Progress 8 does apply to special schools
This is because progress 8 applies to all maintained schools and academies.
Special school scores aren't included in the national average score of 0
A mainstream school's progress 8 score is calculated as the average of its pupils’ progress 8 scores (see page 24 of the secondary accountability measures guidance). For all mainstream pupils, the national average progress 8 score is set at 0.
Special schools' progress 8 scores are not used in calculating this national mainstream average.
If including pupils at special schools, the national average would be slightly less than 0.
Special school progress 8 scores allow comparison with mainstream schools
Special schools’ progress 8 scores are calculated using mainstream pupils’ attainment 8 averages (i.e. pupils’ attainment across 8 subjects).
This means that pupils' attainment in special schools can be compared against the mainstream average.
Pupils with special