A NEWPORT primary school has changed its procedures after concerns were raised over how it conducts national tests.

Rogerstone Primary School’s headteacher Samantha Yeoman has confirmed questions have been asked over how new national tests were conducted.

She said the school’s results were verified following a review, but a letter to parents states further testing will take place under revised procedures.

Newport council says it considers the matter closed, but the Argus understands one city councillor wants a more thorough investigation.

Compulsory Welsh national reading and numeracy tests were introduced for the first time for six to 14-year-olds in May in a bid to raise standards.

Mrs Yeoman’s letter to parents at the school acknowledges “questions have been asked about the way in which national tests have been conducted”.

It adds that, following internal and external moderation, which included the South East Wales Education Service, results from the national tests have been verified.

But Mrs Yeoman wrote that Year 1-6 pupils will be taking further English and Maths tests different to the national tests in the next few weeks.

Those tests would be held under “revised testing procedures following a school testing evaluation”.

The Argus asked Newport council why the school was revising its testing procedures, but it has not been given an answer.

Newport City Council and Rogerstone Primary School took the concerns raised about the national tests very seriously,” a joint statement from the two bodies said.

“The tests were subjected to rigorous and independent external moderation, including the Education Achievement Service for South East Wales.

“The school and the council now consider the matter closed and there will be no further comment.”

The Argus understands that Rogerstone councillor Chris Evans, who has been contacted by a number of concerned parents, would like to see a more through investigation at the school.

Thanking parents for coming forward, Mr Evans said he has raised concerns at the “highest levels”.

His ward colleague Cllr Tom Bond said: “Rogerstone Primary is a great school with excellent staff.

“To make sure parents have continued confidence it is is important that all concerns are looked into fully.”

A Welsh Government spokesman said officials in Cardiff are “aware of the matter which we’ve referred to the local authority and regional consortium for investigation”.

“We await their final report,” he added.

Parents want test clarification

PARENTS raised worries about events at Rogerstone Primary School at a neighbourhood committee meeting last week.

One parent told the meeting that the letter sent over national tests was unclear, saying: “We have issues with regards to Rogerstone Primary School and tests that have been done.

“The school sent home a letter but I don’t think any of the parents understand the letter. We just want to know what’s happening?”

Another parent at the meeting said he was very happy with the education his son was getting at the school.

● Are you are a concerned parent at Rogerstone Primary School? Call David Deans on 01633 777248 or e-mail david.deans@southwalesargus.co.uk