Y6 SATs

This week our Year 6 children are taking their SATs. These, as I am sure you are aware, are the end of year tests - the intention of which is to assess the children’s attainment at the end of their Primary education.

 

Following extensive media coverage regarding the challenges surrounding the reading paper taken on Monday and then this morning the acknowledgement of a breach regarding the publication of test materials online, I thought it was important to write out to you.

 

It is expected that SATs papers are stored securely in school; administered under tests conditions and then sealed and returned to the Standards and Testing Agency (STA) for marking. We do not risk the integrity of the tests in school and ensure the administration is in line with the strict guidelines provided by the STA. Despite the current controversy we have tried our best to maintain normality in school whilst adhering to these enforced rules.

 

I want to commend the children for continuing to work hard and thank our families for their support. The children have worked incredibly hard and this is an opportunity for them to show how much they have achieved. Sadly, recent reports on SATS in the   media could distract from this. I believe it is important that we still recognise the efforts and celebrate the achievements being made by each and every child - on these days and every day. We do submit teacher assessments on the children and I have no question about their validity as the staff know the children extremely well. Therefore despite any questions now being posed by the media about the recent tests please be assured our teacher assessments will accurately reflect your child’s attainment.

 

I also note that the staff at Garswood have worked incredibly hard supporting the children and trying their best to ensure a reassuring, calm environment especially during this test week. In addition all teachers and Year 6 staff have given their time to offer booster classes for the children. Staff have undertaken twilight training events on curriculum areas into the evening on a number occasions to ensure they provide the very best opportunities for the children. I’m sure you will agree with me that their commitment and dedication also needs recognition.

 

As we approach the final tests on Wednesday and Thursday this week, I wish the children the best of luck. I hope that the coming tests are fair and do give opportunity for the children to shine without the controversies of recent days. Thank you for your continued support.

 

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