In September 2024 we changed our assessment processes at Key Stage 3. These processes are constantly being reviewed and updated. If you have any questions, please email Mrs Rayner rrayner@littleheath.org.uk If your query relates to the assessment criteria for a particular subject, please contact the KS3 Lead or Head of Department for that department. All contact details can be found in the dropdown list below.

Engagement with Learning

In all of our recording windows, subject teachers will award students an engagement with learning score. The criteria for these are as follows:

Progress

At the beginning of Year 7 we use a variety of internal and external data, including KS2 SATs, CAT tests and subject-based assessments to allocate initial banding for each child in each subject. Students will be studying some subjects for the first time, and we want all our students to experience success, whatever their ability level.

Students will be allocated one of the following three bands for each of their subjects:

• Higher – exceptional ability in this subject
• Intermediate – sound ability in this subject
• Foundation – developing ability in this subject

It is perfectly normal for students to be different bands in different subjects. This will reflect their natural talents and aptitude in each subject.

Throughout the school year, in assessments and classwork, teachers will assess whether your child is:

• Excelling – performing exceptionally well at this level
• Secure – working solidly at this level
• Developing – working towards this level 

Within their allocated department band.

Depending on the progress of your child, their band may move up or down a band in a subject at the end of Year 7. From September 2025, teachers will record a working grade for your child. This will allow you to easily see if they are performing within their expected band or over / underperforming. Reports sent home to parents will explain these changes.

The majority of our classes are taught in mixed ability groups. This means students who are working at Higher, Intermediate and Foundation are all being taught the same curriculum at the same time. At Little Heath, our philosophy is to teach to the top, with scaffold tasks and resources to support those who find accessing the curriculum trickier. Stretch tasks are always embedded in lessons to challenge those working at a high level.

KS3 Assessment Criteria Tables

Please see below for the KS3 assessment criteria for each subject. This criteria is new for 2024-25: