As parents of Year 6 students preparing for SATs, you want to ensure your child has access to the best resources. SATs (Standard Assessment Tests) can be a significant milestone in your child’s academic journey, and equipping them with the right tools is key to their success. In this blog, we will outline the essential books for each subject—Maths, English, and Science (Optional)—along with why they are recommended.
Maths SATs test your child on arithmetic and reasoning. A mix of practice papers, topic-specific books, and workbooks is ideal.
1. CGP KS2 Maths SATs Buster Books
Why: Covers Arithmetic, Reasoning, and Problem-Solving in detail. It includes step-by-step worked examples and is great for breaking down complex topics.
2. Collins KS2 SATs Practice - Maths
Why: Includes full SATs-style practice tests and topic-based exercises. The layout mirrors the actual exams, helping students familiarise themselves with the format.
3. Schofield & Sims KS2 Maths Revision Guide and Workbook
Why: A concise yet comprehensive revision book that focuses on key concepts. The workbook offers ample practice questions to consolidate learning.
4. White Rose Maths Practice Books
Why: Aligned with the national curriculum, these books focus on building fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills.
English SATs assess two areas: Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling (GPS) and
Reading Comprehension. A variety of books will strengthen your child’s grammar skills, vocabulary, and ability to interpret texts.
1. CGP KS2 English SATs Buster Books - GPS and Reading
Why: Excellent for Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling practice. Their comprehension books provide a wide range of texts with SATs-style questions.
2. Collins KS2 English SATs Targeted Practice
Why: Focuses on key topics such as grammar rules, punctuation usage, and improving reading comprehension. Clear explanations make it user-friendly.
3. Schofield & Sims KS2 English Skills Books
Why: A fantastic series for improving core skills. Their practice exercises enhance vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation while reinforcing comprehension skills.
4. 10-Minute Tests for English (CGP)
Why: Perfect for quick, focused practice sessions, especially in grammar and spelling.
5. First News Children’s Newspaper
Why: Great for improving reading comprehension with real-world content and fostering an interest in reading.
Though Science isn’t formally assessed in SATs, many schools include Science in their assessments. Encouraging your child to engage with Science can build confidence and a deeper understanding of their surroundings.
1. CGP KS2 Science SATs Study Book
Why: A brilliant overview of KS2 Science topics, explained simply and supported by colourful illustrations.
2. Schofield & Sims KS2 Science Revision Guide
Why: Provides excellent topic summaries with practice questions to reinforce learning.
3. Letts KS2 Science SATs Practice Workbook
Why: Features SATs-style questions covering the national curriculum topics in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
4. National Geographic Kids Science Books
Why: Engages children with fun facts, experiments, and real-life applications, fostering a love for learning.
It’s also important to provide all-round SATs preparation to develop time management, exam strategies, and confidence.
1. CGP KS2 SATs Complete Revision and Practice Books
Why: A combined resource for Maths, English, and Science, with plenty of practice tests and online resources.
2. Collins All-in-One KS2 SATs Revision and Practice
Why: Covers all subjects and includes free online resources, making it a comprehensive choice for busy families.
3. Rising Stars Achieve SATs Success Series
Why: Includes targeted revision and practice books for Maths, English, and Science.
4. Bond SATs Skills Books
Why: Renowned for their rigorous approach, these books are excellent for building strong foundational skills.
Practicing past papers is one of the best ways to prepare for SATs. Familiarizing your child with the style and structure of SATs questions will reduce exam-day stress and improve their performance.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zrybvk7#zjycwsg
Collins SATs Practice Papers
Official KS2 SATs Papers (from GOV.UK)
Why: Authentic SATs past papers help children experience the exact difficulty level and layout of the exams.
Past SATs Papers
Access all the past SAT papers for practice. Note: Avoid using 2019 papers for independent assessments.
https://www.sats-papers.co.uk/ks2-sats-papers/
SATs Timetable and Dates
Find the latest timetable of test dates directly from the official UK government website.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/key-stage-1-and-key-stage-2-test-dates
BBC Bitesize - English
Packed with activities and questions to help prepare for National Tests in English.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zv48q6f
Crickweb - English Games
A range of engaging English games and activities.
http://www.crickweb.co.uk/ks2literacy.html
Primary Homework Help - English
Revision pages with detailed information and exercises.
http://www.primaryhomeworkhelp.co.uk/revision/engindex.html
SPAG.com
A platform for Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling tests. Individual logins required.
https://www.spag.com
BBC Spelling Practice
Fun activities to practice spelling rules.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/zt62mnb
Spellzone - Spelling Rules
Interactive activities and games to reinforce spelling rules and patterns.
https://www.spellzone.com/word_lists/folder-63
Keystage 2 Literacy - Spelling Menu
Activities for spelling reinforcement.
http://www.keystage2literacy.co.uk/spellings-menu.html
IXL - Year 6 English and Maths
Interactive pages with skills linked to Year 6 curriculum. Practice questions for both subjects are available.
English: https://uk.ixl.com/ela/year-6
Maths: https://uk.ixl.com/math/year-6
Education Quizzes
KS2 quizzes for Maths and English with instant feedback.
https://www.educationquizzes.com/ks2/
ICTeachers
A resource with revision questions and information for SATs preparation.
http://www.icteachers.co.uk/children/children_sats.htm
Mathletics
A platform targeting individual maths areas or tests. Individual logins required.
http://uk.mathletics.com
Times Tables Rock Stars
A fun way to practice times tables. Individual logins required.
https://ttrockstars.com/login
BBC Bitesize - Maths
Activities and questions for SATs Maths preparation.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/z826n39
Primary Homework Help - Maths
Comprehensive revision pages for KS2 Maths.
http://www.primaryhomeworkhelp.co.uk/maths/index.html
Clarity Maths
A mix of old-style KS2 Maths papers, tutorials, and memory-based games.
https://claritymaths.uk
Sheppard Software - Maths Games
Maths games covering a range of concepts.
https://www.sheppardsoftware.com/math.htm
Math Playground
Games designed to improve various Maths skills.
http://www.mathplayground.com/games.html
1. Set a Routine: Encourage daily revision with short, focused sessions.
2. Focus on Weak Areas: Use topic-based books to address specific challenges.
3. Practice Under Timed Conditions: Simulate exam conditions to improve time management.
4. Encourage Reading: Regular reading builds vocabulary, comprehension, and grammar skills.
5. Celebrate Progress: Reward effort and achievements to keep motivation high.
By investing in these key books, you can give your child a head start in their SATs preparation. Remember, the goal isn’t just to pass the exams but to build a strong foundation for secondary school. With consistent effort, the right resources, and your support, your child can excel in their SATs journey.