Reminder: 2025 reception baseline assessment digital device requirements

From September 2025, schools will need a minimum of 2 digital devices to administer the reception baseline assessment (RBA). One device will be used by the practitioner to administer the assessment, and the pupil will need to use a separate touchscreen device to respond to some of the questions.
 
The assessment will remain interactive and retain the use of physical resources for other questions. This change supports accessibility and aligns with developments in classroom practice. 

To successfully administer the RBA from the academic year 2025 to 2026, schools should:

• consider how many devices they will need, based on their number of reception classes and practitioners
• ensure their devices meet the criteria within the RBA IT guidance
• ensure the person responsible for administering the RBA has read and understood this guidance  

Most schools will already have the required devices and will not need to take any action. However, if your school needs to buy new devices, you can get advice from the ‘Get help buying for schools’ service.  
 
More information about the new RBA service will follow later this academic year. In the meantime, if you have any questions about the new service or devices required to administer the 2025 RBA, please email Future-RBA.STA@education.gov.uk.