Lots of schools use tests at all stages of their work. For the most part, these are part of a normal classroom routine, and support teachers’ assessment. However, at certain stages of schooling there are also national tests which must be taken by all children in state schools. Often informally known as ‘SATs’, the National Curriculum Tests are compulsory for children at the end of Year 2 and Year 6. Children in these year 3 groups will undertake tests in Reading, Mathematics, and Grammar, Punctuation & Spelling. The tests will be sent away for marking, and results will be reported to schools and parents at the end of the year.
Lots of schools use tests at all stages of their work. For the most part, these are part of a normal classroom routine, and support teachers’ assessment. However, at certain stages of schooling there are also national tests which must be taken by all children in state schools. The National Curriculum Tests for children in Year 2 and Year 6 take place each summer. Schools may also choose to have internal tests for other year groups around the same time.
Where previously these tests – and other teacher assessments – were graded in levels (normally numbering between Level 1 and Level 6 in primary school), from 2016 the test results have been reported as a scaled score, with a score of 100 representing the expected level for each age group. It is up to teachers and schools to decide how to measure progress in the intervening years. Schools will then provide accompanying information to parents to explain how children are progressing.
If you are visibly stressed or worried about the exams, your child will follow your example. Try to be relaxed as this will be reflected in your your child’s frame of mind. The teachers in your child's school regulaly carry out this type of assessment so your child will be prepared for the process. Support your child by helping them reuglalry with their homework and using practice workbooks to ascertain subjects of areas where your child may struggle and prepare them for the latest national test requirements.
You can also download a detailed guide to the new National Curriculum. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a thorough overview of what topics are covered during your child's primary education. It also contains top tips to bring topics to life outside the classroom.