Key Stage 2 Standard Assessment Tests (SATs) Support for schools when administering the SATs

Key Stage 2 Standard Assessment Tests (SATs)  Support for schools when administering the SATs

Target group: Headteachers and Senior Leaders

Local Authorities (LA)s are required to carry out monitoring visits in approximately 10% of schools. An LA representative will visit schools unannounced and will follow the guidance given by the Standard Assessment Agency. Monitoring visits help ensure that schools maintain the integrity, security and confidentiality of test materials and that they administer KS2 national curriculum tests correctly and consistently. See link below:

Key stage 2 tests: monitoring visits guidance - GOV.UK

Most schools will be able to manage all aspects of the requirements set out in the administration guidance but occasionally circumstances occur when Headteachers, senior leaders will need to seek advice. Of course the first point of call is the Standards Agency. For general enquiries about test administration at KS2, call the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013 or email [email protected]. If unable to get a quick response from the STA or the matter is of a more local nature then do contact Chris Cosker [email protected] (07733 303 993) or Georgina Herry [email protected] (07342 055 116) We can also advise on training staff and other adults on supporting pupils during the tests. See administration guidance link below:

Key stage 2 test administration guidance - GOV.UK

Top Tips

In the guidance:

• STA recommends having at least 2 test administrators in each test room, so the headteacher can have confidence in the integrity of test administration.
• STA recommends inviting a governor, (governors have a responsibility to ensure the SATs are carried out properly) a trusted member of the school community or a staff member from a nearby secondary school, who is not otherwise involved in administering the tests, to observe their administration.
• Have available during the administration of the SATs the ‘Test administration’ section of the 2025 KS2 ARA for staff and observers to refer to.
• If a pupil takes the tests and the school determines the pupil has been affected by extremely distressing circumstances during test week or the weeks immediately before, the school can apply for special consideration of the pupil. Special consideration
• Have the signed and dated delivery note after checking the correct delivery of SATs papers handy for a possible monitoring visit.
• Update your school’s data to reflect any pupils who have left or joined your school after the deadline. (7^th March) You can make amendments to the ‘Manage pupil registration’ form on the PAG until Thursday 15 May. It is essential you add any pupils who join the school after Friday 7 March, including those not taking some or all of the tests – for example, because they are working below the standard.