Cambridge Primary and Cambridge Secondary are internationally recognised programmes for schoolchildren learning the core subjects of English, maths and science. Discover the benefits of these programmes and how they can help kids to flourish at school.

Introducing Cambridge Primary and Cambridge Secondary

Cambridge Primary is a comprehensive programme of teaching, learning and assessment in English, maths and science for children aged 5 to 11 years.

Cambridge Secondary builds upon the learning in Cambridge Primary and develops children’s knowledge in these core subjects. The programme is aimed at children aged 11 to 14 years.

Programme aims

The aims of the Cambridge Primary and Secondary programmes are to:

  • help schoolchildren to develop a range of knowledge and skills, providing a solid foundation upon which to build later stages of education
  • deliver a progressive learning framework appropriate for students in the primary phase
  • provide a learning structure that emphasises the development of skills as well as knowledge
  • offer a flexible system of assessment that enables schools to gather the feedback they need to inform and improve teaching
  • provide a positive educational experience for all students
  • help teachers and parents to gain a greater understanding of their children’s abilities.

Resources to measure success

There are three main components in the Cambridge Primary and Secondary curriculum framework.

1. Progression tests

Progression tests are internal assessment tests that are marked by teachers at the school to assess students’ knowledge and skills in English, maths and science. The tests are optional and can be taken at any point during the year. The aim of progression tests is to:

  • deliver an independent measure of student progress
  • provide information to help set targets for each student
  • highlight strengths and weaknesses that can help to inform future teaching and learning.

2. Checkpoint tests

Checkpoint tests are external assessment tests that are marked by Cambridge examiners. The aim of checkpoint tests is to:

  • provide a cumulative measure of performance at the end of the primary learning phase
  • identify students’ strengths and weaknesses from test-result analysis
  • provide a statement of achievement for all students.

3. Teacher support resources

We provide teachers with a range of support materials for Cambridge Primary and Cambridge Secondary programmes. These include:

  • a planning booklet
  • an e-learning course
  • classroom resources
  • schemes of work 
  • a primary teacher support website and online community
  • guidance on recommended textbooks and full mapping documents. 

External links