Assessing Pupil Progress

We know that assessing pupil progress can be useful in helping teachers decide a child’s next steps. At Sidcot, we don’t ever want assessments to interfere with children’s wellbeing or their enjoyment of learning. That’s why we don’t enter children into SATs tests.

Educational Attainment - What Matters

We want our pupils to experience education as being about expanding possibilities and discovering potential, not just passing tests. We are proudly a SATs test free zone. Our teachers collect assessment information in more discreet and less pressurised ways. 


What matters at Sidcot is the learning journey; the moments that spark curiosity or make a difference to a student’s life. A love of learning is just as much of an end goal as educational attainment in our Junior School.

Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2

The Key Stages in Junior School are Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. Key Stage 1 is from ages 5 to 7 and Key Stage 2 is from ages 7 to 11. These Key Stages help to guide the curriculum and are useful for monitoring and assessing pupil progress.

Parents are given assessment data at the end of both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, and all children have a learning journey as they go through life at Sidcot. At every age, whether children are in Key Stage 1 or Key Stage 2, the curriculum is planned around academic topics and a programme of activities that motivates Junior School pupils to see themselves as a whole person; something that cannot be assessed from a SATs test.

Assessing Pupil Progress at Sidcot School

We would be happy to tell you more about assessments at Sidcot School and our holistic approach to teaching and learning. Please contact us, request a prospectus, or visit us on one of our open days.