MPs raise concerns over primary school testing

An education select committee report into the impact of testing pupils raises concerns that the regular publication of SATs results is putting pressure on teachers and negatively impacting on the quality of learning in primary schools.

It calls for the publication of annual Key Stage 2 test results to be scrapped in favour of a three-yearly public release, with only schools having access to yearly data. 

The report states: "Assessment is closely linked to the accountability system in primary schools, with Key Stage 2 results used to hold schools and teachers to account on the progress and attainment of pupils. However, the high-stakes system can negatively impact teaching and learning, leading to narrowing of the curriculum and ‘teaching to the test', as well as affecting teacher and pupil wellbeing."

The committee is also concerned that Ofsted is putting too much focus on SATs results, which only cover maths, reading and writing, and wants to see the inspectorate look more at the broader curriculum, especially how well science is being taught.

Committee chair Neil Carmichael said: "Many of the negative effects of assessment in primary schools are caused by the use of results in the accountability system rather than the assessment system itself.