Throughout their time at primary school, children take part in a number of statutory assessments. These assessments help teachers, parents and the Department for Education understand how children are progressing and identify where additional support may be needed.
On this page, you will find an overview of the statutory assessments that take place across the school year, including key dates, information and guidance from the Department for Education (DfE), and helpful ways that families can support their children at home.
We hope this information provides a clear picture of what to expect and helps you feel informed and confident about your child’s assessment journey.
Reception Baseline Assessment
The Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA) is a short assessment of children’s early literacy, communication and mathematics skills. It takes place within the first six weeks of children starting Reception.
The assessment is carried out by the class teacher or another familiar member of staff. It is a low stakes form of assessment.
When?
Within the first six weeks of a child starting Reception.
How can I support my child?
Talk, read and play together regularly.
Encourage your child to talk about their experiences and ideas.
Practise recognising numbers and counting through everyday activities.
Share books and enjoy stories together.
Where can I find extra information?
Please use this leaflet from the DfE to find more information: Reception Baseline Assessment DfE Leaflet
Year 1 - Phonics Screening Check
The Phonics Screening Check takes place in Year 1 and assesses children’s ability to read words using their knowledge of phonics. Children read a combination of real and made-up words to demonstrate their decoding skills.
The check is completed individually with a familiar adult and is designed to be informal and supportive.
When?
This year, the check takes place during the week of the 14-18 June 2027.
What happens if my child does not meet the expected standard?
Children who do not meet the expected standard in Year 1 will have the opportunity to retake the check in Year 2.
How can I support my child?
Read regularly with your child.
Practise the sounds and words they are learning in school.
Encourage your child to sound out unfamiliar words.
Ask your child’s teacher if you would like ideas for phonics activities at home.
Where can I find extra information?
Please use this leaflet from the DfE to find more information: Phonics Screening Check Dfe Leaflet
Year 4 - Multiplication Tables Check
The Multiplication Tables Check (MTC) takes place in Year 4. It is designed to assess whether children can fluently recall their multiplication tables up to 12 × 12.
The check is completed digitally and children have 6 seconds to answer each question.
When?
This year, the check will take place between 7-18 June 2027.
The check is not intended to cause the children anxiety. We will use the results alongside other information about children’s mathematical understanding.
How can I support my child?
Practise multiplication tables little and often.
Use everyday opportunities to practise, such as shopping, cooking and travelling.
Use Times Table Rockstars - your child has an account for this already set up!
Make practice fun by using games, songs and quizzes.
Where can I find extra information?
Please use this leaflet from the DfE to find more information: Multiplication Tables Check DfE Leaflet
Year 6 - KS2 Assessments
At the end of Year 6, children take the national curriculum tests, commonly known as SATs. These assess children’s knowledge and understanding in:
Reading
Grammar, punctuation and spelling
Mathematics
Writing is assessed through teacher assessment rather than a national test.
Children are familiarised with the format beforehand. Our teachers provide reassurance and support throughout the assessment period.
When?
This year, the KS2 assessments will take place between the 10-13 May 2027.
How can I support my child?
Encourage regular reading and discussion about books.
Help your child practise key mathematical facts where appropriate.
Encourage a good balance of work, rest, exercise and leisure.
Make sure your child gets enough sleep and has a good breakfast.
Reassure them that SATs are only one part of their primary school journey.
Where can I find extra information?
Please use this leaflet from the DfE to find more information: KS2 Assessments DfE Leaflet & Assessment Results DfE Leaflet
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