Government 'should replace Sats'

A new and more exciting curriculum should replace test-based learning, says a teaching union.

Representing those with jobs in education, the Association of Teachers and Lecturers has released a statement which said the government should "rethink school accountability, replace Sats and empower schools".

Martin Johnson, the association's deputy general secretary, said that the release of yesterday's key stage two results is evidence that a limit has been reached in the current assessment system.

Mr Johnson praised primary school staff who he said had "again worked themselves into the ground to achieve the best results for their pupils".

The association represents around 160,000 education staff and works alongside the government as a social partnership member organisation.

Yesterday's Sats results were reported to be "welcomed" by the Department for Children Schools and Families despite a one per cent decline in numbers reaching the expected level-four grade.

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