The National Association of Head Teachers has welcomed the Government’s acceptance of recommendations which pave the way towards fairer measurement for schools and more accurate assessment for primary pupils.
However, the NAHT says this is the first, positive step on a long journey towards a system which reflects the achievements of all pupils and the contribution of all schools. The long-term goal is a far greater role for teacher assessment, trust in the profession and a central role for pupil progress.
Russell Hobby, General Secretary of the NAHT, said: “We broadly welcome the principles of the report by Lord Bew into testing, assessment and accountability at Key Stage 2. The remit of the report reflected the strong stance NAHT members took on this issue and there is much to be pleased with; some good ideas on mobility, absence and volatility, for example. The growing focus on progress is fundamental; and the changes to the writing test will be widely welcomed.
“We remain concerned on three accounts. We do not see the need for a new test of spelling, punctuation and grammar; members want the changes implemented as soon as is practical, particularly on writing; and we want to be sure that all parts of government honour the spirit and direction, as well as the letter, of the proposals. We look forward to further discussions with the government on these topics over summer, with a view to providing members a clear timetable at the start of the next term.”
“We are pleased the government has embraced the common sense of much of Lord Bew’s recommendations and look forward to working with the Department for Education not only to implement the proposals as soon as possible, but to continue to work towards a fairer and more meaningful way of monitoring the effectiveness of schools and the progress of pupils.”
Page Published: 18/07/2011
