KS2 SATS

We would like to share some important information about the Key Stage 2 (KS2) SATs, which all pupils in Year 6 across England complete each year. These assessments help provide a clear picture of how well children have learned the knowledge and skills set out in the national curriculum.

What Are KS2 SATs?

KS2 SATs are statutory national tests taken by all Year 6 pupils. They assess children’s attainment in English and mathematics, and they help schools, families, and secondary teachers understand pupils’ strengths and areas for development. They also form part of how schools report their performance nationally.

Which Subjects Are Assessed?

Your child will take tests in:

English

• Grammar, Punctuation & Spelling (GPS)
• Paper 1: Grammar & punctuation (45 minutes)
• Paper 2: Spelling test (20 words)
• Reading
• One test paper containing texts and comprehension questions (60 minutes)

Mathematics

• Paper 1: Arithmetic (30 minutes)
• Paper 2: Reasoning (40 minutes)
• Paper 3: Reasoning (40 minutes)

Teacher Assessments

Writing and science are not tested through formal exams. Instead, teachers assess your child’s work across the year to form a final judgement.

When Will the SATs Take Place?

The KS2 SATs for 2026 will take place during the week of:

Monday 11th May – Thursday 14th May 2026

The timetable is as follows:

• Monday 11 May
  – GPS: Paper 1 (Grammar & Punctuation)
  – GPS: Paper 2 (Spelling)
• Tuesday 12 May
  – English Reading
• Wednesday 13 May
  – Maths Paper 1 (Arithmetic)
  – Maths Paper 2 (Reasoning)
• Thursday 14 May
  – Maths Paper 3 (Reasoning)

How Will I Receive My Child’s Results?

Schools receive the results in early July and share them with families before the end of the summer term. You will receive:

• A scaled score for reading, maths and GPS
• A clear indication of whether your child has met the expected standard
• Teacher assessment outcomes for writing and science

Secondary schools also use these results to help plan support as your child transitions into Year 7.

How Can I Support My Child?

• Stay positive—SATs are only one part of your child’s learning journey
• Encourage good routines: sleep, healthy food, and calm spaces to work
• Praise effort, not just results
• Avoid overusing the most recent past papers, as schools may still be using them in class
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 A note from us:

We know that KS2 SATs can feel like a big milestone, but please remember: they are simply a snapshot of what your child knows and can do at the end of primary school. They do not reflect their creativity, kindness, resilience, or all the other wonderful things that make them who they are.

If you have any questions or would like further support as SATs week approaches, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Revision Resources:

Free KS2 SATs Revision Websites for Parents

1. Third Space Learning – Free SATs Revision Resources
   https://thirdspacelearning.com/primary-resources/

A parent‑friendly website offering easy‑to-use maths revision materials, practice questions, and worked examples—all free of charge.
Why parents like it: Clear explanations and plenty of practice tasks.

2. SATs‑Papers.co.uk – Free Past Papers (All Subjects)
   https://www.sats-papers.co.uk/

Download official SATs past papers for maths, reading and grammar/spelling, plus answer booklets, all for free.
Why parents like it: Real exam papers help children understand the format and prepare with confidence.

3. PrimaryTools.co.uk – Free Papers & Analysis Tools
https://www.primarytools.co.uk/

Offers a complete set of free KS2 SATs past papers, plus helpful tools to spot strengths and areas needing extra practice.
Why parents like it: Easy to download and perfect for structured revision at home.

Links to DFE Guidance: 

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/national-curriculum-assessments-information-for-parents
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/national-curriculum-assessments-past-test-materials#key-stage-2-past-papers