National Curriculum Key Stage 2
📅 Key Stage 2 SATs 2026 - Official Exam Dates
The statutory national curriculum tests (SATs) for Key Stage 2 will take place from Monday 11th May to Thursday 14th May 2026.
All Year 6 pupils in state-maintained primary schools in England must sit these tests. This guide covers the full KS2 curriculum (Years 3-6) and the statutory assessments at the end of Year 6.
What is Key Stage 2?
Key Stage 2 (KS2) is the second stage of the National Curriculum in England, covering four years of primary education:
KS2 builds on Key Stage 1 (Reception to Year 2) and prepares pupils for Key Stage 3 (secondary school, Years 7-9). The curriculum is statutory in all local-authority-maintained schools in England.
Formal Assessment: At the end of Year 6, all pupils take SATs (Standard Assessment Tests) - statutory national tests in English Reading, English Grammar/Punctuation/Spelling, and Mathematics. Writing and Science are assessed by teachers throughout the year.
National Curriculum KS2 Core Subjects
Compulsory Subjects
📖 English
Reading, writing, grammar, punctuation, spelling, and spoken language. Literature study across genres.
➗ Mathematics
Number, calculation, fractions, measurement, geometry, statistics. Building fluency and problem-solving skills.
🔬 Science
Biology, Chemistry, Physics. Working scientifically through investigations and experiments.
💻 Computing
Programming, algorithms, data handling, digital literacy, and e-safety.
🌍 Geography & History
Understanding the world through place, time, and human/physical processes.
🎨 Art & Design Technology
Creativity, technical skills, and design across various media and materials.
🎵 Music
Performance, composition, listening, and musical appreciation.
🗣️ Languages
Foreign language learning (typically French, Spanish, or German) from Year 3.
⚽ Physical Education
Team sports, individual activities, fitness, health, and wellbeing.
Non-Statutory Subjects (Mandatory)
- PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, Economic Education): Non-statutory but taught in most schools
- Relationships Education: Mandatory for all primary pupils from 2020
- Religious Education (RE): Mandatory unless parents withdraw pupils
KS2 SATs 2026 - Statutory Assessment Timetable
⚠️ Compulsory National Tests
All Year 6 pupils in state-maintained schools must take SATs unless there are exceptional circumstances (serious illness, bereavement). Parents cannot withdraw children from SATs as they are statutory assessments.
| Date | Test | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday, 11th May 2026 | English Grammar, Punctuation & Spelling - Paper 1 | 45 minutes | 50 marks |
| Monday, 11th May 2026 | English Spelling - Paper 2 | 20 minutes | 20 marks |
| Tuesday, 12th May 2026 | English Reading | 60 minutes | 50 marks |
| Wednesday, 13th May 2026 | Mathematics Paper 1: Arithmetic | 30 minutes | 40 marks |
| Wednesday, 13th May 2026 | Mathematics Paper 2: Reasoning | 40 minutes | 35 marks |
| Thursday, 14th May 2026 | Mathematics Paper 3: Reasoning | 40 minutes | 35 marks |
Additional Statutory Assessments 2026
Year 4 Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)
| Assessment | Year Group | Date Window | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multiplication Tables Check | Year 4 | 1-14 June 2026 | Online, 25 questions, 6 seconds per question (5 min total) |
The MTC assesses Year 4 pupils' fluency in multiplication tables up to 12 × 12. It is administered on-screen with pupils typing answers.
KS2 Mathematics Curriculum Overview
Key Mathematics Topics Across Years 3-6
Number and Place Value
- Counting and place value to 10,000,000
- Negative numbers and zero
- Roman numerals to 1000 (M)
- Rounding to nearest 10, 100, 1000, or decimal place
Calculations
Addition and Subtraction:
- Year 3-4: Add/subtract numbers with up to 4 digits using formal written methods
- Year 5-6: Add/subtract whole numbers with more than 4 digits, including decimals
- Example: 7,856 + 4,329 = 12,185
Multiplication and Division:
- Learn all times tables up to 12 × 12 by end of Year 4
- Multiply numbers with up to 4 digits by 2-digit numbers using long multiplication
- Divide numbers up to 4 digits by 2-digit numbers using long division
- Example: 347 × 28 or 1,848 ÷ 24
Fractions, Decimals, and Percentages
- Recognize and write decimal equivalents of fractions
- Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions
- Convert between fractions, decimals, and percentages
- Example: ³⁄₄ + ⁵⁄₈ = 1³⁄₈ or 0.75 = 75% = ³⁄₄
- Calculate percentages of amounts: 15% of 240 = 36
Measurement
- Convert between metric units (km/m, m/cm, cm/mm, kg/g, l/ml)
- Calculate perimeter and area of shapes
- Area of rectangle: A = length × width
- Volume of cuboid: V = length × width × height
Geometry
- Properties of 2D shapes (triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons)
- Properties of 3D shapes (cube, cuboid, prism, pyramid, sphere, cone, cylinder)
- Angles: acute, obtuse, right angles, straight line = 180°, angles around a point = 360°
- Coordinates in all four quadrants
- Translation, reflection, rotation
Statistics
- Interpret and construct tables, bar charts, line graphs, pie charts
- Calculate mean averages: Mean = sum ÷ number of values
Ratio and Proportion (Year 6)
- Solve problems involving relative sizes
- Scale factors and similar shapes
- Unequal sharing and grouping
Algebra (Year 6)
- Use simple formulae expressed in words
- Generate and describe linear number sequences
- Express missing number problems algebraically
- Example: Find n in 3n + 5 = 20
KS2 English Curriculum Overview
Reading, Writing, and Spoken Language
Reading
- Develop fluency, accuracy, and confidence in reading
- Read age-appropriate fiction, non-fiction, and poetry
- Comprehension skills: retrieval, inference, prediction, summarizing
- Understand vocabulary in context
- Analyze language, structure, and themes
Writing Composition
- Plan, draft, edit, and publish writing
- Narrative writing (stories, descriptions)
- Non-narrative writing (reports, explanations, instructions, persuasive texts)
- Poetry writing
Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling
- Word classes: nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, pronouns, prepositions, conjunctions, determiners
- Sentence types: simple, compound, complex
- Punctuation: full stops, capital letters, commas, apostrophes, speech marks, colons, semi-colons, brackets, dashes, hyphens
- Tenses: past, present, future, perfect tenses
- Active and passive voice
- Subjunctive forms
Statutory Spelling Lists
Years 3-4 and Years 5-6 each have statutory word lists that pupils must learn to spell.
Assessment and Reporting
How KS2 Pupils Are Assessed
Ongoing Assessment (Years 3-6)
- Teachers assess pupils continuously through classwork, homework, and tests
- Termly or half-termly progress reports sent to parents
- Annual written reports detail attainment and progress in all subjects
- Parent-teacher consultations (usually twice per year)
End of Year 6 Statutory Assessment
SATs Tests (Externally Marked):
- English Reading
- English Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling
- Mathematics (Arithmetic and Reasoning)
Teacher Assessment (No External Tests):
- English Writing
- Science
SATs Scaled Scoring System
Raw test scores are converted to scaled scores ranging from 80 to 120:
| Scaled Score | Standard | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 110-120 | Greater Depth / Higher Standard | Exceeds national expectations |
| 100-109 | Expected Standard | Meets national expectations (pass) |
| 80-99 | Below Expected Standard | Working towards expectations |
Expected Standard Achievement: To meet the expected standard, pupils must achieve scaled score 100+ in Reading, GPS, and Mathematics, AND teacher-assessed "Working at Expected Standard" in Writing.
Year 6 SATs Timeline 2025-2026
| Date | Milestone | Details |
|---|---|---|
| September 2025 | Year 6 Begins | Start of final primary school year |
| October 2025 | Baseline Assessments | Schools may conduct initial assessments |
| January - February 2026 | Mock SATs (optional) | Many schools conduct practice tests |
| March - April 2026 | SATs Revision Period | Intensive revision and preparation |
| 11-14 May 2026 | SATs WEEK | Formal national tests conducted |
| May - June 2026 | External Marking Period | Tests marked by external examiners |
| Early July 2026 | Results to Schools | Schools receive SATs results |
| Late July 2026 | Results to Parents | Parents receive written reports before summer holidays |
| July 2026 | Secondary Transition Activities | Visits to secondary schools, induction days |
| September 2026 | Start Year 7 (Key Stage 3) | Begin secondary school |
Official Resources and Links
Department for Education - Official Government Resources
National Curriculum Overview Primary Assessment Dates 2026 KS2 Assessment Arrangements Practice Materials & Sample Tests National Curriculum Document (PDF)Free Revision Resources
SATs-Papers.co.uk - Free archive of past SATs papers 2016-2025
Download Past PapersBBC Bitesize KS2 - Interactive learning resources for all subjects
Visit BBC Bitesize KS2Oak National Academy - Free online lessons and resources
KS2 Online LessonsPreparation Strategies for KS2 SATs
For Students
📚 Start Early
Begin gentle revision after Christmas. Intensive preparation from Easter holidays (April 2026).
📖 Read Daily
20-30 minutes of varied reading every day builds comprehension and vocabulary naturally.
🔢 Master Times Tables
Fluent recall of all times tables up to 12 × 12 is essential for maths success.
⏰ Practice Under Time Pressure
Complete past papers under timed conditions to build exam stamina and pace.
✍️ Show Working
In maths reasoning papers, show all steps - marks awarded for method even if final answer is wrong.
😌 Stay Balanced
Maintain healthy sleep, nutrition, exercise, and downtime. Avoid over-pressure and burnout.
For Parents and Carers
- Support Without Pressure: Encourage effort and celebrate progress rather than demanding perfection
- Create Routine: Establish regular homework and revision times with breaks
- Use Free Resources: Access past papers and online materials (links above)
- Read Together: Discuss books and articles to develop comprehension skills
- Practice Maths: Real-life maths (cooking measurements, shopping, money) reinforces learning
- Maintain Perspective: SATs are important but don't define your child's worth or future
- Communicate with School: Attend meetings, ask questions, share concerns
- Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize sleep (9-11 hours), nutritious meals, physical activity
Understanding National Curriculum Levels
Changes to Assessment Since 2014
Important: National Curriculum levels (e.g., Level 4, Level 5) were abolished in 2014. Schools now use different systems to report progress:
Current Assessment Approaches:
- Working Towards / Working At / Working Beyond age-related expectations
- Age-Related Expectations (ARE): Meeting/exceeding/below expected standards for year group
- Standardized Scores: Some schools use internal standardized assessments
- Descriptive Reports: Detailed written feedback on strengths and areas for development
Each school decides its own assessment and reporting system. The only standardized national measure is the Year 6 SATs scaled score (80-120).
Post-SATs: What Happens Next?
After SATs Week
May - July 2026 (After Tests)
- Year 6 continues with normal lessons - learning doesn't stop!
- New topics introduced to prepare for secondary school
- Production of end-of-year shows, residential trips, leavers' events
- Secondary school transition activities and visits
How SATs Results Are Used
- For Schools: Accountability measure in performance tables (published data)
- For Secondary Schools: Baseline data to set ability groups and plan support
- For Pupils: Recognition of achievement at end of primary education
- NOT Used For: Secondary school admission (in most areas - grammar schools use separate 11+ tests)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are SATs the same as 11+ exams?
No. SATs are compulsory national curriculum tests for all Year 6 pupils in state schools. The 11+ is a separate entrance exam for grammar schools, taken in September of Year 6. They are different tests with different purposes.
What if my child doesn't meet the expected standard?
Not meeting the expected standard does NOT mean failure. It means additional support may be provided in Year 7. Many successful adults didn't meet expected standards in primary school. SATs are one snapshot and don't predict future success.
Can we practice at home?
Yes! All past SATs papers from 2016-2025 are freely available online (links above). Practice papers help familiarize children with formats and build confidence. However, avoid over-practicing which can cause stress.
How much revision should Year 6 pupils do?
Recommendations vary, but generally 15-30 minutes daily from Easter onwards is sufficient. Quality matters more than quantity. Short, focused sessions are more effective than long, exhausting marathons.
What happens if my child is ill during SATs week?
Contact the school immediately. If genuine illness prevents attendance, teacher assessment will be used instead. There are no resit opportunities for KS2 SATs.
Do independent schools take SATs?
No. SATs are only for state-maintained schools. Independent (private) schools are not required to follow the National Curriculum or administer SATs, though many do assess pupils internally.
When will my child find out their results?
Schools receive results in early July 2026 and share them with parents before the summer holidays, typically in late July. Secondary schools receive results around the same time.
Are Year 3, 4, and 5 pupils tested?
There are no national tests for Years 3, 4, or 5. Schools conduct internal assessments. Exception: Year 4 pupils take the Multiplication Tables Check in June 2026 (online, 5 minutes).
Important Reminders
- SATs Week 2026: 11-14 May - Ensure no holidays booked during this period
- Compulsory Tests: All Year 6 state school pupils must take SATs unless exceptional circumstances
- No Opt-Out: Parents cannot withdraw children from statutory assessments
- External Marking: Tests marked by external examiners - takes 6-8 weeks
- No Resits: Unlike GCSEs, there are no resit opportunities for KS2 SATs
- Results Private: Individual results are confidential - only shared with parents and receiving secondary school
- One Measure: SATs are just one indicator - continuous teacher assessment throughout KS2 matters too
- Fresh Start: Secondary school offers new opportunities regardless of SATs results
Concluding Thoughts
Key Stage 2 represents four important years of learning and development. The National Curriculum provides a broad, balanced education preparing children for secondary school and beyond. While Year 6 SATs are a significant milestone, they are just one measure of progress.
The most important outcomes of KS2 are: curiosity about learning, confidence in core skills, positive relationships, and readiness for the next educational phase. With appropriate support, all children can approach SATs positively and transition successfully to secondary school.
Good luck to all Year 6 pupils taking their SATs in May 2026!
⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide is based on official Department for Education and Standards and Testing Agency publications for 2026. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the government reserves the right to make changes to curriculum or assessment arrangements. Always verify key information with your child's school and check gov.uk for the most up-to-date official guidance. Information is accurate as of October 2025.
Last Updated: October 2025 | Official Sources: Department for Education, Standards and Testing Agency (STA), National Curriculum Documentation