Teaching & Learning » Progress & Reporting

Assessment for Learning

Assessment is an integral part of the learning process for every student. It is crucial that we all fully understand the nature and purpose of assessment and how accurate and effective assessment can support learning. As we are a British curriculum school, our programmes of study and assessment methods are defined by the National Curriculum of England and Wales and the relevant Examining Boards.

Cognitive Ability Tests (CATs)

The Cognitive Ability Test (CAT) is the most widely used test of reasoning ability employed in schools in the UK. Over one million pupils are assessed using CATs each year.

CATs measure developed rather than innate abilities. The development of these abilities begins at birth and continues through early adulthood. They are influenced by both inschool and out-of-school experiences.

National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER):
Standardised Assessments (SATs)

NFER Standardised Assessments take place at the end of each year in Key Stages 1, 2 and 3. The tests establish the level that each child has reached, but there can be a considerable spread of marks within a level.

General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSEs) and General Certificate of Education (GCE)

At GCSE, Mathematics, English, ICT, Portuguese and either Combined or Separate Sciences are compulsory at the school. In addition students select from a range of other subjects including: Art and Design; Business Studies; Design and Technology; Drama; Geography; History; Languages; Music and Physical Education.

Guidance and Counselling

Careers Education, Information and Guidance (CEIG) is a process whereby young people are enabled to make well informed and realistic choices about their future lives and careers. At International School São Lourenço we offer a range of curriculum activities and experiences that enable students to develop their skills, knowledge and attitude to make effective choices, engage with learning and achieve their full potential.

Reporting to Parents

Our reporting system is designed to raise the attainment of our pupils and students. It is a proactive strategy that is not designed to simply inform parents about progress throughout the period but is also intended to:

• motivate pupils to achieve better results;
• enable teachers to associate their teaching and assessment of learning more closely with National Curriculum standards;
• enable the school to monitor and track pupil progress and to intervene if underachievement is identified.

Click here to read our brochure on Assessment, Reporting and Tracking