Assessment

When children first come into Nursery, they are assessed to find out about their learning so far.  This tells us what the children can do and helps us to plan the next steps in their learning.  In addition, the assessment helps us to recognise the stage of social and emotional development a child has reached as this can have a significant effect upon learning.  Across the Early Years Foundation Stage, children are assessed using Development Matters.   At the beginning of the Reception year there is a national Reception Baseline Assessment, which is an activity-based assessment of pupils’ starting points in language, communication and literacy as well as mathematics.  At the end of the Reception year children are assessed using the Early Learning Goals.

Throughout their time in school the children are assessed and tested in various ways.  The children are not put under pressure or made to feel uncomfortable.  Assessment is an integral part of everyday learning and teaching and is therefore not presented as anything unusual or frightening.  This ongoing assessment helps the teachers to plan the curriculum in a way that will move the children forward in their learning.  Targets for learning will be shared with your child and yourself.

In year one the children undertake the national Phonics Screening Check in June which gives an accurate picture of their phonic knowledge and helps us to plan next steps in their learning. 

In Year 2, when the children are seven or will be seven that academic year, they will be assessed using the Optional Standard Assessment Tests and Tasks – better known as SATs.   Teachers will use these as well as their own judgement and knowledge of your child’s learning to tell you whether your child has reached the expectations for the end of Key Stage 1 in Reading, Writing and Mathematics.

We hold Parent Consultation Evenings so you can discuss the results of the various assessments and the progress your child is making.  Annual reports are sent home for every child during the summer term.  If you have any questions about your child’s progress, please do not feel you have to wait until Parents’ Evenings to discuss your concerns.  We are always available to talk with you at a mutually convenient time.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.