Creswick Academy: Improving engagement and reducing workload with NFER Online Assessments
Creswick Academy has used NFER paper tests for many years but saw an opportunity to make better use of its technology provision and streamline processes. We spoke to Assistant Head Stuart Barker about their experience with NFER Online Assessments (NOA).
'We hoped it would allow teachers to work more efficiently. We wanted to make sure assessment is purposeful and meaningful for the staff and for the children. So if there was a way of speeding the assessment cycle up whilst still using a standardised test – we wanted to try it!’
Reducing workload and freeing up teacher time
Teacher workload was a key driver for change, particularly around marking and data analysis. With NOA, 70% of questions are auto-marked, enabling staff to focus on teaching rather than admin.
‘It improves teacher workload and wellbeing.’
The time savings have been significant, with analysis tools accelerating the entire assessment cycle by approximately half a term as teachers are able to interpret the data quickly and put it straight into action.
‘The analysis tools are fantastic – staff are saving a considerable amount of time.’
As a result, teachers can dedicate more time to planning and responding to pupil needs.
Faster insights, more targeted teaching
Access to timely, high-quality data has transformed how Creswick Academy approaches intervention and planning.
'We have been able to tailor interventions much more accurately.’
Teachers can quickly identify gaps and act on them, ensuring interventions are timely and targeted.
The data feeds into curriculum planning, helping staff refine their teaching approach at both cohort and individual level.
‘It feeds directly into our planning – we are tailoring the texts to enable us to teach the next steps.’
A more engaging and accessible pupil experience
Pupil engagement has improved notably since moving to online assessment, particularly for children who find paper assessments challenging.
'All pupils engage with those tests extremely well… they engage better with the online use.’
The structure of online tests – displaying one question at a time – has helped reduce overwhelm and improve focus.
‘The idea that you haven’t got all of your questions laid out made it more manageable for them.’
Accessibility tools such as colour overlays, font adjustments and additional time have further supported inclusion.
‘It meets all of our needs.’
Supporting outcomes for all learners
While outcomes for higher-attaining pupils remain consistent with paper testing, the biggest gains have been seen among pupils working towards expected standards. Stuart has observed postive changes with some of these children who previously have struggled to engage and complete the tests.
'There is very little difference for expected standard pupils and above, but ‘working towards’ children are able to complete the tests – and they are picking up more marks along the way.’
Easy to use for staff
The platform has proven intuitive for teachers, making it easy to embed into existing routines.
'Staff have found it quite intuitive. It’s very easy to navigate.’
This ease of use has helped ensure strong staff buy-in and smooth implementation across year groups. For the team, the benefits are clear in efficiency and day-to-day teaching experience.
Advice for other schools: prepare and involve staff
Stuart recommends taking a whole-school approach when introducing online assessments.
'Make sure that information is being disseminated and that everybody has the opportunity to engage in CPD.’
Schools should also ensure infrastructure and familiarisation are in place before assessment periods.
‘They need to make sure they’ve got the infrastructure in place [and] both the staff and the pupils understand how to complete the test.’
By adopting NFER Online Assessments, Creswick Academy has reduced teacher workload, improved pupil engagement, and created a more responsive, efficient approach to assessment.
Find out more
Visit the NFER Online Assessments page for more information on using NOA in your school or MAT.