SATs: slight improvement in reading, writing and maths
Key Stage 2 SATs results published by the government show that 61 per cent met the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, up from 60 per cent in 2023.
In individual subjects, attainment increased in reading, writing and science compared to 2023. Attainment remained the same in maths and grammar, punctuation and spelling.
In reading, 74% of pupils met the expected standard, up from 73% in 2023, while in maths, 73% of pupils met the expected standard, unchanged since 2023. In writing, 72% of pupils met the expected standard, up from 71% in 2023.
In grammar, punctuation and spelling, 72% of pupils met the expected standard, unchanged since 2023. In science, 81% of pupils met the expected standard, up from 80% in 2023.
Paul Whiteman, general secretary at school leaders’ union NAHT, said: “Year 6 pupils should be immensely proud of their achievements throughout this year, for most, the last in their primary school. They, and their teachers and school leaders have worked incredibly hard.
“NAHT remains concerned about the purpose of Year 6 SATs. In our recent member survey only 8% of respondents agreed that statutory assessments inform future teaching and learning. Only 6% agreed that Key Stage 2 SATs results support pupils' transition to secondary school.
“We urge the new government reconsider the value and purpose of statutory assessments for schools, parents and children. They are given disproportionate significance and pile pressure onto pupils and staff, causing unnecessary stress and in some cases harming their wellbeing.
“The current high-stakes testing regime fails to value children as individuals, foster positive mental health, or encourage a broad and balanced curriculum. We stand ready to work with the new government to develop an alternative and more proportionate approach which minimises the negative impacts on the curriculum, staff and pupils.”
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