By Jasmine Norden

Copyright independent

The government is set to introduce mandatory reading assessments for 13-year-olds (Year 8 students) as part of its forthcoming Schools White Paper.

Results from these tests would be shared with the Department for Education and Ofsted, with a possibility of being shared with parents, but not initially used in school league tables.

Teaching unions, including the NEU and ASCL, have criticised the proposal, arguing that pupils do not need another national examination.

Unions warn that the new assessment could evolve into another accountability measure, leading to punitive labelling of schools, a narrowed curriculum, and increased stress.

The Department for Education defends the initiative, stating that strong reading skills are crucial for overall academic success, particularly for disadvantaged pupils.