Pupil test scores 'disappointing'

The performance of pupils in Suffolk in National Curriculum tests over 2007/2008 has been described as "disappointing" by education officers.

Children in Suffolk are scoring below the national average in Key State tests at 11, 14 and 16 years of age, says a Suffolk County Council report.

The report says the performance at 16 years "has slipped significantly behind national averages".

But performance at tests at seven years compared well with national scores.

The report, which goes before the council's cabinet committee on 13 January, puts forward a number of measures to address the weaknesses.

It calls for more support for schools falling below national targets with provision of more training for staff.