Qualification Development Lead

Overview

As the Qualification Development Lead at AQA, you will play a key role in developing and accrediting high‑quality qualifications that support teachers and learners across the UK. Reporting to the Senior Qualification Development Manager, you will collaborate with analysts, subject experts, and cross‑functional teams to ensure qualifications meet regulatory requirements, reflect customer needs, and deliver positive learning outcomes.

• Lead the creation of qualification specifications and supporting materials, ensuring alignment with Ofqual and Department for Education requirements.
• Work with Associates, subject matter experts and specialist colleagues to produce high‑quality content and assessment materials.
• Coordinate with product managers, quality & regulatory leads, and other stakeholders to drive successful accreditation and delivery.
• Monitor risks, issues and dependencies across the qualification development lifecycle.
• Continuous improvement of qualification development processes and documentation quality.
• Support market and concept testing activities to gather stakeholder feedback and refine qualification design.
• Manage Associate performance and allocate editing work within the team.

• Experience developing qualifications, assessments, curriculum materials or other complex educational content.
• Strong ability to build effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders and subject experts.
• Demonstrable planning and organisational skills, managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Analytical skills to balance perspectives and support evidence‑based decision making.
• Excellent attention to detail with an overall focus on quality and impact.
• Resilience and adaptability in fast‑paced, agile environments.

• Background in qualification or assessment development within an awarding organisation or similar.
• Knowledge of Ofqual accreditation processes and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience with document production, publishing tools and digital assessment components.
• Understanding of centre needs, learner experience and the education market.

• Competitive salary (£53,000‑£61,000 Manchester; £55,500‑£63,500 Guildford).
• Hybrid working model – minimum two days in office.
• 35‑hour working week.
• 25 days annual leave (rising with service) plus Christmas office closure days.
• Private medical insurance (BUPA) and a pension scheme with up to 18.5% contribution.
• Paid volunteering days and employee networks supporting diversity and inclusion.

AQA is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone—regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background—is valued, respected, and supported to thrive.