Test results for seven-year-old pupils published today have shown that that they have improved their reading ability and that there has been a dip in the results for writing and maths compared to last year.

The figures for the Key Stage 1 Standard Attainment Tests (SATs) show results for reading have increased by 1 percentage point to 78% which is an improvement on the national result for reading which has remained the same as last year. Results for writing and maths have shown a dip of 2% to 72% in writing and 85% in maths. Across the country, there has been no change in writing and maths results since last year.

Overall, girls are doing slightly better than boys in all three subjects and there have been improvements for girls in reading from 81% achieving level 2+ in 2007 to 83% in 2008.

Sylvia Gibson, Director of Schools and Early Years, said: "We recognise the hard work of pupils, staff, governors and parents, and we acknowledge that parents and schools must continue to work together to support these young children with their reading and writing. We want to do this to raise our standards so that our pupils improve their chances for success in further education and securing jobs later in life.

Schools in Nottingham are working hard to raise attainment in reading and writing throughout Key Stage 1, particularly through an effective approach to the teaching of phonics and improving children’s speaking and listening skills. This is already having a positive impact and will ensure that increasing numbers of pupils reach and exceed national expectations in reading and writing in future years."