Assessment at St Theresa's

At St Theresa’s, assessment is an integral part of teaching and learning. It enables us to understand each child’s progress, identify next steps, and ensure that all pupils are supported and challenged to achieve their full potential. We use a combination of formative (ongoing) and summative (end-point) assessment strategies across all subjects.

Statutory Assessments in Primary School

As your child moves through primary school, they will take part in some national assessments:

• Reception (EYFS): Children are assessed against the Early Learning Goals at the end of the year.
• Year 1 Phonics Screening Check: This checks how well children are learning to read using phonics.
• Year 2 (Key Stage 1): Teachers assess children in reading, writing, maths and science, supported by optional tests.
• Year 4 Multiplication Tables Check: A short online check of times table knowledge.
• Year 6 (Key Stage 2 SATs): National tests in reading, maths and grammar, punctuation and spelling, alongside teacher assessments in writing and science.

These assessments help us understand how children are progressing and ensure they are ready for the next stage of their education.

Assessment in the Core Subjects

Early Years Foundation Stage (Reception)

In Reception, assessment is mainly based on careful observation. Staff watch how children learn through play and structured activities. Reading, writing and early maths skills are developed and assessed throughout the year. At the end of Reception, children are assessed against national Early Learning Goals. RE is explored through discussion, stories and reflection.

Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2)

In Key Stage 1, teachers assess children regularly as part of daily lessons. In reading, teachers use phonics lessons, reading practice and comprehension work linked to a range of texts to assess the children’s reading ability. Across the year, teachers use a range of independent writing pieces to assess the children. Through practical work, problem-solving and written work, teachers are able to assess the children’s mathematical understanding. Teachers will make judgements in Science and RE based on discussions, reflections and written work.

Key Stage 2 (Years 3 to 6)

In Key Stage 2, assessment continues to support children’s progress. Through listening to children read, comprehension work and discussions, teachers are able to assess the children’s reading ability. Throughout the year, teachers use a range of independent writing opportunities to inform their assessments. In maths, teachers base their assessments on recall of key number facts and strategies, reasoning and problem-solving, written work and pre/post unit assessments for arithmetic and reasoning. Teachers will make judgements in Science and RE based on discussions, reflections and written work.

Assessment in Foundation Subjects

We believe all subjects are important. In foundation subjects such as history, geography, art, music, PE and computing, assessment is more practical and creative.

Teachers assess children by:

• Pre and post unit quizzes to assess recall of key facts and skill development linked to their learning. These quizzes allow teachers to check whether ‘sticky knowledge’ is embedded.
• Using retrieval activities to check how well pupils remember and apply previously learned knowledge, both across different units and as they progress through year groups.
• Observing their work and participation
• Talking to them about their learning
• Looking at finished pieces such as projects, artwork or performances

This approach allows every child to show their strengths and enjoy a wide range of learning experiences.