Primary school headteachers in England are pushing for the removal of mandatory tests for year 1 pupils. The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) has advised the government to reconsider tests on phonics, times tables, and grammar and punctuation, stating that these assessments are a waste of both school time and funding.
The phonics check for five- and six-year-olds was implemented in 2012 to ensure that schools were using effective reading techniques. However, the NAHT argues that phonics is now widely used in primary schools and that compulsory testing is no longer necessary. Similarly, the union believes that the multiplication tables check is unnecessary as multiplication is consistently taught throughout primary school.
According to the NAHT, teachers are already aware of which students require additional support in these areas, making the statutory tests redundant. The union also criticized the teaching of grammar in primary schools, calling for the removal of the year 6 Sats assessment of spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
The review of the curriculum and assessment, led by Prof Becky Francis, is expected to address the education of children with special needs and disabilities, as well as pupils who struggle to achieve good GCSE grades. The government has emphasized the importance of reducing the burden of exams and assessments while recognizing the benefits of public examinations.
Overall, the NAHT’s call to eliminate compulsory tests for year 1 pupils highlights the need to reassess the current education system in England. By focusing on effective teaching methods and reducing unnecessary assessments, schools can better support student learning and development.
