What are P scales and P levels?

Why use the P scales?

The P scales are designed to be used for:

• summative assessments
• best-fit professional judgements, used over a period of time
• measuring linear progress towards NC level 1
• measuring lateral progress – within a P level or across subjects
• providing a means to set targets for individuals or cohorts of pupils.

P scale use

The P scales were originally designed for:

• supporting the target setting process
• data collection from summer 2005
• pupils aged 5–16 years
• use at the end of key stages – or more frequently if a pupil makes substantial progress.

The P scales were not designed as:

• an alternative curriculum
• a test or curriculum that teachers are encouraged to ‘teach to’
• a replacement of effective existing assessment frameworks
• a system only relevant for special schools.