The first Facebook group was originally set up in 2017 by Kate Philp as a voice of the exam’s community in Further Education.
Over time, the community has continued to grow and evolve, reflecting the changing needs of exams professionals. What began as a small network of exams staff sharing ideas and best practice has developed into a thriving professional community that reaches colleagues across the UK and beyond.
The online community group is now open to all personnel involved in exams administration and management – from new exams officers to experienced leaders, managers and other support staff. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone involved in the exams process can connect, collaborate and benefit from shared expertise.
Our aim is to provide a supportive and professional space where members can ask questions, share experiences, and stay up to date with developments across the sector. Whether through group discussions or one-to-one mentoring, the focus remains the same: helping exams professionals feel confident, connected, and equipped to deliver excellence.
Exams Office Guardians is the brainchild of:
The founder and director of Exam Officers & Data Solutions (EODs). After nearly twenty years of experience in the education sector, spanning maintained, independent, and Further Education (FE) she has cultivated a deep understanding of the exams industry. Outside of her professional endeavours Paula enjoys being a gram gram. Any spare time is spent at the gym doing BodyCombat!
Find our more about Paula or to enquire about booking her as a guest speaker/presenter at your event visit the EODs website.
Alongside Paula, our communities are supported by a team of highly experienced professionals who bring a deep and genuine understanding of exams. This includes current exams officers, those who have previously held exams and data roles and individuals who have worked with awarding bodies or in senior leadership positions.
Collectively, they represent a wide range of expertise across schools, colleges and private centres. Their backgrounds mean they understand the daily realities of running an exams office – from compliance and policy to planning, logistics and supporting students. They bring this experience into the communities to offer practical guidance, reassurance and professional insight.
The team’s involvement extends beyond community discussions. Many also provide one-to-one mentoring and guidance for colleagues who want more tailored support with their professional development, centre processes, or preparation for new responsibilities.
Our communities are grounded in the belief that collaboration and shared experience strengthen the exams function. They are for exams professionals, by exams professionals – creating an informed, supportive environment where members can learn, share, and continually grow in confidence and capability.
