Primary School Exams to Continue Despite Union Demands

Ministers Stand Firm on Keeping SATs

Ministers have rejected union demands to scrap primary school exams, with a review of the national curriculum set to conclude that SATs and other tests have been beneficial for children's education. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson will back the findings supporting the continuation of early English and maths assessments, citing their value in supporting children's transition to secondary schools.

Union Opposition and Accusations

The decision to keep SATs in place risks sparking a fresh row with the National Education Union, which has been calling for the exams to be axed entirely. The union's general secretary, Daniel Kebede, has criticized the high-stakes assessments, claiming they do not benefit learning and restrict classroom time for other subjects like history. Accusations of wanting to "dumb down" schools have been directed at the union.

Academy Reforms and Criticism

The decision on SATs comes amidst a wider debate over academy reforms, with Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson facing criticism for curbs on academy freedoms. Former Ofsted chief Amanda Spielman has launched a scathing attack on the planned changes, accusing the government of prioritizing the interests of adults in schools over those of children. Tory Shadow Education Secretary Laura Trott warned that the reforms could have a negative impact on standards in schools.