Parents across Tyne and Wear raise concerns over baseline tests for 4-year-olds

It is claimed the Government is asking too much of children, too early in their school careers, after announcing plans to 'baseline test' four-year-olds.

The tests, in literacy, numeracy and behaviour, will be carried out in the first six weeks of starting reception classes.

Ministers say it will be activity-based, and carried out by a teacher or a teaching assistant.

But teachers have come out against the proposal, saying it could damage young people's mental wellbeing and confidence by forcing them to undergo an exam at a young age.

Opposition to the plans have been so strong that parents up and down the country have launched a campaign to stop the rollout.

"More than a Score" calls on schools, teachers and families to sign a petition to object to the changes.

Elizabeth Grey's son was involved in the trials of the tests - the South Shields Mam said:

"If you compare the baseline tests to the early years curriculum, there is absolutely no parallel whatsoever.

"The early years focuses on allowing children to learn through play, through their own curiosity and you have a test which bares no relevance to that and expects all children to fit in one box and then punishes those who have learnt in a completely different way."

A DfE spokesperson said:

“Standards are rising in our schools with 1.9 million more pupils in good or outstanding schools than compared to 2010.

“The baseline assessment will help establish the progress made by pupils from reception to the end of key stage 2 and ensure schools are accountable for pupils’ progress as well as their attainment.

“Schools will be provided with the required materials and guidance to administer the assessment, which will be carried out in normal teaching time by a teacher or teaching assistant.”