National reading and numeracy tests begin

This week marks a key milestone in the delivery of the Welsh Labour Government’s Improving Schools plan, as reading and numeracy tests for pupils in years 2 to 9 begin in Wales.

The new national tests, which will be sat from 8^th to 22^nd May, will replace the commercially produced tests previously used by schools.

By tracking progress from the end of the Foundation Phase right the way through into secondary education, the tests are designed to give teachers a clearer insight into a learner’s development and progress. This will allow them to identify strengths and areas for improvement and to intervene at an earlier stage if learners are falling behind.

The tests have been designed to be as flexible and as learner-friendly as possible. Younger learners, for example, can sit the numeracy and reading tests in shorter sessions, rather than for a continuous full hour if the school feels this would help them perform to their best of their ability.

Learners in Welsh medium schools will take a reading test in Welsh only in years 2 and 3 but in both English and Welsh from year 4 onwards. Schools will have the option to use both tests in year 3. Learners will take the numeracy test in either English or Welsh.

The tests will generate reports to parents/carers which will provide a clearer picture of their child’s abilities, and also enable them to raise any potential issues with teachers at an early stage.