News story

Primary assessment consultation launched today

Consultation launched on the future of the primary assessment system.

We have launched a public consultation exercise about the future of the primary assessment system in England. Details are included in a statement made to Parliament today by the Secretary of State for Education, Justine Greening.

The consultation proposals aim to ensure that we establish a stable, trusted assessment system that supports all children to fulfil their potential, whatever their background.

It sets out wide-ranging proposals for improving the primary assessment system. These include consideration of the best starting point from which to measure pupils’ progress, how to ensure the assessment system is proportionate, and how to improve statutory end of key stage teacher assessments.

A parallel consultation, also launched today, is asking for views on the recommendations of the independent Rochford Review. The recommendations focus on the future of statutory assessment arrangements for pupils working below the standard of national curriculum tests at the end of key stage 1 (year 2) and key stage 2 (year 6).

We want to hear the views of as many people as possible with an interest in the future of primary education on the proposals we are putting forward in these consultation exercises. In particular, we want to hear from headteachers and teachers, to draw on their insight and experience.

Of course, children at the end of key stage 1 or key stage 2 will be taking national curriculum tests in May 2017. It is important to note that these tests will not be affected by the proposals being published today.

Further information for parents is available.

Published 30 March 2017