Department for Education propose new testing for five-year-olds 

A recent report talks about the Department for Education considering taking part in a pilot scheme that will involve five-year-olds taking new tests. The pilot programme is set to start in September 2018. The decision to participate in this pilot study is shared in the expression of interest document which was seen in the telegraph.

The expression of interest document states that three countries have agreed to take part, this includes England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will not participate in the study.

The tests undertaken by five-year-olds will cover Literacy, language and verbal skills; numeracy and mathematics; self-regulation and ability to pay attention; and ‘empathy and trust’.

Many early years experts are concerned this will result in a stronger emphasis on tests rather than looking at ways to improve all children’s early education experiences