportunities


• Employee Assistance Programme


• Opportunity to benefit from the use of the many school facilities; libraries; sports facilities etc


• Death in service benefits all staff


• Opportunity to join our community and contribute to social, music, drama and other events and activities.