Item Writing Framework for the Standards and Testing Agency (STA) from 2016

The Standards and Testing Agency (STA) is an executive agency of the Department for Education (DfE). The STA’s main functions are to: • develop high quality and rigorous DfE tests and assessments in line with Ministerial policy; • undertake operational delivery of DfE tests and assessment (including printing, distribution, marking and data capture of tests as appropriate); and • support schools, test centres and other stakeholders to deliver DfE tests and assessments.

STA is responsible for developing and delivering the national curriculum tests and assessments and ensuring their proper and safe production and administration. These assessments operate across Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and key stages 1, 2 and 3 and are used by a wide range of maintained and other schools.

STA is also responsible for developing and delivering Professional Skills Tests for prospective teachers. Further information about STA and the national curriculum tests and assessments can be found at www.education.gov.uk/assessments.

Description of the contract STA wish to establish an Item Writing Framework of suitably experienced suppliers to develop items (test questions) and mark schemes for a range of DfE assessments. STA plan to establish the framework agreement by April 2016 and it will operate for a maximum of four years.

Currently, STA procures new items for key stage 1 and key stage 2 National Curriculum Tests (English reading; English grammar, punctuation and spelling; and mathematics at key stage 1. Those same subjects plus science at key stage 2), and items for the on-screen Professional Skills Tests for Prospective Teachers (for Literacy and Numeracy). The total value of the work over the maximum term of four years is expected to be between £500,000 and £5,000,000 See 'Attachments' for further information including indicative key dates.