SATs Week 2025: Important Dates, Exam Format & How to Prepare

SATs Week 2025 is a significant stage in a primary school student’s education. These tests assess progress in English and maths, helping schools track learning before students move to secondary school. Since SATs 2025 play a key role in education, it’s essential for parents to understand the exam schedule and how to prepare effectively.

By knowing the SATs Week 2025 dates in advance, you can help your child plan their revision and avoid last-minute stress. With the right approach, they can build confidence and perform at their best. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including the exam timetable, key dates, and useful preparation tips.

What Are SATs?

What are SATs and what are their purpose? – SATs (Standard Assessment Tests) are national assessments taken by primary school students in England. These tests measure progress in English and maths, helping schools understand each child’s strengths and areas for improvement. The results also provide insights into how well students are meeting national curriculum standards.

So, SATs are divided into two stages: Key Stage 1 (KS1) and Key Stage 2 (KS2). KS1 SATs take place in Year 2 and are teacher-assessed, meaning the results support overall progress tracking rather than determining a final score. Key Stage 2 SATs are taken in Year 6 and are externally marked, giving a clearer picture of a student’s academic level before moving to secondary school.

For parents wondering, “When is SATs Week 2025?” the tests will take place in May 2025. Understanding the structure of SATs 2025 will help you prepare your child effectively and ensure they feel confident before exam week.

SATs Week 2025: Exam Dates

Planning ahead is crucial for your child’s success in the Year 6 SATs 2025. The official SATs Week 2025 dates are from Monday, 12 May, to Thursday, 15 May 2025. These tests assess English and maths skills, helping schools track progress before students move to secondary school.

SATs Week 2025 Exam Schedule

Understanding the SATs 2025 Exam Schedule and Structure

Knowing the KS2 SATs Week 2025 timetable helps parents and students prepare effectively. Each test is designed to assess specific skills in English and maths, ensuring students meet national curriculum standards before moving to secondary school. Below, we break down the SAT dates 2025, test formats, and durations.

English SATs: Format and Timing

To begin with, the English SATs focus on reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, and spelling. These tests evaluate a student’s ability to understand texts, apply language rules, and use correct spelling.

1. Grammar, Punctuation & Spelling (SPaG) – Monday, 12 May 2025
   • Paper 1 (Grammar & Punctuation): 45 minutes
   • Paper 2 (Spelling): 20 minutes
   • Format: Multiple-choice, short answers, and sentence-based tasks
2. English Reading – Tuesday, 13 May 2025
   • Duration: 60 minutes
   • Format: Students read a selection of texts (fiction, non-fiction, and poetry) and answer comprehension questions

Maths SATs: Format and Timing

Meanwhile, the KS2 SATs Week 2025 maths papers assess fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving. The tests are split across three separate papers.

1. Maths Arithmetic – Wednesday, 14 May 2025
   • Duration: 30 minutes
   • Format: Straightforward number calculations involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and percentages
2. Maths Reasoning (Paper 1) – Wednesday, 14 May 2025
   • Duration: 40 minutes
   • Format: Word problems, multi-step calculations, and logic-based questions
3. Maths Reasoning (Paper 2) – Thursday, 15 May 2025
   • Duration: 40 minutes
   • Format: Similar to Paper 1, with more applied problem-solving questions

SATs Exam Format: Key Points for Parents

Understanding the SATs exam format helps parents support their child’s preparation. Unlike in previous years, Year 6 students do not sit a formal science SATs paper unless their school is selected for a national science sampling test. This means the focus remains on English and maths assessments.

Another important point is that KS2 SATs Week 2025 does not have a pass or fail grade. Instead, results indicate whether a child is working at the expected standard for their age. Rather than a traditional grading system, SATs results are reported as a scaled score, where 100 represents meeting expectations. This scoring method allows for a clearer understanding of a child’s performance compared to national standards.

By understanding the SATs Exam Format, parents can help their child prepare with the right strategies. Familiarity with the test structure and timing ensures that students know what to expect during KS2 SATs Week 2025 and can approach the exams with confidence.

Preparation Tips for SATs Week 2025

In reality, preparing for SATs 2025 in advance can help your child feel more confident and reduce stress as KS2 SATs Week 2025 approaches. A structured approach to revision, using the right resources and study techniques, will make a big difference in their performance.

1. Create a Study Schedule

Consistency is key when preparing for Year 6 SATs Week 2025. A study plan helps your child focus on different subjects without feeling overwhelmed. Start with shorter sessions, then gradually increase study time as KS2 SATs Week 2025 gets closer. Accordingly, balancing schoolwork with breaks will improve concentration and retention.

2. Use SATs Practice Papers

In truth, one of the best ways to prepare is by working through past papers. SATs practice papers give your child a clear understanding of question formats and time management. They can also highlight areas that need improvement. When practising, try to simulate real test conditions by setting a timer.

3. Focus on Weaker Areas

As a matter of fact, every student has strengths and weaknesses. Identifying challenging topics early allows more time for improvement. If your child struggles with maths reasoning or reading comprehension, set aside extra time for targeted revision. Breaking down complex topics into smaller sections makes learning easier.

4. Mix Learning Resources

A combination of study materials can make revision more engaging. Use revision books, online quizzes, flashcards, and interactive games to reinforce key concepts. Many websites offer free resources for KS2 SATs Revision, so explore different options to find what works best for your child.

5. Practise Under Timed Conditions

Time management is essential for SATs 2025. Encouraging your child to complete SATs-style questions within the allocated time will help them get used to working under pressure. This technique also improves speed and accuracy, making them feel more prepared for exam day.

6. Stay Positive and Encouraging

Preparing for SATs Week 2025 can be stressful, so motivation plays a big role. Encourage your child to focus on progress rather than perfection. Celebrate small achievements, and remind them that SATs are just one part of their learning journey. A positive mindset will help them approach the tests with confidence. Therefore, with the right preparation and support, your child can feel ready to tackle Year 6 SATs Week 2025 successfully.

Conclusion

To sum up, preparing for SATs Week 2025 in advance can make a significant difference in your child’s confidence and performance. Also, understanding the SATs 2025 exam structure, key dates, and effective revision strategies will help you support them throughout the process. Additionally, using Year 6 SATs 2025 practice papers, creating a study plan, and focusing on weaker areas will ensure they are well-prepared for the tests.

When are Year 6 SATs 2025? They will take place from Monday, 12 May, to Thursday, 15 May 2025. Marking these dates in your calendar will help you stay organised and plan revision effectively.

Moreover, for students who need extra guidance, KS2 online tutors can provide personalised support. A tutor can help break down challenging topics, offer structured revision sessions, and build confidence in key subjects. Finally, with the right preparation and resources, your child can approach Year 6 SATs 2025 feeling ready and capable.

So, start early, stay consistent, and make use of all available study tools. With a positive mindset and the right support, your child can achieve success in SATs Week 2025.

FAQs

When is SATs Week 2025?

SATs Week 2025 will take place from Monday, 12 May, to Thursday, 15 May 2025. These dates apply to Year 6 SATs, which assess students in English and maths before they move to secondary school.

What subjects are covered in Year 6 SATs?

Year 6 SATs assess students in English and maths. The English tests include reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, and spelling (SPaG). The maths papers cover arithmetic and reasoning, testing problem-solving and calculation skills.

How can parents support their children during SATs Week?

Parents can support their child by creating a study schedule, using SATs practice papers, and encouraging daily reading and maths revision. Keeping a positive attitude and ensuring they get enough rest during SATs Week 2025 will also help them feel confident and prepared.

How long do Year 6 SATs last?

Year 6 SATs take place over four days, from Monday to Thursday. Each test varies in length:

Maths Reasoning Papers: 40 minutes each

Grammar, Punctuation & Spelling (SPaG): 45 minutes for grammar, 20 minutes for spelling

Reading: 60 minutes

Maths Arithmetic: 30 minutes

How many SATs are there in Year 6?

In Year 6, students sit six SATs papers in total:

1. Grammar, Punctuation & Spelling (SPaG) Paper 1 – Grammar and punctuation
2. Grammar, Punctuation & Spelling (SPaG) Paper 2 – Spelling
3. Reading Paper
4. Maths Paper 1 – Arithmetic
5. Maths Paper 2 – Reasoning
6. Maths Paper 3 – Reasoning