Ofqual is asking markers of key stage 2 Sats to what extent tests are marked “accurately and reliably”.
The move comes after serious concerns were raised about the Sats marking process for the second year running.
Ofqual has produced a survey that has been distributed by Capita, the company contracted to manage the marking of Sats.
Respondents are asked to say to what extent they agree with the statements “I am confident in my ability to mark accurately and reliably” and “I am confident that KS2 tests in my subject are marked accurately and reliably”.
Last year’s Sats were plagued by a series of major problems around the marking and moderation process, which led to concerns about the accuracy of marks.
And this year markers again reported problems. Tes revealed earlier this summer that some Year 6 Sats markers were left unable to access training materials and sessions for hours.
Delay in marking KS2 Sats
And in May Tes revealed that Capita had delayed the marking of Year 6 Sats papers by a week due to “technical issues”, leaving union leaders “disappointed and concerned”.
Earlier this month primary schools again experienced delays in being able to access their pupils’ Sats results after problems last year.
The survey, which will remain open until September, also questions respondents about their role in the marking process and why they chose to mark KS2 assessments.
Respondents are questioned about their opinions on the effectiveness of the training as well as the qualification system and their confidence in the process.
An Ofqual spokesperson said: ”This research was planned over a year ago and is a continuation of work that Ofqual has undertaken on several occasions to survey markers for GCSEs and A levels. We are expanding this work to key stage 2 assessments.
“The key stage 2 marker survey is closely based on Ofqual’s GQ survey of examiners.”
