(a) Markers are currently appointed based on stringent criteria relating to teaching experience and qualification in the subject. In order to be appointed, a marker must have a recognised three year post school qualification, which must include the subject to be marked at second or third year level. The marker must have teaching experience at the Grade 12 level in the subject concerned and must be proficient in the language of teaching and learning. These criteria, together with a report on the performance of the marker as a teacher in the classroom, and his/her performance in previous marking sessions, are strictly applied, thus ensuring that the most suitable educators are appointed.
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) audits the selected list of markers across all Provincial Education Departments (PEDs) to ensure that PEDs comply with these criteria.
The writing of the competency test by markers, if applied, is only an enhancement to the current protocols and criteria for the appointment of markers, and not an essential pre-requisite that, if omitted, has the potential of compromising the marking process. The competency test would have been used to verify the above criteria and was never intended to be the sole criterion for the appointment of markers. Therefore, in the absence of the competency test, which would have merely confirmed the knowledge levels of the markers, there would be no compromise to the marking quality.
(b) The DBE ensures that marking standards are maintained across all PEDs through the following quality control measures :
No additional norms and standards have been set:
It should be noted that the credibility and integrity of the marking process is not at stake or in jeopardy, due to the deferment of the competency test for prospective markers. The procedures and criteria listed above are more than adequate to ensure that the quality of marking is of the highest standard. The DBE will pursue in its endeavours to ensure that the concerns of the social partners are addressed with regard to the competency test, so that this useful tool can be introduced to enhance the marking process.