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Engagement model of SEN assessment

Learn what's covered in the engagement model for pupils working below the standard of the National Curriculum assessments, and how to assess under it. Download our template form to record your observations during assessment.

Updated
on 22 May 2025See updates
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 39426
Contents
  1. Who does this apply to?
  2. How the engagement model works
  3. Assess the pupil through regular observation
  4. What you need to report to the DfE

This article is based on the engagement model guidance from the Standards and Testing Agency (STA).

Who does this apply to?

The engagement model is mandatory for:

  • Maintained schools (including special schools)
  • Academies (including free schools)
  • PRUs
  • Hospital schools
  • Ministry of Defence schools

It must be used to set attainment targets and to assess Key Stage (KS) 2 pupils who are:

  • Working below the standard of National Curriculum assessments, and
  • Not engaged in subject-specific study

You can use it to assess pupils in KS1 and from KS3 onwards, but you're not required to.

You must still use it to set attainment targets for pupils in KS1 who are:

  • Working below the standard of National Curriculum assessments, and
  • Not engaged in subject-specific study

Use the pre-KS1 and pre-KS2 standards to assess pupils who are working below the standard of the National Curriculum assessments but who are engaged in subject-specific study.

Pupils engage in subject-specific study when they can demonstrate