This publication reviews key structures, policies and reforms in the area of achievement in the basic skills (literacy, mathematics and science). It contains fi ve indicators on policies for organising nationally standardised tests, producing national reports on achievement, using student performance data in school evaluation, addressing underachievement in initial teacher education programmes and providing additional support for schools that enrol large numbers of disadvantaged students. A glossary is included. [This publication is based on a chapter in the Eurydice report, "Structural Indicators for Monitoring Education and Training Systems in Europe, 2016" (ED574058).]