Exams Manager – Exams Compliance & Operations Lead
Experienced in examinations and looking for something a little different from a traditional school?
We're recruiting for a growing education organisation in Canterbury that supports young people whose educational journeys haven't always followed a traditional route.
Through personalised education, my client helps learners build confidence, achieve qualifications and move forward.
We're looking for an experienced Exams Officer or Exams Manager with strong JCQ knowledge to take ownership of the examinations service, ensure everything runs smoothly and help shape its future.
Whether you're an established Exams Manager or an experienced Exams Officer ready for greater responsibility, this is an opportunity to bring your knowledge and ideas to a supportive, growing organisation.
Why consider this opportunity?
- Make your mark: Take responsibility for the examinations function, with the freedom to improve processes and introduce new ideas.
- A different educational environment: Support young people through personalised education outside the traditional school setting.
- A supportive team: Work with colleagues who genuinely care about helping learners succeed.
- Flexible working: Full-time is preferred, but reduced hours may be considered for the right candidate.
- And yes, it's a dog-friendly workplace!
What you'll be doing
You’ll lead the compliant administration and delivery of GCSE, iGCSE, A-level and other public examinations, including:
- Managing examination entries, timetables, seating arrangements and candidate communications.
- Ensuring compliance with JCQ regulations and awarding-body requirements, including examination policies, inspections and secure procedures.
- Overseeing the secure handling of examination papers and completed scripts.
- Coordinating invigilator recruitment, training and examination-day arrangements.
- Working closely with teaching teams and SEN colleagues to support access arrangements and special considerations.
- Managing results days, certificates, reviews of marking and other post-results services.
- Supporting private candidates through the examination process.
- Reviewing examination data, identifying improvements and helping develop the service.
What we're looking for
You’ll have previous experience as an Exams Officer, Senior Exams Officer, Exams Manager or in a similar examinations role within a school, college or examination centre.
You’ll also bring:
- Strong, up-to-date knowledge of JCQ regulations and awarding-body requirements.
- Hands-on experience coordinating public examinations, including entries, secure materials, invigilation, examination-day delivery and results.
- The confidence to work independently, take responsibility for examination operations and meet awarding-body deadlines.
- Excellent organisational skills, accuracy and attention to detail.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to manage competing priorities during busy examination periods.
It would also be great if you have:
- Experience supporting private candidates.
- Experience preparing for or supporting JCQ inspections.
- An interest in helping develop and grow the examinations service.
Salary and working arrangements
Salary: £28,000–£36,000 FTE (pro rata if reduced hours are agreed).
Location: Canterbury, Kent – office-based.
Hours: Monday to Friday, normally 8.30am–5pm.
Some flexibility will be required during examination periods, including occasional earlier starts (from approximately 7am), later finishes (up to approximately 6pm) and availability during agreed school holiday periods, particularly around examination preparation and August results.
Additional hours will be agreed in advance wherever possible, with time off in lieu available during quieter periods.
Safeguarding
My client is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and appropriate safer recruitment checks.
Exams Compliance & Operations Lead in Canterbury employer: 4Front Recruitment
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