Examiners and volunteers

We work closely with individuals with journalistic backgrounds who examine our qualifications and take part in a range of volunteer opportunities.

Examiners

We are keen to hear from individuals with an experienced journalistic background who are interested in examining for our qualifications and end-point assessments.

If you are interested in helping to ensure journalism training standards are maintained in line with current industry requirements and can give us a commitment to provide a worthwhile service to students and trainees, then we would like to hear from you.

Examiners are provided guidance and training and there is a comprehensive support network throughout our marking teams. Led by chief examiners, you will mark sample assessments and be given a mentor to guide you through the marking process.

Liaising with our assessment manager, submissions will be allocated to you with a completion deadline. Moderators ensure consistency of standards across all markers and will provide you with constructive feedback each time you mark.

Fees are paid for marking and payment depends on the level and number of submissions you mark.

Key skills required to be an effective examiner are:

  • Attention to detail
  • Speed and accuracy
  • Good organisational skills
  • Concentration and rigour
  • Patience
  • Consistency

NCTJ requirements include:

  • Evidence of high journalistic standards
  • Preferably NCTJ qualified
  • Reference from a senior working editor

If you would like to be considered for an examiner role, please email your CV to Rachel Manby, head of quality and assessment.

Confirmation of appointment is subject to a telephone interview and satisfactory completion of a sample marking exercise.

Volunteers

If you have an experienced journalistic background and would like to support the wider work of the NCTJ, please get in touch with us to discuss volunteer opportunities – we would love to hear from you.

We are keen to talk to individuals who are interested in supporting the Journalism Diversity Fund, joining our accreditation panels, or supporting our work in qualification development. Interested parties should contact info@nctj.com for more information.

Keep in touch

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