About the Institute FAQs

What is the Chartered Institute of Educational Assessors?
The Chartered Institute of Educational Assessors is an independent, charitable organisation offering those who are involved with or have an interest in assessment a forum to develop best practice as well as increased opportunities for professional development.

What does the Institute do?
We support excellence in all forms of assessment related to general qualifications and National tests, offer professional development opportunities and career support, disseminate good practice and provide enhanced professional recognition. We will also provide training courses, qualifications, networking opportunities and good practice guidance in conjunction with partner organisations.

How can I contact the Institute?
You can contact us by calling 020 7495 7753 or emailing info@ciea.org.uk.

Is the Institute an independent body?
Yes. It is governed by a Board of Trustees, half of which are elected members.

Why have an Institute of Educational Assessors at all?
An institute will work towards improving the quality of assessment, help move towards a more professional standing for examiners and recognise the important role that examiners, assessors and markers undertake.

Was it the National Assessment Agency's idea to have an Institute?
Yes, the NAA believes that it is important to recognise the valuable role that markers and examiners undertake. The Secondary Heads Association has also championed the idea of Chartered Examiners. The NAA has worked with a large number of stakeholders in developing the idea for an Institute of Educational Assessors.

Have you consulted about the proposals for an Institute?
Yes, the Institute has consulted over 2,400 stakeholders and organisations, conducted eight focus groups with examiners and teachers, and is planning to undertake further consultation throughout 2005.

Isn't the Institute just another body to do the NAA & QCA's work?
The Institute, like the NAA, aims to promote best practice and improve marking quality but it will not replace or do the job of the NAA. The Institute is not a regulator; it is a hub of best practice.

How much is it costing to set up the Institute?
The NAA will be funding the initial stages of the Institute as part of the £100 million exam modernisation programme. The initial start up cost funded by the NAA will be £1 million each year for the first three years.

Can I be an examiner with the unitary awarding bodies without being a member of the Institute?
Yes.

If I can be an examiner without becoming a member, what's the point of the Institute?
Members will have a better knowledge of educational assessment and have access to best practice in assessment as well as opportunities for networking. The institute will also provide access to events, research papers and qualifications in assessment.