Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment he has made of the effect of exams on the mental health of (a) sixth-form, (b) secondary, and (c) primary school students.

Assessments are an essential part of ensuring that children and young people are taught the knowledge and skills they need. Statutory assessments at Key Stages 1 and 2 help teachers to understand how their pupils are performing against national expectations and enable them to identify where extra support may be needed. Both statutory assessments and qualifications enable the Department to hold schools and colleges to account and in doing so help to ensure that they offer a high-quality education to all their pupils.

The Department is aware that tests and exams can be a time of heightened emotions for pupils and teachers, but they are not meant to cause stress and anxiety. Schools should encourage all pupils to work hard and achieve well, but this should not be at the expense of their wellbeing. They should also provide appropriate support for the betterment of pupils’ wellbeing and resilience.