SATs 2024 Dates to Keep in Mind

Discover all the essential information about SATs 2024, including key dates, preparation advice, and free resources. This guide will be updated regularly to bring you the most current details.

When are the SATs 2024?

The KS2 SATs will take place in the second week of May 2024, specifically from Monday, 13th May to Thursday, 16th May. Here are the scheduled tests for each day:

• Monday, 13th May 2024:
  • Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar (Grammar/Punctuation Test) – 45 minutes
  • Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar (Spelling Test) – 20 minutes
• Tuesday, 14th May 2024:
  • Reading Paper (English) – 60 minutes
• Wednesday, 15th May 2024:
  • Maths Paper 1 (Arithmetic) – 30 minutes
  • Maths Paper 2 (Reasoning) – 40 minutes
• Thursday, 16th May 2024:
  • Maths Paper 3 (Reasoning) – 40 minutes

KS1 SATs are optional and conducted at the discretion of individual schools during a flexible two-week period in May.

Key Dates for KS1 and KS2 SATs 2024

• KS2 SATs Dates:
  • Tests from 13th May to 16th May 2024
  • Results are typically released by the end of July 2024
• KS1 SATs Dates:
  • Flexible scheduling during May 2024
  • Since KS1 SATs are marked internally, results release dates may vary by school.

How to Prepare for SATs 2024 – A Guide for Students and Parents

Preparing for the SATs can be a smooth process with the right strategies in place. Here’s how students and parents can work together to ensure readiness for the upcoming tests:

1. Understand the Test Structure: Start by getting familiar with what the SATs involve, including the types of questions and the format of the tests for both KS1 and KS2. Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety and build confidence.
2. Practice with Past Papers: One of the most effective ways to prepare is to practice with past SATs papers. This helps students understand the timing and the type of questions that may appear. Reviewing the answers together can highlight areas that need more focus.
3. Create a Revision Schedule: Plan a revision timetable that balances study time across all subjects involved in the SATs. Make sure to include short breaks and varied activities to keep study sessions productive and engaging.
4. Identify and Target Weak Areas: Use results from any practice tests and school assessments to pinpoint specific areas where improvement is needed. Concentrate revision efforts on these areas to make study time more effective.
5. Encourage Regular Reading: For subjects involving reading and comprehension, like English, regular reading can significantly improve performance. Reading a variety of materials helps enhance vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills.
6. Learn Exam Techniques: Discuss and practice effective exam strategies, such as how to allocate time during tests, the importance of reading questions thoroughly, and methods for checking work before submitting.
7. Maintain Well-being: Preparing for exams can be stressful. It’s important for students to have downtime and opportunities to relax. Parents can help by providing a supportive environment and encouraging open discussions about feelings and any stress related to exams.
8. Involve Parents in Revision: Parents can aid revision by setting up a conducive study environment at home, discussing key topics, and testing knowledge through quizzes or informal discussions.
9. Use Additional Resources: Take advantage of educational resources, such as online tutorials, interactive games, and revision apps. Services like Edumentors offer access to experienced tutors from top UK universities, providing one-on-one support tailored to individual needs.
10. Simulate the Exam Environment: To help students get used to the pressure of exam conditions, simulate the test environment at home. This can include setting aside specific times to complete practice papers under timed conditions.

How Will the Tests Be Conducted?

• KS1 SATs:
  • Maths: Two papers covering arithmetic and reasoning
  • English: Papers on spelling, grammar, and reading comprehension
• KS2 SATs:
  • English: Tests on grammar, punctuation, spelling, and reading
  • Maths: Papers on arithmetic and reasoning
  • Teacher-assessed writing component

Special Consideration

Applications for special consideration can be made post-SATs week, allowing for adjustments in cases of bereavement, illness, or other significant hardships affecting pupils.

What If You Fail SATs?

It’s important to remember that SATs are not pass or fail tests. They are assessments designed to gauge a child’s understanding of certain subjects against national standards. Results are used to help teachers understand where additional support may be needed. If a student doesn’t meet the expected standards, schools will typically provide additional help to improve their skills in the specific areas required.

Extra Help: Why You Should Consider Private Tutoring

For students who need extra help, private tutoring can be an excellent way to enhance understanding and boost confidence. Edumentors, an online tutoring platform, connects students with top student-tutors from prestigious UK universities. KS1 and KS2 tutors offer personalised learning plans and one-on-one sessions that can make a substantial difference in a student’s educational journey, especially in preparation for SATs.