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Frequently asked questions
As a parent you may have further questions or concerns about the tests that your child will take. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers:
- Why does my child have to take the tests?
- When are the tests usually held?
- What happens if my child is ill or we have a family emergency on the day of the test?
- What are the conditions for my child when they are taking the key stages 2 and 3 tests?
- What happens if my child doesn't pass the tests?
- If my child does not do as well as expected, will they be entered for lower-tier examinations at GCSE?
- How will the results be used?
- Where can I find past test papers?
Q: Why does my child have to take the tests?
A: The national curriculum sets out what all children in England have a right to learn. National curriculum tests provide a snapshot of how the national curriculum is being delivered across the country. The tests are designed to cover work that your child has learnt over the previous years and provide the teacher with a good basis from which to plan their future learning. It is compulsory for all children in state schools who have reached the end of the key stage to sit the national curriculum tests.
Q: When are the tests usually held?
A: National curriculum tests at key stages 2 and 3 will be taken towards the beginning of May. Up-to-date information on exact dates can be found on this website through the link on the right hand side of this page. Your child's school will also be able to provide further information.
Q: What happens if my child is ill or we have a family emergency on the day of the test?
A: If it is unavoidable that your child misses the test, you must contact the school immediately - they can advise you on what to do. The school may have to request a timetable variation so that your child can sit the test on another day. Schools cannot request a timetable variation if a child is on holiday. You should check the dates of the tests before booking a family holiday so that your child does not miss them. If it is not possible for your child to sit the test on another day, then they will only receive a teacher assessment level for that subject.
Q: What are conditions for my child when they are taking the key stages 2 and 3 tests?
A: National curriculum tests at key stages 2 and 3 are carried out under test conditions. If you think that the test arrangements aren't suitable for your child, for example if your child has a hearing or visual impairment or they have a statement of special educational needs, then the tests can be modified as necessary. You should speak to your child's school to find out more about the test conditions and what support may be available. Your child will be able to ask questions about the test. If they need to go to the toilet, then they can put up their hand and ask permission.
Q: What happens if my child doesn't pass the tests?
A: National curriculum tests are not 'pass' or 'fail' tests. They are used to check your child's progress in school. The results of the tests are the basis on which future learning is built.
Q: If my child doesn't do as well as expected, will they be entered for lower-tier examinations at GCSE?
A: It is important that your child understands that they are not going to 'pass' or 'fail' their national curriculum tests. The tests offer them an opportunity to show what they have learnt over the previous years and allow teachers to plan their future learning. Different schools will use the test results for different things. For example, some schools will use the information to place pupils in sets for the following year. You should speak to your child’s school if you would like to know more about how they use the results.
Q: How will the results be used?
A: Teachers use the results to help plan the next stage of your child's education. The information from the tests shows teachers what areas your child is good at and where they might need extra help or practice. Results are also collected so that the government can see how schools are performing locally and nationally.
Q: Where can I find past test papers?
A: If you would like to see copies of past test papers, then speak to your child's teacher who may have copies that you can look at.
You can find sample questions on this website.
Further questions?
If you have any further questions, go to the 'Where to go for more information' section for organisations that may be able to provide help and advice.