Supporting you and your year 6 pupils as SATs approach

As February half term approaches, many year 6 teachers will be deep into preparation for SATs in May 2026. As a former year 6 teacher, I know what a busy, high-pressure time it is for you – you’re balancing consolidation, confidence-building and pupils’ wellbeing, alongside everything else on your plate.

That’s where Oak can help.

Extra support for your lesson planning

To help boost confidence and support pupils in the run-up to SATs, I’ve pulled together Oak English and maths units and lessons. These focus on key areas of the assessments as well as targeted lessons for tricky areas.

These units and lessons are part of our carefully sequenced English and maths curriculum, designed by subject experts and education specialists, and aligned to the national curriculum.

Using our units and lessons can help take some of the pressure off planning, giving you time back to focus on responsive teaching and one-to-one support where it’s needed most.

Units and lessons for support where it matters most

Maths

Divide numbers up to 4 digits by a 2-digit whole number using the formal written method of long division, and interpret remainders as whole number remainders, fractions, or by rounding, as appropriate for the context:

• Multiplying and dividing by 2-digit numbers

Multiply proper fractions and mixed numbers by whole numbers, supported by materials and diagrams:

• Multiply a proper fraction by a whole number

Multiply simple pairs of proper fractions, writing the answer in its simplest form [e.g. 1/4 × 1/2 = 1/8]:

• Multiplication and division of fractions

Reading

Inference - worth up to 50%:

• Inferring characters’ thoughts and motives
• Developing comprehension of 'Hansel and Gretel' through rich discussions

Retrieve and record information - worth up to 50%:

• Retrieving information on the Angler Fish from 'Curious Creatures Glowing in the Dark'
• Retrieving information from the non-fiction book 'Rushing Rivers'

Grammar, punctuation and spelling

Verb identification, particularly auxiliaries:

• Word class revision

Identifying subordinate clauses:

• Clause structure

Targeted lessons for tricky areas

Teachers have also told us there are specific areas where pupils need extra support at this point in the year. We’ve highlighted targeted lessons you can use to revisit and strengthen understanding, without having to start from scratch.

Maths

Solve problems involving the calculation of percentages [e.g. of measures such as 15% of 360] and the use of percentages for comparison:

• Understanding percentages

Use simple formulae:

• Solving problems with two unknowns

Describe simple 3-D shapes:

• Properties of 2D and 3D shapes and symmetry

Reading

Making comparisons within text:

• Making comparisons and connections

Using the text to answer questions:

• Building comprehension of 'Oliver Twist' through rich discussion
• Answering a range of comprehension questions on 'Shackleton's Journey'

Give/explain the meaning of words in context:

• Understanding words and phrases from context in 'Walter Tull's Scrapbook'

Grammar, punctuation and spelling

Use of the progressive form of verbs in the present and past tense to mark actions in progress:

• Simple and progressive tense revision

How the grammatical patterns in a sentence indicate its function as an exclamation (exclamations starting with what or how, e.g. What a good friend you are!):

• Exclamations

Using commas in a list:

• Commas, brackets and dashes revision

Endings which sound like /ʃəs/ spelt –ous or –cious:

• Spelling words with the suffix -ous and -cious

Supporting pupils in and beyond the classroom

If you want to supplement classroom learning with homework, Oak’s pupil area makes this simple. You can set individual lessons for pupils to complete at home. It’s free to use, and pupils don’t need a login.

Supporting pupil wellbeing during SATs week

From my experience, SATs week can feel intense for pupils, so creating calm, familiar routines can really help. A few small, thoughtful choices can make a big difference:

• Keep it light and focused. Short, regular retrieval activities can help pupils feel confident without overwhelming them. I’ve found that a quick starter quiz or recap is often more effective than long sessions.
• Little and often beats last-minute cramming. Revisiting key content in small chunks helps reduce cognitive overload and supports memory. Ten focused minutes, revisited regularly, can go a long way.
• Reduce distractions where you can. A calm, predictable classroom environment helps pupils concentrate. Minimising noise and visual distractions can support focus, especially during practice tests.
• Encourage simple self-care. Gentle reminders about sleep, breakfast and getting some fresh air can help pupils feel more settled. Looking after their bodies helps them stay alert and ready to do their best.

Remember, our resources are free – and always will be – giving you a reliable starting point so you can focus on what matters most: your pupils.