Testing is crucial to every child’s journey in Dutch primary education. But what exactly do these tests entail? How are the results used, and how do they impact your child’s future? This article explains everything parents need to know about the M-test, E-test, and the final placement test.

Twice-yearly assessments: M-Test and E-Test

Dutch primary schools administer method-independent tests for language and math twice a year. These are called the M-test (taken in the middle of the school year) and the E-test (taken at the end of the school year).

Often referred to as LOVS tests (standing for Leerling- en Onderwijsvolgsysteem, or student and educational tracking system), they provide a snapshot of a student’s math and language skills at a specific point and how those skills develop over time.

Legally mandated tracking

Dutch law mandates that all primary schools utilize a student tracking system with systematic testing. These tests must assess students’ Dutch language, arithmetic, and mathematics knowledge and skills. Additionally, schools must administer an objective final placement test to students in their final year (group 8).

However, schools have some flexibility. They can choose from four recognized LOVS systems: Cito LOVS, IEP LVS, Boom LVS, and DIA LVS.

Schools are also free to select their teaching methods and associated method tests. This means your child’s specific tests may vary depending on the school. The school guide typically provides information on the teaching methods used.

Beyond scores

LOVS tests provide valuable insights into your child’s math and language skills at a particular point in time. These tests cover various difficulty levels, revealing individual differences and identifying students needing extra support or challenges   (eg. high gifted children). Teachers use this data to tailor instruction for each student and the whole class.

It’s important to remember that LOVS tests are just one piece of the puzzle. Teacher observations and method-based assessments are equally crucial for understanding your child’s development. A child’s growth encompasses not just academic skills but also social-emotional development. Teachers observe children daily and collect information about their social-emotional well-being within the LOVS system.

Understanding test results

Most primary schools invite parents two to three times a year to discuss their child’s progress with the teacher. These meetings often coincide with issuing student reports prepared after the M-test and E-test.

LOVS tests: potential limitations

Like any assessment, LOVS tests have some limitations. Here are a few key points to consider:

• Snapshot: M and E tests capture performance at a single point in time. Unforeseen factors like student stress or events at home or school can influence results.
• Test fit: The test format might only sometimes be ideal for all students. For example, unfamiliar cultural references in the test questions may pose a challenge. It’s important to note that, for instance, the IEP system focuses on student growth, while Cito additionally focuses on achievement.
• Test prep concerns: Schools are incentivized to make their results public, which can lead to some schools “teaching to the test” by having students practice with old LOVS tests. This practice can undermine the reliability of the tests.
• Decision-making: Important decisions about your child’s education should not solely rely on test scores. Consider them alongside teacher observations and your child’s overall development.

The final placement test and the school choice

The final placement test assesses students’ language and math skills against national reference levels. This test serves as a guide for determining the most suitable type of secondary education for each student based on their language and math proficiency. It’s not an exam; students cannot pass or fail.

Additionally, the results provide insights into the overall learning outcomes at the school, which the Education Inspectorate uses to inform their comprehensive assessment of the school (except for special needs schools).

Schools can choose from various final placement tests for the 2024-2025 school year. These include AMN, Diataal, IEP, Cito Leerling in Beeld, A-VISION Route 8, and the government-issued DOE test.

Choosing a Test Provider and Support for Your Child

Schools select a test provider, meaning all students take the same test in the spring, even at different school locations. Exceptions are made for students with disabilities or specific support needs. For these students, schools can administer a different final placement test from another provider.

Additional Resources

If you’d like to learn more about the specific tests, which one might be best suited for your child, and how your child can be helped to prepare for these tests, please visit Dutch for Children for more information, or send me an email directly at info@dutchforchildren.nl to schedule an orientation meeting.