Advance HE’s Personal Development for External Examiners course offers a practical and supportive route into one of higher education’s most important quality assurance roles.

Why external examining matters 

External examining is central to safeguarding academic standards in higher education. For those preparing to take on the role, or looking to strengthen their understanding of it, Advance HE’s Personal Development for External Examiners course provides a practical, reflective and supportive learning experience. 

Developed from the Degree Standards project, this is the only training course for external examiners in the UK. The course helps participants explore academic standards, quality assurance, assessment and the responsibilities of external examining. It also creates space to learn from others, reflect on current practice and consider how the learning can be applied within participants’ own institutional contexts. 

Evidence of impact 

Feedback from the latest cohort underlines the value of taking part. All respondents said they were satisfied with the course, including 60% who were very satisfied. Participants were also highly likely to recommend the course to colleagues, with 60% rating their likelihood of recommendation at 9 or 10 out of 10. 

The course had a clear developmental impact too. Four fifths (80%) of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that their knowledge and skills had increased as a result of attending, while seven in 10 said they would use what they had learned to change or develop policies and practices within their institution. 

Learning with peers 

Participants particularly valued the course’s clear structure, practical exercises, breakout discussions and opportunities to reflect with peers.  

One participant said the programme “encouraged meaningful reflection on my practice and equipped me with skills that will support my future educational enhancement and leadership roles”, while another described it as “an informative, engaging and well-designed course with genuinely helpful tutors.” 

If you are preparing to become an external examiner, or want to strengthen your confidence in the role, this course offers a timely opportunity to develop your understanding, test your thinking with peers and take practical learning back into your own context.