Standardised assessment in primary schools

Early day motion 277, tabled 10 March 2020 by Jack Dromey (Labour). Signed by 8 members.

That this House acknowledges recent research conducted by YouGov which demonstrates that 62 per cent of parents believe there is too much standardised assessment in primary schools in England; notes that parents consider the happiness of pupils and a well-rounded education to be a better measure of the performance of schools than formal tests taken under exam conditions; further notes that teaching to the test can limit children's access to a broad and balanced curriculum and restrict time spent on activities which children would find stimulating and challenging; further expresses concern that the pressure of sitting tests under exam conditions can harm pupils' well-being and have negative consequences both in school and at home; and calls for an urgent Government review of all assessment in primary schools to achieve a system of standardised accountability which is in line with parents' priorities.

Signatures by party: Labour 4, Labour/Co-operative 2, DUP 1, Green 1.