Assessment is an essential part of teaching and learning at Greenholm, helping us understand what children can do and what they need to learn next. It’s woven into everyday practice to ensure every child has the best chance to succeed.
Foundation Stage
In Reception, we use the Foundation Stage Profile to assess children’s development and plan their next steps. Evidence of progress is gathered through Tapestry, which parents can view. At the end of the year, parents receive a summary of their child’s achievements in the prime areas of learning, which helps us set future targets for Key Stage 1.
Key Stage 1
In Key Stage 1, teachers assess children daily through their work and activities. This informal formative assessment helps tailor lessons so that all children make progress, especially in reading, writing, and maths. We share updates with parents during termly parents’ evenings, where children are encouraged to share their achievements too.
For children needing extra help, teachers plan targeted support through small groups, one-to-one sessions, or additional activities at home.
Key Stage 2
In Key Stage 2, regular assessments help us monitor progress and identify areas where children might need extra support. Teachers use this information to plan lessons that challenge and engage all pupils.
Three times a year, children take part in more formal assessments, which give us a clear picture of their progress. In Year 6, children sit national tests in reading, maths, and spelling, punctuation, and grammar, with writing assessed separately. These results, along with teacher assessments, are shared with parents and passed on to secondary schools to help with transition and planning.
Why Assessment Matters
Assessment helps us ensure every child is learning at their own pace, with the right level of challenge. It allows us to identify strengths, support areas for improvement, and celebrate progress. In turn, his can then inform parents to support their children’s learning in a more targeted way.