The MarkSmart journey began from a simple yet profound realisation that, despite the leaps in educational technology, English teachers in Australia continue to grapple with the overwhelming demands of marking. This not only affects their work-life balance, but also detracts from student engagement.
Based on this realisation, our co-founder, leveraging her extensive experience as an English teacher, developed an innovative solution that promised to transform English education.
In 2019, we introduced a groundbreaking code-based marking system through the publication of ‘The (mostly) English Teacher’s Survival Guide to Marking.’
This system wasn’t just about reducing marking time by over 40%. It was about enriching feedback for students, thereby measurably nurturing their growth and understanding.
Motivated by the system’s potential to redefine English teaching, our team of educators and software developers set out on a mission to scale this solution.
Our collaboration resulted in the creation of MarkSmart, an online platform designed to modernise marking practices throughout Australia, representing a significant step towards enhancing educational outcomes.
Today, MarkSmart is a reflection of our commitment to pushing the boundaries of education through innovation.
To revolutionise English education by simplifying the marking process, fostering deeper teacher-student connections, and unlocking students’ potential through innovative technology.
To provide English teachers with groundbreaking tools that not only streamline marking but also improve feedback quality and deepen engagement with students, setting a new standard for excellence in English education.
Words, words, words… It’s what we do, isn’t it, as English teachers? We teach words, how to form them, pronounce them, use them to describe, explain, and communicate, and then we have to mark them. And here, the joy of being an English teacher vaporises.
Kate McCaffrey
CO-FOUNDER
Kate is a renowned author, with six publications that have gained national and international acclaim. Her novels, widely recognised and used in English classrooms across Australia, highlight her deep connection to education.
Beyond her literary success, Kate’s impressive 30-year career in teaching English and Literature has equipped her with an in-depth understanding of the challenges educators face.
Her insight into these challenges inspired the creation of MarkSmart, stemming from her first non-fiction book, “The (mostly) English Teacher’s Survival Guide to Marking.”
Leveraging her extensive educational experience, Kate has played a pivotal role in developing MarkSmart, focusing on reducing teacher workload and enhancing student success.
Her contributions are central to MarkSmart’s mission to transform the educational landscape for teachers and students alike.
Nick Bennett
CO-FOUNDER & HEAD OF OPERATIONS
Nick’s multifaceted career spans being a published author, an accomplished physicist, and a skilled data scientist, showcasing a unique blend of creativity and analytical expertise.
With over 15 years of dedicated service in the education sector, Nick has carved out a niche in governance and compliance, leveraging his knowledge to ensure MarkSmart not only meets but exceeds industry standards.
His strategic vision and operational acumen have been instrumental in shaping the company’s trajectory, ensuring that MarkSmart remains at the forefront of educational innovation.
Nick’s diverse background and commitment to excellence have positioned him as a key driver of MarkSmart’s success, guiding the platform’s development with a steady hand and an eye towards the future of education.
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