What are SATs tests?
Statutory Assessments, commonly referred to as Standard Attainment Tests (SATs) were introduced in 1991 and were part of the Conservative Government`s commitment to raising standards in schools. They were initially based on teachers` observations of tasks for children. They assessed children according to the National Curriculum programme of study and were a statutory requirement. In 1994, the workload was such that the tasks were deemed to be difficult and very time-consuming to administer. Consequently, pencil and paper tests were introduced in 1995. The tests focus on English and mathematics and provide a performance level, which is reported to the DfES, and parents are informed of their child`s progress. The present Government remained committed to the SATs and although some changes have been introduced each year, the main testing programme remains the same.
