Compulsory assessment
SATs
Under the National Curriculum system, all students undergo Standard Assessment Tests (SATs) in core subjects towards the end of studying Key Stages 1 (Year 2) and 2 (Year 6). Teachers assess the students' tests.
14-16 education
There are a few different educational routes for school students aged 14-16, all of which result in a different form of assessment during the final year of Key Stage 4 (when most students will be aged 16).
- Many students will take GCSE exams. There are over 45 subjects available for study. No GCSEs are compulsory, although because some subjects have to be studied up to the age of 16 (e.g. English, maths, science and religious education), many students choose to take GCSEs in these subjects. In 2002, eight GCSEs in vocational subjects were introduced to give a work-related option for all young people. Find out more about GCSEs by going to the QCDA website.
- Some students will take National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs). These are more vocation-based qualifications, e.g. performing arts; travel and tourism. NVQs are achieved through assessment (on-the-job observation and questioning) and training. Find out more about NVQs by going to the QCDA website. Other vocational qualifications such BTECs are also available.
- More and more students are taking Diplomas, which are qualifications that (like NVQs) offer a more practical, hands-on way of gaining essential skills that employers and universities look for. More than 5,000 employers helped in the design of the Diplomas. For more information, see the Diplomas section of this site or visit the QCDA website or the DCSF's website pages on the Diploma.