What are SATS

SATS (Standard Assessment Tests) tests are given at the end of year 2, year 6 and year 9. 

Key Stage 1
The tasks and tests can be taken at a time the school chooses (summer term in our case). They generally last for less than three hours altogether. The results are not reported separately but are used to help the teacher confirm their own assessment of your child's current level. By the age of seven, most children are expected to achieve level 2.

Each child is teacher assessed in reading, writing (including spelling and handwriting), maths (including number, shape, space and measurement) and science.

The teacher assessment is moderated randomly by the local authority. This is to make sure teachers make consistent assessments of children's work.

Key Stage 2
SATs take place in May and are more formal examinations than in Key Stage 1, hence they can seem much more stressful! The tests which are taken in year 6 cover two core subjects, English and Maths.  In addition the class teacher will assess your child’s ability in Science. Very able children may be assessed by teachers to see if they can reach higher levels. The test papers for English and Maths are sent away to be independently marked with the results usually being available before your child leaves primary school in July.

SATS results, together with the teacher's assessment are shared with your child's secondary school and will be used for the organisation of groupings and classes.

Understanding Attainment Levels

The table below illustrates the ‘expected’ levels of performance at KS1, KS2 and KS3.

Additionally you may find bands 'a', 'b' and 'c' are given within the levels. This simply indicates a range within the level, a being the highest and c being the lowest. 

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