Skills Tests from September 2012.

Skills Tests update

Pre-entry skills tests: From September 2012, anyone applying for an ITT course to start September 2013 must pass the 2 skills tests (literacy and numeracy) before starting the course.

Once you have submitted an application form for an ITT course, you will be eligible to book the skills tests via the DfE website www.education.gov.uk. The registration and booking system will be available from 1^st August 2012.

The number of resits allowed is limited to two per subject. This came into effect from 1 September 2012 and applies to all skills test candidates. Previous unsuccessful attempts by any existing trainees will not count towards this limit; any test taken from 1 September 2012 counts as their first attempt.

Candidates who fail after two resits in either numeracy or literacy will not be able to book any more skills tests, in either subject, for 24 months from the date of the second resit. This gives candidates a reasonable time during which they can become proficient at the skills assessed in the tests before further attempts.

Before booking a resit you should consider any areas of weakness which were highlighted on the score report of your previous attempt. Ensure that you read the handout before taking your next test. The literacy and numeracy pages contain guidance material and practice tests to help you decide if you are ready to book a further test appointment.

After a minimum period of 48 hours since the previous test, you will be able to log into your account to book the resit.

From September 2012, you will be able to take the test once free of charge. If you do not pass, you may retake each test twice at a fee of £19.25. The charge will be levied at the time of booking.

To help you to become familiar with the tests, there will be practice material on the DfE website www.education.gov.uk . The practice material includes interactive tests which will help you to decide if you are ready to take the test or need to improve before booking a test.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I have been offered a place on a Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) course before starting my ITT training in September 2013; do I have to pass the skills tests before starting the SKE course?

No, but you will still be required to have passed the skills tests before you start the ITT course. You will be able to register for the tests from 1^st August 2012.

Will I have to have prior knowledge of the teaching profession in order to pass the skills tests?

No. Although the skills tests are set in the context of a school environment, candidates re not expected to have any knowledge of specific terminology in order to pass the test.

How much will the re-sits be?

Resits are charged at £19.25 each; payment will be required by credit or debit card when booking.

Failure to attend a test appointment may result in the loss of fees or your entitlement to a free attempt

Will there be exemptions from people on benefits?

There will be no exemptions.