Primary school students are stressing out.British primary school children sitting national tests are showing increased signs of stress and anxiety around exam time, according to a survey of school leaders.
Eight out of 10 participating primary school leaders (82 per cent) reported an increase in mental health issues among primary school children. One child is said to have lost their eyelashes due to stress, while others were found sobbing during their exams.
Children aged seven to 11 are due to sit controversial national standardised tests known as Sats.
The House of Commons education committee warns the Sats are affecting the well-being of pupils and teachers and calls on the government to limit what is reported in school annual performance tables.
Neil Carmichael, chair of the education committee, said: “It is right that schools are held to account for their performance but the government should act to lower the stakes and help teachers to deliver a broad, balanced and fulfilling curriculum for students."