| Duration: |
2 hours |
Credits: |
2 CPD accredited hours |
Book now
Bookings close 23 Feb 2026 at 11am (UK time)
Learn the theory behind good mark scheme design and discover techniques to optimise how you work with them.
Why choose this workshop?
Mark schemes (sometimes known as rubrics) are a key point of reference when you’re judging a candidate response to an item or task. A mark scheme needs to capture the range of responses students produce for a target item, while also facilitating reliable examiner judgement.
This live, interactive workshop will cover the theory underpinning mark scheme design and link it to practical ways to optimise your practice. You’ll have an opportunity to reflect on your own mark scheme design and learn how to diagnose potential issues. You’ll leave the workshop knowing more about what makes a good mark scheme, and what to look for when reviewing a mark scheme.
The first part of the workshop will cover the different features and types of mark schemes and the influences of mark scheme design on marking reliability. The second part of the workshop will look at how to enhance your mark schemes using the CARFE (Connect, Anticipate, Reduce, Format, Evaluate) model.
In addition to the workshop, you’ll take away resources to support you in applying the learning to your own context and structuring your future mark scheme design practice.
These resources include further explanation of the CARFE model, example items and mark schemes with commentary and mark scheme frequently asked questions.
Who should attend?
The workshop will be useful to practitioners involved in the development of assessments or anyone who wants to gain a greater understanding of the role that mark schemes play in the development of examinations or assessments.
If you’re new to mark scheme design, or have limited knowledge, this workshop will give you everything you need to get going. If you’re more experienced with mark schemes, this workshop will allow you to revisit and challenge your understanding of the underpinning principles and justify your professional decision making.
The session is open to anyone who would find it useful. Previous attendees have included:
- Teachers and lecturers
- Assessment managers
- Product managers
- Product designers
- Assessment coordinators
- Exams officers
- Examiners
Why choose The Assessment Network?
We’re trusted by over 1,000 organisations across 100 countries and are backed by world-class research from the University of Cambridge.
We proudly hold Dual Accreditation by the Professional Development Consortium, officially recognising us as a Provider of Training Excellence.
Upon successful completion of Understanding and optimising your mark schemes, you’ll be awarded a Certificate of Attendance from Cambridge University Press & Assessment as recognition of your learning.
This workshop is accredited with a Certificate of Attendance for continuing professional development (2 CPD hours). To be eligible, the live session must be attended.
Key learning outcomes
By the end of the workshop you will have:
- Developed knowledge of the theory and research underpinning mark scheme design
- Enhanced your understanding of best practice in mark scheme design (e.g. how to optimise levels-based mark schemes)
- The ability to diagnose potential issues with mark schemes that you have developed and used
- Used your knowledge of mark scheme design principles to justify assessment-related decisions
If the scheduled date is not suitable, this workshop is also offered as part of the build your CPD programme portfolio of flexible workshops designed to suit your schedule.
What our attendees say
Understanding and optimising your mark schemes has been a game-changer for me as an educator. This course provided me with valuable insights and strategies to develop clear, fair, and effective mark schemes that align with my learning objectives. It has enhanced my assessment practices and empowered me to provide transparent expectations to my students. I highly recommend 'Understanding and optimising your mark schemes' to fellow educators who want to elevate their assessment strategies and promote student success."
Most importantly, I've gained confidence in my ability to create assessments that truly measure student understanding rather than just recall. This course has fundamentally changed how I think about assessment in education."
Daniel Owusu Nyantakyi, Teacher, China
Workshop trainer
Dr Simon Child is Head of Assessment Training at The Assessment Network at Cambridge. Previously, he was a Senior Research Officer in the Assessment Research and Development Division of Cambridge Assessment. He's conducted research in the field of qualifications reform and development since 2012.
His other research interests include quality of marking processes, curriculum development, formative assessment and Higher Education. His background is in developmental psychology. In 2011, he received his Ph.D from the University of Manchester, which focused on the development of symbolic cognition in pre-school children.
FAQs
What is a mark scheme?
A mark scheme, also known as a ‘rubric’, is a guide article used primarily by markers/ assessors in the marking process that indicates the number of marks to be awarded for specific items, the approaches that can be used by candidates to attract marks, and the acceptable answers to them. It outlines the criteria for evaluating student work and ensures consistency and fairness in grading.
Why train with The Assessment Network?
The Assessment Network at Cambridge is a global community of assessment professionals, committed to equipping practitioners with a clear understanding of core assessment principles and practices. Through accredited training, professional membership, and career development opportunities, we support individuals and organisations in becoming recognised, up-to-date assessment leaders.
We enable positive change by helping practitioners enhance the impact of assessment for learners, offering CPD courses, bespoke solutions, and professional recognition for every challenge and role. Trusted by over 1,000 organisations across 100 countries, and backed by world-class research from the University of Cambridge, we unite professionals who connect, share learning, and stand out as experts in their field.
How much does it cost?
Understanding and optimising your mark schemes costs £95 or you can receive a 10% discount on your booking as a Member.
I want to register my team, what’s the best way to do this?
If you’re looking to book five or more places on an upcoming workshop or workshop series, you can receive a group discount. Please get in touch for a quote.
How do I register?
If this workshop is currently available use the Book Now button to complete your registration on our booking platform. If the workshop is not available, you can register your interest.
How will I learn?
Live workshops are interactive, practical sessions offered online, either as standalone sessions or as part of a series.
Led by assessment experts, these sessions require live attendance, via our online learning site, providing opportunities for direct guidance and real-time answers to your questions. These practical explorations and discussions with your assessment peers will help transform your assessment practice.
Will I be able to discuss the workshop topic during the session?
You can engage regularly throughout the online workshops via chat boxes, breakout rooms, polls, and quizzes.
What level of English do I need to be able to complete the course?
The course is delivered in English so you are required to have sufficient competence in English to participate in the training. You should have English language competence comparable to Level B2 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). We recommend a minimum requirement of 5.5 on the International English Language Testing System. Further information may be obtained through the IELTS website.
My place on the workshop is now confirmed, what happens next?
Once you’ve completed your booking you’ll receive a confirmation email. Joining instructions for the workshop or series are normally sent after the booking deadline has passed.
What happens if I can't attend one of the sessions?
To receive certification for a workshop series, you can only miss one session.
You’ll be able watch a recording of this missed session, but please note breakout rooms will not be recorded, and attendance is strongly recommended whenever possible.
What kind of certification is available upon completion of the workshop?
You’ll be awarded a Certificate of Attendance from Cambridge University Press & Assessment. It is expected that participants will attend at least two out of three live sessions to be eligible for a Certificate of Attendance at the end of the series.
How many CPD learning hours is this accredited for?
This workshop is accredited for 2 learning hours. You must meet the attendance requirements to be eligible to receive the learning hours.
The Assessment Network has been awarded Dual Accreditation by the Professional Development Consortium, meaning we are officially recognised as a Provider of Training Excellence, alongside being a trusted provider of fully CPD accredited assessment training activities.
The majority of our professional development courses are also CPD accredited. Accredited courses are clearly marked with the CPD hours available, and a full list can be found on the CPD Standards website.
Some newer workshops and courses may not yet be accredited by the CPD Standards Office. However, as an assured provider of training excellence, all our workshops meet the same rigorous standards as our accredited training.
What can I do with my learning hours?
At The Assessment Network, learning hours from completing professional development courses contribute directly toward earning awards that recognise your assessment expertise. There are two levels of awards, the Assessment Practitioner Award and the Advanced Assessment Practitioner Award.
How long will I have access to the recording/resources after the workshop ends?
Recordings, slides, and any extra resources will be available via the online learning site for 40 days for a standalone workshop or 90 days for a workshop series.
When is the next workshop running?
We aim to run our workshops at least once a year. If the workshop is not currently available to book, please use the register your interest page.