You’ve probably heard of SATs if your little champ is in primary school in the UK. These tests are part of the school system. But many parents are still unsure about the importance and involvement of these tests.
This entire exploration is for parents of children in Key Stage 1 (Year 2) and Key Stage 2 (Year 6). It will explain:
You will discover important tips about supporting your child. Besides that, you will uncover the value of effective tutoring, and answers to common questions in your mind. Everything about SATs will feel clearer once you finish this guide. You’ll know what’s coming and how to support your child every step of the way.
SATs stands for Standard Assessment Tests. They are national tests taken by children in primary schools across the UK. The aim of these tests is to measure the progress in key subjects. The tests are not only about the individual performance of your child. The results of these tests also uncover the overall professional performance of schools there.
There are two main points when children sit SATs:
Children sit in SATs at the end of Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.
KS1 SATs (Year 2): These tests cover English and Maths. They are more low-key and often teacher-led tests. These tests spread out over a few days in May. The results give an early picture of your child’s progress.
KS2 SATs (Year 6): These tests are more formal. The tests cover English, Maths, and Science sometimes. The tests take place in May. The duration of these tests is usually over four to five days. KS2 SATs prepare children for the transition to secondary school.
Recent years have seen some changes. The UK government has announced in 2023 that from 2024, KS1 SATs would become non-statutory. It means schools are not required to run them. Although some may still choose to. KS2 SATs remain in place.
Students are tested in:
In Year 6, students are tested in:
The tests reflect what children have already been learning in class. So, there should be no surprises in the content.
SATs are marked systematically. This specific system is called “Scaled Scores”. It makes results consistent across different years. A score of 100 means a child is working at the expected standard. On the other hand, scores below 100 mean the child is working towards the expected standard. Besides that, scores above 100 mean the child is working at greater depth. They are above the expected level for their age.
This system makes it easier for parents to see their child meeting national expectations. Teachers at schools also use the results to identify where extra support is needed.
Parents play a big role in helping their children. They prepare them for SATs. They should not pressurise them. But they can create a supportive environment for them.
Create a Routine: Set aside short daily slots for reading or practice tasks. Students become calm and confident through a predictable routine.
Encourage Reading Habits: Students strengthen their vocabulary and comprehension skills through reading:
Use Online Resources and Past Papers: Free SATs papers are available online. Besides that, many apps offer practice quizzes in Maths and English.
Keep Stress Low: You should remind your child that SATs are just one part of their learning process. You may also encourage breaks and playtime. Moreover, let them exercise for better physical health.
Your little genius will approach SATs with a positive mindset when you balance their academic and recreational routine thoughtfully.
Tutoring is not essential for every child. But it is beneficial in most cases. A tutoring support will definitely make a big difference if your child is falling behind in class. So, take a timely wise step to make your child confident in Maths and English.
A tutor will:
Our tutors specialise in SATs preparation at House of Tutors. We help children understand the test format and practise with real questions. So, they approach the exam confidently. Tutoring offers peace of mind during the build-up to SATs for many parents.
Many parents worry that SATs results will affect which secondary school their child goes to. The truth is, SATs results do not directly impact admissions. Schools do not use them as part of entry criteria.
Some secondary schools look at SATs results when students move up to Year 7. They often use these scores to group children into sets for subjects like Maths and English. It means the scores may influence the level of work your child starts with at secondary school.
Yes! SATs matter, but they are not the full picture. Your child’s worth and talent go far beyond exam results. Do you want to have the best place for SAT preparation? House of Tutors is the best choice if you want to see your child excel in their academic journey.
Most private schools do not run SATs. They often use their own assessments. However, some may choose to follow the national system.
Yes! You can support your child without extra cost. You may guide them with reading and practice papers. For that purpose, you may utilise online resources. Home preparation works very well for some children but not for all.
Yes! The results are shared with parents, and they are usually included in the end-of-year school report. Schools also use them to plan future teaching.
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