Jacqui Smith MP

Former Minister of State for Schools and 14-19 Learners

Institute of Educational Assessors Launch

Recording 2nd May 2006 for delivery 9th May

I'm sorry that I can't be with you in person today to celebrate the launch of the Institute of Educational Assessors. Instead I'll be at the House of Commons seeing the Education and Inspections Bill through its Committee stage. However, I'm pleased that I can still contribute through this video address.

I want very much to congratulate you all on the launch of this very important body. I am especially pleased that this is a world-first organisation - you and your colleagues are leading the way in raising standards in assessment. I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate Kathleen [Tattersall, OBE, former director of AQA] on her appointment as Chair of the Institute - I know that the Institute will benefit hugely from her vast experience in the field.

Sir Mike Tomlinson first acknowledged the importance of greater professionalisation of the examination workforce back in 2002. His inquiry into A-level standards recognised that "the key to securing the supply of high quality examiners is to raise the professional status of what they do". As a result, the QCA proposed introducing a professional institute - which we are seeing launched today. I would like to thank them, and particularly the NAA (National Assessment Agency) for their hard work and commitment in bringing us to this point.

Important though it is, the Institute of Educational Assessors will be about more than raising the status of examiners. Crucially, it is also about improving the quality of assessment. Accurate and effective assessment is key to underpinning the drive towards improved standards. And excellence in assessment is also an essential foundation for our educational reforms. For example, in 14 - 19 education, a group of individuals capable of making professional judgements in assessment will be vital to the success of the new specialised diplomas.

And it's clear from the range of organisations represented here today that the launch is widely welcomed. You all believe, as I do, that examining, marking and moderating should be recognised as a professional activity and that those people who take on this important role should have the appropriate support through a professional body. And there will be widespread benefits across the system. Raising the quality of assessment will sustain and improve school and public confidence in educational standards. Most importantly, children and learners will benefit from more professional assessment which can more accurately link learning outcomes with development.

I also know that you as professionals will gain a lot from membership of the Institute. It means that you are getting the credit and recognition that you deserve. The Institute is fully committed to continuous improvement, at all stages of your career, and will provide you with access to a formalised process of professional development. This will help you to improve your own performance and equip you with the skills to feel confident in your own professional judgement. The Institute will also develop and share good practice in assessment - supporting you to strengthen your knowledge of what is most effective.

I would just like to finish by saying that we are privileged in this country to have a large community of dedicated education professionals, working hard to ensure that children and learners achieve their potential. Examiners have long played an important role in that community, and the establishment of the Institute recognises that vital contribution. I wish you the best of success.