Optional tests provide teachers with evidence to support teacher assessment. They are available for Years 3, 4 and 5, and Years 7, 8 and 9 in English and mathematics, and for science in Year 9.
The tests are marked by schools and they can decide how to use the test results.
Teacher packs include comprehensive guides with clear instructions for administering and marking the tests, level threshold information and one copy of the materials for assessing pupils. Where applicable, mathematics teacher packs also include the mental mathematics audio CDs and test transcripts. Pupil packs contain materials to assess ten pupils. Audiotape packs are also available. You can reuse any materials you have left over from last year.
Level thresholds and optional grids for test analysis are available to support teachers in the marking of the tests. You can use the RAISEonline website to compare your school's performance with a range of national data.
How to access optional tests
Schools were able to place orders for hard copies of optional test materials until Friday 30 November 2012, using NCA tools.
Schools can now download electronic copies of the tests from STA's Orderline.
Orders of hard copy materials will be delivered to schools in March 2013.
Please note that optional test materials are not available to non-school customers.
Modified large print, Braille and enlarged print versions of the tests are available for pupils with visual impairment, and modified materials for the mental mathematics test are available for pupils with permanent or long-term profound hearing loss. Please telephone the Modified Tests Agency (optional tests) for further details.
Contact details
Modified Tests Agency
Telephone: 0300 303 3019
Email: schooltests@rnib.org.uk
