What to Expect in the Year 6 SAT Tests – A Parent’s Guide

The Year 6 SAT tests (Standard Assessment Tests) can feel like a big milestone – not just for children, but for parents too! Whether it’s your first time navigating the tests or you’d simply like a clearer picture of what’s involved, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What Are the Year 6 SAT tests?

SAT tests (SATs) are national assessments taken by children in England at the end of Key Stage 2 (Year 6), usually in May. They are used to measure how well your child has understood the curriculum in maths (number and problem solving), English reading comprehension, and grammar, punctuation and spelling (SPaG).

While the results are mainly used to track school performance, they’re often shared with secondary schools too – especially when planning Year 7 groups.

What Subjects Are Covered in Key Stage 2 SAT tests?

English Reading

• One paper (60 minutes)

• Your child will answer questions based on three reading texts to check comprehension.

SPaG (Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar)

• Grammar and punctuation paper (45 minutes)

• Spelling test (around 15 minutes)

Maths

• Paper 1: Arithmetic (30 minutes)

• Papers 2 & 3: Reasoning (40 minutes each)

There’s no formal writing test marked externally – writing is assessed by teachers across the year, but there has to be evidence which can be externally checked for accuracy.

When Do the Year 6 SATs Take Place?

They typically take place over one week in May. In 2025, SATs week is expected to be Monday 12th to Thursday 15th May.

Should My Child Be Worried?

The SAT tests are designed to test the curriculum, not trick children. That said, some children do feel pressure and some schools do apply more pressure than others. The best thing you can do is help your child feel calm, confident and prepared.

Tips to support your child:

• Keep a good routine, especially in the weeks before

• Encourage reading a little every day

• Practise key maths skills (times tables, written methods, fractions)

• Offer praise and reassurance

Can a Tutor Help With Year 6 SAT prep?

Yes! A tutor can support your child with any tricky topics and build their confidence – both in the lead-up to SATs and also for support afterwards. Whether it’s revisiting key skills or tackling test techniques, 1:1 tuition offers tailored support that can really make a difference. After the SATs a tutor can help to re-build any confidence which might have been lost or to build on any confidence which might have been gained!

If you’d like to chat about how I can support your child in the run-up to SAT tests (or afterwards) just get in touch. I offer flexible, friendly tutoring for primary-aged children, including Year 6 revision and SATs preparation.

Want to know more? Drop me a message or visit my contact page here: Contact me