Marker - NAPLAN position description

The VCAA will employ and train sessional employees to mark student responses for the NAPLAN writing test, using an online marking platform. Applications are invited from teachers, retired teachers and suitably qualified people for the role of NAPLAN marker. 

Training and marking

After appointment, markers will be required to complete a combination of a training module created by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) and online workshops covering the marking software, protocols and prompt specific training on 16 March 2024. Group leaders and professional leaders will be required to complete additional training specific to their roles. The marking of the NAPLAN writing tests will be home based. Marking is expected to begin on Sunday 17 March 2024 for experienced markers and Monday 18 March 2024 for new markers. Markers need to complete the mandatory training modules and the training session to be eligible to mark.

Commitment

Following training, markers will use the online marking platform to mark student scripts. All marking takes place remotely. At-home marking will require markers to be contactable by phone or online within the hours of their marking commitment (see below table). 

Marker shifts

• For experienced markers, marking will begin on Sunday 17 March 2024 from 8.30am to 5pm.
  
• For new markers, marking will begin on Monday 18 March 2024 according to designated shift (day: 8:30am-4pm; evening: 3:30pm-10pm).
• There will be no marking over the Easter period. The marking centre will be closed (Friday 29 March to Monday 1 April 2024).
• Marking will continue until all scripts are completed, expected Friday 26 April 2024. 
  

Role and responsibilities

A marker is monitored by a group leader, who reports to a professional leader.

As a marker you are required to:

• maintain the security and confidentiality of all assessment information and materials
  
• undertake marker training in accordance with NAPLAN procedures and instructions
• mark scripts accurately in accordance with advice given by the VCAA, and be prepared to receive ongoing support and instruction from professional leaders and group leaders as part of quality assurance protocols
• ensure accurate recording of all marks
• maintain a consistent rate of script marking and attend training at agreed dates and times
• mark for the minimum number of hours for each shift (four hours continuously each day shift- three hours continuously each evening shift) six days a week
• follow marking operation procedures as detailed in the NAPLAN Marking Guide provided in early March.

Mandatory eligibility requirements

Markers are required to:

• have a VIT teacher registration number that is not suspended or deregistered OR undergo/have a current National Criminal Records History Check
• have shown a demonstrated understanding of assessment based on criteria and standards
• have shown a demonstrated ability to follow instructions correctly
• be available for training and maintain commitment through the marking operation (approximately five weeks)
• be able to accurately mark NAPLAN writing scripts using the criteria in the NAPLAN Marking Guide and marking framework presented in training 
• have good computer literacy
• have access to a computer that meets the IT requirements
  
• be willing and able to work from home.
  

Applying for NAPLAN marking roles

To apply for the position of Marker:

• make a marker application in SSMS (Sessional Staff Management System)
  • previous markers/applicants will need to use their VCAA ID and password
  • new applicants will need to set up an account
• indicate your shift preferences in the survey, e.g. Day/ Evening 

If you wish to be considered for a group leader or professional leader role, you can indicate that as part of the application process. 

Administrative arrangements

By accepting the position of marker, you will become a sessional employee of the VCAA for the period of the marking operation.

Payment

Markers are paid for every script they mark during marking. In 2024 this rate is $5.35. Markers will be paid an hourly rate for completing the training modules and the role-specific training based on $58.21 per hour. Practice training scripts that are marked as part of the training modules will not be paid at script rate; however, control and calibration scripts that are marked after the training on 16/17 March 2024 will be paid on a script rate basis.

Superannuation

The VCAA will contribute 10% superannuation if you are aged 18 or over and earn more than $450 (before tax) in a calendar month. Victorian Government’s default superannuation fund is VicSuper.

IT requirements

Markers need to supply their own personal computer or laptop with reliable internet connection. 

Travel and accommodation

Markers do not receive travel or accommodation allowances for any component of the marking operation.

Professional development

The training and marking of student responses contributes to the continuing professional development requirements for teacher registration. For further information please see the VIT website.

Further information

For more information on the marking operation, see Marking.

If you would like more information about application, please contact Human Resources Unit at: vcaa.hr@education.vic.gov.au