All children from Year 2 to Year 6 will sit formal exams mid year and end of year. These year end tests are the standardised tests drawn up by the UK government.

Ongoing assessment is an important part of the KS2 programme in all areas but particularly in reading. Results are used to identify children in need of extra help from the Learning Support teacher and children working above year level who will benefit from an extension programme.

Children will sit both the UK SAT tests and entrance tests for the secondary schools of their choice. These entrance tests are drawn up by each individual school. Our children are assessed continually both formally and informally but from the second term of Year 5 through to Year 6 children are given formal practice tests weekly to help them prepare for these tests.

Horizon School has close communication with the secondary schools in Dubai, with regular meetings between headteachers as members of the British Schools of the Middle East Conference. Horizon College also has an agreement of progression for year 6 students with Dubai College, English College and Dubai English Speaking College. Entry to these colleges is subject to their own assessment procedures. (For more information click here).

During the first term of Year 6 the school receives brochures and information from the English College, Dubai College and Dubai English Speaking College and these are passed on to the children. During the year the children are often invited to theatre, science or art presentations at these schools. Some schools also send representatives to talk to the children in Year 6.

Parents meetings during Year 5 and 6 are an opportunity for parents to discuss secondary placements with either the class teacher, deputy or headteacher.