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Guidance

Optional key stage 1 tests: access arrangements

Guidance for schools about access arrangements available for pupils participating in the optional key stage 1 (KS1) national curriculum tests in 2027.

Updates to this page

From:
Standards and Testing Agency
Published:
4 December 2017
Last updated:
12 October 2026
Show all updates

  1. Updated for the academic year 2026 to 2027.

  2. Added information: Schools can now contact STA directly to discuss access arrangements, using the 'Message us - access arrangements' form within the 'Test administration' tab on the NCA Portal.

  3. Updated for the academic year 2025 to 2026.

  4. The 2025 key stage 1 raw score to scaled score conversion tables and compensatory marks for spelling will be available to download from the Primary Assessment Gateway 2 weeks earlier - they will now be available from Thursday 1 May.

  5. Updated for the academic year 2024 to 2025.

  6. Updated guidance for the academic year 2023 to 2024, including information to clarify arrangements now that end of key stage 1 assessments are no longer statutory.

  7. Updated guidance for the 2022-23 test cycle.

  8. Uploaded the 2022 Key stage 1 tests: access arrangements.

  9. Updated for the 2020 test cycle.

  10. Updated guidance for the 2019 test cycle.

  11. First published.

Documents

2027 optional key stage 1 tests access arrangements guidance

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Details

Some pupils with specific needs may need additional arrangements so they can take part in the optional KS1 tests.

Types of support include:

  • additional time to complete the tests
  • adaptations of test papers
  • compensatory marks for spelling
  • the use of scribes, word processors or other technical or electronic aids
  • making a transcript
  • written or oral translations
  • readers
  • the use of prompts and rest breaks
  • accessibility objects in the mathematics test
  • highlighter pens
  • administering the tests at an alternative location

Schools should consider whether any of their pupils may need access arrangements before they administer the tests.

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