Dear Parents and Carers of Year 9,
Your child’s Year 9 report is now available to view on the Arbor Parent Portal under Report Cards. For each subject, you will find three key pieces of information: Target Grade, Progress Statement, and Attitude to Learning.
Target Grades
Each student has a target grade for every subject. This represents the minimum learning outcome we expect them to be working towards by the end of Year 11.
For example, if a student has a target grade of 5 for a subject, this is the minimum grade they should aim to achieve in their GCSEs. These targets are generated using:
- Key Stage 2 SATs data (or Cognitive Ability Tests where SATs data is not available)
- Fischer Family Trust (FFT 20) estimates, based on outcomes of students with similar starting points in schools performing in the top 20% nationally
- Teacher assessments of current work and progress
Target grades provide a starting point for expectations; they are not a limit. Many students exceed their targets through sustained effort, high engagement, and effective learning habits. We will continue to review and adjust targets as students move through KS3 and KS4.
Progress Statement
The Progress Statement reflects how well your child is currently progressing in each subject in relation to their target. It is intended to support discussions about their learning and to help identify where they may need further challenge or support.

Attitude to Learning
Descriptors for Attitude to Learning can be found at the end of this letter. These outline the behaviours and habits that contribute to successful learning in school and at home.
We are continuing to develop the information we share with parents and carers so that you feel fully equipped to have meaningful conversations about your child’s progress and next steps.
We look forward to seeing you at the Year 9 Progress and Options Evening tomorrow.
Kind regards,
Sarah Nelson
Assistant Headteacher

