Ages 11–14: Key Stage 3
Between 11 and 14 your child will be in Key Stage 3 at secondary school. Most children are ready for the move to secondary school and will rise to the challenge, but your help and guidance through this period is more important than ever.
For an overview of what is taught at Key Stage 3, and how you can help your child to learn, visit the Department for Education and Skills' Parent Centre.
What does my child learn at Key Stage 3?
All secondary schools in East Sussex teach the National Curriculum. This sets out the minumum educational entitlement for childen in state funded schools (also known as maintained schools). It does not apply in private schools (also known as independent schools), although most choose to follow it.
To find out in detail how each subject will be covered through the school year visit the National Curriculum website.
Tests at Key Stage 3
Your child will have to take tests at age 14. These help teachers to learn more about the strengths and weaknesses of each pupil. The test for 14-year-olds covers:
- English (including reading, writing, and studying a Shakespeare play)
- maths
- mental arithmetic
- science
Your child’s ability in the other subjects, such as history, will be assessed by their teacher.
Some schools also choose to use other tests in Year 7 and/or 8, known as progress tests and optional tests. These tests can help teachers to track your child’s progress and to plan for their future learning.
To find out more about tests at Key Stage 3 and when they take place, visit the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA).
After the tests
The school will send you a report telling you what National Curriculum levels your child has reached in the tests and teacher assessments. At the age of 14, most children are expected to achieve level 5. Many will be expected to achieve level 6.
