Ministers will consider whether any extra “safeguards” are needed in future SATs procurements, following failures by contractor Pearson this summer. The Standards and Testing Agency (STA) has begun early market engagement to “inform the assessment of our options” for delivery of primary school tests, according to a contract notice. The notice said the current arrangements for delivering the tests – which also includes optional key stage 1 SATs and the phonics screening check – will expire following the delivery of assessments in 2029. Become a member for unlimited access to Schools Week Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits. subscribe If you have an account, please login. Sign in