Y4 Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)

The Multiplication Tables Check (MTC) is a statutory assessment in schools, for children in Year 4, administered in the Summer Term. The purpose of the MTC is to determine whether pupils can recall their times tables (up to 12 x 12) fluently, which is essential for future success in mathematics.

What does the check involve?

The MTC is an on-screen, online check consisting of 25 times tables questions. Your child will answer 3 practice questions before moving on to the official check and will then have 6 seconds to answer each question. On average, the check should take no longer than 5 minutes to complete.

The MTC has been designed to be inclusive, which means it is also accessible to children with special educational needs (SEND) or English as an additional language (EAL).

What does the check measure?

The MTC is designed to determine whether Year 4 pupils can fluently recall their times tables up to 12 x 12. It does not check related division facts.

What do I need to do?

You do not need to do anything additional to prepare your child for the check. As part of usual practice, your child’s teacher will ask you to practice times tables with your child, as they would with spelling.

In terms of preparing pupils for the on-screen nature of the MTC, the school will have access to a ‘try it out’ area. We will be able to use this to familiarise pupils with the check and try out any access arrangements that may be required.

How will the data be used?

Children will not ‘pass’ or ‘fail’ the check; it will provide a snapshot of how fluent they are with multiplication facts up to 12 x 12. Following the check, the performance data will be published. The data from the check will be used at school level to identify pupils who may need additional support and intervention in securing their multiplication facts.

What feedback will parents receive?

Children will receive a score out of 25. In June, schools will be able to view pupil results. The school will report individual results to families as part of end of year school report arrangements.

Government MTC Information for Parents

Full information about the MTC and what it involves can be found by clicking here.