Compulsory reading test to be introduced for 13-year-olds
Teachers slam new mandatory reading test plans
- The government is set to introduce mandatory reading assessments for 13-year-olds (Year 8 students) as part of its forthcoming Schools White Paper.
- Results from these tests would be shared with the Department for Education and Ofsted, with a possibility of being shared with parents, but not initially used in school league tables.
- Teaching unions, including the NEU and ASCL, have criticised the proposal, arguing that pupils do not need another national examination.
- Unions warn that the new assessment could evolve into another accountability measure, leading to punitive labelling of schools, a narrowed curriculum, and increased stress.
- The Department for Education defends the initiative, stating that strong reading skills are crucial for overall academic success, particularly for disadvantaged pupils.