Sandwell test to help pupils with numeracy

Jan 31 2008

A SIMPLE test developed in the Midlands to identify and help young pupils struggling with numeracy has sparked national interest.

The Sandwell Early Numeracy Test can be given by any member of school staff with basic training, unlike before when they could only be administered by educational psychologists.

Other local authorities have already ordered the resource, which was unveiled at the British Psychological Society's annual conference for educational psychologists.

Educational trust Catchup, which works with pupils with special educational needs, has also recommended it as an evaluation tool.

The test highlights weaknesses and ways to measure improvements.

Sandwell Council's senior educational psychologist, Dr Christopher Arnold, who created the test with teachers Phil Bowen and Bob Walden, said: "Poor numeracy is a greater barrier to retaining employment than poor literacy. However, while there are many good tests for analysing literacy, the same is not true in numeracy.

"These tests have been created with children with special educational needs in mind but can be used for all KS1 and 2 children who need help with maths. They are simple to administer and use, cost efficient and give consistent results."