Education Minister, today published a new policy
framework for statutory assessment in primary schools and at Key
Stage 3.
For the first time, Northern Ireland will have a clear statutory
assessment pathway from Year 1 to Year 10, which will transform
how pupil learning is assessed and supported.
The new framework introduces a sequenced set of low‑workload,
curriculum‑aligned assessments for pupils, including:
- a Baseline check in Year 1;
- a Phonics reading check in Year 2;
- annual reading fluency checks in Years 3–5;
- literacy and numeracy assessments in Year 4;
- a multiplication check in Year 5; and
- literacy, numeracy and science assessments in Years 7 and 10.
said: “This new framework lays
the foundations for a modern, coherent and intentionally aligned
assessment system that strengthens teaching and supports every
learner.
“Moving to this model of statutory assessment will ensure every
parent is provided with consistent, clear information on their
child's progress, whilst upholding the Department's commitment to
publish system‑level attainment data only.
“These reforms are a key element of my Department's TransformED
strategy, which aims to build a world‑class, equitable education
system focused on high‑quality teaching and learning.”
The reforms follow an Independent Review of Statutory Assessment,
chaired by Tim Oates CBE, which concluded that the current
assessment system, based on moderated teacher judgement and the
Levels of Progression, has not delivered reliable information for
pupils, teachers or the wider education system. The new framework
also addresses concerns about the lack of available assessment
data, which have been highlighted in a recent Northern Ireland
Audit Office report.
The Minister concluded: “The new statutory assessments are
short, low‑stakes and supportive, designed to provide clear,
timely information rather than create pressure for pupils or
teachers. They require no revision or preparation. Many
assessments will be automatically marked, minimising teacher
workload and ensuring that classroom time is focused where it
should be; on teaching, learning and responding to pupil needs.
“These reforms will align Northern Ireland with leading
international practice, where a well‑matched curriculum and
assessment system and strong early identification are key to
raising standards. They will also ensure that parents receive
easy‑to‑understand information about their child's progress from
Year 1 right through to Key Stage 3.”
The Education Minister provided further detail in a Written
Ministerial Statement, which can be found at www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/written-ministerial-statement-new-statutory-assessment-framework-northern-ireland
The assessment policy framework can be found at www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/department-education-policy-framework-statutory-assessment-northern-ireland
Notes to editors:
- The Response by the Department of Education to the
Independent Review of Statutory Assessment | Department of
Education can be found at www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/response-department-education-independent-review-statutory-assessment
