Q12	Know a range of approaches to assessment, including the importance of formative assessment. Download Q12 guidance (PDF)

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Secure assessment for learning (AfL) practices enable teachers to monitor and assess the achievements and needs of learners and to plan their teaching effectively. Teachers know that learners will make good progress if they are given regular, constructive and formative feedback. Teachers also recognise the benefits of self and peer assessment, giving learners responsibility for assessing their own progress and deciding what and how to improve. They use national and local pupil performance data to compare the progress and attainment of learners, to set targets, to inform their teaching and to improve learning. A secure knowledge of national assessment requirements helps teachers to prepare learners well for public examinations and qualifications.

Footnote: Assessment for learning (AfL) is the process of seeking and interpreting evidence for use by learners and their teachers to decide where the learners are in their learning, where they need to go and how best to get there." (Assessment Reform Group 2002).