Givan publishes major new policy framework for assessment in schools

Date published: 15 April 2026

For the first time, Northern Ireland will have a clear statutory assessment pathway from Year 1 to Year 10, which will transform how pupil learning is assessed and supported.

The new framework introduces a sequenced set of low‑workload, curriculum‑aligned assessments for pupils, including:

• a Baseline check in Year 1;
• a Phonics reading check in Year 2;
• annual reading fluency checks in Years 3–5;
• literacy and numeracy assessments in Year 4;
• a multiplication check in Year 5; and
• literacy, numeracy and science assessments in Years 7 and 10

Paul Givan said: “This new framework lays the foundations for a modern, coherent and intentionally aligned assessment system that strengthens teaching and supports every learner.  

"Moving to this model of statutory assessment will ensure every parent is provided with consistent, clear information on their child’s progress, whilst upholding the Department’s commitment to publish system‑level attainment data only.

“These reforms are a key element of my Department’s TransformED strategy, which aims to build a world‑class, equitable education system focused on high‑quality teaching and learning.”

The reforms follow an Independent Review of Statutory Assessment, chaired by Tim Oates CBE, which concluded that the current assessment system, based on moderated teacher judgement and the Levels of Progression, has not delivered reliable information for pupils, teachers or the wider education system. The new framework also addresses concerns about the lack of available assessment data, which have been highlighted in a recent Northern Ireland Audit Office report.

The Minister concluded: “The new statutory assessments are short, low‑stakes and supportive, designed to provide clear, timely information rather than create pressure for pupils or teachers. They require no revision or preparation. Many assessments will be automatically marked, minimising teacher workload and ensuring that classroom time is focused where it should be; on teaching, learning and responding to pupil needs. 

“These reforms will align Northern Ireland with leading international practice, where a well‑matched curriculum and assessment system and strong early identification are key to raising standards. They will also ensure that parents receive easy‑to‑understand information about their child’s progress from Year 1 right through to Key Stage 3.”

The Education Minister provided further detail in a Written Ministerial Statement, which can be found at Written Ministerial Statement - New Statutory Assessment Framework for Northern Ireland | Department of Education

The assessment policy framework can be found at Department of Education Policy Framework for Statutory Assessment in Northern Ireland | Department of Education