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<p>Assessments, including the national curriculum tests at key stages 1 and 2 and
GCSE and A level exams, are an essential part of ensuring that children and young
people are taught the knowledge and skills they need in order to succeed in further
study and in later life. Statutory assessments at key stages 1 and 2 help teachers
to understand how their pupils are performing against national expectations and enable
them to identify where extra support may be needed. Both these statutory assessments
and the qualifications taken at secondary level enable the government to hold schools
and colleges to account, and in doing so help to ensure that they offer a high quality
education to all their pupils, regardless of background or prior attainment.</p><p>
</p><p>Tests and exams can be a time of heightened emotions for pupils and teachers,
but they are not meant to cause stress and anxiety. Schools should encourage all pupils
to work hard and achieve well, but this should not be at the expense of their wellbeing.
They should also provide appropriate support as part of a whole school approach to
supporting the wellbeing and resilience of pupils.</p><p> </p>
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