Assessment at Key Stage 4

Assessment at Key Stage 4

At Chelmer Valley High School, our assessment approach during Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11) is designed to support student learning and prepare them for success in their final examinations. Students are assessed against the expectations outlined in their course specifications, and the modes of assessment reflect the actual methods used in each course. This ensures that students become familiar with the format and requirements they will encounter in their official exams.

Regular Assessments

Each course conducts assessments at least half-termly. These regular evaluations serve two key purposes:

• Development of Assessment Techniques: By frequently engaging with various assessment formats, students enhance their understanding of subject-specific examination techniques.
• Monitoring Learning Progress: Regular assessments allow teachers to gauge student understanding, identify areas for improvement, and provide timely feedback.

Mock Examinations

To further prepare our students for their final assessments, we administer full mock examinations in both Year 10 and Year 11. These mock exams simulate the conditions of the actual exams, offering students valuable practice in:

• Time Management: Learning to allocate appropriate time to each section of the exam.
• Exam Strategies: Applying effective techniques to answer questions accurately and efficiently.
• Stress Management: Experiencing exam conditions helps reduce anxiety and build confidence.

Formative Assessments and Predicted Grades

While classroom assessments primarily focus on formative outcomes—providing feedback that guides student improvement—we also recognise the importance of keeping students and parents informed about academic progress. Therefore, we share predicted grades once each term. These predicted grades offer:

• Performance Insights: Allowing students to understand their current standing in each subject.
• Goal Setting: Helping students set realistic and challenging targets for improvement.
• Parental Engagement: Keeping parents informed to support their child's educational journey.

Our Commitment

Our comprehensive assessment framework at Key Stage 4 is integral to our commitment to student success. By aligning assessments with course expectations and providing regular feedback, we ensure that our students are well-prepared—not just for their exams, but for the next stages of their educational and professional lives.