For schools
About TIMSS
The Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) is an international study developed by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA). The study takes place in over 60 countries every 4 years and provides a unique insight into how well pupils from all over the world can apply knowledge and skills in mathematics and science in in Years 5 and 9 (Grades 4 and 8).
Why is TIMSS important?
TIMSS plays a crucial role in helping countries improve their education systems. By providing reliable international comparisons of pupil achievement in maths and science, TIMSS enables countries to see how their pupils are performing compared to others around the world. This helps identify strengths to build on and areas needing improvement.
Importantly, TIMSS does more than measure achievement - it also gathers detailed information on pupil attitudes, motivations, and learning environments. This helps us understand why pupils perform as they do and what supports their learning best.
By learning from the policies and practices of high-performing countries and monitoring our own progress over time using independent measures, TIMSS gives us the evidence we need to make informed decisions that can genuinely improve educational outcomes for all pupils.
What are the benefits of your school taking part?
- Supporting a study that helps us better understand our education system, directly influencing national policy and developments.
- Contributing to an international evidence base that informs policies and strategies to help address the challenges associated with raising standards and reducing attainment gaps.
- Giving your pupils the experience of representing Scotland in an important global study.
- Providing your pupils with the opportunity to practise their mathematics and science skills through an interesting and innovative online assessment.
