Bright children will take national curriculum tests earlier under a new system which is designed to accelerate their progress.

Under changes announced by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, harder tests meant for secondary pupils will be made available to those in primary schools.

Forum Response: Association of Teachers and Lecturers

Sheila Dainton, education policy adviser for ATL, told ePolitix.com: "We welcome any assessment material that will help highlight the achievements of all children, including the more able. But as teachers and parents know, there are serious dangers to fast-tracking young children beyond their age group.

"Young children might be able to cope with the intellectual demands of high-level tests, but the emotional consequences can be damaging. Even the brightest children can easily crack up if too much pressure is put on them.

"The government's programme for gifted and talented pupils is right to promote the idea that getting the best out of the brightest children means providing broader, wider and deeper learning - not simply cramming them for more tests."