Pupils will be expected to know their times tables before they move on to secondary school.

Every primary school pupil in England will face standardised maths tests before they move up to secondary school under new proposals from the government, it has been revealed this week.

Education Secretary Nicky Morgan unveiled the plan, which she said would see every pupil aged 11 tested on their times tables up to 12x12, with a digital "on screen check" test designed to make sure they have the knowledge needed to move on with their education.

In recent years, the number of pupils who have achieved Level 4 in maths, reading and writing has climbed, and the last year saw it grow from 78 per cent to 80 per cent across the country. However, the government wants to see this continue to move in the right direction for years to come.  

The test will see pupils questioned via computer, with their answers timed and scored instantly. It marks a significant move for the government, as this is the first time ever that standardised tests across England will be carried out via digital platforms.

The move comes as Ms Morgan described the basic maths skill as an important cornerstone of learning, calling it a "non-negotiable aspect of a good education".

She also went on to say that as well as making sure pupils have the knowledge they need for their future in education, the tests will also make sure the Department For Education can keep track of teacher performance in providing pupils with what they need to know.

"Since 2010, we've seen record numbers of 11 year olds start secondary school with a good grasp of the three Rs. But some continue to struggle," Ms Morgan said.

"That is why, as part of our commitment to extend opportunity and deliver educational excellence everywhere we are introducing a new check to ensure that all pupils know their times tables by age 11.

"They will help teachers recognise those pupils at risk of falling behind and allow us to target those areas where children aren't being given a fair shot to succeed."