The stress of SATS
Published
Standard Assessment Tests, or SATS as they are commonly known, have been a big part of family life for many years, often causing concern and anxiety. Now, new research from IPPR (Institute for Public Policy Research) suggests that less than one in 10 primary leaders want SATs kept as they are.
Primary leaders warn that SATs are narrowing the curriculum and increasing teacher stress. According to the IPPR survey of teachers, the vast majority want primary school assessments scrapped or reformed, with teachers saying tests do not allow disadvantaged pupils to demonstrate what they know and what they can do. They argue that the tests can compound disadvantage by squeezing out subjects such as art, music and sport, as well as trips that poorer pupils are less likely to access outside school. Some test content assumes background knowledge and experiences not all children have had, while the blunt ‘expected standard’ label can leave pupils feeling they have failed.
The researchers also found that SATs play a significant role in the recruitment and retention crisis in schools. Half of teachers questioned (52 per cent) say SATs play a significant role in influencing teachers’ decision to quit, while 93 per cent say that preparation for and administration of SATs increase stress levels for teachers.
But the report does not call for SATs to be abolished. Instead, IPPR says the findings should prompt a wider debate about how primary assessment and accountability can be reformed so that it is fairer, broader and better able to support disadvantaged children. The think tank will be publishing a report with recommendations later this year.
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