The key to good assessment

Research evidence indicates that enhancing formative assessment within the classroom has a significant and powerful impact on pupil learning; it is one of the most important contributors to success in summative assessments. Investing in the development of these strategies is where the greatest benefits to learning lie for ensuring success for all.

We have identified four key stages in the formative assessment process to help you highlight what individual pupils know, and can do, to inform appropriate next teaching and learning steps. As teaching professionals, you will already have an idea of where pupils’ attainment and progress sit within the class but identifying specific gaps and engaging every child with challenging learning will require high-quality formative assessment.