# Key Stage 2 — Definition & Explanation

> From the SchoolBrowse Education Glossary.
> HTML version: https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/key-stage-2

**In short:** The second stage of the English National Curriculum covering Years 3-6 (ages 7-11) in primary school.
**Key Stage 2 (KS2)** is the second phase of the National Curriculum in England, covering Years 3-6 for children aged 7-11. KS2 builds on foundations established in Key Stage 1 and prepares students for secondary school.

## KS2 Curriculum

Core subjects include English (reading, writing, grammar), mathematics, and science. Foundation subjects include history, geography, design and technology, art, music, physical education, computing, and foreign languages. Religious education is also required.

## KS2 SATs

At the end of Year 6, students take national SATs tests in reading and maths (with teacher-assessed writing). Results are reported as scaled scores with 100 as the expected standard. These tests inform secondary school placement in some areas.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: What are KS2 SATs?**

SATs are national tests taken at the end of Year 6 measuring attainment in reading and mathematics. Results indicate whether children have met the expected standard.
**Q: What is the expected standard at KS2?**

A scaled score of 100 represents the expected standard. Scores 100-119 meet the standard; 110+ is working at greater depth. Below 100 is below expected standard.
**Q: Do KS2 results matter?**

SATs results inform secondary schools about student attainment and can affect setting. However, they're one measure and do not determine future success or GCSE outcomes.

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Source: SchoolBrowse Education Glossary (https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary). Please attribute and link to https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/key-stage-2 when citing this definition.