Tests for four-year-olds 'unreliable and disruptive'

Teachers told researchers the tests, which were brought into some schools in September, distracted them from getting to know their pupils.

Many said the tests themselves were unreliable, duplicated work and did not marry with existing assessment systems.

Ministers say a fair baseline is needed to ensure pupils reach their potential.

The tests, which are being brought in to all schools from this September, measure basic reading ability, numeracy and writing, as well as children's social and emotional development.

This is done in one-to-one assessments with teachers, who use checklists that include a series of questions such as whether a pupil can maintain concentration when listening to others or can subtract using single-digit numbers.

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Pupils across Kent will receive their A-levels results today – as grading returns to pre-pandemic standards.

24/04/23Support for troubled children at Willow Farm in Yalding is 'second to none'

Nigel and Lorraine Trowell farm 27 acres at Willow Farm and for the past year, they have allowed individual children or small school groups to visit the farm and help with the farming activities.

02/03/23Teachers to rally in Canterbury as schools across Kent and Medway forced to close in second day of strike action over pay

Hundreds of teachers across Kent and Medway are striking again today in their ongoing row with the government over pay.

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Smaller proportions of children are gaining places at their preferred secondary school in many areas of England, a survey suggests.

21/02/23Free school meals: London's mayor launches Â£130m scheme for primary pupils

London's mayor Sadiq Khan has announced he is launching a Â£130m scheme to give every primary school pupil free school meals for the next academic year.