A student giving SAT Exam

SATs Results 2026: Dates, Scores and What Happens Next

SATs results 2026 will be released to schools on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, when Key Stage 2 test results become available on the National Curriculum Assessments portal. Schools then share the results with parents, usually before the end of the summer term through end-of-year reports.

In this guide, we explain everything parents need to know about SATs results day 2026, including how KS2 SATs results 2026 are scored, what the results mean for your child, and what typically happens after they are released. If you are a parent preparing for results day, this guide will help you understand the process clearly.

What are KS1 and KS2 SATs?

Before looking at the SATs results, it helps to understand what the SATs actually are.

SATs stand for Standard Assessment Tests, which are used in England to measure how well pupils are progressing through the national curriculum at key stages of primary school.

KS1 SATs

Key Stage 1 (KS1) SATs are taken by pupils in Year 2, usually when children are 6 to 7 years old. These assessments help teachers understand a child’s early learning progress.

KS1 assessments include:

  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Mathematics
  • Grammar, punctuation and spelling

Unlike KS2 tests, KS1 SATs are mostly teacher-assessed, meaning teachers use classroom work and small assessments to determine a child’s level.

KS2 SATs

Key Stage 2 (KS2) SATs are taken by pupils in Year 6, typically at age 10 or 11. These are the more formal national tests that many parents refer to when discussing SATs.

The KS2 tests include:

  • English Reading
  • English Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling (GPS)
  • Mathematics

Writing is assessed by teachers throughout the year rather than through a final exam.

The results help teachers, parents and secondary schools understand whether pupils have reached the expected standard before moving on to Year 7.

SATs results 2026 release date

One of the most common questions parents ask is about the SATs results 2026 release date.

When will children receive their results?

  • KS2 SATs results will be released to schools on Tuesday, 7 July 2026.
  • Schools usually share the results with parents shortly afterwards, often before the end of the summer term.
  • Parents typically receive the results as part of their child’s end-of-year school report or through official school communication.

Schools receive the results through the National Curriculum Assessments portal and then pass the information on to families. Secondary schools may also use these results to understand each pupil’s academic level before they begin Year 7.

What will the SATs results look like?

When KS2 SATs results 2026 are released, parents will see a scaled score for each subject.

SATs scaled scores explained

Scores usually fall between 80 and 120.

  • 100 represents the expected standard
  • 110 or above indicates a higher level of attainment
  • Below 100 suggests the child may need additional support

This scoring system allows results to remain consistent each year even if test difficulty changes.

Subjects that receive scaled scores

  • Reading
  • Maths
  • Grammar, punctuation and spelling

Writing results are reported differently because they are assessed by teachers.

What happens after SATs results?

Once SATs results arrive, many parents wonder what these scores actually mean for their child’s future.

The good news is that SATs do not determine secondary school admission in most cases. Instead, they provide a snapshot of academic progress.

Here is what typically happens next:

1. Secondary schools review results

Schools may use SATs data to group students or provide early academic support.

2. Teachers identify learning gaps

If a child scored below the expected standard, teachers may focus on strengthening those areas.

3. Students prepare for Year 7 transition

SATs results help teachers ensure students are ready for the challenges of secondary school.

For many families considering selective education, Year 6 is also the final stage of preparation for grammar school assessments.

At Pass 11 Plus Grammar, we support students during this crucial period through our specialised 11 Plus Year 6 preparation programme. Our structured lessons help children refine exam techniques and strengthen the skills needed for competitive entrance tests.

Why preparation still matters in Year 6

Although SATs themselves do not determine secondary placement, the skills tested are essential for success in later academic challenges.

Strong foundations in reading, grammar and maths will benefit students as they progress into secondary education and beyond.

Many families also combine SATs preparation with targeted practice for selective exams.

One effective method is practising under exam conditions. Our 11 Plus Mocks give students the opportunity to experience realistic testing environments, helping them build confidence and improve time management before important exams.

Mock assessments can reveal strengths and areas that need improvement, allowing students to focus their preparation more effectively.

Tips for parents while waiting for SATs results

Waiting for SATs results 2026 can feel stressful for both parents and children. However, it is important to remember that SATs are only one part of a child’s educational journey.

Here are a few helpful tips:

1. Focus on progress, not just scores

SATs provide useful feedback, but they do not define your child’s ability or potential.

2. Encourage confidence

Celebrate the effort your child has put into their studies throughout the year.

3. Prepare for the next stage

Secondary school brings new subjects, new teachers and new opportunities for growth.

4. Keep learning over summer

Reading regularly and practising maths can help children stay academically active before Year 7 begins.

Final thoughts

Understanding SATs results helps parents feel more confident about what lies ahead. From the SATs results day 2026 to interpreting scaled scores, knowing what the results mean can make the transition from primary to secondary school smoother.

At Pass 11 Plus Grammar, we work closely with families to support students through important academic milestones, including Year 6 preparation and grammar school entrance exams. If you would like guidance on the next steps for your child’s learning journey, feel free to Contact Us to learn how our programmes can help.

FAQ’s

1. What date do SATs results come out?

For SATs results 2026, KS2 results will be released to schools on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, and parents usually receive them shortly afterwards through their child’s end-of-year report. 

2. What is a good score for Year 6 SATs?

A scaled score of 100 or above in Year 6 SATs means a child has met the expected national standard, with scores ranging from 80 to 120.

3. Where can I find my child's SATs results?

Parents usually receive their child’s SATs results from their primary school, typically included in the end-of-year report or shared directly by the school before the summer term ends. 

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