THE performance of Dorset’s primary schools can be revealed today with the publication of Department for Education tables.
League table information is based on National Curriculum tests taken by pupils this year.


The criteria scores how much progress pupils have made and how many pupils have reached the national average Level 4. Pupils now sit tests in reading and maths, with their writing skills assessed by teachers.


Under the Government’s tougher standards, schools must ensure that at least 65 per cent of 11-year-olds reach Level 4 – the standard expected of the age group – in reading, writing and maths, and meet national averages in pupil progress. This has been achieved by all primaries in south and west Dorset, listed below.


Particularly high achievers in the county this year include west Dorset primaries Powerstock, Marshwood, Thorners and Loders.


In order to meet the target last year, primaries had to have 60 per cent of 11-year-olds reaching Level 4 in each of the three key areas, as well as meeting the progress goals.


Some teachers are in favour of the national Scholastic Assessment Tests (SATs) taken by 10 and 11-year-olds in English and maths, while others say the figures released don’t provide a full picture of a school’s achievements.
Nationally, the proportion of primaries failing to give their pupils a good grounding in the three Rs has remained static this year, despite tougher standards.


In total, more than 700 schools in England are now considered below the ‘floor standard’, the same proportion as last year.
The analysis also shows wide variations across the country, with no schools now considered to be under-performing in some areas while in others, significant proportions are below the Government’s target.

SEE THE LEAGUE TABLE FOR DORSET BELOW:

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