“Congratulations to schools, teachers, and pupils on this year’s Key Stage 2 test results. While the percentage of children meeting the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths combined has increased since the pandemic, it remains lower than pre-pandemic levels in 2019. This highlights the ongoing impact of the educational disruptions caused by Covid-19.
“The children who sat Key Stage 2 tests this year faced significant learning disruptions at the end of Year 2 and in Year 3. Despite the tremendous efforts by schools to provide catch-up support, the learning loss experienced by some students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, was considerable. This challenge has been further compounded by the cost-of-living crisis, which has severely affected the many children living in poverty.
“It is deeply regrettable that the previous government did not fully acknowledge this issue, both in terms of the inadequate post-pandemic education recovery funding and the decision to withdraw the National Tutoring Programme funding as of September. This is a step backward, and we strongly urge the new government to reconsider and restore this vital support.”