The national curriculum tests are developed by specialist agencies with the help of subject experts and former teachers. Schools are involved right from the beginning in the process by taking part in informal trials of test questions.

It is important that the most suitable questions are selected, so more questions are trialled than are used. The pre-test stage provides valuable information on the difficulty of the questions, as well as determining how individual pupils respond.

The pre-test is assessed by experienced markers, many are still practising teachers. Comments from pupils and teachers are included in the final analysis of the first pre-test.

• Test development process

The input of test review groups and teacher panels in the test development process is a key part of QCA’s quality assurance. It is crucial to ensure that the tests are suitable in terms of content and context for the pupils who will sit them.

If you are interested in participating in the development of national curriculum tests and the single level tests pilot please visit our get involved page.

• Get involved