The Cambridge University review of primary education released threeinterim reports on standards and testing last week, following on fromthe first interim report, Community Soundings, published last month(News, 18 October).
Standards in Quality in English Primary Schools Over Time: the nationalevidence found that reading standards in primary schools have remainedmore or less static since the 1950s, despite 500m being spent onthe National Literacy Strategy. Maths standards, however, had seensubstantial improvements since 1995.
The report stated that the dramatic rise in Key Stage 2 results between1995 and 2000 'exaggerated the changes in pupils' attainment levels andwere seriously misleading'.
The Quality of Learning: assessment alternatives for primary educationsaid that the current system of assessment was undependable and advisedthat alternatives be considered.
Standards in English Primary Education: the international evidence saidthat 'primary science represents something of a success story', butadded that England had a significantly bigger attainment gap than manyother countries.
Further information: www.primaryreview.org.uk.
