Assessment

Mission Statement

Loughries Integrated Primary School fosters a nurturing environment which encourages, supports, develops and challenges each child to reach their full potential.

We endeavour to equip our pupils with the skills and qualities needed to work together for a shared future.

Aims for Assessment

• Provide an efficient, accurate, and useful programme of assessment across the curriculum
• Promote good practice in analysing and understanding assessment data
• Use assessment outcomes to set realistic targets and inform planning
• Enable teachers to tailor teaching and learning to pupil needs
• Communicate assessment information clearly to Governors, Principal, teachers, parents, pupils, and external agencies
• Maintain confidential, detailed, and useful performance records

Assessment at Loughries Integrated Primary School

1. Diagnostic Assessment

Used to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

Purpose:

• Support learning and teaching
• Provide evidence of strengths and weaknesses
• Inform planning at individual, class, and whole-school levels
• Report to stakeholders

Tools Used:

• CAT4A (P4) & CAT4B (P6) – verbal, non-verbal, quantitative, and spatial reasoning
• Progress Tests in English (PTE) & Maths (PTM) – P3 to P7
• Salford & NFER Reading Tests – administered by Mrs Rea in autumn and summer terms

These assessments help identify underachievers, gifted pupils, and those needing additional support.

2. Formative Assessment

Used to identify successes, progress, and areas for improvement.

Methods:

• Observations (Foundation Stage, KS1, KS2)
• Assessment for Learning strategies:
  • Sharing learning intentions
  • Success criteria
  • Effective questioning
  • Peer and self-assessment
  • Constructive feedback

Formative assessment informs short-term planning and next steps for improvement.

3. Summative Assessment

Used to measure performance at a specific point in time.

Includes:

• Class tests
• End of Key Stage Assessments (P4 & P7 using CCEA tasks)
• Annual reports for Y1–Y7 pupils
• Assessment of Cross-Curricular Skills and Thinking Skills

4. Evaluative Assessment

Used to inform planning and monitor progress and improvement.

Application:

• At class and whole-school levels
• Supports the School Development Plan
• Involves analysis of standardised test results and planning reviews

Continuous Monitoring of Pupil Progress

Teachers use ongoing assessment data to track pupil progress against attainment targets. This supports both formative and summative assessment and ensures consistent monitoring throughout the year.