Assessment and Reporting
Our Assessment Processes
At Earlston Primary, assessment is an integral part of learning and teaching. We use a range of approaches to understand each child’s progress and to ensure they are appropriately challenged and supported.
Ongoing Formative Assessment
Day-to-day assessment is continuous in every classroom. Teachers observe learning, listen to discussions, review written work and provide regular feedback. Pupils are actively involved through self-assessment, peer assessment and learning conversations, helping them understand their strengths, next steps and how to improve. These low-stakes, formative approaches guide learning and allow us to adapt lessons quickly to meet learners’ needs.
Diagnostic and Summative Assessment
At key points in the year, we also use more formal assessments to check children’s progress in core areas such as literacy and numeracy. These assessments help identify any gaps in learning and confirm next steps. They sit alongside formative assessment and are not used in isolation.
Supporting Progress
Assessment information is used to plan learning, track progress and share achievements with parents and carers. For children who require additional support, assessments are adapted to suit individual needs.
Day-to-day assessment is continuous in every classroom. Teachers observe learning, listen to discussions, review written work and provide regular feedback. Pupils are actively involved through self-assessment, peer assessment and learning conversations, helping them understand their strengths, next steps and how to improve. These low-stakes, formative approaches guide learning and allow us to adapt lessons quickly to meet learners’ needs.
Diagnostic and Summative Assessment
At key points in the year, we also use more formal assessments to check children’s progress in core areas such as literacy and numeracy. These assessments help identify any gaps in learning and confirm next steps. They sit alongside formative assessment and are not used in isolation.
Supporting Progress
Assessment information is used to plan learning, track progress and share achievements with parents and carers. For children who require additional support, assessments are adapted to suit individual needs.
Our Reporting Processes
We are committed to working in partnership with families and keeping you informed about your child’s progress throughout the year. We share learning and achievements in a variety of ways, including:
In addition, our Open Afternoons, Showcase Assemblies and whole-school events give children the chance to share their learning in meaningful and enjoyable ways with parents and carers.
- Regular learning updates via Showbie, offering an ongoing window into your child’s classwork, demonstrating the progress they are making towards their individual targets in Literacy, Numeracy and Health & Wellbeing.
- Parent–Teacher consultations (twice per year), providing dedicated time to discuss learning, wellbeing and next steps
- An annual written pupil summary (in June), outlining the Curriculum for Excellence levels your child is working towards and summarising their efforts, progress and achievements over the session.
In addition, our Open Afternoons, Showcase Assemblies and whole-school events give children the chance to share their learning in meaningful and enjoyable ways with parents and carers.
Further information for parents and carers on ‘Assessment and Reporting’ can be found on the following websites:
www.parentzonescotland.gov.uk (parents and carers)
www.educationscotland.gov.uk (teaching practice and support)
www.scotland.gov.uk/cfeinaction (real-life examples)
www.parentzonescotland.gov.uk (parents and carers)
www.educationscotland.gov.uk (teaching practice and support)
www.scotland.gov.uk/cfeinaction (real-life examples)