Pearson
QD Writer for GCSE English Language and Literature
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Qualification Development Writer for GCSE English Language/Literature
About Pearson
At Pearson, we’re committed to a world that’s always learning. From bringing lectures vividly to life to turning textbooks into laptop lessons, we are always re-examining the way people learn best. We are bold thinkers and standout innovators who motivate each other to explore new frontiers in an environment that supports and inspires us to be better. By pushing the boundaries of technology, and each other to surpass these boundaries, we create seeds of learning that become the catalyst for the world’s innovations, personal and global. We are the UK's largest awarding body and offer qualifications that are globally recognised and benchmarked, with educational excellence rooted in a range of General and Vocational courses.
We are recruiting for QD Writers for the following qualifications:
- GCSE English Language
- GCSE English Literature
Purpose of this role
As the government reforms education, Pearson is beginning to prepare for the redevelopment of GCSEs in English Language and Literature. Our vision is for English to empower students with the agency to use their voice, the empathy to listen to others, and the critical and creative thinking they need to understand themselves and engage with the world. This freelance opportunity is designed for English specialists who would enjoy sharing their knowledge, insight and passion for the subject to help shape the next chapter of English education.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Writing activities
- Contributing to the redevelopment of GCSE English Language and/or Literature qualifications and assessments.
- Writing and developing sample assessment materials, question papers and related assessment content that meet regulatory requirements and embody Pearson's vision for English.
- Contributing to mark scheme design, including testing mark schemes and helping to refine approaches.
- Researching and evaluating potential text options.
- Writing materials designed in line with setter guidance and agreed requirements.
- Providing content in the required format and by agreed deadlines.
- Reviewing and commenting on draft materials produced by others, providing clear and constructive feedback.
- Responding positively to feedback on your own drafts and making amendments where required.
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All/general activities
- Provide up-to-date sector or subject-specific expertise that feeds into material production
- Keep up to date with changes in the sector/subject area
- Have detailed knowledge of the requirements/standards/specifications that encompass the role or area of expertise
- Engage in question paper evaluation committee meetings
- Meet deadlines and report back to Pearson within agreed timeframes
- Ensure parity of standards
- Adhere to guidance provided by Pearson
- Work effectively with colleagues
- Take part in training activities, associated with the role, as required
About you
Applicants should have a background in secondary English education, with experience working with GCSE English Language and/or Literature as a teacher, assessor or subject specialist. We welcome applications from English specialists working in a range of contexts. We are particularly keen to hear from individuals who can bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and/or insights from today's classrooms.
Qualifications and experience required for the role
Essential
- A degree in English or a related subject.
- At least 3 years' experience working with GCSE English Language and/or Literature as a teacher, assessor or subject specialist.
- Strong subject knowledge and a passion for English education.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, providing and receiving constructive feedback.
- Ability to meet agreed deadlines and work independently.
Desirable
- A recognised UK teaching qualification.
- Knowledge of current developments, research, and debates in English education.
- Experience contributing to curriculum, assessment or teaching and learning resources.
Additional Information and Requirements
Bring your English expertise to the national stage and help shape the future of English qualifications for the next generation of learners. English is more than just a subject. It is the cornerstone of how we understand ourselves and engage with the world. This is an exciting opportunity for experienced English specialists who want to play a part in the next chapter of GCSE English.
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The role offers the chance to:
- Influence the redevelopment of the GCSE English qualifications and assessments.
- Use your experience and expertise to help shape qualification design and development.
- Develop a deeper understanding of GCSE English Language and/or Literature assessments.
- Contribute flexibly alongside existing teaching, education, or personal commitments.
- Earn additional income, with fees paid by the hour and equivalent to a minimum of £190 for a full day’s work.
If you are passionate about English education and committed to creating engaging, high-quality qualifications and assessments that help students experience the richness and value of studying English, we would love to hear from you.
Additional requirements
Any applicant undertaking this role will be expected to:
- Have personal IT equipment capable of running Pearson required software
- Have a suitable broadband connection, microphone, headphones and a webcam
- Have a personal and secure email account
- Have the right to work in the UK
- Declare any conflicts of interest that could impact on the role
- Have availability of a minimum of 7 days, depending upon the requirements and workload for the sector, in any given year for attending meetings
- Allow sufficient time for completion of duties and tasks as directed by the role
- Undertake other duties appropriate as required by Pearson in relation to this role
- Abide by the terms of conditions as stated in the contract for work
- Applicants selected for additional activities may be required to complete tasks, training and/or standardisation before work can be allocated
- Ensure sufficient time and availability before contracts are accepted
- Ensure that Pearson contact is notified of any issues that may delay the submission or completion of materials/work
Application Information
We have a number of opportunities available for teaching professionals to join our growing teams of examiners, moderators and verifiers.
Closing date: 20 September 2026 at midnight
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