SI Weekly Update
22 April 2025
KS2 tests: special consideration guidance for 2025.This explains how schools can apply for special consideration for pupils whose performance is affected by extremely distressing circumstances or incidents during or before the KS2 tests.
Schools can apply for special consideration from Thursday 15 May until Friday 23 May.
Returning KS2 test scripts
The STA updated the returning KS2 test scripts guidance for 2025.
This is a digital version of the printed guidance schools will receive within their key stage 2 test materials consignment. It explains:
- what stationery items schools will receive
- how to complete test attendance registers
- how to send scripts for marking
You can also watch the accompanying returning test scripts video for additional support and clarification, including demonstrations on how to complete the attendance registers and pack pupils’ test scripts
OFSTED
Early Years - A new Ofsted post been published on the Ofsted: Early Years Blog,
“How we look at the use of Early Years Pupil Premium (EYPP) in our inspections of early years settings.” Read the new post: https://earlyyears.blog.gov.uk/2025/04/10/how-we-look-at-the-use-of-early-years-pupil-premium-eypp-in-our-inspections-of-early-years-settings/
Improving the way Ofsted inspects education - Video of a webinar to explain what proposed changes to the way Ofsted inspects education mean for early years providers.
Education Endowment Foundation
An updated guidance report on the effective use of teaching assistants in school.
Deployment of Teaching Assistants | EEF
Pupil attendance in schools statistics updated to include data covering the period 9 September 2024 to 4 April 2025.
Sir Martyn Oliver's speech at the Guildhall
Martyn Oliver, Ofsted’s Chief Inspector, spoke to educational leaders from the City of London and further afield. He talked about the importance of education and how Ofsted’s inspection improvement proposals will drive ever higher standards for children.
Reminder: Celebration of Service Mass
Archbishop John looks forward to meeting headteachers at the Mass to celebrate Catholic Education and those who serve as leaders that will be held on 18th June 2025 at 4pm. All headteachers are encouraged to attend and pupils are also welcome. Heads are invited to bring a future leader with them be it a member of the teaching, support or administrative staff who you wish to encourage into leadership in their area of school responsibility. Details can be found via this link Celebration of Service Mass
