Statutory guidance

Key stage 2 test administration guidance

Updated 11 March 2024

1. Introduction

This guidance is for schools administering the 2024 key stage 2 (KS2) national curriculum tests. The information expands on section 7 of the 2024 KS2 assessment and reporting arrangements (ARA).

It ensures schools can:

• understand the statutory requirements for the KS2 tests
• plan for the tests
• receive and securely store test materials
• administer the tests correctly

Test administration instructions are included with all test packs. There are separate instructions provided for the standard, modified large print (MLP) and braille versions of the tests. Modified test administration guidance is also available. Schools may also want to use practice test materials to help prepare for the tests.

Headteachers are responsible for the test administration arrangements within their school. Failure to adhere to this guidance could lead to a maladministration investigation.

2. Changes for 2024

2.1 Modified large print format

Following research into the accessibility and adaptability of the KS2 MLP test papers, we are changing the format from B4 18-point to A4 24-point. This is in response to feedback that the font size was not large enough. It also means the papers are more adaptable, automatically increasing to 36-point when enlarged onto A3.

Past MLP papers have been adapted to this format and are available in the collection of practice materials if you wish to familiarise pupils with the papers.

Please note, the past papers adapted to the new format have not been through the usual rigorous modification and checking process but have been made available to help give pupils an indication of what to expect in May 2024.

2.2 The use of pens in the tests

Pupils must not use gel pens during the KS2 tests.

3. 2024 key stage 2 tests

Details of the types of school and pupils required to participate in the tests are included in section 14.1 of the 2024 KS2 ARA.

3.1 Test timetable

The KS2 test timetable is as follows:

Date	Test
Monday 13 May	English grammar, punctuation and spelling - Paper 1: questions - Paper 2: spelling
Tuesday 14 May	English reading
Wednesday 15 May	Mathematics - Paper 1: arithmetic - Paper 2: reasoning
Thursday 16 May	Mathematics Paper 3: reasoning

KS2 tests must be taken on the dates specified in the test timetable, and papers for each subject must be administered in order, unless there are exceptional circumstances - for example, a start time variation or an approved timetable variation. Schools can choose their own start times for each test and, where possible, should administer them to the whole cohort at the same time.

If necessary, schools can administer a test in multiple sittings between 7am and 7pm, so an individual pupil or group can take a test on the scheduled date but at a different time from the rest of the cohort. Pupils who have taken a test must not have any opportunity to discuss test content with those pupils waiting to take it.

3.2 Timetable variations

Schools must submit an application for a timetable variation on the Primary Assessment Gateway (PAG).

If a pupil is absent on the scheduled day of a test, schools must have an approved timetable variation application to move a test up to 5 school days after the scheduled test date. Any missed test must not be administered until the school receives this confirmation.

In the case of pupils who live in the same household, if one pupil is absent on the day of a test but other pupils from the same household are in school (and the school intends to administer the test to those pupils), the school should consider delaying the test for all the pupils in the household. This is to ensure the integrity, security and confidentiality of the test is maintained. The school must ensure the pupils do not have any opportunity to discuss test content with pupils who have already taken the test.

4. Headteachers’ responsibilities

As the headteacher at a school administering the KS2 tests, you have specific responsibilities, as detailed in section 4.1 of the 2024 KS2 ARA.

It is your responsibility to:

• identify which pupils will take end of KS2 tests
• register new pupils for the tests if they arrive in school after Friday 8 March, until Thursday 23 May
• explain to all staff, participating pupils and their parents how the tests will be administered
• keep all test materials secure and treat them as confidential from the point they arrive in school until Friday 24 May, after the timetable variation period has ended
• ensure sufficient staff are available to administer the tests
• ensure test administrators are appropriately trained and administer the tests according to the published guidance
• ensure all staff are fully briefed and aware of the KS2 test timetable before the tests are administered
• ensure that pupils are in a fit physical and mental state to take the tests
• ensure pupils have the correct test materials and equipment for the tests
• ensure the correct use of any access arrangements
• notify the Standards and Testing Agency (STA) of any issues that may have affected the integrity, security or confidentiality of the tests
• know what to expect should you receive a monitoring visit and co-operate with any monitoring visit requests, including visits by STA or local authority representatives
• submit ‘Notification of aid’ forms on the PAG, if required, from Monday 13 May to Friday 24 May
• submit ‘Notification of pupil cheating’ forms on the PAG, if required, from Thursday 16 May to Friday 31 May
• complete and submit the KS2 headteacher’s declaration form (HDF) on the PAG after all test scripts have been collected for marking, from Thursday 16 May to 5pm on Friday 24 May

5. Demonstrating correct test administration

We recommends inviting a governor, a trusted member of the school community or a staff member from a nearby secondary school, who is not otherwise involved in administering the tests, to observe their administration.

An independent observer can provide support and, at the same time, improve their understanding of test administration. Anyone observing the tests must be familiar with this guidance, the modified test administration guidance and the 2024 KS2 ARA. We recommend observers attend any training your school or local authority is running for staff.

Observers should expect to see the complete administration of the test or tests they are observing. They should check:

• all test administrators are familiar with the procedures, including what is and is not permitted during the administration of all tests
• test packs are stored securely in a locked cupboard and have remained unopened until, at most, one hour before the test taking place on the published test date, unless STA has approved an early opening application
• pupils are suitably seated and supervised, and classroom displays have been removed or covered, as appropriate
• the school is administering the tests in the order published in the test timetable, and access arrangements are being used correctly
• test scripts are collected from the test room immediately after the test and packaged securely in a locked cupboard until they are dispatched for marking
• any unused test papers are accounted for and stored securely until Friday 24 May

Invited observers do not replace monitoring visits. A sample of at least 10% of schools will receive a monitoring visit from the local authority. Schools should refer to the monitoring visits guidance, which gives information about what local authorities will look for during their visits.

6. Maladministration

In relation to the KS2 tests, the term maladministration refers to any act that:

• affects the integrity, security or confidentiality of the national curriculum assessments
• could lead to results that do not reflect pupils’ unaided work

Your school could be subject to a maladministration investigation if it does not comply with:

• this test administration guidance
• the 2024 KS2 ARA
• KS2 modified test administration guidance
• KS2 access arrangements guidance
• timetable variation guidance
• KS2 special consideration guidance
• guidance on returning KS2 test scripts
• test administration instructions provided with the test materials

You should consider taking steps to protect staff involved in administering the tests. Misinterpretations about correct test administration can lead to allegations of maladministration. To avoid this, ensure all staff, participating pupils and parents understand:

• how the tests will be administered
• the date each test should be administered
• what assistance is and is not allowed in the tests
• how any access arrangements will be used
• how timetable variations can be used

For any allegations of maladministration, which could include a pupil cheating, please email STA.maladministration@education.gov.uk or call the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013.

7. Preparing test administrators

Headteachers will need to consider the staff resource required to administer the tests. We recommend having at least 2 test administrators in each test room, so the headteacher can have confidence in the integrity of test administration.

Internal arrangements should also be in place in case a pupil needs to leave the test room – for example, if they are disruptive or begin to feel unwell.

Test administrators will usually be headteachers, teachers or teaching assistants. Test administrators should be trained in how the tests will be administered. This will help to avoid misunderstandings about test administration and misinterpretation of valid access arrangements or assistance.

If a test administrator is a relative, carer or guardian of a pupil they are supervising, there should be at least one other test administrator who is not related to the pupil present at all times.

We encourage schools to hold training sessions for those involved in administering KS2 tests. If schools have arranged independent observation of the tests, observers should also attend this training. Before administering the tests, test administrators should familiarise themselves with this guidance and with:

• section 7 of the 2024 KS2 ARA
• past test papers available in the practice test materials collection page, as detailed in the test timetable
• KS2 access arrangements guidance and those pupils needing arrangements
• test administration instructions provided with test materials, including:
  • what equipment is required for a particular test
  • the length of the test
  • what assistance is allowed for each test
• Notes for readers in the English grammar, punctuation and spelling test, which gives guidance on how particular question types should be read

8. Receiving and storing test materials

We will deliver test materials in the week beginning Monday 29 April, to school addresses taken from Get Information About Schools (GIAS) on Friday 8 March. You can update your school’s details by logging into GIAS via DfE Sign-in.

Headteachers must store test materials securely, from arrival in school until Friday 24 May, the school day after the last test can be administered using a timetable variation and all test scripts have been collected for marking.

The quantities of KS2 test materials, including any modified test orders and stationery materials, will be taken from the pupil registration and modified test orders data on Friday 8 March.

You should contact the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013 by Friday 3 May if you have not received your test materials, or if your order is incomplete.

8.1 Checking your test papers and stationery delivery

We recommend the headteacher or delegated member of staff, and at least one other member of school staff, check your delivery on receipt. Schools should check their delivery to ensure:

• the school’s details are correct and the delivery is for your school
• the boxes and test packs are sealed and undamaged

You should contact the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013 if any boxes or test packs are unsealed or damaged on arrival. We may ask you to send a photograph of any damaged boxes or test packs.

You should use the delivery note, which will be found at the top of one of the boxes, to confirm:

• the number and type of test packs received match the delivery note, but do not open them
• you have all the stationery items, including the attendance register pack, script return bags, labels, and returning test scripts guidance

Open the attendance register pack, usually found at the bottom of the box, and check that the details on each attendance register are correct.

When you have finished your checks, store all materials, including the attendance registers, in a locked cupboard. Keep your annotated copy of the delivery note somewhere accessible, in the event you receive a monitoring visit.

8.2 Security of test materials

Headteachers must ensure the integrity, security and confidentiality of the KS2 test materials are maintained from the point they arrive in school until Friday 24 May, after the timetable variation period has ended and all test scripts have been collected for marking.

Headteachers should ensure teachers and all other staff who may handle the materials understand their sensitivity.

The headteacher should allocate responsibility for overseeing the secure storage of test materials to a member of staff not directly involved with the administration of the tests. This member of staff should take responsibility for the secure storage of test materials. As part of that responsibility, they should keep a log of requests for access to the materials, so they are able to give an accurate account of everyone with access to the test materials from the point they arrive in school until Friday 24 May and all test scripts have been collected for marking.

Teachers and test administrators must not discuss the content of the test papers with anyone and must ensure content from the tests materials is not used to prepare pupils taking the tests. Specific content that could compromise a test must not be discussed, including on social media or online.

All test materials, including English reading booklets and the attendance register, must be stored securely in a locked cupboard. If any test papers from an opened pack are unused, they must be stored securely and may be used for any subsequent administration of the test - for example, an approved timetable variation.

KS2 test materials include:

• test papers
• reading booklets
• answer booklets
• stationery items, including attendance registers, test administration instructions, script return bags and labels

Practical advice for keeping materials secure

For all KS2 test materials:

• put the unopened materials and attendance register back into the original delivery box
• store test materials in a room where no IT equipment is kept, as this equipment is often targeted during burglaries
• limit access to the location of the materials
• check the boxes regularly to ensure they have not been tampered with
• plan a reporting procedure in the event of a problem - for example, if keys are lost or stolen
• check individual test packs have not been opened before the test date, unless the school has an approved early opening application
• where an early opening application is approved to allow a school to make modifications to test materials, the original test pack must be resealed and all test materials kept securely
• where test materials have been modified using an approved early opening application, the modified test materials must be returned to the test pack and resealed, ensuring all test materials are kept securely

If you suspect or experience a breach of security, you must report the incident immediately to the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013. If you do not follow the correct procedures, your school may be subject to a maladministration investigation.

Split-site schools

If test materials need to be sent to a location away from the main school site prior to administration, the headteacher must ensure that appropriate arrangements are in place to maintain the integrity, security and confidentiality of test content.

For transporting the test materials to and from a different site on a scheduled test day or with an approved timetable variation, schools can follow the guidance in the ‘Administering a test at an alternative location’ section.

Schools used as a polling station or to host public events

If your school is used as a polling station or to host a public event, you should:

• ensure test materials are secure and kept away from the polling station area and visitors
• check the materials before the opening and after the closing of the polling station or public event

9. Preparing to administer the tests

9.1 Pupil registration

You should have registered and confirmed all pupils who are at the end of KS2 on the PAG by Friday 8 March. However, it is important you update your school’s data to reflect any pupils who have left or joined your school after the deadline. You can make amendments to the ‘Manage pupil registration’ form on the PAG until Thursday 23 May. It is essential you add any pupils who join the school after Friday 8 March, including those not taking some or all of the tests – for example, because they are working below the standard.

9.2 Access arrangements

Test administrators should have a list of pupils requiring access arrangements and must follow the KS2 access arrangements guidance.

Adults providing support for an access arrangement must not be a relative, carer or guardian of the pupil.

Test administrators should note for their own records where an access arrangement was provided in the tests and, if appropriate, the name of the scribe, transcriber, reader, prompter or translator used by each pupil. If you use access arrangements inappropriately, this could lead to a maladministration investigation.

You should also consider explaining to parents and pupils what support is allowed in the tests. This should help avoid any misinterpretation of valid access arrangements which could lead to allegations of maladministration.

9.3 Preparing test rooms

Schools should prepare the test rooms to ensure a quiet space is available to all pupils. If you support a pupil with an access arrangement that may disturb or aid other pupils, you should consider administering the tests to those pupils in a separate room.

To prepare any rooms where tests will take place, you should:

• remove or cover any displays or materials that could help pupils, including removing items that could help in the spelling test
• ensure seating arrangements will allow all pupils to work quietly and independently
• ensure pupils will not be able to view each other’s test papers
• ensure a clock is visible to pupils, to help them pace themselves

Test administrators should write the full school name and DfE number on a board at the front of the class. Pupils should copy this on to their answer booklet or test paper and any additional paper used. This information will ensure accurate tracking of test scripts during the marking process. Test administrators should also write the start and finish times of the tests on the board.

Test administrators are allowed to give reminders of the time remaining in a test – for example, saying “You are now halfway through the amount of time allowed in the test” or “You now have 5 minutes left in this test”.

9.4 Equipment

A specific list of equipment needed for each test is detailed in sections 11 to 14.

Rubbers are allowed, but you should encourage pupils to cross out answers they wish to change instead of rubbing them out.

Pupils must use a dark pencil or a pen with blue or black ink to provide their answers.

Pupils must not write their answers using erasable pens, glitter pens, gel pens or other coloured pens. The ink from these does not show up when scanned for on-screen marking.

Pupils may highlight passages of text in any of the tests, provided this is normal classroom practice. Pupils must not write their answers with a highlighter pen.

Word processors, dictionaries and other reference material

If it is normal classroom practice, pupils may use word processors or other technical or electronic aids in the tests, provided the functionality does not give the pupil an advantage.

Bilingual word lists, electronic translators and electronic spell checkers can only be used as shown in sections 11 to 14, provided this is normal classroom practice.

Pupils must not use a dictionary or thesaurus during any of the tests.

Pupils must not have any items that may cause disturbances during the tests. You should collect all mobile phones and smart watches from pupils before administering the tests.

Additional paper

If pupils require additional paper, ensure the pupil’s name, school name and school’s DfE number are clearly written on the additional paper and the paper is attached to the pupil’s test script.

Squared paper

Mathematics test papers include space for working out, with gridlines included where these are useful to pupils. We discourage the use of additional squared paper, as pupils may lose marks if they make an error or omission when they transfer their working to the test paper. However, if using squared paper is part of normal classroom practice, it can be used as an access arrangement and must be attached to the pupil’s test script. If squared paper is used, ensure the pupil’s name, school name and school’s DfE number are written on the additional paper and the paper is attached to the pupil’s test script.

9.5 Ensuring pupils test scripts can be marked on screen

To ensure the majority of KS2 test scripts can be scanned, and answers read and marked on screen, schools should ensure:

• pupils use a dark pencil or a pen with blue or black ink to provide their answers
• pupils do not write their answers using erasable pens, glitter pens, gel pens or other coloured pens, as the ink from these does not show up when scanned for on-screen marking
• if a pupil needs to change an answer, they cross out their incorrect answer, rather than rub it out, and write their new answer next to it - rubbed out answers may reappear during the scanning process, which could result in a pupil’s answer being marked as incorrect
• for mathematics questions where drawing is required, pupils fully rub out their original answer before recording their new answer
• pupils keep their test scripts in good condition and do not fold or crumple their answer booklets, as folded or crumpled scripts do not scan clearly
• when preparing for the tests, encourage pupils to write their answers and show their working out in the area provided - responses in the margins or the grey area will not be marked, as answer booklets will be cut and scanned for on-screen marking
• pupils do not colour in or write on the barcodes positioned at the base of each page in the answer booklets - this could hinder the scanning and marking process, as the barcodes ensure that each page of a test script is associated with the right pupil

For more information, contact the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013 or email assessments@education.gov.uk.

9.6 Administering a test at an alternative location

At the headteacher’s discretion, tests can be administered at an alternative location. The headteacher is responsible for ensuring the integrity, security and confidentiality of the tests are maintained and the tests are administered according to the KS2 test administration guidance.

There is no requirement to notify or apply to STA to administer the test at an alternative location.

On the day of the test, take out a copy of the test paper from the pack and immediately put it into a sealed, windowless envelope. Reseal the rest of the test papers in their original package and return them to the box, then reseal the box and put it back in the secured cupboard until you are ready to administer the test to the rest of the cohort.

Transport the test paper in the envelope to the alternative location and administer the test to the pupil following the test administration guidance. We recommend having 2 test administrators present. When the test has been administered, seal the completed test scripts immediately in a windowless envelope and return it to the school, where you should add it to the other test scripts before the bag is sealed and they are sent off for marking.

On days where there are 2 tests scheduled (English GPS Papers 1 and 2 and mathematics Papers 1 and 2), you can take a copy of each test paper on your journey and administer both on the day, following the same security procedures. Once both papers have been administered, seal the completed test scripts immediately in a windowless envelope and return it to the school, where you should add it to the other test scripts before the bag is sealed and they are sent off for marking.

If the tests are being administered on an alternative date (up to 5 school days later), you will need to submit a timetable variation application prior to the tests being administered and wait for STA’s approval.

9.7 Schools affected by disruption

In line with emergency planning guidance, schools’ emergency plans should include contingencies for possible disruption to assessments. This may include alternative venues or arrangements for assessments as appropriate. Schools are encouraged to review contingency plans well in advance of assessments.

Where school facilities are affected by disruption, for example fire, flood or building closures due to reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), you may wish to make use of the flexibilities within the assessment arrangements. These include applying for a timetable variation for one or more pupils (see section 3.2); administering the test to 2 or more groups of pupils at different times on the scheduled day, rather than the whole cohort at the same time (see section 3); or administering the test at an alternative location (see section 8.4). Where schools have concerns that they may still be unable to administer a test or assessment, they should contact the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013 or email assessments@education.gov.uk.

10. Administering the tests

10.1 At the start of a test

A member of staff should collect the test packs from your secure storage. This should be recorded in the log. If there is more than one test paper to be administered on the same day, you should only collect packs for a particular test when you are ready to administer it.

You should open the test packs in front of the pupils in the rooms where they are administered, immediately before the administration of the test. You should do this with another member of staff present. If tests are administered in multiple rooms, schools should open packs in one room and then take pupils and their papers to the other rooms to administer them.

You should take care to ensure you open the correct test packs. If an incorrect test pack is opened, you must reseal the pack immediately and phone the national curriculum assessments helpline for advice on 0300 303 3013.

Once the test pack has been opened and until Friday 24 May, teachers and test administrators must not:

• discuss the content of the test papers with anyone
• publish or discuss specific content that could compromise the test, on social media or online
• use question-specific information to prepare pupils for the tests
• leave unused test papers unsecured

This is to help ensure the integrity, security and confidentiality of the tests are maintained until the end of the timetable variation period so that no pupil has an advantage over another.

You must ensure that nothing you say or do during the tests could be interpreted as giving pupils an advantage - for example, indicating that an answer is correct or incorrect, or suggesting the pupil look at an answer again.

10.2 Additional test materials

We will check for changes to the pupil registration data and modified test orders made after Friday 8 March. If required, we will dispatch additional test materials daily from Tuesday 7 May up to the day of each test.

In the event a school requires additional KS2 test materials on the day of a test, they should contact the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013 as soon as possible to discuss options including a same-day delivery.

Schools requiring additional stationery items can order them from the PAG from Friday 26 April until Tuesday 11 June. Schools must not contact the national curriculum assessments helpline for additional stationery items.

If a school does not have enough test papers to administer a test, they can photocopy up to 9 test papers when they open the test packs on the day of the tests, without seeking permission from STA. When photocopying the papers, ensure no pages are omitted or duplicated. We are unable to make allowances for pupils where schools have incorrectly modified test papers.

If the school do not wish to take this step, or requires more than 9 test papers, they should contact the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013.

10.3 Early opening of test packs

Information about when you can open test materials is included on the front sheet of each test pack. You must not open the test packs early to familiarise yourself with the test content. This can lead to allegations of maladministration and the potential annulment of pupils’ results.

You can open test packs up to one hour before the start of a test, without approval, if:

• a written translation is required for a mathematics test
• a translator or signer is making preparations
• a test paper needs to be adapted to meet the needs of individual pupils
• preparing equipment

If you need to open test packs more than one hour early to make modifications, you should have made applications for early opening on the PAG by Friday 8 March. You can only open test packs earlier than one hour before you are due to administer a test if you have an approved application for early opening.

10.4 Absence during test period

If a pupil is absent and does not return within 5 school days of the scheduled test date, or an application for a timetable variation is rejected, they should be recorded as ‘A’ (absent) on the test attendance register.

Pupils who do not take all test papers for a subject will receive a score for the papers they have completed but will not receive a scaled score. The overall outcome for a pupil who does not complete all test papers for a subject will be ‘A’ (absent).

11. Test administration on Monday 13 May

11.1 English grammar, punctuation and spelling Paper 1: questions

Format

Paper 1: questions is a combined question and answer booklet. Pupils will have 45 minutes to answer the questions. The paper is worth 50 marks in total.

Equipment

Each pupil will need a dark pencil or blue or black pen.

Rubbers are allowed, but please encourage pupils to cross out answers they wish to change instead of rubbing them out.

Pupils may use highlighter pens to highlight text if this is normal classroom practice.

Pupils are not allowed:

• a dictionary or thesaurus
• electronic spell checkers
• bilingual word lists or electronic translators

Assistance

There is no specific hearing impairment guidance for this test but, if signing, be careful to ensure you do not convey information that would give pupils an advantage.

Guidance for administering the test to pupils with a visual impairment is included in the modified test packs.

The Notes for readers in the KS1 and KS2 English grammar, punctuation and spelling test give examples of how to read particular types of question.

If a pupil requests it, you may read a question to them on a one-to-one basis.

If a pupil asks a question about test content, you may explain or rephrase a question, provided you do not give away subject-specific information - for example, if a question asks to “insert a pair of commas”, ‘insert’ may be explained, but not ‘commas’.

The examples below illustrate how to deal with some common situations:

Question: “I do not understand the question.”

Answer: “Read the question again and underline the key words that tell you what to do.”

Question: “What does ‘adverb’ mean?”

Answer: “I cannot tell you but think hard and try to remember. We can talk about it after the test.”

You must not explain any subject-specific terminology. If any other word in a question is unfamiliar to pupils, you may explain it or show them objects or pictures to help them understand.

This example is taken from the 2016 sample KS2 English grammar, punctuation and spelling ‘Paper 1: questions’:

Question 11: Circle all the pronouns in the sentence below.

They bought new jumpers for themselves and a warm scarf for Dad.

In this example, you may explain words to help the pupil understand the context and instructions, such as ‘circle’, ‘jumpers’, ‘scarf’, or explain that ‘Dad’ is a person’s name. You must not explain any subject-specific vocabulary that might give the pupil an advantage, such as ‘pronouns’. You must not identify people’s names in questions asking which word requires a capital letter or why a capital letter is needed.

11.2 English grammar, punctuation and spelling Paper 2: spelling

Format

Paper 2: spelling consists of a test transcript to be read by the test administrator and an answer booklet in which pupils write 20 spellings.

Pupils will have approximately 15 minutes to complete the test, but it is not strictly timed. The paper is worth 20 marks in total.

Equipment

Each pupil will need a dark pencil or blue or black pen.

Rubbers are allowed, but please encourage pupils to cross out answers they wish to change instead of rubbing them out.

Pupils may use highlighter pens to highlight text if this is normal classroom practice.

Pupils are not allowed:

• a dictionary or thesaurus
• electronic spell checkers
• bilingual word lists or electronic translators

Assistance

There is no specific hearing impairment guidance for this test but, if signing, be careful to ensure you do not convey information that could give pupils an advantage. If you present this paper through sign language, you must not use fingerspelling.

Guidance for administering the test to pupils with a visual impairment is included in the modified test packs.

Pupils should not require any assistance during the administration of this paper.

You should take care not to overemphasise spelling when reading out the words that pupils need to spell.

12. Test administration on Tuesday 14 May

12.1 English reading

Format

This test consists of a reading answer booklet and a separate reading booklet. All pupils must receive an unused reading booklet. Do not reuse reading booklets if you administer the test to groups of pupils at different times.

Pupils will have one hour to read the 3 texts in the reading booklet and complete the questions at their own pace. They can approach the test as they choose - for example, working through one text and answering the questions before moving on to the next. The paper is worth 50 marks in total.

Equipment

Each pupil will need a dark pencil or blue or black pen.

Rubbers are allowed, but please encourage pupils to cross out answers they wish to change instead of rubbing them out.

If it is normal classroom practice, pupils may use:

• monolingual English electronic spell checkers, provided they do not give definitions of words
• highlighter pens to highlight text (but not to write answers)

Pupils must not use a dictionary or thesaurus. You may give pupils additional lined paper if they request it. However, pupils should be encouraged to use the extra space in the answer booklet before using additional paper. The answer space provided in the answer booklet should be sufficient for most pupils and gives a guide to the length of answer expected for each question.

Assistance

There is no specific hearing impairment guidance for this test but, if signing, be careful to ensure you do not convey information that would give pupils an advantage.

Guidance for administering the test to pupils with a visual impairment is included in the modified test packs.

The English reading test must not be read to individuals or to a group, except for the general instructions. However, you may rephrase the explanations provided in the test instructions on page 3 of the reading answer booklet to ensure all pupils understand them. No other part of the reading answer booklet or reading booklet may be read to pupils or rephrased.

If a pupil asks a question about test content, you must not explain the meanings of any words or expressions.

The example below illustrates how to deal with a common situation:

Question: “I do not understand the question.”

Answer: “Read the question again and underline the key words that tell you what to do.”

13. Test administration on Wednesday 15 May

13.1 Mathematics Paper 1: arithmetic

Format

Paper 1 assesses arithmetic. Pupils will have 30 minutes to answer the questions. The paper is worth 40 marks in total.

Equipment

Each pupil will need:

• a dark pencil or blue or black pen
• a ruler, showing centimetres and millimetres

Rubbers are allowed, but please encourage pupils to cross out answers they wish to change instead of rubbing them out.

Pupils may use highlighter pens to highlight text if this is normal classroom practice, but they must not write their answers with them.

Pupils are not allowed:

• calculators
• squared paper (see section 9.4)
• other mathematical equipment, such as angle measurers or mirrors
• tracing paper

Assistance

There is no specific hearing impairment guidance for this test, but be careful if signing numbers, mathematical symbols and words. You must ensure you do not convey information that would give pupils an advantage.

Guidance for administering the test to pupils with a visual impairment is included in the modified test packs.

If a pupil requests it, you may read a question to them on a one-to-one basis.

If reading to a pupil, you can read words and numbers but not mathematical symbols. This is to ensure that pupils are not given an advantage by having the function inadvertently explained by reading its name.

The example below illustrates how to deal with a common situation:

Question: “Do I need to multiply when I calculate 95% of 240?”

Answer: “I cannot tell you, but think hard and try to remember. We can talk about it after the test.”

13.2 Mathematics Paper 2: reasoning

Format

Paper 2 assesses reasoning. Pupils will have 40 minutes to answer the questions. The Paper is worth 35 marks in total.

Equipment

Each pupil will need:

• a dark pencil or blue or black pen
• a sharp, dark pencil for mathematical drawing
• a ruler, showing centimetres and millimetres
• an angle measurer or protractor
• a mirror

Rubbers are allowed, but please encourage pupils to cross out answers they wish to change instead of rubbing them out.

If it is normal classroom practice, pupils may use:

• monolingual English electronic spell checkers
• bilingual word lists
• bilingual dictionaries or electronic translators, provided they only give word-for-word translations
• highlighter pens to highlight text (but not to write answers)

Pupils are not allowed:

• calculators
• squared paper (see section 9.4)
• tracing paper

Assistance

For pupils with a hearing impairment, be careful if signing numbers, mathematical symbols and words. Guidance on any specific words that should be signed in a particular way are included in the standard test packs.

Guidance for administering the test to pupils with a visual impairment is included in the modified test packs.

If a pupil requests it, you may read a question to them on a one-to-one basis.

If reading to a pupil, you can read words and numbers but not mathematical symbols. This is to ensure that pupils are not given an advantage by having the function inadvertently explained by reading its name.

At a pupil’s request, you may point to parts of the test paper such as charts, diagrams, statements and equations, but you must not explain the information or help the pupil by interpreting it.

The examples below illustrate how to deal with some common situations:

Question: “What does ‘quadrilateral’ or ‘>’ or ‘<’ mean?”

Answer: “I cannot tell you but think hard and try to remember. We can talk about it after the test.”

Question: “What is ‘0.6’?”

Answer: “That is nought point six.”

You must not explain any subject-specific terminology. If any context or words related to a question are unfamiliar to a pupil, you may show them related objects or pictures, or describe the context.

14. Test administration on Thursday 16 May

14.1 Mathematics Paper 3: reasoning

Format

Papers 3 assesses reasoning. Pupils will have 40 minutes to answer the questions. The paper is worth 35 marks in total.

Equipment

Each pupil will need:

• a dark pencil or blue or black pen
• a sharp, dark pencil for mathematical drawing
• a ruler, showing centimetres and millimetres
• an angle measurer or protractor
• a mirror

Rubbers are allowed, but please encourage pupils to cross out answers they wish to change instead of rubbing them out.

If it is normal classroom practice, pupils may use:

• monolingual English electronic spell checkers
• bilingual word lists
• bilingual dictionaries or electronic translators, provided they only give word-for-word translations
• highlighter pens to highlight text (but not to write answers)

Pupils are not allowed:

• calculators
• squared paper (see section 9.4)
• tracing paper

Assistance

For pupils with a hearing impairment, be careful if signing numbers, mathematical symbols and words. Guidance on any specific words that should be signed in a particular way are included in the standard test packs.

Guidance for administering the test to pupils with a visual impairment is included in the modified test packs.

If a pupil requests it, you may read a question to them on a one-to-one basis.

If reading to a pupil, you can read words and numbers but not mathematical symbols. This is to ensure that pupils are not given an advantage by having the function inadvertently explained by reading its name.

At a pupil’s request, you may point to parts of the test paper such as charts, diagrams, statements and equations, but you must not explain the information or help the pupil by interpreting it.

The examples below illustrate how to deal with some common situations:

Question: “What does ‘quadrilateral’ or ‘>’ or ‘<’ mean?”

Answer: “I cannot tell you but think hard and try to remember. We can talk about it after the test.”

Question: “What is ‘0.6’?”

Answer: “That is nought point six.”

You must not explain any subject-specific terminology. If any context or words related to a question are unfamiliar to a pupil, you may show them related objects or pictures, or describe the context.

15. Problems or queries during test administration

15.1 Dealing with issues during the tests

It is impossible to plan for every scenario. Whatever action taken, pupil safety and wellbeing must always be your first consideration. This section provides guidance on what to do in certain situations. If any unexpected situations occur during a test, you should brief your headteacher on how the incident was dealt with once the test is over.

If a fire alarm goes off

Stop the test and note the time. Evacuate the room following school procedures. Pupils should be supervised at all times to ensure they do not talk about test content. The test papers should be left in the test room.

Once safe, pupils may continue with the test using the correct amount of remaining time. If pupils do talk to each other about test content, you must phone the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013 for advice before you continue.

If a pupil is unwell

If you have reason to believe a pupil is feeling unwell or is not in a fit state to take the tests, you should not administer the test to the pupil. The school could administer the test later in the day, when the pupil is feeling better, or apply for a timetable variation to administer the test on a different day.

If a pupil becomes unwell during a test, stop the test for the individual pupil and note the time. After a rest break, if the pupil is well enough, you should give them the correct amount of remaining time to continue with the test. The pupil must complete the test on the same day. If they are too ill to continue the test, you must send the partially completed test script for marking. If the pupil leaves the school during their rest break, they will have left test conditions and must not be allowed to continue the test.

If the test script is spoiled, give the pupil a new one to continue. A member of staff should make a transcript by copying the answers from the spoiled test script onto the new test paper (see section 15.2). You should do this once the pupil has completed the test and is still under test conditions. If the test script is unreadable, ask the pupil for their answers at the end of the test and record them in a different colour on the new test paper. Do not send the spoiled test script for marking, but you must ensure it is kept secure and treated as confidential until Friday 24 May. You must also make a notification of the use of a transcript on the PAG.

If other pupils have been disturbed, you may stop the test for all pupils in the room. Make a note of the time to ensure pupils receive the correct amount of remaining time to complete the test. If necessary, move the pupils to another room.

If a pupil needs to leave the test room

Pupils taking the tests must be supervised at all times. If a pupil needs to leave the test room, a test administrator must accompany them.

When deciding on the number of test administrators needed to maintain adequate supervision during a test, you should consider the possibility that at least one test administrator might need to leave the room with a pupil.

You should also take into consideration that test administrators who administer tests on their own are more vulnerable to allegations of maladministration, as they do not have another adult to verify the test administration procedures.

If a pupil is found using a mobile phone or smart watch

Pupils must not have any items that may cause disturbances during the tests. You should collect all mobile phones and smart watches from pupils before the tests.

If a pupil is found using a mobile phone, smart watch or similar device, you should remove it from the pupil. After the test, follow the school’s usual behaviour and disciplinary procedures.

If a pupil is cheating

If you identify a pupil cheating, or if a pupil has gained an advantage from using a mobile phone, smart watch or similar device, you should record the details, including:

• the pupil’s name
• the name of the test
• any specific questions in which the pupil was advantaged by cheating

If appropriate, move the pupil to another location for the remainder of the test.

If you believe the pupil has gained an advantage as a result of cheating, notify STA using the ‘Notification of pupil cheating’ form on the PAG.

By completing the form, the headteacher agrees to either:

• the removal of marks by STA for the specific questions where the pupil has gained an advantage
• the annulment of the pupil’s result in that test by STA

The pupil’s test script must be collated with the other pupils’ test scripts. Do not enclose any information regarding the incident when sending the test scripts for marking.

You do not need to notify STA if the pupil gained no advantage from their actions. You should follow your school’s usual behaviour policy in dealing with such incidents.

If you receive any allegations of pupils cheating after Friday 31 May, when the form on the PAG to self-report pupils cheating closes to headteachers, please email STA.maladministration@education.gov.uk or call the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013.

If a pupil is disruptive

If a pupil’s behaviour is disturbing other pupils, stop the test, note the time and remove the pupil. Decide whether the disruptive pupil should continue the test in a separate room. If they do not complete the remainder of the test, you must send the partially completed test script for marking.

Give the other pupils a few moments to refocus and then continue the test with the correct amount of remaining time.

If test papers are incorrectly collated or the print is illegible

Stop the test for the affected pupils, making a note of the time, and tell them you will organise replacement papers. The pupils must not discuss test content while the replacement papers are being arranged. Once the replacements are provided, give the affected pupils the correct amount of remaining time to complete the remainder of the test. Pupils must not be allowed to start the test again.

Schools receive additional copies of each test paper. If there are insufficient additional copies, they can photocopy up to 9 test papers without seeking permission from STA. If the school does not wish to take this step, or requires more than 9 test papers, they should contact the national curriculum assessments helpline for advice on 0300 303 3013.

At the end of the test, attach or put the replacement test paper inside the original incorrect paper and inform the headteacher of the action you took. You should return the test scripts in the bag for modified scripts.

Schools are responsible for ensuring any modifications to the tests are made correctly. When photocopying the papers, ensure no pages are omitted or duplicated. STA is unable to make allowances for pupils where schools have incorrectly modified test papers.

If a pupil asks for additional paper

The test papers and answer booklets have been designed so most pupils will have enough room to record their answers. You may give pupils additional paper if they need more space for their answers. Ensure the pupil’s name, school name and school’s DfE number are written on any additional paper used and the paper is attached or put inside the pupil’s test script.

If an incorrect test was administered

If a test was incorrectly administered before the scheduled test date, you must keep the pupils under test conditions and immediately contact the national curriculum assessments helpline for advice on 0300 303 3013.

15.2 Transcribing test scripts

If it would be difficult for a marker to read a pupil’s writing, you can transcribe all or part of the pupil’s test script alongside their work. Test administrators should know those pupils likely to need a transcript before administering the tests.

You can make a transcript on the pupil’s test script or on a separate script or sheet of paper. Unless it has been spoiled, you must also send the pupil’s original test script for marking, along with the transcript. You must clip or staple the transcripts to the pupil’s original test script.

Keep the pupil under test conditions until the transcript is complete. Test administrators must adhere to section 3.2 of the KS2 access arrangements guidance. If the marker can read the pupil’s writing, they will mark the original work.

You must make a notification of the use of a transcript on the PAG.

Braille test scripts must not be transcribed.

16. After the tests

16.1 Attendance registers and packing tests scripts for marking

Test administrators should return test scripts to the headteacher immediately after each test, unless you have an approved timetable variation application. Headteachers should emphasise that test administrators must not review pupils’ answers unless they are making a transcript.

If you administered test papers from a previous year to a pupil who is not working at the standard of a test, you must not send these papers for marking.

Instructions for completing attendance registers and packing scripts for marking are provided in the guidance for returning test scripts.

Headteachers are responsible for making sure every participating pupil’s completed test script is accounted for and dispatched for marking along with the attendance register for each test paper. Test scripts must be packaged and available for collection at the earliest opportunity, considering any approved timetable variations that should be returned alongside the test papers taken on the scheduled day. Modified test scripts should be returned for marking in the green inner bag.

Full guidance on returning test scripts, including how to package modified test scripts, will be published in March 2024.

Collections during test week will take place on Monday 13 May and Wednesday 15 May for approximately half of schools, and on Tuesday 14 May and Thursday 16 May for the remainder. The courier will revisit any school with remaining packages on Friday 17 May. We will arrange collections throughout the week commencing Monday 20 May for schools with approved timetable variations.

You must keep any unused test materials secure until Friday 24 May.

16.2 Special consideration

Special consideration is designed to allow schools to highlight instances where pupils’ KS2 test results may be affected by traumatic circumstances at the time of the tests. It is intended to cover a narrow range of circumstances and is for exceptional cases only.

Headteachers have a responsibility to ensure that pupils only take the KS2 tests if they:

• are in a fit physical and mental state
• are working at the standard of the tests
• have completed the full KS2 programme of study

If a pupil takes the tests and the school determines that the pupil has been affected by extremely distressing circumstances in test week or the weeks immediately before, the school can apply for special consideration in relation to the pupil.

16.3 The headteacher’s declaration form

After all test scripts have been collected for marking, headteachers must complete and submit the KS2 HDF on the PAG, as detailed in Section 5 (4) of the Education (National Curriculum) (Key Stage 2 Assessment Arrangements) Order 2003.

The form confirms you have either administered the tests according to the published guidance, or you have reported any issues to STA. If there were issues, you should only complete the form once you have made all the relevant notifications.

The form will be available from Thursday 16 May and must be submitted by 5pm Friday 24 May.

Failure to complete the HDF by the deadline may result in a maladministration investigation. If you or a delegated member of staff cannot complete the HDF, need help completing it, or have made any errors when completing it, you should contact the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013 or email assessments@education.gov.uk. You cannot amend the HDF after submission.

17. Further information

17.1 General enquiries

For general enquiries about test administration at KS2, call the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013 or email assessments@education.gov.uk.

17.2 Message us

For queries relating to access arrangements to meet a pupil’s specific needs, schools can use the ‘Message us – access arrangements’ form on the PAG.