ASSESSMENT AND TESTING IN SCHOOLS

That this House notes the Government's attempt, through the School Report Card, to shift the emphasis from school league tables of test and examination results to more meaningful performance and accountability measures, but is concerned that the proposals may create even more unnecessary accountability burdens on schools; whilst welcoming the decision to abolish National Curriculum tests at Key Stage 3, believes it is incomprehensible that teacher assessment is deemed appropriate for secondary and not primary schools; and therefore calls on the Government to introduce a similar system to that in Wales by removing high stakes end of key stage tests at age seven and 11, replacing them with meaningful assessments which inform teaching and learning.