STA Assessment Update – 13 October 2026

For all Schools with Reception, Primary, KS1 and KS2 Phase

The Standards and Testing Agency (STA) latest email was sent on 13 October 2026 and includes the following information and reminders listed below.

For the full breakdown of the updates and guidance, please see the email shared by the STA - 

STA assessment update 13 October 2026 issue 4

Primary Assessments General

  • Information: you can now switch between test cycles on the NCA Portal.
  • Action: confirm your LA monitoring and moderation agreement on the NCA Portal – for independent schools and academies from Monday 2 November 2026.
  • Publication: downloadable KS1 and KS2 assessment calendars for the academic year 2026-2027.
  • Publication: assessment dates for the academic year 2028-2029.

Reception

  • Action: submit the RBA Headteacher’s declaration form by Friday 6 November 2026.

Phonics Screening Check

  • Publication: 2027 phonics screening check assessment and reporting arrangements.
  • Action: decline 2027 phonics screen check materials, if no pupils will take part, by Friday 13 November 2026.
  • Action: order braille versions of the 2027 phonics screening check by Tuesday 20 April 2026.
  • Publication: 2026 phonics screening check attainment data.

Optional Key Stage 1 Tests

  • Publication: 2027 optional KS1 tests guidance.
  • Publication: 2027 optional KS2 access arrangements guidance.
  • Action: order modified versions of the optional KS1 test by Friday 13 November 2026.

Key Stage 2

  • Publication: 2027 KS2 assessment and reporting arrangements.
  • Publication: 2027 KS2 access arrangements guidance.
  • Publication: 2027 KS2 timetable variation guidance.
  • Action: place KS2 test orders by Friday 13 November 2026.

The next update from the STA Assessment (issue 5) will be on Tuesday 3 November 2026, when most schools will have returned from their October half term holidays.

 

If you are not currently receiving STA updates directly, it is important to stay informed so you do not miss critical deadlines or guidance. Sign up to the STA mailing list to ensure you receive all future updates as soon as they are released.

 

School and Early Years Improvement Service

SEYIS@enfield.gov.uk