The Primary 1 Assessment at ESMS Junior School is a 40 minute fun activity session. A friendly and experienced teacher will spend time with your child, getting to know them so we can gauge their educational needs.
Whether you have a curious scientist, a creative artist, a thoughtful philosopher or a reflective peacemaker, we will make sure your child has a fun time during their time with us.
What will we assess?
The assessment will not feel like a test, as they enjoy games, activities and puzzles with a member of staff who will get to know your child whilst having fun together. We are not looking for children who can read or write. We are simply looking to see how they ask questions, follow instructions, listen carefully and communicate with us. Activities we use focus on the skills children will be undertaking at home and Nursery such as:
- Memory and recall
- Sequencing, matching, counting and sorting
- Vocabulary and comprehension
- Fine motor skills, such as cutting, threading, building, drawing
What can I do to prepare my child?
Nothing! All we want to do is to get to know your child and make sure there are no specific needs that we cannot meet. They will not be asked to read or write so there really is nothing you need to do, except discuss what will happen with your child so they are not worried on the day. Explaining that they will meet one of our teachers and will go and play some games with them like the big boys and girls do should help to put your child at ease and build a gentle excitement about the day.
How do I book a place?
To book a spot for your child to join us during Assessment Week, please contact Mrs Ireland, our Admissions Manager, who will liaise with you to find a time that suits you and your family best on admissions@esms.org.uk or 0131 311 1115.
We recommend doing this before the 15th of December in order to secure your preferred time slot.