Abbie Fresco, 11, took her tests last year at Clore Tikva Primary School in Ilford, Essex. She is now in her first year at King Solomon High School.

She said: “We took them all during one week, which meant everyone was very nervous for that week. We all knew that the results were really important for our future. We had mock exams as well and lots of extra homework. Everyone wanted to do well and we were all talking about how nervous we were and hoping that we did well.

“Some people were more nervous than others and were saying that they were really worried about the results and could not wait to get them.

“Because of what it means there is a bit of pressure. Maths is not my best subject so I had to work really hard on that and got a good grade. I got level 5 in my English test, which my teacher was pleased with. Maybe it would be less pressure on people who do not cope very well with exams to include some practical side to the SATs, like reading a book in class and then taking questions on it from the children in the class.

“This may take some pressure off them but I suppose there would be others that didn’t want to do that either.”

The school was set up about six years ago so it was the first time a full year group took the Key Stage 2 tests.

Abbie added: “The teachers told us how important these exams were. Some of my friends were really worried and one was sick in the toilet before the exam. It must be horrible to have to wait a week, or however long, to get your results. I know I wanted to get mine as soon as possible.”

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