National Curriculum Key Stage 3 (KS3)
⚠️ Important Clarification About KS3 Exams
There are NO formal national examinations at Key Stage 3. KS3 SATs (Standard Assessment Tests) were discontinued in 2009. Students in Years 7, 8, and 9 are assessed through teacher assessments and internal school tests, not external national exams.
The next formal national examinations students will take are GCSEs at the end of Year 11 (Key Stage 4), scheduled for May-June 2028 for current Year 7 students.
What is Key Stage 3?
Key Stage 3 (KS3) is part of the National Curriculum in England, covering three academic years:
KS3 represents the first three years of secondary school in England and Wales. During this period, students study a broad and balanced curriculum across 12 compulsory subjects, building foundational knowledge and skills for GCSE studies (Key Stage 4).
Unlike KS2 (which ends with SATs) and KS4 (which ends with GCSEs), KS3 has no external examinations. Progress is measured through ongoing teacher assessments and internal school tests.
National Curriculum Subjects at KS3
Compulsory Core Subjects
📖 English
Reading, writing, grammar, spoken language, and literature including Shakespeare, poetry, and novels.
➗ Mathematics
Number, algebra, geometry, ratio, probability, and statistics building toward GCSE content.
🔬 Science
Biology, Chemistry, and Physics taught separately or as combined science.
Foundation Subjects
🌍 Geography
Physical and human geography, map skills, fieldwork.
📜 History
British, European, and world history from medieval to modern times.
🗣️ Modern Foreign Languages
French, Spanish, German, or other languages (listening, speaking, reading, writing).
🎨 Art & Design
Drawing, painting, sculpture, digital art, and art history.
🎵 Music
Performance, composition, listening, and musical theory.
🎭 Drama (often)
Performance, script work, improvisation (varies by school).
⚙️ Design & Technology
Product design, resistant materials, textiles, food technology.
💻 Computing
Programming, computational thinking, digital literacy, e-safety.
⚽ Physical Education
Team sports, individual activities, fitness, health and wellbeing.
🗳️ Citizenship
Democracy, law, human rights, community participation.
Additional Required Education
- Relationships and Health Education (RHE): Mandatory for all students
- Sex Education: Mandatory (parents can withdraw students)
- Religious Education (RE): Mandatory unless parents withdraw students
- Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE): Non-statutory but taught in most schools
How KS3 Students Are Assessed
Assessment Methods at KS3
Since there are no formal national exams, schools use various internal assessment methods:
1. Teacher Assessments (Ongoing)
Teachers continuously assess student work throughout the year through:
- Classwork and homework assignments
- Oral presentations and group work
- Practical assessments (science experiments, art projects, PE performance)
- Extended writing and coursework projects
- Participation and engagement in lessons
2. End-of-Unit Tests
Schools typically set tests at the end of each topic or unit:
- Short assessments covering specific topics
- Usually conducted during lesson time
- Results used to track progress and identify areas needing support
3. Formal School Examinations
Most schools conduct formal internal exam periods:
- Mid-Year Assessments: Usually in January/February
- End-of-Year Exams: Usually in June/July
- Conducted under exam conditions (silent exam halls, timed papers)
- Cover all topics studied during the year or term
Typical Assessment Calendar 2025-2026
📅 Note: These are typical timelines used by most schools. Always check with your own school for specific dates as they vary between institutions.
| Term / Period | Assessment Type | Typical Timing | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Term | Baseline Assessments (Year 7 only) | September - October 2025 | Establish starting points for new secondary students |
| Autumn Term | Progress Checks | October - December 2025 | Monitor ongoing progress and set targets |
| Spring Term | Mid-Year Assessments | January - February 2026 | Formal testing in most/all subjects |
| Spring Term | Progress Reports | February - March 2026 | Share mid-year results with parents |
| Summer Term | Mock Exams (Year 9) | April - May 2026 | Prepare Year 9 for GCSE transition |
| Summer Term | End-of-Year Exams | June - July 2026 | Comprehensive assessment across all subjects |
| Summer Term | Year 9 Options Selection | January - March 2026 | Choose GCSE subjects for Year 10 |
KS3 Grading and Reporting
How Schools Report KS3 Progress
Since the removal of National Curriculum levels in 2014, schools use various systems to report student progress. Common approaches include:
1. GCSE-Style Grading (9-1)
Many schools use the GCSE 9-1 scale to assess KS3 students:
- Year 7: Expected grades 1-3 by end of year
- Year 8: Expected grades 3-5 by end of year
- Year 9: Expected grades 4-6 by end of year
- This helps students understand progression toward GCSE expectations
2. Working At (WA) / Working Towards (WT) / Working Below (WB)
Some schools use descriptive criteria:
- Working Above (WA): Exceeding age-related expectations
- Working At (WAT): Meeting age-related expectations
- Working Towards (WT): Progressing toward expectations
- Working Below (WB): Requires additional support
3. Percentage Scores
Some schools report raw percentage scores from tests and assessments, with grade boundaries indicating expected standards.
4. Target Grades and Progress Indicators
- Current Grade: Where the student is performing now
- Target Grade: Where they should be aiming
- Predicted GCSE Grade: Likely outcome at end of Year 11
- Effort/Attitude Grades: Usually scored 1-4 or A-D
Typical School Assessment Schedule 2025-2026
Autumn Term 2025
| Week | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| September 2025 | School Year Begins | Year 7 transition, Year 8 & 9 return |
| September - October 2025 | Baseline Assessments (Year 7) | CAT4, reading ages, subject baselines |
| October - December 2025 | Formative Assessments | End-of-topic tests, coursework projects |
| December 2025 | Autumn Term Reports | Progress updates sent to parents |
Spring Term 2026
| Week | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Week commencing 12th January 2026 | Mid-Year Assessment Period | Formal exams across most/all subjects |
| January - March 2026 | Year 9 GCSE Options Process | Subject selection for Key Stage 4 |
| February - March 2026 | Spring Term Reports | Mid-year assessment results shared |
| March 2026 | Parents' Evenings | Discuss progress with subject teachers |
Summer Term 2026
| Week | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| April - May 2026 | Year 9 Mock Exams | GCSE-style assessments to prepare for KS4 |
| Week commencing 22nd June 2026 | End-of-Year Examinations | Comprehensive testing across all subjects |
| July 2026 | Summer Reports & Transition | Final reports, Year 9 → Year 10 GCSE transition |
| Late July 2026 | End of Academic Year | School breaks for summer holidays |
Preparing for KS3 Assessments
📚 Consistent Study Habits
Establish regular homework routines. Spend 30-60 minutes per night on homework and review.
📝 Organize Notes
Keep subject folders organized. Review and summarize notes after each lesson.
🎯 Practice Tests
Use past KS3 papers and revision materials to practice exam technique and timing.
❓ Ask Questions
Don't hesitate to ask teachers for help. Attend revision sessions and support classes.
📖 Read Widely
Build vocabulary and comprehension through regular reading for pleasure.
⏰ Time Management
Balance schoolwork with extracurricular activities. Use planners to track deadlines.
Transition from KS3 to GCSE (KS4)
Year 9 - Crucial Transition Year
During Year 9, students make important decisions about their GCSE subjects. This typically happens between January and March of Year 9.
GCSE Options Process
- Core Subjects (Compulsory for all): English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Sciences (Double or Triple)
- Optional Subjects: Students typically choose 3-4 subjects from History, Geography, Languages, Art, Drama, Music, Computer Science, Business, PE, etc.
- EBacc Subjects: Many schools encourage students to choose the EBacc pathway (English, Maths, Sciences, History or Geography, and a Language)
- Options Evening: Schools hold information evenings for parents and students
- Deadline: Options forms usually due in March of Year 9
What Changes in Year 10 (Start of GCSE Courses)
- Formal GCSE course content begins in September 2026 (for current Year 9 students)
- Increased workload and homework expectations
- All work counts toward final GCSE grades
- More independent study required
- Formal exams at end of Year 11 (May-June 2028)
Official Government Resources
Department for Education - National Curriculum
The official UK government website provides complete information about the National Curriculum, including Key Stage 3 requirements.
National Curriculum Overview KS3 & KS4 Subjects Secondary Curriculum PDFFree Revision Resources for KS3
BBC Bitesize KS3
Comprehensive free resources, videos, quizzes, and revision materials for all KS3 subjects.
Visit BBC Bitesize KS3MME Revise - KS3 Resources
Free KS3 practice papers, worksheets, and revision materials for Maths, English, and Science.
Visit MME ReviseSATs Papers - KS3 Past Papers
Archive of old KS3 SATs papers (discontinued 2009) still useful for practice.
Download Past PapersOak National Academy
Free online lessons and resources developed by teachers for KS3 students.
Visit Oak National AcademySubject-Specific Key Topics at KS3
English
- Reading: Shakespeare plays, 19th-century novels, poetry, non-fiction texts
- Writing: Creative writing, persuasive writing, descriptive writing, analytical essays
- Grammar: Complex sentences, punctuation, spelling patterns, vocabulary development
- Speaking & Listening: Presentations, debates, drama activities, discussion skills
Mathematics
- Number: Fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, proportion, indices, standard form
- Algebra: Expressions, equations, sequences, graphs, functions
- Geometry: Properties of shapes, angles, transformations, Pythagoras, trigonometry basics
- Statistics: Data collection, charts, graphs, averages, probability
Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Biology: Cells, human body systems, reproduction, inheritance, ecology, photosynthesis
- Chemistry: Atoms and elements, Periodic Table, chemical reactions, acids and bases, earth science
- Physics: Energy, forces and motion, electricity, magnetism, waves, space
- Working Scientifically: Experiments, data analysis, scientific method, safety
Frequently Asked Questions
Do students take SATs at the end of Year 9?
No. KS3 SATs were abolished in 2009. There are no formal national examinations at the end of KS3. Students are assessed through teacher assessments and internal school tests only.
Are KS3 results important for university applications?
No. Universities do not see KS3 results. They look at GCSE grades (Year 11) and A-Level/BTEC grades (Year 13). However, strong performance at KS3 helps build foundations for GCSE success.
Can students fail KS3?
Students cannot "fail" KS3 as there are no formal external exams to fail. However, poor performance may result in additional support, lower set placement, or recommendations for intervention programs. All students progress to Year 10 and begin GCSE courses.
What are "sets" or "streams" at KS3?
Many schools place students in ability groups ("sets") for core subjects like Maths, English, and Science. Placement is based on KS2 SATs results, baseline assessments, and ongoing performance. Students can move between sets if performance improves or declines.
How can parents support KS3 students?
- Check homework planners weekly
- Attend parents' evenings and school events
- Encourage regular reading and independent study
- Support with organization and time management
- Communicate with school if concerns arise
When do students choose their GCSE subjects?
GCSE options are usually chosen during Year 9, typically between January and March. Students select 3-4 optional subjects to study alongside compulsory core subjects (English, Maths, Sciences) for their GCSEs in Years 10-11.
What is the difference between KS3 and GCSE?
KS3 (Years 7-9) is a foundational stage with no external exams. Students study a broad curriculum across 12 subjects. GCSE (Years 10-11, KS4) involves formal qualification courses with external exams at the end of Year 11. GCSE grades are used for university applications, employment, and further education.
Are KS3 internal exams important?
Yes, for several reasons: They help students develop exam technique; results influence set placement and GCSE tier entry (Foundation or Higher); they identify strengths/weaknesses early; and strong KS3 performance builds confidence and good study habits for GCSEs.
Key Dates for Current KS3 Students
| Current Year Group | Academic Year 2025-26 | GCSE Exams | Key Milestones |
|---|---|---|---|
| Current Year 7 | Year 7 (Ages 11-12) | May-June 2028 | Baseline assessments, adapting to secondary school |
| Current Year 8 | Year 8 (Ages 12-13) | May-June 2027 | Building subject knowledge, preparing for Year 9 options |
| Current Year 9 | Year 9 (Ages 13-14) | May-June 2026 | GCSE options selection (Jan-Mar 2026), transition to GCSE courses Sept 2026 |
School Communication and Reports
How Schools Keep Parents Informed
Throughout KS3, schools communicate student progress through:
Regular Reports
- Termly Reports: Written reports sent home 2-3 times per year
- Data Reports: Grade summaries showing current performance vs. targets
- Interim Reports: Brief updates between full reports
Parents' Evenings
- Usually 1-2 per year per year group
- Face-to-face or virtual meetings with subject teachers
- Opportunity to discuss progress and concerns
Online Platforms
- MCAS, ClassCharts, Go4Schools, Bromcom (varies by school)
- Real-time access to homework, attendance, behavior points
- Some platforms show grades and assessment scores
Important Reminders
- No National Exams: KS3 has no formal external examinations - only internal school assessments
- Check School Calendars: Assessment dates vary by school - always verify with your own school
- Build Strong Foundations: KS3 is about developing skills and knowledge for GCSE success
- Stay Organized: Use planners, keep notes tidy, manage time effectively
- Ask for Help: Teachers, tutors, and support staff are there to help - don't struggle alone
- Balance is Key: Study hard but also enjoy extracurricular activities and social time
- Year 9 Options: Think carefully about GCSE subject choices - seek advice from teachers and parents
- Look Ahead: GCSEs begin in Year 10 (September 2026 for current Year 9s)
📚 Summary: Key Stage 3 is an essential building block in secondary education. While there are no formal national exams, internal school assessments help track progress and prepare students for the transition to GCSEs. Focus on developing strong study habits, staying organized, and building subject knowledge across all areas of the curriculum.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Key Stage 3 assessment practices. Specific assessment dates, grading systems, and procedures vary significantly between schools. Always consult your own school's academic calendar, student handbook, and communication from teachers for exact dates and requirements. The information is accurate as of October 2025.
Last Updated: October 2025 | Sources: UK Department for Education, National Curriculum Documentation, Secondary Schools Assessment Practices