Assessment

…or as we call it “NOFUS Noggins”! Pupils are assessed when they arrive at The Valley School.  They are given a starting level for each subject and their progress is updated half termly.

Never, Occasionally, Frequently, Usually, Securely

We use our NOFUS guide to convert how securely pupils are working at each level into a point score.  We can then show progress in small steps by adding the NOFUS scores, even when they are unable to complete a whole level.

“Noggins” are the tiny steps of progress that go together to make up outstanding progress for our pupils.  By breaking down the steps, we can ensure that all pupils have learning experiences that are at the right level and target the next part of the learning jigsaw.  We never intended to call them by this name, but it became part of the language of the school and then we quite liked it!

Targets, unique to each pupil, are carefully set and regularly reviewed.  If pupils are not progressing at their expected pace then a plan is put in place to implement interventions to ensure they get back on track.

Pupils are usually unaware they are being assessed as this is discreetly undertaken as part of normal classroom procedures.