What are key stage 2 tests?
If you have a child in year 6, at the end of key stage 2 (KS2) they will take national curriculum assessments in:
• English grammar, punctuation and spelling
• English reading
• Mathematics
Some people refer to these tests as SATs. The tests help measure the attainment of pupils in relation to the standards set out in the national curriculum, and help teachers and parents identify where pupils may need additional support in a certain subject area. The test results are also used to report publicly on schools’ performance via the Department for Education’s (DfE) Compare School and College Performance1 service and to produce national and regional performance statistics.
Your child will sit the KS2 tests on scheduled dates set by the Standards and Testing Agency (STA). If your child is absent on a scheduled test day, they may be able to take any missed test up to 5 school days afterwards. Your child’s school must apply for a timetable variation and receive approval from STA to allow for this.
For the academic year 2025 to 2026, the KS2 tests are scheduled to take place from Monday 11 May to Thursday 14 May 2026:
Further information
Your child’s teacher will be able to answer any questions about the tests and
teacher assessment judgements.
For more details, you can also visit www.gov.uk/STA
