Assessment and Internal Exams
At Howden School, assessment is rooted in our core values of aspiration, courtesy and excellence. We believe assessment should inspire students to aim high, support them with clarity and respect, and drive the highest standards of achievement.
The primary purpose of assessment is to inform both teachers and students about the next steps in learning. Through a carefully planned approach, we identify what knowledge has been securely retained, what skills have been developed and where further progress is needed. This allows us to support every student to improve and succeed.
Our curriculum is deliberately sequenced, enabling students to build knowledge over time. High-quality formative assessment is embedded within lessons, allowing teachers to respond precisely to students’ needs and ensure that learning is secure and sustained.
Students regularly complete Key Marked Pieces, which provide meaningful opportunities to demonstrate their understanding. These include formal tests, extended written work and shorter in-lesson tasks. At Key Stage 4, these often include GCSE-style questions and past papers, helping students to develop confidence and accuracy in exam conditions.
Assessment Structure
| Key Stage 3 | Key Stage 4 |
|---|---|
|
Students complete two formal assessment points each year:
These are designed to build the knowledge, resilience and examination skills needed for Key Stage 4, ensuring students approach GCSE study with confidence and strong foundations. Students complete two formal assessment points each year:
These are designed to build the knowledge, resilience and examination skills needed for Key Stage 4, ensuring students approach GCSE study with confidence and strong foundations. |
Assessment becomes increasingly rigorous and aligned to GCSE expectations: Year 10:
Year 11:
These assessments are conducted under formal examination conditions to provide a realistic experience. They allow students to demonstrate excellence, reflect on their progress and refine their approach ahead of final examinations. Following each mock series, students receive detailed feedback and take part in a Results Day, reinforcing our culture of aspiration and helping students take ownership of their next steps. |
Why Assessment Matters at Howden
At Howden School, assessment is not simply about outcomes—it is about growth. Through a culture of high expectations, precise feedback and consistent support, we ensure that every student is challenged to achieve their best.
Our approach ensures that:
- Aspiration is developed through ambitious targets and regular reflection.
- Courtesy is reflected in the supportive, respectful way feedback is given and received.
- Excellence is secured through rigorous assessment and high expectations.
Assessment at Howden is therefore a powerful tool to help every student succeed, both in their examinations and beyond.