STANDARD ATTAINMENT TESTS (SATS) IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS

That this House expresses concern about the negative impact of Standard Attainment Tests (SATS) on students in years 2 and 6 and on their teachers; notes that 90 per cent of teachers believe that preparation for SATS in 2016 has worsened children's wellbeing, mental health and self-confidence; recognises that while many schools strive to ensure that their pupils are protected from the pressures that the tests bring and to provide a holistic and rounded education, the pressures associated with examinations are among the main causes of feelings of stress and anxiety amongst children, which can in turn lead to lower performance, poor study skills and low self-image; further notes that teaching to the test has limited children's access to a broad and balanced curriculum, restricting the time which can be spent on activities which most challenge and interest them, and permanently affecting students' attitudes to education; expresses further concern for the morale, health and wellbeing of teachers who are suffering an increased and highly demanding workload due to preparation for SATS; welcomes the Education Select Committee inquiry on primary assessment; and calls for a full Government review of curriculum and assessment in primary schools in England, with the suspension of current arrangements while the review is conducted to put an immediate halt to the damage being caused to children, teachers and schools.