What is Assessing Pupils' Progress (APP)?

How was the APP approach developed?

The APP pilot projects in primary schools developed from similar projects for mathematics and reading and writing in Key Stage 3 (Key Stage 3 mathematics and Key Stage 3 English). The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) and the Primary National Strategy (PNS) worked with local authorities (LAs) and schools to develop APP.

During 2006–08 a pilot of the APP model and mathematics, reading and writing materials was carried out with teachers in Years 3 to 6 from 100 schools in 11 LAs. In 2007–08 a separate pilot to trial level 1 criteria and the APP approach at Key Stage 1 was undertaken with 50 schools in eight LAs. In 2008–09 a further primary pilot was undertaken to trial level 1 and 2 criteria and the APP approach in science.

The projects were able to explore in some depth the APP approach to teacher assessment in mathematics and reading and writing, as well as the related issues of reliability and consistency of judgements (see How to secure APP judgements). All the materials have been extensively trialled and revised in the light of feedback from schools and the findings from an independent evaluator.

Further information on the APP approach to assessment and summaries of the evaluation reports from the pilots are available on the QCA website (link opens in new window).