Katie Sebire was one of 200 nominees for the National Association of Examinations Officers' prestigious Exams Officer of the Year 2024 award.
A panel involving a number of different exam boards shortlisted 10 people.
And ultimately Mrs Sebire was one of two runners-up in the awards. She said that the job she does was more than what people might think.
‘It’s not just about laying papers on a desk, you need to be highly organised with all the exam administration before and after they’re sat, and you’ve got to remain calm, so that students don’t pick up on any additional stress at a time when they may be feeling anxious,’ she said.
‘Even the fact that I was nominated felt so special to me, I’m absolutely delighted.
'I work with an incredible team of invigilators who are my eyes and ears and ensure that the exams run smoothly.
‘I’m so lucky to have them, this really is a joint award between all of us.'
She also arranged a two-day conference at the College to allow other examination officers in the islands to access training they would have otherwise had to go to the UK for, and received her award at the conclusion of it.
Elizabeth College vice-principal Dr Trevor Addenbrooke said that the role of an exams officer was vital to the successful running of a school.
‘We often hear about teachers getting recognition for doing their jobs though not so much with exams officers,’ he said.
‘We value the efficiency and compassionate nature of people like Katie.
'It makes the experience for students who are under strict requirements, and without being overly anxious, much better, and that is down to organisation.
‘What we don’t see is the year-long graft.'
Principal Jenny Palmer said that she was pleased that Mrs Sebire’s hard work and dedication was being recognised at such a high level.
‘Support staff play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth running of our school and Katie’s commitment has had a direct and positive impact on both staff and students. We are incredibly proud of her,’ she said.
Jugjit Chima, chief executive of the association, also offered congratulations.
'To stage all the exams, which don’t just take place in summer, is a big responsibility.
'To be nominated for the exams officer of the year award shows that Katie is great and makes a positive impact within the centre, but also beyond that in the wider community.'
He said that often officers nominated were known for making improvements to exam process.
'Katie has been so proactive and she has arranged this conference which will have an impact on the whole of the Channel Islands, that is going to have a good impact in and beyond the centre,’ he said.
Mr Chima said that there were some 6,500 exams officers all over the UK.
There were 200 nominations for the award this year.
‘There could be more but often we find that nominators don’t know that the award exists, so we get less than we would expect,' he added.
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