Assessment Framework - Core Principles
Our Assessment for Learning system:
Sets out the steps to help pupils reach or exceed the end of Key Stage expectations in the National Curriculum;
Enables the School to measure whether pupils are on track to meet end of Key Stage expectations;
Enables the School to pinpoint the aspects of the curriculum in which pupils are falling behind, and to recognise exceptional performance;
Supports the teachers in developing planning for meeting the needs of all pupils;
Enables information about pupil achievement to be shared with parents, relevant stakeholders and other agencies as appropriate.
Principles of Assessment
Principle 1 – Staff Development Policy and strategy should include assessment
1.All those involved in the assessment of students must be competent to undertake their roles and responsibilities.
Principle 2 – Assessment is at the heart of Teaching and Learning
2.1 Assessment provides evidence to guide Teaching and Learning.
2.2 Assessment provides the opportunity for students to demonstrate and review their progress.
Principle 3 – Assessment is fair
3.1 Assessment is inclusive of all abilities.
3.2 Assessment is free from bias towards factors that are not relevant to what the assessment intends to address.
Principle 4 – Assessment is honest
4.1 Assessment outcomes are conveyed in open, honest and transparent ways to assist pupils with their learning.
Principle 5 – Assessment is ambitious
5.1 Assessment places achievement in context against nationally standardised criteria and expected standards.
5.2 Assessment embodies, through objective criteria, a pathway of progress and development for every child.
5.3 Assessment objectives set high expectations for learners.
Principle 6 – Assessment is appropriate
6.1 The purpose of any assessment process should be clearly stated. Conclusions regarding pupil achievement are valid when the assessment method is appropriate (to age, to the task and to the desired feedback information).
6.2 Assessment should draw on a wide range of evidence to provide a complete picture of pupil achievement.
6.3 Assessment should demand no more procedures of records that are practically required to allow pupils, their parents and teachers to plan future learning.
Principle 7- Assessment is consistent
7.1 Judgements are formed according to common principles.
7.2 The results are readily understandable by third parties.
7.3 The School’s results are capable of comparison with other schools, both local and nationally.
Principle 8 – Assessment outcomes provide meaningful and understandable information for:
8.1 Pupils in developing their learning.
8.2 Parents in supporting children with their learning.
8.3 Teachers in planning teaching and learning.
8.4 Assessment must provide information that justifies the time spent.
8.5 School leaders and governors in planning and allocating resources.
8.6 Outside agencies e.g. Local Authority, Government and Inspectors.
Principle 9 – Timely feedback that promotes learning and facilities improvement should be an integral part of the assessment process
9.1 Pupils are entitled to appropriate feedback to help them evaluate their learning, celebrate their progress and identify the next steps for their learning.