Northern Ireland's Department of Education published a report from an independent review of key stage assessments. The review covers pupils aged 4 to 14 in primary schools and Year 8 to 10 at post-primary level.

The report, Supporting Progress for Every Child, recommends short low-stakes assessments in literacy, number, and science. Schools would administer these in class each year. No preparation or revision would be needed.

Education Minister Paul Givan commissioned the review under his TransformED strategy. He said the proposals tackle teacher issues with duplication, workload, and administrative burdens. Givan said the report offers evidence to build a system supporting every child's progress and cutting school costs on commercial tests.

The panel included Tim Oates CBE, Dr Mick Walker, and Garry Matthewson, former principal of Holy Family Primary School. Oates, the chair, said recommendations come from evidence-based practice and input from schools plus a public call for evidence.

The panel gathered input through school visits, written consultation, and public evidence call. Givan said he will review the findings before announcing next steps.