Commenting on the publication of Key Stage 2 test
results, Pepe Di'Iasio, General Secretary of the Association
of School and College Leaders, said:
“Congratulations to schools, teachers, and pupils on this year's
Key Stage 2 test results. While the percentage of children
meeting the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths
combined has increased since the pandemic, it remains lower than
pre-pandemic levels in 2019. This highlights the ongoing impact
of the educational disruptions caused by Covid-19.
“The children who sat Key Stage 2 tests this year faced
significant learning disruptions at the end of Year 2 and in Year
3. Despite the tremendous efforts by schools to provide catch-up
support, the learning loss experienced by some students,
particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, was
considerable. This challenge has been further compounded by the
cost-of-living crisis, which has severely affected the many
children living in poverty.
“It is deeply regrettable that the previous government did not
fully acknowledge this issue, both in terms of the inadequate
post-pandemic education recovery funding and the decision to
withdraw the National Tutoring Programme funding as of September.
This is a step backward, and we strongly urge the new government
to reconsider and restore this vital support.”
