SATs markers were this week scrambling to get through tens of thousands of questions after an already-extended deadline passed, prompting calls for the assessment series to be nationalised. Contractor Pearson called on maths markers to help get through the outstanding grammar, punctuation and spelling (GPS) tests, in what has been described as an 鈥渙mnishambles鈥�. It follows weeks of technical glitches on the new ModMark marking platform created by the exams giant, which took over the 拢180 million SATs contract from outsourcer Capita this year. Become a member for unlimited access to Schools Week subscribe Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits.