Distinctions Examiners
The Royal Photographic Society is recruiting Distinctions Examiners to support the RPS Distinctions Programme from 2027.
RPS Distinctions recognise achievement and progression in photography through Licentiate (LRPS), Associate (ARPS) and Fellowship (FRPS). As part of the redevelopment of the programme, we are establishing a new pool of Examiners to assess submissions against the published standards and assessment criteria.
The role
Distinctions Examiners independently assess submissions, considering the work as a whole and reaching evidence-based assessment decisions. Examiners record clear reasons for their decisions and contribute to constructive feedback for applicants.
Examiners work within the RPS assessment, moderation and quality assurance arrangements and take part in induction, training, calibration and continuing development.
Depending on programme need, expertise and experience, some Examiners may also undertake additional activities including tutorials, moderation, third assessments, quality assurance, Examiner development and the development of educational resources.
Who we are looking for
We welcome applications from people with appropriate photographic expertise and experience, as well as those with relevant scholarly or professional expertise for the Research route.
Applicants should be able to:
- evaluate work against published standards and criteria;
- make consistent, evidence-based assessment decisions;
- consider photographic work holistically;
- communicate decisions clearly and constructively;
- produce clear written reasons and feedback;
- contribute positively to professional discussion and moderation;
- work fairly, consistently and with integrity; and
- participate fully in training, calibration and continuing development.
Previous experience of assessment, education, facilitation, photographic development, research or providing evaluative feedback may be an advantage.
Holding an RPS Distinction is not a requirement for appointment. Where an applicant holds a Distinction, this may be relevant to their application but is not in itself evidence of suitability for the role.
Appointment and training
Examiners will normally be appointed for a fixed term of three years, subject to an initial review period. Appointment is conditional on successful completion of the required induction, training and calibration.
The selection process will include a written application, interview and a practical assessment exercise using standardised sample material.
Remuneration
Distinctions Examiners are engaged on a freelance basis at a rate of £250 per day. The daily rate covers assessment activity, including preparation, assessment and applicant feedback. Other agreed programme activity, including training, moderation and tutorial delivery, will also be paid in accordance with the freelance arrangements.
Download the Role Description and Person Specification
Applications close: 5.00pm, Monday 26 October
Interviews: w/c 2 and 9 November 2026
To apply: Please submit your current CV and a covering letter of no more than two sides of A4.
Your covering letter should explain why you are interested in becoming an RPS Distinctions Examiner and provide evidence of:
- your relevant photographic, scholarly or professional expertise;
- your experience of assessing, evaluating or responding critically to photographic or other relevant work;
- your ability to make evidence-based judgements and communicate them clearly and constructively;
- any relevant experience of assessment, moderation, education, facilitation, research or providing developmental feedback; and
- the particular areas of photographic practice, research or specialist expertise you could contribute to the Examiner pool.
Please send your CV and covering letter to recruitment@rps.org by 5.00pm on Monday 26 October 2026.