The engagement model is the new assessment for pupils working below the standard of national curriculum assessments and not engaged in subject-specific study. It was intended for the engagement model to become statutory from September 2020, replacing P scales 1 to 4.

Following discussions with NAHT in light of the impact of covid-19, the Standards and Testing Agency (STA) has recognised that some schools may not be prepared to fully implement the engagement model from the 2020/21 academic year. As a result, STA confirmed the 2020/21 academic year will be a transitionary year for the assessment of pupils working below the standard of national curriculum assessments and not engaged in subject-specific study.

The transitionary year means that schools with eligible pupils who are ready to implement the engagement model guidance from September 2020 can do so, and schools that need more time to implement this change will continue to have the option to assess against P scales 1 to 4 for one final year. There will be a flexible approach for the submission of teacher assessment outcomes at the end of key stages 1 and 2. The use of the engagement model will be statutory from September 2021.

STA has published guidance on the transitionary year for the 2020/21 academic year.

Information about engagement model training events can be requested by contacting Engagementmodel@icat.org.uk