by political editor Paul Francis

County education chiefs say far fewer schools than they had forecast are taking part in a boycott of tests for 10 and 11-year-olds which began today.

Kent County Council said that only 24 of its 400-plus primary schools were fully boycotting the Key Stage Two tests in English, maths and science.

It has initially predicted that as many as half of its schools could suffer disruption but says more up-to-date figures suggest the boycott is not receiving as much support as anticipated.

A spokesman said it was not clear the extent to which in other schools the tests were being administered despite a boycott by teaching staff.

The boycott by the NUT and NAHT (National Association of Headteachers) is in protest at the exams, which they say puts children under pressure and do not allow schools to teach a more balanced curriculum.

In a statement, KCC said: "We would hope the unions will talk over any issues they have with the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

"We believe the best outcome would be a resolution that has the smallest possible impact on teaching and learning - while reflecting the best interests of all involved.

"If parents have any concerns, they should talk to the headteacher or governing body of their child's school."

Head teachers say the tests are damaging because they encourage teachers to "teach to the test", squeezing other subjects from the curriculum.

They have also complained that league tables are humiliating for schools and do not show what they and pupils really achieve.

The future of the tests will be one of the key challenges for the new government to tackle when it takes office.

Do you agree with the boycott? What is your child doing instead this week? Tell us below.