•  These tests cover the core subjects of Maths, Science and English only.

•   There are two or three test papers per day, spread over one week in May.

•   More than half a million Year 6 pupils, aged 10-11, all over England sit down at the same time to do exactly the same National Curriculum Tests for Key Stage 2.

To reach level 4, pupils are required to get just over half the questions right.

All children in any one school should take each test at the same time, but schools may choose the most appropriate start time for each test.

National Targets:

The new national targets for Key Stage 2 in English and mathematics for 85% of pupils to achieve level 4+ and 35% to achieve level 5+ in English and mathematics.

As a parent or carer, you have a very important role to play in helping your children learn.   

Many parents are afraid of doing the wrong thing

 •  Remember, you can never go wrong by showing interest in your child's learning.

The most important thing you can do is be interested in what your child is learning at school, and encourage them to tell you about it and explain it.

There are of course many other things you can do too!

Don't feel you have to do all of them, but any you do find time to do will support your child's learning at school.

Parents can help pupils to:

                 •  reflect on their own work;

  •  admit problems without risk to self-esteem;

 •  find time to work out problems together.

 A few simple steps to help your child through the strain of National Tests week and the weeks leading up to it.

 •  Ensure your child attends school regularly and on time.

It is so easy for your child to miss concepts or skills vital to their future performance.

•  Ensure regular bedtimes.

Tired children cannot perform at their best.

•  Take an interest in your child's work by going through it with them.

•  Play some games, or practice mental arithmetic to recall some of the things they have already learnt at school.

•  Ensure homework is completed and listen to your child read.

•  Reassure your child that these test results will not label them a failure.

•  Most good book sellers have study and revision guides available off the shelf.

•  Parents can buy last year's actual test papers.

•  Teachers will recommend good publications to purchase from school.

•  Parents should encourage reluctant pupils to accept support from school.

•  If parents have any doubts they should ask their child's teacher how they could help their child.

• Above all, keep calm.

 Anxious as you may feel, make sure you do not pass your stress onto your children.

 It is an extremely worrying time for year 6 pupils,

who will need lots of support, reassurance and encouragement!

Click on the links below

English                     mathematics                        Science